<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The examples and perspective in this article may not represent a worldwide view of the subject . You may improve this article, discuss the issue on the talk page, or create a new article, as appropriate . (September 2013) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The examples and perspective in this article may not represent a worldwide view of the subject . You may improve this article, discuss the issue on the talk page, or create a new article, as appropriate . (September 2013) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> A person's next of kin (NOK) is that person's closest living blood relative or relatives . Some countries, such as the United States, have a legal definition of "next of kin". In other countries, such as the United Kingdom, "next of kin" may have no legal definition and may not necessarily refer to blood relatives at all . </P> <P> In some legal systems, rights regarding inheritance (which imply a decision - making capacity--for example, in a medical emergency--where no clear will or instructions have been given, and where the person has no spouse) flow to the closest relative (regardless of the age, with a representative appointed if a minor), usually a child, a parent or a sibling . However, there are people without any close adult relatives and, in such a case, decision - making power often flows to a niece or nephew, first cousin, aunt or uncle, or grandparent . </P>

Who is next of kin when someone dies