<![CDATA[Purpose – This study aims to analyse judges’ legal reasoning in resolving inheritance disputes from the perspective of Islamic inheritance law, particularly regarding the legal standing of siblings as heirs, the status of undivided inheritance assets, and the legal consequences of unilateral control over inherited property. Methods – This study employs a juridical approach using case decision analysis and a conceptual framework. The case analysis examines judges’ legal reasoning in Religious Court Decision No. 474/Pdt.G/PA.Kab.Mlg. while the conceptual approach examines the case through Islamic inheritance law, the Compilation of Islamic Law, principles of Islamic muamalah, and the theory of ownership (al-milkiyyah). Legal materials were qualitatively analysed using deductive legal reasoning. Findings – Religious Court Decision No. 474/Pdt.G/PA.Kab.Mlg demonstrates that siblings may have legal standing as heirs in the collateral line (hawāsyi) when their blood relationship, Muslim status, and the absence of legal impediments to inheritance are established. Undivided inheritance assets constitute joint ownership among lawful heirs and cannot be treated as the exclusive property of the party exercising physical control over them. In determining the distribution of the estate, the judge must establish all heirs, the status of the disputed assets, the existence of marital property, and the settlement of valid debts and wills. This decision also demonstrates that formal documents may be assessed alongside witness testimony and other relevant evidence through comprehensive and careful examination. The unilateral control, use, or transfer of undivided inheritance assets may violate the rights of other heirs and may constitute ghasb or an unlawful act. Research contribution/limitations – This study enriches inheritance law scholarship by integrating farāʾiḍ principles, the Compilation of Islamic Law, evidentiary considerations, and substantive justice in judicial reasoning. Its limitation lies in its analysis of a single court decision, which does not represent the broader practice of Religious Courts. Originality/value – This study offers an integrated analysis of the legal standing of siblings, the status of undivided inheritance assets, evidentiary considerations, and unilateral control from the perspectives of Islamic inheritance law and muamalah. These findings underscore the importance of substantive judicial reasoning in protecting the rights of all lawful heirs rather than relying solely on formal ownership documents.]]>
