Case Background
The Client approached our firm seeking assistance with establishing a will solely for their property and assets located within Thailand. They required a legally sound document that would clearly define the distribution and management of these specific assets, while also considering their existing estate planning arrangements made in another country. The key challenge was to ensure the Thai will functioned effectively without inadvertently revoking or conflicting with their overseas testamentary dispositions.
Actions Taken
- Our legal team initiated the process by conducting a thorough consultation with The Client to ascertain if any previous wills had been executed abroad. This was crucial, as under succession law, the most recently executed will typically takes precedence.
- We advised The Client that if they wished for their existing overseas will to remain fully effective for their non-Thai assets, the new Thai will must explicitly reference and confirm the continued validity of that foreign document concerning assets outside of Thailand.
- Our lawyers meticulously drafted the Thai will, ensuring it unequivocally stated its application was exclusively to assets situated within Thailand. Every specific asset was clearly identified and listed to prevent any ambiguity.
- The will also incorporated detailed provisions for the administration and management of these Thai assets following The Client's passing, providing clear guidance for their beneficiaries.
- Finally, the completed will was formally certified by a notary public, adding an extra layer of legal authentication and robustness.
The Resolution
Through our comprehensive and tailored legal services, The Client successfully established a clear and legally binding will for their Thai assets. This strategic approach provided them with peace of mind, knowing their intentions regarding their Thai estate are secure and effectively managed, harmonizing seamlessly with their broader international estate plan.