Drafting a Will under Thai Law

A will is an act whereby a person takes control of the disposition of his assets, subject to legal requirements, which will take effect at the time of his death. The will is likewise considered a description of the testator’s assets and his wishes with regards to its distribution. A will is drafted primarily for distribution of the testator’s properties at the event of his death. The testator may specifically instruct its distribution and designate his inheritance to his heirs.

The Civil and Commercial Code of Thailand provides for the different types of wills may be drafted in the Kingdom. A will may be made through the following forms:

1. A will may be made in writing, dated at the time of the making of the will and signed by the testator before at least two witnesses present at the same time who shall then and there sign their names certifying the signature of the testator.
2. A will may be made in holographic documents, that is, the testator must write with his own hand, dated and signed by him.
3. A will may be made by a public document, that is, the testator must declare to the local amphur (District) before at least two other persons as witnesses present at the same time what dispositions he wishes to be included in his will. It shall be then read to the testator with the presence of the witnesses and thereafter signed by them. The statement shall be noted down by the Kromakarn Amphoe, dated and signed by the latter who shall then certify under his hand and seal.
4. A will may also be made by a secret document whereby the testator writes his disposition, dated, sealed and signed by him. The sealed document must be produced before the local amphur and at least two other persons as witnesses and declare to all of them that it contains his testamentary dispositions.
5. An oral will may likewise be made when under exceptional circumstances such as imminent danger of death, or during epidemic or war, a person is prevented from making his will in any other prescribed forms.

A foreigner may draft his will under Thai Law. The will shall govern the distribution of his assets in Thailand in the event of his death. These assets may include real or personal properties such as condominium units, motor vehicles, personal effects, jewelries, bank accounts and others. Whenever an expat has considerable amount of assets in Thailand, it is of legal prudence to draft a will.

To protect your assets in Thailand and secure your family and loved ones, it is recommended that you draft a last will and testament. Our experienced lawyers can assist you in drafting your will under Thai law. SCJ Law will provide knowledgeable and reliable guidance in estate planning and drafting your will as well as probate services and estate administration.