Ace the PACE 2026 – Unleash Your Paralegal Superpowers!

Question: 1 / 555

What characterizes a collateral relative?

Direct descendants such as children

Persons related who are not "issue"

A collateral relative is characterized by being related through a common ancestor but not being a direct line of descent from that ancestor. This means that the individuals are connected through their shared family lineage but do not fall directly under the category of "issue," such as children or grandchildren. For example, siblings, cousins, and aunts/uncles would be considered collateral relatives.

The concept emphasizes the distinction between direct descendants, who are referred to as lineal descendants, and those who are related through a lateral branch of the family tree, which includes individuals who share ancestors but do not directly descend from them. This differentiation is important in legal contexts, such as inheritance rights and determining beneficiaries, where the classification of relatives can significantly affect the distribution of an estate.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Only immediate family members

Blood relatives with direct inheritance rights

Next Question

Report this question

Download Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy