What You Need to Know About Writing a Will in Thailand [S6.E57]

The Bangkok Podcast

Greg interviews our senior legal correspondent Dave Lawrence from Pegleg Legal about a very important but often put off issue: getting a will in Thailand. Dave begins by discussing general concerns that might apply in any jurisdiction, not just Thailand. For example, anything of value that is ‘titled’ with the government, such as land or cars, and then also bank and investment accounts, should be dealt with first. Next, Dave suggests considering ‘heirloom’ gifts, objects that might have family or sentimental value. And then, although unpleasant to think about, comes questions about what type of funeral service you want. Are you a ‘toss me to the wind over the ocean’ kind of person or do you prefer to be deep underground? Grim, but these decisions need to be made.

Dave makes clear something that may just be the most important decision - choosing a responsible executor, who is going to be the main person to interface with the probate court, a requirement in Thailand. Greg and Dave discuss the difficulties entailed in finding the right person and how it might be best to defer to a professional, such as a lawyer or other person with experience.

The guys go on to examine other issues such as contesting wills and how family law (such as marriage, divorce, and children) intersects with the law of probate in Thailand.

You might not want to do it, but now might be a good time to start thinking about the inevitable! :)

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