American Samoa § 40.0103 - Right of dower.
Full text of American Samoa American Samoa Code Annotated § 40.0103 — Right of dower., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 40.0103. Right of dower.
One-third in value of all the legal or equitable estate in real or personal property possessed by a decedent at the time of his death shall be set apart to the surviving spouse in fee simple, subject to the provisions of 37.0201 et seq., regarding alienation of land. This right of the surviving spouse shall be known as dower. Case Notes: Widow of landowner has undivided one-third interest in land by way of dower. RCAS 8.0103. Puluti v. Muliufi, 4 ASR 672 (1965). This section provides a statutory right of dower one-third of a decedent spouse’s real or personal property Burns Philip Co. v. AFO, Fiame, Faleali’i, 2 A.S.R. 2d 39 (1985) Widow who was entitled to one-third of deceased husband’s interest in individually owned property could not be evicted by husband’s relatives from possession of a small part of such property. A.S.C.A. § 40.0103. Tuiteleleapaga v. King, 8 A.S.R.2d 49 (1988).
Source: official American Samoa text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About American Samoa § 40.0103
What does American Samoa Code Annotated § 40.0103 cover?
Section 40.0103 ("Right of dower.") is part of the American Samoa Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of American Samoa. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite American Samoa § 40.0103?
A common citation format is "American Samoa Code Annotated § 40.0103" (American Samoa). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of American Samoa law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the American Samoa official source linked on this page or consult a licensed American Samoa attorney.
How does American Samoa § 40.0103 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in American Samoa can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in American Samoa.