Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Quezon City

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Recososa Law Firm
Quezon City, Philippines

Founded in 2020
11 people in their team
English
Tagalog
All Specialization Law Firm & Notary Public located at the heart of Cebu City In IT Park Lahug. From Commercial Law, Labor Law, Immigration Law, Criminal Law such as Estafa, Cybercrime like Cyberlibel, Defamation, Fraud, Criminal Prosecution, Civil Law, Land Dispute, Land Registration,...

Founded in 2022
5 people in their team
English
Tagalog
DAGSAAN MONTERDE CASTILLO LAW delivers comprehensive legal services through our dedicated team of attorneys. Our practice combines professional excellence with genuine commitment to client success, providing effective representation for individuals and organizations throughout the region.Led by...
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Apollo X.C. S. Sangalang

Apollo X.C. S. Sangalang

15 minutes Free Consultation
Quezon City, Philippines

Founded in 1995
16 people in their team
Tagalog
English
Consultation Fee: PhP5,000 +12% VAT (or USD100) per hour via online or in-person meeting, email correspondence, WhatsApp or Viber chat.  APOLLO X.C. S. SANGALANG (“Attorney PoL”) is a business lawyer, labor law coach, corporate counsel, legal educator and conflict strategist, as...
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Philippines Estate Planning Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 4 legal questions about Estate Planning in Philippines and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Who has the legal right to own a property: the one with the Tax Dec with the name of the deceased father (still not transferred by other claimants for 20 years) or the one with the copy of Deed of Absolute Sale of the property showing that it was sold by
Estate Planning
Elder Law
Trusts
Based on the facts you provided, here’s a legal analysis comparing ownership rights between:A. The Heirs of the Deceased Father (name on the Tax Declaration),versusB. Your Side (Buyers who possess a Deed of Absolute Sale, paid real property taxes, planted trees, and occupied the land for over 20 years)Legal Principles to Consider1. Tax Declaration (Tax Dec)A Tax Declaration is not proof of ownership; it’s evidence of possession or a claim of ownership.The fact that it still bears the name of the deceased father means no formal transfer of title or succession has occurred.Tax Decs can support claims of ownership, but they don't override a valid deed or actual possession.2. Deed of Absolute Sale (DOAS)A DOAS is proof of a sale and an agreement to transfer ownership.If it is:Validly executed (signed, notarized, by someone with capacity),Relating to the same land in question,And if you have taken possession and paid taxes,then it is strong legal evidence of ownership, even if not yet registered.3. Payment of Real Property TaxesWhile not conclusive proof of ownership, consistent payment supports your claim of open and notorious possession and recognition by the State (LGU).4. Open, Continuous, Exclusive, and Notorious Possession (OCEN)Under the doctrine of extraordinary acquisitive prescription (under civil law, particularly in the Philippines Civil Code), if you have:Possessed the land publicly, peacefully, and in the concept of an owner,Continuously for over 30 years without need of title,then you may acquire ownership by prescription, even if the property is not yet titled.In ordinary prescription, 10 years with just title (like a DOAS) and good faith can suffice.5. Succession LawThe deceased’s heirs are co-owners by succession, but if they’ve taken no steps for 20 years to assert their rights, and the buyers have acted as owners, this may weaken their claim, especially under laches (failure to assert rights timely).Conclusion: Who Has the Stronger Legal Right?You (Buyers / Possessors) have the stronger legal claim if:The Deed of Absolute Sale is valid, showing sale from the deceased to your father.You have paid property taxes continuously.You’ve been in continuous, peaceful, public possession in the concept of an owner for more than 20 years.The other side never asserted their rights or disrupted your possession.If the property is unregistered, your case is even stronger, especially if prescription applies.What You Can Doverify:Validity of the DOAS.Whether prescription has been completed (based on exact years and possession facts).Apply for judicial confirmation of ownership (if Philippine jurisdiction), or start reconstitution and registration process under your name.Gather supporting proof:Tax receipts.Witness statements.Tree planting records or photos.Boundary surveys showing occupation.If you let us know which country this is (e.g., Philippines, Latin America, etc.), we can cite the specific laws that apply to your case.
my mother want to revoke donation of properties to 2 grandchildren
Estate Planning
Family
Elder Law
Will & Testament
You can contact me on WhatsApp: +38970704335I can share my professional opinion to you.Regards,
Estate settlement dispute
Elder Law
Estate Planning
Different countries have distinct legal frameworks governing estate matters. In Ghana, estate duty is only levied after probate has been granted by the court. In cases where a property is willed to multiple individuals, consensus among all parties is required to dispose of their interests for a valid title transfer. However, if the property is bequeathed to a single person, that individual can freely dispose of their interest without additional complications. Regarding estate tax payment, it's prudent to ascertain the interested parties before property transfer to ensure proper title acquisition and avoid unnecessary expenses.

