Best Private Client Lawyers in Makati City

About Private Client Law in Makati City, Philippines

Private Client law in Makati City, Philippines, encompasses a range of legal services dedicated to individuals and families regarding personal wealth, estates, succession, trusts, and assets. This branch of law is particularly significant in Makati due to its status as a major financial and commercial hub, where individuals may require tailored solutions to protect assets, plan for the future, and resolve issues with family businesses or inherited property. Private Client lawyers assist with estate planning, wills, tax issues, guardianship, and other personal legal matters.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging with a Private Client lawyer in Makati City can help individuals, families, and business owners effectively address pressing personal and financial concerns. Situations where legal assistance is often needed include:

• Drafting, updating, or executing a will to ensure assets pass according to your wishes
• Establishing trusts to safeguard assets for minors or future generations
• Managing and distributing estates of deceased loved ones, including probate proceedings
• Addressing complicated family structures such as blended families or foreign heirs
• Resolving disputes over inheritance or succession
• Reducing tax liabilities related to inheritances or gifts
• Assigning powers of attorney or guardianship in case of incapacity
• Planning for family business succession
• Asserting or defending claims as an heir or beneficiary
• Navigating asset transfers and documentation under local laws

Local Laws Overview

Private Client matters in Makati City are governed primarily by the Civil Code of the Philippines, which addresses succession, family relations, and property issues, along with special laws such as the Family Code, Tax Code, and related statutes. Key aspects relevant to clients in Makati include:

• Succession Laws: The law dictates compulsory heirs and their shares, limiting the freedom to dispose of assets entirely at one's discretion.
• Wills and Testamentary Dispositions: Formal requirements must be met for wills to be valid and enforceable, with options for notarial or holographic wills.
• Trusts: Trusts are recognized and can be used for asset management, estate planning, or charitable purposes, subject to local regulation.
• Taxes: Estate taxes and donor's taxes apply upon death or transfer of property, with necessary filings and payments required for compliance.
• Guardianship: Laws exist to appoint guardians for minors or those incapacitated, often requiring court approval.
• Probate and Administration: Court proceedings may be necessary to validate wills and distribute estates, especially if there is real property or disputes among heirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included under Private Client services?

Private Client services cover legal matters involving personal assets, wills, trusts, succession, estate planning, tax planning, powers of attorney, guardianship, and probate.

Do I need a will if I am single or have no children?

Yes, having a will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, regardless of your marital or parental status.

How are estates distributed if someone dies without a will?

If a person dies intestate, their assets are distributed according to the rules of intestate succession under the Civil Code, prioritizing compulsory heirs such as spouses, children, or parents.

Can foreigners inherit property in Makati, Philippines?

Foreigners can inherit property, but there are restrictions on owning land in the Philippines. They may inherit by operation of law but may need to divest the property.

How can I contest a will or inheritance?

Heirs or interested parties may challenge a will in court on grounds such as incapacity, undue influence, or non-compliance with legal formalities.

What are estate taxes and who is responsible for paying them?

Estate tax is a tax imposed on the transfer of a deceased person's estate to heirs. The executor, administrator, or heirs themselves are generally responsible for paying the estate tax before distribution.

How can I set up a trust in the Philippines?

A trust can be established by executing a trust agreement with a trustee, specifying its terms, beneficiaries, and objectives, ensuring compliance with local laws.

What is the role of probate in Makati City?

Probate is the judicial process by which a court authenticates a will and oversees the distribution of a deceased person’s estate.

Are gifts to family members or others subject to tax?

Yes, gifts or donations may be subject to donor’s tax, with rates and exemptions depending on the amount and relationship between the donor and recipient.

Can a Filipino citizen residing abroad handle these matters remotely?

Yes, with proper legal representation and necessary documents such as Special Power of Attorney, Filipinos abroad can manage private client affairs in Makati through legal counsel.

Additional Resources

Individuals seeking guidance on Private Client matters in Makati City can refer to the following resources:

• Bureau of Internal Revenue - For tax matters and estate or donor’s tax
• Register of Deeds, Makati City - For property registration and transfer issues
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines - For lawyer referrals and legal education
• Makati City Family Court or Regional Trial Court - For probate, guardianship, and related litigation
• Public Attorney’s Office - For assistance if you are indigent
• Philippine Judicial Academy - For educational materials and guidance on procedure

Next Steps

If you believe you require legal assistance in Private Client matters, consider the following steps:

• List your specific needs or the issues you want to resolve (e.g., writing a will, probating an estate, handling inheritance disputes).
• Gather relevant documents like titles, family records, prior wills, and financial information.
• Consult with a Private Client lawyer in Makati City to obtain professional advice tailored to your situation.
• Clarify the fees, timeline, and required documents with your lawyer.
• Follow through with the advised legal requirements, such as executing a will, completing tax filings, or filing court petitions.
• Continue to update your legal documents as life circumstances change.

Professional legal counsel ensures your interests are protected, potentially saving time, resources, and future disputes. Consult a reputable lawyer or firm experienced in Private Client matters in Makati City to confidently address your personal legal needs.