The common theory is that, under the Kugeho (laws issued by the imperial court) in the Heian period, Kuikaeshi was not allowed at any time; but another theory (by Takao NAGAMATA, etc) insists that when a crime corresponding to disinheritance of Ritsuryoho (Ritsuryo law), such as disobeying rules and being undutiful, was found in the descendants, Kuikaeshi was allowed by 'Kojo Yuko setsu' (current status has a priority to the past).
平安時代の公家法においてはいかなる場合でも悔返は認められていなかったとするのが通説とされているが、教令違反や不孝など律令法における廃嫡に相応するような罪の事実が子孫にあれば、「後状有効説」によって悔返は認められたとする異説（長又高夫ら）もある。