For expatriates and international families, where assets are located is just as important as how they are distributed. Asset location can influence which legal system applies, how estate administration is conducted, and the ease with which beneficiaries receive their inheritance.
Expatriates often assume that a will prepared in one country will apply seamlessly to assets and affairs worldwide. In practice, differences in local law, court procedures, and administrative requirements can significantly affect how an estate is handled.
For expatriate families, legacy planning extends beyond financial considerations. One of the most critical — and often overlooked — issues is guardianship of minor children, who are below 18 years of age. In the event of the death of both parents, uncertainty over who will care for the children can arise if clear legal instructions are not in place.
Expatriate life is often defined by mobility. While relocation may be carefully planned from a career or lifestyle perspective, legacy planning is frequently left unchanged. Many expatriates continue to rely on a will prepared years earlier, without considering whether it remains appropriate after moving countries, acquiring new assets, or establishing long-term residence abroad.
Relocating abroad often brings renewed focus on career, family, and lifestyle. Legacy planning, however, is frequently left unchanged. Many expatriates assume that a single will prepared in their home country is sufficient to govern their affairs worldwide. In practice, this assumption can expose families to legal and administrative complications.
After the pandemic it is no longer to be taken lightly the welfare of minor children if the tragic situation arise that both parents demise. If the children are minors, then the pertinent question to be answered is what happens to the children’s care and concern?
Life and work takes us to foreign lands and Thailand is a popular destination for many. Bangkok as a financial and healthcare hub is thriving while Phuket and other islands are idyllic for expat retirees.
A person who passes away with a valid will is known as a testator. The executor named in the will is responsible for handling the estate which comprise all assets, money, property and otherwise. According to the Malaysian Probate and Administration Act 1959…
Being a gem in Southeast Asia which is blessed with freedom from natural disasters, affordable yet high quality standard of living and warm-hearted people…
“I believe that life ends with death, and that is all.” – Tony Harrison, ‘Long Distance II’
“To the well-organized mind, death is but the next great adventure” – J.K. Rowling
“It is the modern individual, not modern society, that denies death” – Tony Walter
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If you are from overseas, drawing up a local will to protect your spouse and family is an essential task. If you have only one
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As a Commonwealth country similar to Malaysia, the legal system of Australia are akin to that of Malaysia as both are largely based on the
For our next article in our series of Comparative Jurisdictions, we find touching on another similar civil code legal system would be helpful for planning
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HERITANCE WILLS INTERNATIONAL was founded by Ms Kim Khoo who has practised in succession law for 28 years, with focus on and specialisation in multi-jurisdictional estates. Our company vision is to protect legacies and ensure proper succession, thereby forging family ties and taking family businesses to the next generation. Our goal is to assist our clients to craft wills and other legal instruments in line with our vision.
HERITANCE WILLS INTERNATIONAL’s charitable arm, HEART & SOUL Private Fund aims to help meet the needs of the local community suffering the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as part of its corporate social responsibility.