Singapore is a leading private wealth and estate planning hub, recognised globally for its stable government, robust legal system, and world-class financial ecosystem. With a growing number of family offices and a reputation for confidentiality and asset protection, Singapore offers an ideal environment for structuring and managing wealth.
At BR Law, we advise high-net-worth individuals, families, and family offices on the planning and administration of wills, trusts, and estates. As a full-service law firm with strong regional partnerships, we are well positioned to advise on cross-border structures and multi-jurisdictional estate matters —an increasingly critical need in today’s globalised world where families and assets often span multiple jurisdictions.
We understand that wealth is deeply personal and often linked with your responsibilities, relationships, and goals for future generations. Our role is to support you in planning for the future with legal expertise, care, clarity, and foresight, so that you have peace of mind knowing that your legacy is preserved and your loved ones are protected.
Estate planning involves a range of legal tools and processes that can be tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Below is an overview of key options for planning ahead or managing the estate of a loved one.
Planning Ahead
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
- An LPA allows someone you trust to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, whether gradually (e.g. dementia) or suddenly. Without one, your family will need to apply to the Court to appoint a deputy—a process that can be costly and time-consuming. Creating an LPA early gives peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
- General Power of Attorney (POA)
A general POA is useful if you remain mentally capable but face physical limitations. It enables a trusted person to handle day-to-day matters such as banking, property management, and financial transactions on your behalf.
Post-Death Planning
- Wills
A valid will gives you control over how your estate is divided, allows specific gifts to individuals or charities, and simplifies the probate process. Without one, your estate will be distributed according to the Intestate Succession Act which may not reflect your wishes and could result in delays, legal costs, and distress for your family.
Wills crystalize upon death, meaning that they cannot be changed once one passes away. It is therefore important to work with a lawyer or professional estate planner to carefully draft your will to minimise potential disputes.
It is never too early to write a will, and you can update your will as and when you feel the need.
- Trusts
A trust is a division of legal and beneficial ownership of an asset. The Trustee holds legal ownership of the asset and manages it on behalf and for the benefit of the Beneficiary, who has a beneficial entitlement to the asset. Trusts offer a flexible and powerful way to manage assets during your lifetime and after. They can be used to:- Provide for minors or dependents with special needs
- Protect assets from creditors or third-party claims
- Support elderly parents
- Benefit charities or institutions
- Streamline estate administration and avoid probate
Probate
If someone passes away with a valid will, we assist with obtaining a Grant of Probate from the Singapore Courts. This authorises the named executor(s) to administer the estate and carry out the deceased’s wishes efficiently.
Administration (Intestacy)
If someone passes away without a will, we assist with obtaining Grant of Letters of Administration from the Singapore Courts. This empowers an applicant to be administrator so as to manage and distribute the estate in accordance with the Intestate Succession Act.
