Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Zarqa

1. About Will & Testament Law in Zarqa, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Wills in Zarqa follow the broader framework of Jordanian law, which blends civil law principles with Islamic inheritance rules for Muslims. A will, or testament, is used to express how a person wants assets distributed after death. In practice, Jordan allows a testamentary disposition known as Wasiyya, but it must respect mandatory shares under Sharia for Muslims and civil law protections for non-heirs.

For Muslims, the remainder of the estate after a permissible Wasiyya is distributed according to Islamic inheritance shares. Non-Muslims and mixed-faith families may be governed more directly by civil law provisions. In Zarqa, as in other governorates, drafting a will typically involves formal writing, signatures, and proper witnessing or notarization to ensure enforceability.

According to Jordanian civil law, a will may dispose of up to one third of the estate to beneficiaries outside the mandatory heir shares, with the remainder distributed to heirs under Sharia rules for Muslims.

Sources: Ministry of Justice, Jordan • Judicial Council (Jordan) • Jordan Government Portal.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

These scenarios reflect common, real-world situations in Zarqa where legal guidance on wills is essential.

• You own property in Zarqa and elsewhere and want a Wasiyya that respects mandatory shares. A lawyer helps draft language that leaves up to one third to non-heirs while preserving the rest for rightful heirs, reducing the risk of disputes in family courts.
• Your relatives challenge an already drafted will. An attorney can preserve the testator’s intent, review for legal defects, and represent you in probate proceedings or court challenges.
• You are preparing a will as a non-Muslim or with assets across Jordan. A lawyer can tailor provisions to civil law protections and ensure compliance with Jordanian inheritance rules across jurisdictions.
• You want to appoint an executor or guardian for minor children. A legal counsel can draft enforceable executor and guardianship clauses and explain court approval steps.
• You own family business or real estate in Zarqa and need succession planning. A solicitor helps align a will with business continuity plans, real estate titles, and potential tax implications.
• You plan to update or revoke a will after life changes. A lawyer guides the process to execute a valid amendment or new will that supersedes prior documents.

3. Local Laws Overview

In Zarqa, the key statutes governing wills and testamentary disposition are the Civil Code and the Personal Status framework. These laws determine how Wasiyya is used, how mandatory shares are protected, and how succession is handled for different family and faith contexts.

• Civil Code No. 43 of 1976 - Establishes general rules for contracts, property, and testamentary dispositions. It is the primary civil framework governing how a will may allocate assets and enforceability across Jordan, including Zarqa.
• Personal Status Law (as implemented in Jordan; amended over time) - Governs personal matters such as marriage, guardianship, inheritance, and related fiduciary matters that intersect with wills and Wasiyya for Muslim families and others subject to Sharia-based shares.

Recent reforms to the Personal Status framework have aimed to clarify guardianship, inheritance, and testamentary provisions, with continued updates reflected in official government communications. For precise text and article numbers, consult the official sources listed below.

Sources: Ministry of Justice, Jordan • Judicial Council (Jordan) • Jordan Government Portal.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a will in Jordan?

A will is a legal document stating how you want your assets distributed after death. In Zarqa it must comply with Civil Code rules and Sharia shares for Muslims, if applicable.

How do I start drafting a will in Zarqa?

Consult a Jordanian attorney or solicitor who specializes in wills. They will gather your assets, family details, and wishes, then draft a legally enforceable document for sign and notarization if required.

What is Wasiyya and how much can I give by will?

Wasiyya is a testamentary disposition allowed under Jordanian law. It can be up to one third of the estate, with the remainder distributed according to fixed shares for heirs.

Who should be present when I sign my will?

Typically two witnesses are required, and notarization may be recommended or required to strengthen enforceability in Zarqa courts.

Do I need a lawyer to create a will in Zarqa?

While a will can be drafted without counsel, a lawyer reduces error risk, ensures compliance with Jordanian law, and helps prevent future disputes among heirs.

How long does probate or estate settlement take in Zarqa?

Probate timelines vary by complexity and court backlog. A straightforward will may be settled in several months, while contested estates can take longer.

Can a will be changed after it is signed in Zarqa?

Yes. You can revoke or amend your will. A new will or codicil must meet formal requirements to supersede prior documents.

What is the cost of drafting a will in Zarqa?

Costs vary by attorney and document complexity. Expect professional fees to cover consultation, drafting, and witnessing or notarization.

Do I need to appoint an executor in my Jordanian will?

Appointing an executor helps manage and distribute your estate as specified. Ensure the person is willing and available to serve in Jordanian probate contexts.

Is a handwritten will valid in Jordan?

Handwritten wills can be valid if they meet legal requirements, including clear identification and proper witnessing or notarization where required.

What's the difference between a will and a living trust in Jordan?

Jordan generally recognizes wills for post-mdeath distribution; living trusts are less common in Jordanian practice and may differ from standard trust concepts in other jurisdictions.

Do I need to consider religious considerations in Zarqa?

Yes. For Muslims, inheritance follows Sharia shares. Non-Muslims may rely more on civil law rules. A lawyer can tailor your will to your faith and family needs.

5. Additional Resources

• Ministry of Justice (Jordan) - Official government agency overseeing justice policy, court administration, and legal reform in Jordan. https://www.moj.gov.jo/
• Judicial Council (Jordan) - Administrative body responsible for judicial administration, court procedures, and probate-related processes. https://www.jsc.gov.jo/
• Jordan Government Portal - Central government portal with access to laws, regulations, and official information relevant to wills and inheritance. https://portal.jordan.gov.jo

6. Next Steps

1. Assess your assets and family needs. List all real estate, bank accounts, businesses, and expected beneficiaries. Do this within 1 week for accuracy.
2. Consult a qualified Will & Testament attorney or solicitor in Zarqa. Schedule an initial meeting to discuss goals and legal options within 2 weeks.
3. Draft the initial will draft with professional guidance. Review asset lists, beneficiary designations, and any guardianship provisions. Allow 2-4 weeks for drafting and internal reviews.
4. Choose witnesses and complete execution formalities. Ensure required signatures, witnesses, and notarization are completed in Zarqa according to local practice within 1-2 weeks after drafting.
5. Store the will securely and notify trusted executors. Keep an original with your attorney and provide copies to the executor and a trusted relative within 1 week.
6. Revisit the will after life changes. Plan a 12-24 month review cycle or when major events occur (marriage, birth, divorce, or acquisition of assets).
7. Monitor probate and update as needed. Be prepared to provide documents to the Zarqa courts if probate is required in the future.