What (and Who) Is Next of Kin?The term next of kin usually refers to a person's closest living relative(s). Individuals who count as next of kin include those with a blood relation, such as children, or those with a legal standing, such as spouses or adopted children. A person's next of kin often take(s) precedence over others in inheritance cases, especially when a will isn't established.KEY TAKEAWAYSNext of kin is defined as a person's closest living relatives through bl...