Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Little India

About Estate Planning Law in Little India, Singapore

Estate planning in Little India, Singapore, is a vital part of securing one's legacy. It covers the legal direction for the disposal of one's property and wealth after passing away or becoming incapacitated. The legal measures may include drafting wills and trusts, setting up family partnerships, or making gifts during one's life. The law also covers topics such as inheritance tax, power of attorney, and medical care directives. In Singapore, estate planning falls under the broad jurisdiction of the Singapore legal system and is subject to its specific set of laws and regulations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Estate planning can be a complex and emotional process that has a lot of financial implications. Legal advice is often needed to write up a will, assign legal guardians for children, set up trusts for family members, navigate inheritance laws, define powers of attorney, or reduce estate taxes. Furthermore, a misunderstanding or failing to comply with legal and procedural requirements could lead to disputes or challenges, making the process more complicated and heartbreaking for the family left behind.

Local Laws Overview

In Little India, Singapore, estate planning is governed primarily by the laws stipulated in the Wills Act, Intestacy Act, and the Inheritance (Family Provision) Act. These laws define the conditions for creating a valid will, distribution rules for estates without a valid will (intestate), and provisions for family claims for adequate maintenance from the deceased's estate. Additionally, trusts and the assignment of power of attorney are governed by Trustee Act and Powers of Attorney regulations, respectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a will?

If a person dies without a valid will in Singapore, their estate will be distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act. The Act decides how the estate will be divided among surviving family members, regardless of the deceased's wishes.

Can I disinherit a child or a spouse?

While there's freedom of testation in Singapore, meaning you can dispose of your assets however you want, the court may provide maintenance from your estate to certain dependents who were not sufficiently provided for, under the Inheritance (Family Provision) Act.

Who can be a witness for my will?

Anyone of sound mind and is not a beneficiary or the spouse of a beneficiary under the will can be a witness to your will, according to the Wills Act.

Can I change my will?

Yes, you can revise or revoke your will at any time as long as you have mental capacity. Changes to a will, however, should be done through a codicil or a new will for it to be legally binding.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more persons to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.

Additional Resources

You can familiarize yourself with Singapore's laws relevant to estate planning through the following:

1. Singapore Statutes Online: Offers free access to Singapore's legislation

2. Public Trustee of Singapore: Handles un-nominated CPF monies and intestate matters

3. Community Legal Clinic: Provides basic legal advice and referral

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in estate planning, consider engaging the services of a lawyer specializing in estates and trusts. Reach out to your local law society for a directory of practising lawyers, or visit the Community Legal Clinic if you require basic advice and cannot afford a lawyer. You can also research and review the relevant legislation to better understand your rights, obligations, and options.