Date: 1820
From: Rabbi Moshe Sofer
To: Rabbi Tzvi Avigdor
A deceased Gaon's son claims his father's rabbinical seat by right of inheritance, opposed by a communal leader. The Chasam Sofer rules that rabbinical positions are not hereditary under Torah law, as the 'Crown of Torah' differs from governmental authority. However, if the community's majority consents and the son is minimally qualified, a single dissenter cannot block the appointment.
Source: Shu"t Chasam Sofer OC §12