Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Raffles Place

About Will & Testament Law in Raffles Place, Singapore

The laws surrounding Will & Testament in Raffles Place, Singapore, are regulated under the Wills Act and the Intestate Succession Act. When an individual passes on, the distribution of his or her assets can either be governed by a will or, in absence of a will, the rules of intestate succession. In Raffles Place, a well-recognized financial district, the complexity of managing assets may necessitate the creation and legal enforcement of a will to prevent disputes and ensure the decedent's wishes are upheld.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer for Will & Testament matters can be beneficial in several ways. Firstly, they can guide you in drafting a will, ensuring it is legally enforceable and clearly outlines your wishes. In the case of complex financial and property arrangements, lawyers can confirm that all legal requirements are met. Titling and beneficiary designations are other areas where legal assistance can be invaluable. Furthermore, if you are an executor of a will, you may need a lawyer to help with probate proceedings and in administering the estate effectively.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of local laws relating to Will & Testament in Raffles Place include eligibility to create a will, requirements for a valid will, and rules for intestate succession. Under the Wills Act, any person of 21 years and above can make a will. A will must be in writing, signed by the testator and witnessed by two individuals. When there is no will, the rules of intestate succession apply, as detailed in the Intestate Succession Act. The distribution of the estate is then determined by law, which carefully factors the surviving relatives of the deceased, prioritizing spouses and children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a will valid in Singapore?

A valid will in Singapore must be a written document, signed by the person making the will or by someone else in their presence and by their direction. The signing must be witnessed by two or more witnesses, who themselves cannot be beneficiaries of the will.

What happens if I die without a will?

If you die without a will, you are considered to have died intestate. In such cases, the distribution of your estate will be determined according to the Intestate Succession Act.

Can I disinherit my child in Singapore?

Under Singapore law, a person is free to disinherit their child in their will. However, if there is no will, the child will stand to inherit under the rules of intestate succession.

Does a will need to be notarized in Singapore?

No, there is no legal requirement to notarize a will in Singapore. A valid will only needs to be in writing, signed and witnessed properly.

Can a will be contested in Singapore?

Yes, a will can be contested in Singapore under certain circumstances, such as when there’s a suspicion of fraud or undue influence, or when the person making the will was not of sound mind at the time.

Additional Resources

Recommendations for additional resources include the Ministry of Law and the Legal Aid Bureau for legal assistance and advice. The Public Trustee's Office can also offer valuable services with regard to estate administration.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with Will & Testament in Raffles Place, Singapore, your first step should be to seek legal advice. This could be from local lawyers specializing in Will & Testament, legal aid groups or through online legal advice platforms. Prepare all your relevant documents and clearly outline your requirements for the best possible advice and assistance.