testamentemottagare

Testamentemottagare is a person or organization designated in a will to receive assets from the estate of the deceased (testator). Bequests can be specific assets, a cash sum, a percentage of the estate, or the residue after other gifts have been satisfied. The testamentemottagare may be a relative, a friend, a charity, or any legal entity.

After death, the will is opened and the estate is administered. An executor (testamentsexekutor) or administrator gathers assets, pays debts and taxes, and distributes the estate according to the will. The testamentemottagare's entitlement becomes legally enforceable once the estate settlement is completed and any required formalities are fulfilled. Some bequests are conditional, for example contingent on reaching a certain age or performing a task; others are outright gifts.

Rights and limitations: In many jurisdictions, certain close relatives have protected rights that may affect how a will is interpreted or how much may be left to a testamentemottagare. The exact effect depends on local law. Entities such as charities named as testamentemottagare may also have duties, such as applying funds for a stated purpose and providing reporting.

Disputes over a will or a bequest can be brought in probate or family courts. Common issues include validity, interpretation of terms, or the share allocated to various beneficiaries.

See also: Will, Estate, Probate, Inheritance law.