Last will

Any adult can make a will in writing. This must be in writing. This means that it must be written and signed by the testator personally and in full by hand.

A signed computer printout is not sufficient and is invalid!

It is also recommended that the will is dated. Although this is not a requirement for it to be effective, as a newer will usually takes precedence over an older will, proper documentation of the date on which it was drawn up is often essential.

Spouses can draw up a joint private will, for example in the form of a Berlin will. It is sufficient for one spouse to write and sign the will in full, while the second spouse also signs it. Unmarried couples cannot make a will jointly. In this case, only an inheritance contract can be considered.

Otherwise, the will does not require any special formal requirements. It can begin with a heading such as "Testament" or "My last will", but it does not have to. It is also not absolutely necessary to use the exact legal terminology (for example, a clear distinction between advance legacy, advance legacy and subsequent legacy), as long as the actual will of the testator can be determined through interpretation.

Nevertheless, it should of course be in the testator's interest to leave as little room for interpretation as possible when interpreting his will so that the actual will is actually implemented. Advice from a specialist lawyer in inheritance law is generally advisable for this.

Example of a "simple" will:

"My daughter is to receive everything. Signed dad".

Should you wish to make a more complicated will, our experienced lawyers specializing in inheritance, tax and corporate law in Frankfurt and Berlin will be happy to assist you.