A subject that none of us relish. Most people do not make arrangements for the proper distribution of their assets following their death.
It is possible to incorporate your Spanish assets into your Will drawn up in the United Kingdom; however, the delays in having the will proved can take a considerable length of time and result in numerous problems and frustrations for your heirs.
Establishing a Spanish Will can be quickly completed, is straightforward and not expensive.
Many people start with the intention of writing a Spanish Will following their property purchase, however, following completion this is quickly forgotten.
Making a Spanish Will is simple and your solicitor can arrange this for you concurrently with your property purchase.
Generally the most suitable Spanish Will for the majority of people is known in Spanish as 'Testamento Abierto (English translation - Open Will). Your Spanish solicitor will advise you how the Will should be 'drawn up' and expressed, in order to achieve your true intentions with regard to all your assets in Spain.
The Notary (see page 13) will prepare the Will, following instructions from your solicitor. You will be required to sign the Will in the presence of the Notary. The Notary will then register your Will in the central Registry of Wills. You will be provided with a copy. This will show the official number under which the original Will is filed in the registry. You now have the 'peace of mind' in knowing that your Will cannot be mislaid or overlooked.
Important Note: Please ensure that only a Spanish Solicitor advises you on making a Will. Good advice is to discuss making a Will with your solicitor when you give him a formal instruction to act for your property purchase.
