right of election

right of election definition - legal

n

A spousal right to elect to receive the gifts bequeathed by the deceasedÂ’s will, or to instead elect to receive a share of the estate as put forth by statute. Also known as widowÂ’s election. See also dower.

Webster's New World Law Dictionary Copyright © 2006 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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