Settlement
Representation of an heir
Succession by representation takes place when a descendant becomes a successor in the place of an ascendant (father or mother) who has died or is declared unworthy of inheriting.
Direct line
In a direct line, representation takes place ad infinitum in the descendants of the deceased: children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and so on.
Privileged collateral line
In a privileged collateral line, representation is permitted only in favour of:
- the children of the deceased’s siblings;
- other descendants of the deceased’s siblings, as the case may be.
Example
Joseph has 2 sons, Paul and Robert. Paul has a daughter, Mary.
Paul died in 2020. Joseph then dies in 2025.
Successors
Joseph’s direct successors are his sons, Paul and Robert.
Since Paul has died, Mary becomes a successor in his place.
Last update: October 20, 2025