New York Court of Appeals

Susan K. Griswold v. Allen C. Sawyer, as Administrators

January 27, 1891125 N.Y. 411

Summary

The Court held that the term “legal representatives” in the life‑insurance policy was to be construed to mean the insured’s widow and children, not his administrators or creditors, based on the surrounding circumstances and purpose of the policy. Accordingly, it reversed the General Term’s order and affirmed the referee’s judgment in favor of the family.