What happens if I write multiple wills?
May 2, 2024 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Uwe Herrmann
Dear estate lawyer,
My name is Georg Busch and I am facing an important decision regarding my will. In the past, I have written several wills as my life circumstances and relationships with my relatives have changed over time. However, I am now concerned that my various wills could lead to confusion and disputes among my heirs.
Currently, I have no clear idea of which will would be legally binding in the event of my death and which provisions would actually apply. I wonder if it is even possible to write multiple wills and how they would impact the situation in case of emergency. Are there risks or consequences that I should consider? What steps can I take to unify my testamentary provisions and avoid potential conflicts?
I urgently request your professional assessment and possible solutions for my dilemma. It is very important to me that my estate planning is clear and unambiguous in order to provide my heirs with security and clarity. Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Georg Busch
Dear Mr. Busch,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your wills and your concerns about potential confusion and disputes among your heirs. It is understandable that you desire clarity and security when it comes to the arrangements of your estate. I am happy to provide you with a detailed assessment of your situation and possible solutions.
First and foremost, it is important to understand that generally, the provisions in the last will that you drafted and that was valid at the time of your passing, are decisive. This means that older wills are automatically replaced by newer wills, unless expressly stated otherwise. Therefore, if you have drafted multiple wills in the past, the most recently created will should contain the most current and valid provisions.
However, the existence of multiple wills can lead to uncertainties, especially if the provisions in the different wills contradict each other or are not clear. To avoid potential conflicts and uncertainties, I recommend reviewing your wills and, if necessary, harmonizing them.
A first step could be to review all your wills and check for inconsistencies or uncertainties. If required, you can draft a new will that summarizes all relevant provisions and clearly defines how your estate should be distributed in the event of your passing. It is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced estate lawyer when drafting a new will to ensure that all legal requirements are met and potential conflicts are avoided.
Furthermore, you should inform your heirs about the existence and content of your different wills. This can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes later on. It may also be beneficial to have an open discussion with your heirs about your decisions and, if necessary, consider their wishes and concerns.
Overall, it is important that your wills are clearly and unambiguously formulated to avoid disputes and uncertainties. Through careful review and potentially redrafting of your wills, as well as open communication with your heirs, you can help ensure that your estate is managed in accordance with your wishes and intentions.
I hope that this information is helpful to you and I am available to assist you with any further questions. Thank you for your trust and inquiry.
Best regards,
Uwe Herrmann, Estate Lawyer
