Contingent heirs are individuals who will inherit property or assets only if certain conditions are met. For example, if a person passes away and leaves a will stating that their estate will go to their child, but only if that child survives them, the child is considered a contingent heir. If the child does not survive, the estate may go to another designated heir. In legal terms, contingent heirs are different from primary heirs, who inherit regardless of conditions. Understanding the role of wills and trusts is essential when dealing with contingent heirs, as these documents outline the specific terms of inheritance.