Which term refers to individuals descended from an ancestor who is common to the decedent but are not direct descendants?

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Multiple Choice

Which term refers to individuals descended from an ancestor who is common to the decedent but are not direct descendants?

Explanation:
Collateral descendants are relatives who share a common ancestor with the decedent but are not in the decedent’s direct line of descent. This includes siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and other relatives who descend from the same ancestor but not through the decedent's own vertical line. In contrast, lineal descendants are those in the direct line—children and grandchildren. Tenants in common and joint tenancy refer to how property is owned, not to familial relationships, so they don’t fit the concept.

Collateral descendants are relatives who share a common ancestor with the decedent but are not in the decedent’s direct line of descent. This includes siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and other relatives who descend from the same ancestor but not through the decedent's own vertical line. In contrast, lineal descendants are those in the direct line—children and grandchildren. Tenants in common and joint tenancy refer to how property is owned, not to familial relationships, so they don’t fit the concept.

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