pärimisjärjekorda

Pärimisjärjekord refers to the order in which individuals are entitled to inherit from a deceased person's estate in Estonian law. This order is primarily determined by either statutory succession (seadusjärgne pärimine) or by a will (testament.

In the absence of a will, statutory succession applies. The law establishes specific lines of inheritance, prioritizing closer relatives. The first line of inheritance typically includes the deceased's descendants, such as children. If there are no descendants, the second line of inheritance consists of the deceased's parents and their descendants (siblings of the deceased). If neither of these lines exists, the inheritance passes to grandparents and their descendants, and so on, up to the sixth line. Spouses also have a specific position within the inheritance order, usually inheriting alongside other heirs depending on the line.

When a valid will exists, it generally overrides the statutory order of succession. The testator, the person making the will, has the freedom to designate their heirs and specify how their assets should be distributed. However, Estonian law also provides for mandatory heirs (nõutavad pärijad) who are entitled to a portion of the estate even if they are not named in the will, typically close relatives like descendants and parents. The concept of pärimisjärjekord is crucial for determining who legally inherits property and for resolving potential disputes over an estate.