Property OwnershipIntermediateDelaware Exam

What is 'dower right' and does Delaware recognize it?

ADelaware always fully recognizes traditional common-law dower rights for every surviving spouse without exception

BDower is a surviving spouse's right to a portion of the deceased spouse's real propertyCorrect

CDower only applies in Delaware to agricultural property

DDelaware recognizes dower as part of its community property law

Why Dower is a surviving spouse's right to a portion of the deceased spouse's real property Is Correct

Answer B: Dower is a surviving spouse's right to a portion of the deceased spouse's real property

Traditional dower (and curtesy for men) has been abolished in Delaware. Delaware law instead provides surviving spouses with a statutory elective share right, allowing the surviving spouse to elect to receive a portion of the deceased spouse's estate.

Exam Tip: Property Ownership

Property ownership questions test the bundle of rights and different forms of ownership. Know the differences between joint tenancy, tenancy in common, and community property, including the right of survivorship.

Key Property Ownership Terms in This Question

Community Property

In community property states, most property acquired during marriage is owned equally by both spouses, regardless of who paid for it.

People Also Study

Key Terms to Know

Community Property

In community property states, most property acquired during marriage is owned equally by both spouses, regardless of who paid for it.

Joint Tenancy

Co-ownership where two or more people hold equal, undivided interests with the right of survivorship — when one owner dies, their share passes to the surviving owners.

Deed

A written legal instrument used to transfer ownership of real property from one party (grantor) to another (grantee).

Easement

A non-possessory right to use another person's land for a specific purpose.