Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Schaan

About Will & Testament Law in Schaan, Liechtenstein

Will & Testament law in Schaan, Liechtenstein, is designed to ensure that a person's final wishes regarding their estate are honored and executed appropriately. Creating a will allows individuals to distribute their assets as they see fit, appoint guardians for minors, and stipulate specific bequests. The Liechtenstein Civil Code outlines the requirements and legal stipulations for drafting a legally binding will.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where seeking legal advice for Will & Testament matters is beneficial:

• Complex Estates: If you have multiple assets, properties in different jurisdictions, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can provide guidance to ensure all aspects are covered.
• Family Disputes: A lawyer can help mitigate family disputes and ensure your wishes are clearly articulated and legally enforceable.
• Updates and Revisions: Changing personal circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, may require updates to your will.
• Legal Compliance: Ensuring your will complies with all local regulations to prevent it from being contested or deemed invalid.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of local laws pertinent to Will & Testament in Schaan, Liechtenstein include:

• Legal Age: The testator must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
• Types of Wills: Handwritten (holographic) wills and notarial wills (created in the presence of a notary) are recognized.
• Witness Requirements: Depending on the type of will, witnesses may need to be present to authenticate the document.
• Inheritance Rights: Specific family members have compulsory inheritance rights, meaning they are entitled to a portion of the estate.
• Executor Appointment: The testator can appoint an executor responsible for administering the estate according to the will’s provisions.
• Revocation: A will can be revoked or altered at any time by the testator, following legal procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the minimum age to create a will in Liechtenstein?

The minimum age to create a will in Liechtenstein is 18 years old.

2. What types of wills are legally recognized in Liechtenstein?

Handwritten (holographic) wills and notarial wills are legally recognized in Liechtenstein.

3. Do wills need to be notarized in Liechtenstein?

Notarial wills must be created in the presence of a notary, whereas handwritten wills do not require notarization but must comply with specific requirements to be valid.

4. Can I appoint an executor in my will?

Yes, you can appoint an executor in your will to manage and distribute your estate according to your wishes.

5. What happens if I die without a will in Liechtenstein?

If you die without a will, your estate will be distributed according to Liechtenstein’s intestacy laws, which prioritize close family members.

6. Can family members contest my will?

Family members can contest a will if they believe it wasn’t created legally, if there is evidence of coercion, or if compulsory inheritance rights were violated.

7. What are compulsory inheritance rights?

Compulsory inheritance rights entitle specific family members to a portion of the estate, regardless of the provisions of the will.

8. How can I update my will?

You can update your will by creating a codicil or drafting a new will. Ensure both methods meet legal requirements to be valid.

9. Is it possible to disinherit someone?

While it is possible to disinherit someone, compulsory inheritance rights may still entitle certain family members to a portion of your estate.

10. Do wills in Liechtenstein have to be in a specific language?

Wills can be drafted in any language, but it is advisable to use a language that will be easily understood by executors and beneficiaries.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, the following resources may be helpful:

• Government of Liechtenstein: The official website offers information on legal procedures and local regulations.
• Liechtenstein Bar Association: Provides resources for finding qualified legal professionals.
• Notaries: Notarial services are essential for creating notarial wills and ensuring legal compliance.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with your Will & Testament in Schaan, Liechtenstein, consider the following steps:

• Consult a Lawyer: Seek a lawyer specializing in estate planning and will creation.
• Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documentation pertaining to your assets, family details, and previous wills (if any).
• Discuss Your Wishes: Clearly articulate your wishes and any specific bequests you want to include in your will.
• Regular Reviews: Periodically review and update your will to reflect changes in your personal circumstances or local laws.