Glossary of Will Terminology

A person or organisation who receives a benefit (usually an asset or sum of money) from a will.

A specific item or amount of money left to someone in a will.

A supplement or an addition to a will, which can be used to make changes or additions to the original document.

The total value of everything owned by a person at the time of their death, minus any debts.

The person or organisation appointed in a will to carry out the wishes of the person who has died. This includes dealing with their property, money, and possessions.

An official document issued by the Probate Registry that allows the executor to administer the estate.

Someone who’s appointed to take care of a child in the event that their parents are no longer able to.

Dying without leaving a will. In this case, specific rules determine how the estate is divided.

A gift of money or other assets left to someone in a will.

If someone dies without a will or without appointing an executor, or if the executors can’t act, the Probate Registry can issue this document to allow the next of kin to administer the estate.

A gift which allows the beneficiary to benefit from an asset (such as living in a house) for their lifetime, after which it will pass to another person.

The legal process of proving and registering the last will of the deceased in the Probate Registry.

What remains of an estate after debts, expenses, taxes, and specific bequests have been paid or distributed.

A legal arrangement where one or more trustees are appointed to hold and manage assets for the benefit of others.

The person making the will.

A person or organisation (such as a bank) chosen to manage a trust.

A legal document that explains how a person wants their property and possessions to be distributed after their death.

A person who observes the testator signing the will, and then signs it themselves to confirm they’ve seen this happen. In the UK, you need at least two witnesses.