In re Dalip Singh Bir’s Estate
California Court of Appeals
83 Cal. App. 2d 256, 188 P.2d 499 (1948)
- Written by Curtis Parvin, JD
Facts
While Dalip Singh Bir lived in his native India, he married two women, Harnam Kaur and Jiwi. Having multiple wives was legal in India under the circumstances. Much later, Bir moved to California and died there in 1945 without leaving a will. The two wives jointly sought to be declared Bir’s heirs. The trial court rejected their claim, holding that as a matter of public policy, California recognizes only the first marriage. It was not clear which of the two was the first wife. Harnam Kaur and Jiwi appealed.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (Adams, J.)
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