Wills

Wills Information

What Is A Will?

In the law, a will or testament is a document by which a person (the testator) regulates the rights of others over his property or family after death. For the devolution of property not disposed of by will, see inheritance and intestacy. In the strictest sense, "will" is a general term, while "testament" applies only to dispositions of personality (this distinction is seldom observed). A will is also used as the instrument in a trust.

The conception of freedom of disposition by will, familiar as it is in modern England and the United States, both generally considered common law systems, is by no means universal. In fact, complete freedom is the exception rather than the rule. Civil law systems often put some restrictions on the possibilities of disposal.

Advocates for gays and lesbians have pointed to the inheritance rights of spouses as desirable for same-sex couples as well, through same-sex marriage or civil unions. Historically, courts have been more willing to strike down wills leaving property to a same-sex partner for reasons such as incapacity or undue influence.

More on wills:

• Creating A Will

• Revocation Of A Will

For more free legal information on Estate Planning Laws, please use the links below:

• Trusts And Estates

• Wills

• Power Of Attorney

• Estate Tax

• Probate