Last Will & Testament in Sri Lanka: Why Every Landowner Needs One

"I'm too young for a Will." No, you're not.

If you own any asset (Land, Car, Bank Account) and you die Intestate (without a will), your family faces a Testamentary Case.

---

1. Dying Intestate (The Nightmare)

• The Law: The law divides your property: 50% to Spouse, 50% divided among Children.
• The Problem: If you wanted your wife to have the house, too bad. She now co-owns it with your estranged son.
• The Delay: The court case to prove heirs can take 5-10 years. Assets are frozen.

2. Writing a Will

• Simple: Just write down who gets what.
• Witnesses: Must be signed before a Notary and 2 witnesses (or 5 witnesses if no Notary).
• Revocable: You can write a new Will anytime. The latest one counts.

---

3. Probate Actions

Even with a Will, if the estate is over Rs. 4 Million (almost all houses are), your heirs must go to court to get "Probate" (confirmation).

• Why: To ensure the Will isn't fake.
• Speed: Much faster than an Intestate case.

---

Secure their future. Contact a Notary