What is a wills & probate lawyer?
A wills and probate lawyer in Singapore is a qualified advocate and solicitor with expertise in helping clients prepare their wills, and guiding executors or administrators through the probate or estate-administration process after someone passes away.
Their role covers not only drafting the legal documents but also interpreting the law in complex scenarios (e.g., foreign assets, contentious inheritances, intestacy) and liaising with courts, banks and other stakeholders.
Why is this important?
1. Avoiding uncertainty and conflict
If someone dies without a proper will, the distribution of assets follows statutory rules under the Intestate Succession Act. That may not reflect the deceased’s wishes and can lead to disputes.
A wills and probate lawyer helps structure your estate in a way that aligns with your intentions and keeps things transparent for those left behind.
2. Navigating legal procedure
Whether there is a will or not, the process of obtaining a statutory document such as a Grant of Probate (when there is a valid will) or Letters of Administration (when there is none) is procedural and may involve court filings, asset disclosure, and verification of deaths, titles and documents.
A lawyer ensures forms are correctly drafted, deadlines are met and errors are avoided, which can significantly reduce delays and complications.
3. Dealing with complexity
Modern estates often involve multiple properties, overseas assets, trusts or intricate family structures. Specialist probate lawyers have the experience to handle these complexities—whether resolving conflicts between beneficiaries, verifying asset ownership or dealing with foreign jurisdictions.
What services does a wills & probate lawyer provide?
Here’s a breakdown of key services:
- Drafting a legally valid will: Ensuring the will complies with the Wills Act and accounts for all relevant assets and beneficiaries.
- Estate planning and structuring: Advising on trusts, tax implication (where applicable), and how the estate will pass to the next generation.
- Grant of Probate / Letters of Administration: Applying for the court grant that empowers the executor or administrator to administer the estate.
- Administration of estate: Including identifying and valuing the assets and liabilities, settling debts, distributing to beneficiaries.
- Dispute resolution: If beneficiaries dispute the will’s validity or how distribution is executed—or if an executor is inactive—the lawyer can initiate citation proceedings, act in court, or mediate.
When should you engage a wills & probate lawyer?
It’s wise to consider a lawyer when:
- You have assets (property, business interests, investments) and want them distributed according to your wishes.
- Your estate involves cross-border issues, trusts, or special legacy wishes (for example care of young children, special needs dependants).
- You are the executor / administrator of an estate and need to apply for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.
- A dispute arises (or may arise) among family members or beneficiaries.
- You want to ensure your documentation is robust and avoids being challenged.
Even if you believe your will is simple, a professional review ensures the document is valid and reduces risk down the line.
What will it cost and how long does it take?
Fees vary depending on the complexity of the estate and whether there are disputes. Some firms in Singapore offer fixed-fee packages for simpler probate matters.
As for time, the court-guidance suggests that uncontested grants may be processed within a few months, but contested or complex ones may take substantially longer.
Tips for choosing the right lawyer
- Verify the lawyer has specific experience in wills and probate—not just general practice. Good specialists bring familiarity with the relevant court procedures and documentation.
- Ask about the timeline and fees up front, and how they will keep you updated.
- Ensure they will handle all critical steps (asset disclosure, court filings, dealing with banks) and identify what you must do (provide documents, asset lists, copyright etc.).
- If you have overseas assets, ask how the lawyer handles cross-jurisdiction issues.
Final thoughts
By engaging a wills and probate lawyer in Singapore, you are investing in more than just legal documentation—you are building a framework of peace, order and clarity for the people you care about most. Whether you are planning your own estate, acting as executor, or managing a loved one’s estate, professional support brings assurance, efficiency and protection.