Does a Son-in-Law Have Legal Rights Over Father-in-Law’s Property? Here’s What Indian Law Says

The recent case of a son-in-law eloping with his mother-in-law in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has raised an interesting legal question — does a son-in-law have any right over his father-in-law’s property? As per Indian inheritance laws and a recent Kerala High Court ruling, the answer is clear: No.

What Does Hindu Succession Law Say?

Under the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, the property of a deceased person is first inherited by the Class-1 heirs, which include the spouse, sons, daughters, mother, and grandchildren from deceased sons.

Where Does the Son-in-Law Stand?
A son-in-law is not mentioned in this list of legal heirs. This means he cannot automatically claim any share in his father-in-law’s property, even if he has financially contributed to the construction of a house or has lived as part of the family.

Kerala High Court’s Observation:

The Kerala High Court, in a related case, held that a son-in-law has no legal right over the father-in-law’s property. The court clarified that his stay in the house is purely based on the permission of the owner (father-in-law) and that he cannot claim any ownership based on his relationship or financial contributions.

Conclusion:

Whether emotionally attached or financially involved, a son-in-law has no legal stake in his father-in-law’s property unless it is formally transferred to him via a will or gift deed. Both the law and court decisions stand firm on this matter.