Do I Need a Will If I Have Only One Heir?
Even a simple family situation can leave questions about the estate, substitute beneficiaries and how a person’s wishes should be carried out.
“Everything will go to my child anyway”
That is not true in every family situation. Without a will, the identity and shares of heirs are determined by law rather than an oral understanding. Circumstances also change: partners, grandchildren, overseas property and jointly held assets may enter the picture.
I review not only today’s circumstances but also realistic scenarios that may arise before the document is updated.
Questions a will can answer
- who receives the estate and in which shares;
- who acts as a substitute beneficiary;
- what happens to particular property;
- which family circumstances should be addressed;
- whether special arrangements or an executor are appropriate.
Form and safekeeping matter
A message or a conversation with relatives is not a substitute for a will executed in a form recognised by Israeli law.
A will may be deposited with the Inheritance Registrar so that it can be located after death. Deposit does not replace careful, individual drafting.
When to review a will
Review the document after marriage or divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, a property purchase, a material change in assets or family relationships. I can assess whether the current wording still fits.