Serious and Legitimate Interest in Inheritance Law | ScriptaLegal
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Frequently asked questions > Succession/Estate > Succession settlement process > What does “serious and legitimate interest” mean?

What does “serious and legitimate interest” mean?

The serious and legitimate interest is assessed based on the specific circumstances of each situation. In particular, it may arise from the need to:

  • Protect a vulnerable beneficiary, whose personal or financial situation warrants increased protection.
  • Ensure the essential needs of a dependent, in order to ensure that the transferred property is actually used for their support.
  • Preserve a family estate, by preventing an asset from being dissipated or lost quickly.
  • To temporarily shield an asset from financial difficulties that the beneficiary might face, particularly in the event of debt or imminent claims by creditors.

The court, however, retains broad discretion to determine whether the justification provided is sufficient and consistent with the spirit of the law.

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