How does Probate work in Singapore?
When a dear one dies, administering their estate can elicit many different emotions. Some of the activities families go through are probate, for instance, where the deceased has left behind large properties. Well, how does it exactly work in Singapore? Let’s take it down to the basics.
Learning About Probate in Singapore
The probate practice in Singapore can therefore be described simply as how a will is proved in the course of the deceased’s estate. This includes ensuring that a particular will is indeed valid as well as authentic before securing the authority of the executor over the properties of the deceased. This, of course, brings in a new factor of sorts when there is no valid will either hence the “Letter of Administration.”
Either way, an individual can only be buried, and the rest of his property can be administered through probate. As such, the family members or the beneficiaries as may be termed are not legally permitted to inherit as may be expected.
Each of the key steps in the probate process is as follows:
We have looked at the steps let us take a glance at how probate works in Singapore. It typically involves:
- Filing the Application: Probate application has to be done through the executor or of the next of kin to the Family Justice Courts. This is done if there is a will by the executor doing so. If there is no will then will someone related turn up?
- Submitting the Documents: The documents you are likely to present will include the original will if available; a death certificate; and an affidavit giving information about the estate among others.
- Grant of Probate: Once the appropriate forms are filled, the court will issue a document known as the ‘Grant of Probate’ for the deceased, if the deceased left behind a will or else a ‘Letter of Administration.’ This document empowers the executor or the administrator of the deceased's estate concerning the disposal of the property or belongings of the deceased.
- Managing the Estate: By the will, the executor is supposed to assemble the estates, pay for the bills then distribute the remaining amount of money to the rightful beneficiaries in the absence of a will, the Act takes the responsibility.
How does probate affect the families?
It also maintains some positive and negative effects that specifically and uniquely apply to the families in the probate process which include
On the one hand, it ensures that assets are distributed according to the deceased’s wishes or Singapore's inheritance laws. On the other hand, takes a lot of time, and energy as well as being emotionally tiring in case of disagreement within the family on the will aspect.
Also, probate involves matters of financial concern in a family. There may be legal fees, costs of going to court, and uncertain time that prove expensive hence the need for families to seek good advice at this stage.
Some Final Thoughts Concerning Probate in Singapore Credit goes to our law firm for providing the most detailed explanation of the different forms of probate in Singapore through the various types of Letters of Administration.
But what exactly does probate mean in Singapore? In short, it is a process that needs to be followed to distribute the property of a deceased individual legally. Although the process may seem overwhelming for families who are experiencing it, knowing these steps and how it impacts one's loved ones makes it easier.
