American Samoa § 40.0202 - Succession to real property.
Full text of American Samoa American Samoa Code Annotated § 40.0202 — Succession to real property., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 40.0202. Succession to real property.
When any person having any title to any real property dies without disposing of such real property by will, it shall be succeeded to and must be distributed, subject to the payment of debts and the rights of dower, in the following manner: (a) All real property shall lineally descend forever, to the issue of the decedent, but shall not lineally ascend, except as set forth in subsection (c). (b) On failure of lineal descendants, the brothers and sisters of the decedent, or their issue, shall succeed to the real property. (c) When the decedent has left no issue capable of inheriting, nor brothers, nor sisters, nor issue of such, the real estate shall vest in the father if living, and if not, in the mother, if living. (d) When any person dies leaving none who can claim as heir, the surviving spouse shall inherit the estate.
Source: official American Samoa text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About American Samoa § 40.0202
What does American Samoa Code Annotated § 40.0202 cover?
Section 40.0202 ("Succession to real property.") 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 § 40.0202?
A common citation format is "American Samoa Code Annotated § 40.0202" (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 § 40.0202 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.