Best Will & Testament Lawyers in City Hall

About Will & Testament Law in City Hall, Singapore

Will & Testament Law in City Hall, Singapore is a subsection of Singapore’s inheritance and family laws. Creating a legally-sound Will & Testament is a crucial step to ensure that personal assets are distributed according to your wishes after death. It helps prevent potential disputes among family members, ensure your loved ones are provided for, and can even play a role in tax planning. Despite the heavy legal implications, any adult person of sound mind can make a Will, however, professional legal assistance is often sought to ensure it abides to the Wills Act in Singapore.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer to draft your will ensures it is legally valid and reflects your wishes accurately. A lawyer's role becomes crucial if your will involves complex issues such as overseas assets, trusts for minors or special needs beneficiaries, or potential disputes among beneficiaries. A lawyer can also guide you on how to minimize estate duties and handle tax issues. If disputes arise after your death regarding the will, a lawyer who is familiar with your intentions can provide valuable legal assistance to your executors and trustees.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local laws that are relevant to Will & Testament in City Hall, Singapore include the validity of a Will & Testament, the appointment of an executor, distribution of the estate, and the consideration of estate taxes. The Wills Act prescribes that the will must be signed by the testator in the presence of two or more witnesses. If the will-maker dies leaving an invalid will, the intestacy laws would determine the distribution of the estate. A lawyer can help navigate these complexities and ensure your will is aligned with the local laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a Will?

If a person dies without a Will, they die "intestate" and the distribution of their assets is then governed by the Intestate Succession Act. This may mean that your assets may not be distributed in the way you would have wished.

Can a Will be changed after it is made?

Yes, a Will can be changed after it is made as long as the person making the will, referred to as the “testator”, is still alive and of sound mind.

Who can witness a Will?

A Will must be signed by at least two witnesses. These witnesses should not be beneficiaries of the Will or the spouses of beneficiaries.

Do I need to register a Will?

In Singapore, there is no requirement to register a Will. However, the Will should be kept in a safe place and the executor should be informed of its location.

Can an executor be a beneficiary?

Yes, an executor can also be a beneficiary in the Will. It is common to appoint a trusted family member or friend as an executor.

Additional Resources

You can seek further information and help from the Public Trustee's Office, the Law Society of Singapore, and the Probate Registry of the Family Justice Courts. These agencies can guide you in understanding wills and the probate process in depth.

Next Steps

If you're seeking legal assistance in Will & Testament, it's advisable to first do your own research and understand your rights and obligations. You should then seek a consultation with a lawyer at a law firm that specializes in Will & Testament. It's key to communicate openly with your lawyer, ensure they understand your wishes and can help implement those into a valid Will. Make sure to also discuss their professional fees and any potential additional costs.