Practice Area
Estates & Wills
Protect your legacy and ensure your wishes are honoured — expert estate planning and probate services in Belize.
Overview
Plan Your Estate,
Protect Your Legacy
Proper estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are protected after your passing. We assist individuals and families with the preparation of wills, administration of estates, and probate proceedings in Belize.
This is especially important for foreign nationals who own property on Ambergris Caye or elsewhere in Belize. Without a valid Belizean will, your Belizean assets may be subject to lengthy and costly intestate proceedings that may not reflect your intentions.
Services Include
- Will drafting and execution
- Estate planning advice
- Probate applications
- Administration of estates
- Letters of administration
- Grant of probate
- Intestate succession
- Beneficiary representation
- Cross-border estate matters
- Asset inventory and valuation
- Distribution of estate assets
Why It Matters
Why Estate Planning Is Essential
Protect Your Family
A valid will ensures your assets pass to the people you choose, avoiding costly and time-consuming intestate proceedings.
Avoid Probate Delays
Proper estate planning can significantly reduce the time and expense involved in administering your estate after your passing.
Belize Property Owners
If you own property in Belize, you need a Belizean will or estate plan to ensure your Belizean assets are properly dealt with.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your affairs are in order gives you and your loved ones confidence and clarity about the future.
Common Questions
Estates & Wills FAQs
Do I need a Belizean will if I already have a will in my home country?
If you own property in Belize, it is strongly advisable to have a Belizean will that specifically addresses your Belizean assets. While foreign wills can sometimes be recognized in Belize, having a local will avoids delays and complications in the probate process.
What happens if I die without a will in Belize?
If you die intestate (without a will) in Belize, your estate is distributed according to the Belize Laws and intestacy rules. This may not reflect your wishes and can result in lengthy and expensive administration proceedings.
How long does probate take in Belize?
A straightforward probate application in Belize typically takes 3–6 months. More complex estates, or those involving disputes among beneficiaries, can take considerably longer.
Can a foreigner make a will in Belize?
Yes. Any person of sound mind and legal age can make a valid will in Belize. We regularly prepare wills for foreign nationals who own property on Ambergris Caye and throughout Belize.
Client Form
Will Intake Form
Download our Will Intake Form, complete it at your convenience, and email the completed form back to us at [email protected]. This allows us to prepare your will efficiently and accurately.
Don't Wait
Prepare Your Will
While You Can
Estate planning is one of the most important things you can do for your family. Contact our office to arrange a consultation and ensure your Belizean assets are properly protected.