A tenant in dower refers to an individual, usually a widow, who has legal possession and enjoyment of a specific portion of real property, known as dower, for the duration of their lifetime. This concept originated from the traditional English common law principle of dower, which ensured that a surviving widow would have a secure and protected portion of her deceased husband's estate.
In essence, a tenant in dower is entitled to the use and occupation of a specific portion of the deceased husband's property, typically one-third or a specified fraction, as determined by law. The dower portion is typically restricted to real property, such as land or buildings, and not movable assets.
The purpose of granting a tenant in dower this right is to secure the protection and financial support of a deceased husband's widow after his death. By enabling her to inhabit and utilize a portion of his property, she is provided with an ongoing source of support and shelter.
The tenant in dower holds this legal possession and enjoyment for the entirety of her life, or until she chooses to marry again. Upon her remarriage, the rights and privileges associated with being a tenant in dower are extinguished, and the property reverts to the legal heirs or beneficiaries.
Overall, a tenant in dower is a widow who is granted the right to occupy and use a specific portion of her deceased husband's property for the duration of her life as a means of financial support and security.
