A personal connection is equivalent to one's own interest; nearness of blood is as good a consideration as one's own interest.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) A close blood relationship is treated as equivalent to a personal stake — cite this to establish standing or interest when a parent, child, or spouse seeks to act on behalf of a family member.

Where this applies

• A mother sues a hospital on behalf of her injured child, and the court recognizes her standing because her close blood relationship is treated as equivalent to a personal interest in the outcome.
• A brother petitions the court to be appointed guardian of his incapacitated sister; the court grants it because nearness of blood is as good a consideration as the applicant's own personal stake.
• A grandmother seeks visitation rights with her grandchild; the court finds she has sufficient interest to bring the petition because her close family connection is treated like a personal right.