Who are the compulsory heirs in the direct line?

a. Legitimate children and descendants with respect to their legitimate parents or ascendants;

b. Legitimate parents ot ascendants, with respect to their legitimate children and descendants;

c. Illegitimate children (Recognized)

d. The father or mother of illegitimate children

Note: The surviving spouse is not included.

Is an adopted child a compulsory heir?

“Legitimate children” includes adopted children and legitimated children. Under R.A. 8552 or the Domestic Adoption Law adopted children have the same rights granted to the legitimate children. Adopted children, for all intents and purposes are considered as legitimate children. Hence, the adopted children can already exclude legitimate parents/ascendants.