Can I change my will at any time?
March 27, 2024 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Felix Richter
Dear Sir or Madam,
My name is Peter Friedendahl and I have a question regarding inheritance law. A few years ago, I wrote a will in which I bequeathed all my assets to my children. However, there have been some recent changes in my life that have prompted me to reconsider my will.
My concern is that my current life circumstances and relationships no longer align with the provisions in my existing will. Therefore, I am wondering if it is possible to amend and adjust my will at any time.
I want to ensure that my final wishes reflect my current desires and needs, and that my loved ones will receive exactly what I have intended for them after my passing. Are there any legal requirements or restrictions that could make it difficult for me to change my will?
I would like to know what options are available for updating my will and what steps I need to take for this. Is it advisable to consult with a lawyer to ensure that my changes are legally effective?
Thank you in advance for your support and guidance.
Sincerely,
Peter Friedendahl
Dear Mr. Friedendahl,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding inheritance law. It is understandable that life circumstances and relationships can change over time, and it is important to ensure that your will reflects your current wishes and needs. In fact, it is possible to amend and adapt your will at any time as long as you are mentally capable.
However, there are certain legal requirements and restrictions that must be followed to ensure that the changes to your will are legally valid. For example, you must comply with certain formal requirements if you wish to amend your will. It is advisable to do this in writing and to date and sign the amended will.
There are various ways to update your will. You could either draft a completely new will reflecting your current wishes, or establish a so-called "emergency will" if it is urgently needed. An emergency will can be orally established in exceptional cases in front of witnesses, but should be put in writing as soon as possible.
It is definitely advisable to consult a lawyer to ensure that your changes are legally valid. An experienced inheritance lawyer can assist you in drafting your amended will and ensure that all legal requirements are met. Additionally, a lawyer can also help you avoid potential disputes or grounds for invalidity.
I hope this information is helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need legal assistance, I am at your disposal.
Best regards,
Felix Richter, Attorney at Law
