How can I ensure that my assets are fairly distributed after my death?
February 25, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Uwe Herrmann
Dear estate lawyer,
My name is Jakob Brandes and I am faced with the question of how to ensure that my assets are divided fairly after my death. I have worked hard for my entire wealth over the years and want to ensure that it is divided fairly and according to my wishes among my heirs.
Currently, I have drafted a will in which I have set out my wishes for the distribution of my assets. However, there is concern that there may be disputes among my heirs after my death, as some family members have different ideas about how my wealth should be divided. I want to avoid lengthy and costly inheritance disputes and am therefore looking for a solution to prevent this.
I wonder if it would be wise to create a will that clearly and unequivocally states my wishes and can avoid potential disputes among the heirs. Are there perhaps other ways to divide my assets fairly and avoid conflicts? What legal steps can I take to ensure that my wealth is distributed according to my wishes after my death?
I would greatly appreciate your professional advice and support in this matter to ensure that my wealth is divided fairly and without conflicts. Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Jakob Brandes
Dear Mr. Brandes,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the fair and conflict-free distribution of your assets after your death. It is understandable that you are thinking about how to ensure that your wishes are respected and implemented.
Creating a clear and unambiguous will is indeed a good way to ensure that your assets are divided according to your wishes. In a will, you can specify exactly who should receive which assets and under what conditions. It is important that your will meets all necessary formal requirements to be valid. An experienced estate attorney can help you draft a legally sound will that meets your requirements.
There are also other ways to avoid conflicts among heirs. For example, one option is to establish an inheritance contract in which the succession and distribution of assets are bindingly determined. An inheritance contract can be signed by all parties involved, providing clarity and enforceability.
Furthermore, lifetime gifts can also be an option to divide your assets fairly and avoid conflicts. Through gifts, you can transfer assets to your heirs during your lifetime, reducing disputes over distribution after your death.
To ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, it is advisable to seek early and professional advice. An estate attorney can inform you comprehensively about the various options and work with you to find the best solution for your individual situation.
I am available for a personal consultation and will assist you in finding a tailored solution for the fair and conflict-free distribution of your assets.
Sincerely,
Uwe Herrmann, Estate Attorney
