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Recently, rumors about Wang Sicong’s illegitimate child have sparked widespread public interest online. While unconfirmed, the discussions on the legal status of illegitimate children and family property inheritance are thought-provoking. Here, we delve into these issues from a legal perspective.

1. Legal Status of Illegitimate Children

In China, the legal status of illegitimate children is equivalent to that of legitimate children. According to Article 1071 of the Civil Code, illegitimate children enjoy the same rights as legitimate children, and any discrimination or harm against them by individuals or organizations is prohibited. This ensures that illegitimate children have equal rights to education, employment, and inheritance. Parents are obliged to support their illegitimate children until they can live independently. If parents fail to fulfill this duty, the children have the right to claim support. Similarly, illegitimate children are also obliged to support their parents.

2. Inheritance Rights of Illegitimate Children

The inheritance rights of illegitimate children are complex and sensitive. According to Article 1127 of the Civil Code, illegitimate children have equal inheritance rights as legitimate children. They are recognized as primary heirs, regardless of their parents’ marital status. In legal inheritance, illegitimate children can inherit their parents' properties equally. In testamentary inheritance, they also have the right to inherit according to the will. However, will-makers can exclude illegitimate children from inheritance, exercising their freedom to dispose of their property.

3. Impact on Family Legacy

The presence of illegitimate children can complicate family inheritance, particularly in large families or those with family businesses. Their recognition as heirs can disrupt existing inheritance arrangements and cause internal conflicts. For families with illegitimate children, it is crucial to balance their legal rights with family harmony.

Families must acknowledge and respect the legal rights of illegitimate children, offering them appropriate care and support to reduce conflicts. Setting up wills or trusts can help manage family assets and ensure a stable family legacy. As social attitudes evolve and non-marital births increase, legal protections and societal acceptance for illegitimate children are crucial. The 2023 Sichuan Health Commission's "Birth Registration Service Management Measures" reflects this trend by removing marriage restrictions for birth registration.

Despite changing attitudes, illegitimate children still face challenges. Strengthening their legal protections and social support is necessary. Society should foster an inclusive environment that respects the equal status of illegitimate children.

In conclusion, illegitimate children should be legally protected and respected. Families should address inheritance issues fairly to avoid conflicts. Parents must fulfill their responsibilities, ensuring a fair and just treatment for their illegitimate children.