The law of wills, often referred to as testamentary law, governs the legal process by which individuals express their wishes regarding the distribution of their property and assets after their death. A will is a legal document that allows a person, known as the testator, to specify how their estate should be managed and distributed among beneficiaries. Wills typically outline the distribution of assets, appointment of executors to manage the estate, and guardianship arrangements for minor children if applicable.
The law of wills establishes requirements for the validity of wills, such as the testator's mental capacity, proper execution formalities, and absence of undue influence or coercion. It also addresses issues related to the interpretation of wills, challenges to their validity, and administration of estates, including probate proceedings to validate and execute wills.
The primary objectives of will law are to ensure that the testator's intentions are accurately recorded and legally enforceable, to provide certainty and predictability in the distribution of estates, and to protect the interests of beneficiaries and other parties involved. Proper estate planning, including the drafting and execution of a valid will, is essential for individuals to control the disposition of their assets and to minimize disputes and complications for their heirs after their passing.