My father, a Hindu, passed away last month. In his will, he left some real estate in Mumbai and Nashik to my sister and me. I understand that a probate is required for the property in Mumbai, but I am unsure if it is needed for the Nashik property as well. Could you advise on … Read more
I’m in my 50s and looking to draft my Will. I expect to inherit some assets from my parents, which may include their flat and financial holdings, after their passing. Can I include these future assets in my Will now, or will I need to make a new Will after I inherit them? —Name withheld … Read more
Securing our family’s future is topmost priority for most of us. Alongside taking insurance policies and making investments, there is a crucial step in this—estate and succession planning to ensure our family inherits our assets without delays, hardship, or confusion. Yet, this aspect is often neglected due to the anxiety and discomfort arising from contemplating … Read more
My brother-in-law passed away in a hospital last year. Before his death, he gave oral instructions on how he wanted his assets divided and asked me to carry out his wishes. He did not leave behind a written will. Now, his mother is claiming a share of his assets, which my sister is contesting based … Read more
How do legal frameworks governing testamentary and intestate succession differ from the role of a nominee in temporarily managing assets until the rightful successor is determined? What should I consider to ensure my estate plan is legally sound, minimises administrative burdens, and prevents potential disputes among heirs? -Name withheld on request One needs to understand … Read more
I’ve been asked to sign as a witness for my friend’s will. What are the implications and responsibilities of this role? Are there specific legal obligations or requirements I should be aware of? —Name withheld on request A will is an instrument of testamentary disposition of property, whereby one transfers or bequeaths his property to … Read more
My father died due to covid two years ago and he didn’t leave behind any will. My mother, who is in her seventies, has clearly mentioned that she doesn’t want to write a will either. A few years back, I bought a flat in Mumbai with my mother as a co-applicant. I have paid regular … Read more
Most people fear the idea of estate planning or laugh it off thinking they are immortal. Estate planning is about ensuring your loved ones or a third party get access to your assets in a manner that you would want them to. Estate planning at its core is about putting arrangements in place for how … Read more
I am a Hindu father with two daughters and a son, living in Mumbai. I own a house and some land in my hometown. I’ve heard about the changes made by the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005, but I’m not sure how they apply to my situation. How can I plan my estate to ensure … Read more
I have three sons, all of whom are married and have children. My eldest son and his family, who have been residing in the US, are now returning to India. The relations between all my family members are cordial. I now want to divide my estate (primarily my investments in listed stocks, mutual funds and … Read more