The Jewish Legal System: The Jewish King: The Right of Succession:
Does a son automatically succeed his father?
The basic sources on right of succession to public office are Rambam,
Hilchos Melachim 1:7, and Rema, Yoreh Deah 245:22. For additional
references, including citations from the Israeli courts, see the
article on "Public Authority" in the Encyclopedia Judaica, vol.13,
cols. 1355-6. But a son who isn't qualified doesn't automatically
succeed his father.
Ask a follow-up question
