bequeathals

A bequeathal is the act of leaving personal property to someone through a will. This is distinct from a legacy, which specifically refers to the transfer of money or real estate. Bequeathals typically involve tangible items like jewelry, furniture, art, or collections. The person making the bequeathal is known as the testator, and the recipient is called the beneficiary.

The terms of a bequeathal are outlined in a legally binding document, usually a will or a codicil (an amendment to a will). When a testator dies, their will is typically processed through probate, a legal procedure where the court validates the will and oversees the distribution of assets. The executor of the will is responsible for identifying and transferring the bequeathed items to the designated beneficiaries.

It is important for a testator to be clear and specific when detailing bequeathals in their will. Ambiguous language can lead to disputes among beneficiaries or complications during the probate process. For example, instead of bequeathing "my watch," it is advisable to specify "my gold Omega wristwatch, serial number XYZ." Similarly, if a specific item is no longer in the testator's possession at the time of their death, the bequeathal for that item may fail.

Bequeathals are a common way for individuals to distribute their personal possessions according to their wishes, ensuring that cherished items find new owners. They are a fundamental aspect of estate planning.