Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Marina

About Will & Testament Law in Marina, Singapore

In Marina, Singapore, the field of Will & Testament law is under the jurisdiction of the Wills Act. This act stipulates the requirements needed for a will to be legally binding. In Singapore, any person considered to be of sound mind, who is at or over the age of 21, is legally allowed to create a will. The written document should specify an individual or group of individuals who will inherit the person's assets after passing.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Managing Will & Testament can be a complex process, especially if the estate is sizable or consists of varied assets. An experienced lawyer can provide professional advice and minimise potential disputes among beneficiaries. You might need a lawyer if you need to draft a new will, modify an existing will, solve disputes about a will, or administrate an estate after your loved one has passed away.

Local Laws Overview

The Wills Act in Singapore states that the will must be signed by the testator, or by some other person in their presence and by their direction. This should be done in the presence of at least two witnesses, who themselves must sign the will in the presence of the testator. It is also important to know that if a will's beneficiary or their spouse is a witness to the will, the gift to that beneficiary is void. Finally, it is important to remember that a will can be cancelled or revised at any time by the person making it provided they are of sound mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write my own will without a lawyer?

Yes, you can technically write a will on your own. But given the legal requirements that the will needs to hold up in court, it is generally advisable to hire a lawyer to assist with the drafting of the will.

If I die without a will, what will happen to my assets?

If you die without a will, your assets will be divided according to the Intestate Succession Act. This generally means that your assets will be divided among your spouse, children, and parents.

Can I contest a will if I believe it is unfair?

Yes, you can contest a will if you have grounds to believe there was undue influence, fraud, or if the person who made the will was not of sound mind during its creation. This usually requires a lawyer's assistance.

How do I update my will?

You can update your will by creating a new will or creating a codicil, which is a document used to make changes or additions to an existing will. Both need to be witnessed and signed just like the original will.

Is my will valid if I move to another country?

Generally, if your will was valid in the country where it was made, it will be considered valid in other countries. However, because laws vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer in the country where you move to ascertain the validity of your will there.

Additional Resources

For additional resources, you may look to governmental bodies like the Ministry of Law's website which provides general information on wills in Singapore. Non-profit organizations like the Law Society of Singapore also provide useful literature and resources.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a Will & Testament matter, consider reaching out to a law firm that specializes in this area. Prepare any relevant documents and information before the initial meeting. Developing a general understanding of Will & Testament law in Singapore prior to seeking legal counsel can also prove beneficial.