A will is a legal declaration made by a person, called the testator, stating how their property, assets, and belongings should be distributed after their death. It comes into effect only after the death of the testator. Governing Law in India: A will is governed primarily by: The Indian Succession Act, 1925 – applies to Hindus, Christians, Parsis, and others (except Muslims). Muslim personal law governs wills made by Muslims. This area is not affected by the new criminal laws like BNS or BNSS, since a will is part of civil law (succession law). Essential Characteristics of a Valid Will: 1. Made Voluntarily The will must be made without coercion, force, fraud, or undue influence. 2. Testator’s Mental Capacity The person making the will must be of sound mind and above 18 years of age. 3. Intention to Dispose of Property It must clearly express the testator’s intention to distribute property after death. 4. In Writing Except in certain cases under Muslim law, wills must be in writing. 5. Signed by the Testator The will must be signed by the testator at the end of the document. 6. Attested by Witnesses It must be attested by at least two witnesses, who saw the testator sign the will. The witnesses must also sign the will. Types of Wills: Privileged Will: Made by soldiers or airmen during active duty; can be oral or informal. Unprivileged Will: Normal will made by any adult of sound mind. Joint Will: Made by two or more persons but operates separately on each person’s property. Mutual Will: Two individuals agree to leave their property to each other. Codicil: A legal document used to modify or amend an existing will. Revocation of Will: A will can be revoked or changed at any time by the testator before death, through: Making a new will Express revocation in writing Destroying the old will intentionally Probate of a Will: Probate is a legal process where the court certifies the authenticity of the will. It is compulsory in some cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata for certain types of property. It gives the executor the legal authority to carry out the wishes of the testator. Importance of a Will: Prevents family disputes. Ensures property goes to the intended beneficiaries. Simplifies the legal process after death. Allows appointment of guardians for minor children. Helps avoid intestate succession (when someone dies without a will).

Dear Client, A will is what you put in writing which details how you wish your assets and property to be distributed upon your death. It is a basic element of estate planning which also sees to it that your assets go to the individuals or organizations you choose. A valid will is a legal document which also may put an end to family or heir disputes. Here is what you need to know on wills:. Testator: This is the testator. Beneficiaries: These are the beneficiaries of the will. Executor: This is the party you put forward to run your estate and which we will follow as per the terms of your will. They are to see to it that debts are paid and that assets which you leave us are distributed at the end. Assets: These include all your assets and personal effects. Why is a will important? You control the distribution: Without a will, state laws will out how your assets are to be distributed, and may not go as you wish. This process is called dying “intestate. You can name a guardian: If you are a parent, your will can name a guardian for your kids. It simplifies the process: A will may simplify and speed up the probate process. To at large a will is to comply with certain put in writing rules which include but not limited to that it be in writing, signed by the testator and witnessed by a also specified number of people. Also these rules may change by jurisdiction. It is very much recommended to discuss your will with a legal professional so that it is drafted and put into order according to the state/country laws. I hope this answer helps to resolve your queries. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions. Thank you!