Esteban Rada
Colombian attorney
www.lawyerscolombia.com
email: info@lawyerscolombia.com
telephone 57-311-7693976
A will, also known as «testamento» in Colombia, is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets and possessions should be distributed after their death. It is an important tool for individuals to ensure that their wishes are respected and their estate is properly handled.
In Colombia, wills are subject to specific regulations governed by the Civil Code. There are different types of wills recognized in COLOMBIA, including holographic wills, public wills, and closed wills. Each type follows a distinct procedure and has its own requirements.
Public Will: A public will in Colombia is prepared before a notary public and THREE witnesses. The notary public plays a crucial role in verifying the authenticity and legality of the will. The testator must declare their wishes in the presence of these witnesses, who also sign the document. The notary public then registers the will in the Public Registry for Wills.
Closed Will: This type of will is a sealed and confidential document prepared by the testator and delivered to a notary public. The notary keeps the will in a secure place until the testator’s death, at which point it is opened and the provisions are revealed. This type of will must also be registered in the Public Registry for Wills.
Furthermore, it is not mandatory to have a will in Colombia, but having one can simplify the process of distributing the estate and minimize potential conflicts among the heirs. A will allows individuals to designate beneficiaries, specify the distribution of assets, appoint an executor, and even include additional instructions or conditions for the beneficiaries to follow.
In conclusion, a will is a legally binding document that enables individuals in Colombia to determine the distribution of their assets upon their death. It is essential to understand the different types of wills and follow the proper procedures to ensure its validity.
Seeking professional advice from RADA LAW can help individuals navigate through the intricacies of drafting a will in Colombia.
Esteban Rada
Colombian attorney
www.lawyerscolombia.com
email: info@lawyerscolombia.com
telephone 57-311-7693976
