Succession Act, 1965

Construction of references to heirs.

[1891 (c. 66) s. 89]

15.—(1) The word “heir” or “heirs”, used as a word of limitation in any enactment, deed or instrument passed or executed either before or after the commencement of this Act, shall have the same effect as if this Act had not been passed.

(2) The word “heir” or “heirs”, used as a word of purchase in any enactment, deed or instrument passed or executed before the commencement of this Act, shall bear the same meaning as if this Act had not been passed.

(3) The word “heir” or “heirs”, used as a word of purchase in any enactment, deed or instrument passed or executed after the commencement of this Act, shall, unless the contrary intention appears, be construed to mean the person or persons, other than a creditor, who would be beneficially entitled under Part VI to the estate of the ancestor if the ancestor had died intestate.

(4) Subject as aforesaid, references in any enactment, deed or instrument passed or executed either before or after the commencement of this Act to the heirs of any person shall be construed to refer to his personal representatives.