Legal service on wills & succession and Easy Guide to Will Writing in Hong Kong

We provide the following services:

  • Preparing and advising on Wills
  • Advice on succession
  • Safe deposit box inspection attendance
  • Applying probate
  • Resealing in Hong Kong of foreign grant
  • Filing Caveat and Warning to CaveatorP
  • reparing Deed of Family Arrangement
  • Preparing Assent and Vesting Assignment
  • Administration and Distribution of assets in estate

Easy Guide to Will Writing in Hong Kong

Writing a will is an important step to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. This guide provides a simple overview of the steps involved in writing a will in Hong Kong.

Step 1: Understand the Importance of a Will

A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death. It can help avoid disputes among family members and ensure that your estate is managed according to your wishes.

Step 2: List Your Assets

Start by making a comprehensive list of your assets. This may include:

  • Real estate properties
  • Bank accounts
  • Investments (stocks, bonds, etc.)
  • Personal belongings (jewelry, cars, etc.)
  • Business interests
  • Life insurance policies

Step 3: Choose Your Beneficiaries

Decide who will inherit your assets. Beneficiaries can include family members, friends, charities, or other organizations. Be specific about what each beneficiary will receive.

Step 4: Appoint an Executor

An executor is responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will. Choose someone you trust to handle this role. It’s a good idea to discuss your decision with the person you choose to ensure they are willing and able to serve as your executor.

Step 5: Consider Guardianship for Minor Children

If you have minor children, you should appoint a guardian to take care of them if both parents pass away. This is an important decision and should be discussed with the potential guardian.

Step 6: Draft Your Will

You can draft your will on your own, but it is highly recommended to seek legal advice to ensure your will is legally valid and comprehensive. A lawyer can help you draft the will to ensure it meets all legal requirements and clearly reflects your wishes.

Step 7: Sign Your Will

For your will to be legally valid in Hong Kong, you must sign it in the presence of two witnesses. The witnesses must also sign the will in your presence. Witnesses should be over 18 years old and not beneficiaries of the will.

Step 8: Store Your Will Safely

Keep your will in a safe place and inform your executor of its location. You may also choose to deposit a copy with your lawyer or a trusted person.

Step 9: Review and Update Your Will Regularly

Life circumstances change, so it’s important to review and update your will regularly. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant changes in your financial situation may necessitate updates to your will.

Step 10: Seek Professional Advice

While it is possible to write your own will, seeking professional legal advice is highly recommended to ensure your will is valid and all legal requirements are met. A lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of estate planning and ensure your wishes are clearly documented.

For more information or assistance with will writing in Hong Kong, please contact our legal team. We are here to help you with all aspects of estate planning to ensure your assets are protected and distributed according to your wishes.