Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Probate law in Marina, Singapore pertains to the legal process that follows after a person's death. It involves the administration and distribution of the deceased person's estate, in accordance with their will. If the deceased did not leave a will, the probate process will be governed by the Intestate Succession Act. Probate law ensures that the wishes of the deceased are respected and that all legal obligations are properly fulfilled.
Engaging the services of a lawyer could be essential in various situations. For instance, when the deceased's estate contains complex arrangements such as overseas properties or shares in businesses, a competent lawyer assists in navigating through these challenges. Also, should a dispute arise among the beneficiaries, a lawyer can provide crucial assistance in legal mediation or even in court representation. Lastly, lawyers are also needed to prepare relevant documentation and legal paperwork such as the application for the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.
Local laws in Marina, Singapore mandate the application for Grant of Probate if the deceased had a will. It’s the legal document that officially recognises an executor to administrate the estate. However, for cases without a will, intestate laws dictate that the next of kin applies for Letters of Administration. Singaporean law follows a specific order of inheritance in cases of intestacy, starting from spouse and children, then parents, to siblings. Also, foreign wills are generally recognized if they comply with the law of the country where made.
It's generally required by the law to go through probate to administer and distribute an estate especially if it includes significant assets such as property or large sums of money.
The probate process length varies significantly depending on the complexity of the estate but on average it takes about 6 to 9 months.
The cost of the probate process is typically paid from the estate's funds. This includes legal fees for a probate attorney if engaged.
A professional legal expert can be engaged to handle will disputes in court. The judge will then make a decision that is legally binding.
Not all assets have to go through probate. Assets owned in joint tenancy, life insurance policies and retirement accounts usually avoid the probate process.
There are multiple resources to consider such as the Singapore Statutes Online for detailed legal codes, and the Law Society of Singapore for general legal guidance and contacts of licensed lawyers. The Public Trustee’s Office is also a resource for managing the estates of deceased persons.
If you require legal assistance in probate, the first step should be to consult a probate lawyer. Request for a consultation to understand the process, potential fees, and how they can assist with your unique situation. Following the consultation, a decision about moving forward can be made based on the information and advice provided.