About Estate Planning Law in Quezon City, Philippines

Estate planning is the legal process of preparing for the distribution of your assets and properties upon your death. In Quezon City, Philippines, estate planning is governed by specific laws and regulations to ensure fair and orderly distribution. These laws protect the rights of individuals and families and provide guidelines for executing wills, designating beneficiaries, and establishing trusts. Whether you have substantial assets or a modest estate, estate planning is essential to secure your loved ones' future and ensure your wishes are carried out.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While estate planning may seem straightforward, there are several situations where seeking legal help is crucial:

1. Complex Family Structures: If you have a blended family, minor children, or dependents with special needs, a lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of estate planning to ensure everyone is adequately provided for.

2. High-Value Assets: If you own significant assets such as real estate, businesses, or investments, consulting an attorney can help minimize tax obligations and ensure efficient transfer of wealth.

3. Business Succession Planning: If you own a business and wish to pass it on to your heirs, a lawyer can assist you in formulating a comprehensive plan to ensure a smooth transition.

4. Healthcare Directives: If you want to establish healthcare directives, such as a living will or a power of attorney for healthcare decisions, a lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure your wishes are documented and followed.

5. Contesting or Defending a Will: In situations where a will is contested or disputed, having legal representation is crucial to protect your interests and ensure a fair resolution.

Local Laws Overview

Here are some key aspects of local laws related to estate planning in Quezon City, Philippines:

- The Civil Code of the Philippines governs estate planning matters, outlining laws regarding wills, inheritance, and succession. It establishes the rules for drafting and executing a valid will.

- Intestate Succession is applicable in cases where a person dies without leaving a valid will. The Civil Code prescribes the order of priority for distributing assets among surviving family members.

- Inheritance laws in Quezon City may be subject to cultural and religious practices, so it's important to consult an attorney who can advise on any specific considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I create my own will without a lawyer's assistance?

Yes, you can create your own will, but it is strongly recommended to seek legal guidance to ensure your will is properly drafted and executed. Mistakes or unclear instructions in a self-made will can lead to complications and potential disputes.

2. When is the best time to start estate planning?

The sooner, the better. Estate planning should ideally begin when you have assets and dependents to protect. However, it's never too late to start. Consulting with an attorney can help you create or update an estate plan that reflects your current circumstances.

3. How much does estate planning typically cost in Quezon City?

The cost of estate planning depends on its complexity and the services required. Simple wills may cost less than comprehensive estate plans that involve trusts, tax planning, and intricate asset distribution. It's advisable to discuss fees, including any additional charges, with your chosen attorney before proceeding.

4. What is the difference between a will and a living will?

A will, also known as a last will and testament, is a legal document that outlines how your assets are distributed upon your death. A living will, on the other hand, is a healthcare directive that specifies your medical treatment preferences if you become incapacitated and unable to communicate your wishes.

5. Can I change my estate plan if circumstances change?

Absolutely. It's advisable to review and update your estate plan whenever significant life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or acquiring substantial new assets. Consulting with an attorney will ensure that your estate plan reflects your current intentions.

Additional Resources

- Integrated Bar of the Philippines Quezon City Chapter: The local chapter of the IBP can provide referrals to qualified estate planning attorneys in Quezon City.

- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Philippines: The SEC regulates corporations and can provide guidance on estate planning related to business entities.

- Land Registration Authority (LRA): The LRA manages land titling and registration in the Philippines. Their resources can be helpful for estate planning involving real estate properties.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in estate planning, follow these steps:

1. Identify your specific estate planning needs, including any complexities or concerns.

2. Research and shortlist reputable estate planning lawyers in Quezon City.

3. Schedule a consultation with your chosen lawyer to discuss your situation and obtain professional advice.

4. Provide the necessary documentation and information requested by your lawyer to proceed with estate planning preparations.

5. Review the proposed estate plan with your lawyer, ensuring it aligns with your wishes and goals.

6. Execute and finalize the estate plan according to the guidance and instructions provided by your lawyer.

Remember, estate planning is an ongoing process, so it's essential to periodically review and update your plan to reflect changes in your life circumstances or legal regulations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Quezon City through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Estate Planning, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Quezon City, Philippines - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.