In what situation does a dower right apply?

Dower rights are a legal concept that traditionally provide a wife with a life estate in one-third of her husband’s property upon his death, ensuring she is supported after her spouse's passing. The correct answer highlights the situation where a husband dies and has left property to his wife, which triggers the application of dower rights.

In this context, the wife would have rights to a portion of her husband’s estate regardless of any will or inheritance clauses. This legal provision serves to protect a surviving spouse, ensuring that they have access to necessary resources after losing their partner.

The other scenarios do not apply dower rights. Inheritance from a mother does not invoke this right since dower is specific to a husband’s property. When property is jointly owned, both spouses have equal rights, negating the need for dower rights. Lastly, the purchase of property by a single woman does not pertain to dower rights, as these are intended to apply in the context of a marriage where one spouse passes away.