<![CDATA[Law firm told me dont need a will for parents]]>I thought there'll be a copy in their system or compactor...to be destroyed after a stipulated time period, like audit reports??


If they have space, no reason why they cannot safeguard for you under lock n key I'm sure. But there are disadvantages, e.g. client outlives you! 😆
http://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/publications/solosez/threads_2012_08_do_you_keep_clients_wills.authcheckdam.pdf

Some law firms could even act as your tycoon father's custodian. 😂 (I watched too many TVB law dramas on inheritance disputes!) Appointed rep read out the patriarch's will to his next of kin upon his death-much to their anger! :rotflmao:

I ever lost an important legal document decades ago. Called my (rather, my dad's) lawyer and got a replacement copy. There's reference no. to each document. See wills lodged with law soc. (Last column \"REFERENCE\")

http://www.lawsociety.org.sg/DesktopModules/InformationOnWills/pdf/Extract_InfoOnWills%28Jan2014SLG%29.pdf
[quote]Keeping a Register

In order to keep track of your active and closed files, it is important that you keep and maintain an updated register for both such files. The register should indicate the file number, client’s name, address and contact numbers, the subject matter and the location of the file (especially if the file is closed and kept in storage). This will make for proper management of your files and easy retrieval when necessary. This register will allow you to conduct your checks on conflict of interests as your practice grows. It also helps you to monitor progress and status of matters.

In the past, the file register was maintained in the form of register books for both active as well as closed files. Client details had to be checked manually through tedious inspection of register books. Today, there are numerous software packages that enable a law firm to enter all relevant data relating to a new client and his matter, track progress of the matter, show payments made to date, and keep track of the files once closed and sent for archiving. An essential aspect of any law practice is the ability to track clients and files. This becomes especially relevant in preventing a conflict of interest arising when taking on a new matter.

Managing Clients’ Documents

In the course of your work, you will often be in possession of original documents belonging to your clients. It is vital that original documents be kept safely. Copies should be made of all originals and used as working copies.

Documents generated for filing in Court are usually filed together in a cause paper file while correspondence and other documents are filed in a separate file. Aside from correspondence, memoranda and internal notes, which may be retained by a solicitor, the other documents including the cause papers, belong to the client. These documents should be returned to the client at the conclusion of the matter or if the matter is to be transferred to another firm of solicitors.

It is a good practice to have clients or third parties sign acknowledgement of receipt of documents and file such acknowledgement of receipt in the client files. This will prevent any misunderstandings should a dispute develop as to who has possession of which documents.

Duration for Keeping Files

The duration for which a law practice is required to keep a closed file, and details relating to the storage and destruction of documents are set out in Council’s Practice Direction 1 of 1999 and Council’s Guidance Note 1 of 2006.[/quote]

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/topic/87746/law-firm-told-me-dont-need-a-will-for-parentsRSS for NodeFri, 01 May 2026 10:16:59 GMTWed, 16 Nov 2016 09:55:54 GMT60<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Wed, 16 Nov 2016 09:24:00 GMT]]>Oh I see, maybe different practices then…I signed 2 copies for my Will and the firm told me they will keep one copy in their firm for reference.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1733550https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1733550Wed, 16 Nov 2016 09:24:00 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Tue, 15 Nov 2016 11:43:03 GMT]]>

jetsetter:

The original copy is definitely with her law firm.
Lawyer said specifically their firm won't retain a copy. Not even soft copy.
Not sure only that particular law firm or this is industry practice.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1733331https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1733331Tue, 15 Nov 2016 11:43:03 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Tue, 15 Nov 2016 05:05:02 GMT]]>I guess u can draft an email & sent it to the few law firms around that area. Just dun sound like u really don't know, maybe just say how much to get another copy of your will. Guess the right law firm will reply u soon enuff.


In any case, I haven't done this will stuff for my parents. I did however end up doing one simple one for myself ( apparently office has some lobang for staff), so I got it done very fast. Was told to indicate 2 trustees as I have underaged kids. Afterwhich I scan a copy and sent to my kids' email accounts with a super mushy message to take of themselves. Yeah, nobody read it yet lol...

Anyway for those who dun know, the lawyer said my Will made now will take precedence over all past insurance nominations , except only NTUC insurances purchased ( nominated before , was it 2002 or 07 ?? Around those years, I cant recall ). Some new rule or what, u guys can ask again if going to do your will soon. :?

So I have to email NTUC and got the form to revoke past nominations ( even that needs 2 witnesses, I just grab my colleagues ... :roll: ). It seems that my generation a lot of pple all buy from NTUC when they are young kids.

Surprisingly no nomination forms though from my term insurances (AVIVA) or property insurance. So I guess having a will now makes it clearer to cover those other insurance ( w/o nominations).

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1733240https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1733240Tue, 15 Nov 2016 05:05:02 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 09:54:57 GMT]]>

Nebbermind:
Maybe MKS is adhd :siam:


Anyway, what will happen if the law firm close shop?
I thought I am dementia but after some read on the gep material. I have became more positive :rotflmao:

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732272https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732272Thu, 10 Nov 2016 09:54:57 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 08:51:37 GMT]]>Maybe MKS is adhd :siam:


Anyway, what will happen if the law firm close shop?

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732249https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732249Thu, 10 Nov 2016 08:51:37 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 07:47:41 GMT]]>

slmkhoo:
jetsetter:

[quote=\"MrsKiasu\"]I had it done via a law firm years back but that time I was in a big rush and I handover my car on the same day, I threw the envelope away thinking that it was an old doc. More on the guardianship of my kids actually as I m not sure if the law states auto for kids to go to paternal family side. Now couldnt locate the law firm details after chg of handphone..so not sure if there is any way to chk which law firm or just dont bother and do up another one to supersede the current one..


Or can get the details of my issue from the website provided? Havent look into it properly yet.

MKS no offence but u really come across as a disorganised mom!! :pokeeye: how can u lose your Will? Even if u didn't deposit with the will registry then, the hardcopy should be safely kept somewhere in a safe deposit box, or with your ILs/parents when you were overseas mah...

try recalling location of the place u got it done.

The Will Registry doesn't keep an actual copy of the will, and only has the info if it was submitted in the first place. There is no mandatory requirement to give them any info, and wills are still valid even in not registered. In MKS' case, the original is probably still with the lawyer. Any new will invalidates older ones.[/quote]Yes, one merely lodges one's will info with the WR, and like u said it's not mandatory but recommended... Perhaps MKS drafted hers before 2001 so she didn't know about it. The WR was only set up in 2001 by MinLaw.
The original copy is definitely with her law firm. MKS: just draft a new will...

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732225https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732225Thu, 10 Nov 2016 07:47:41 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 05:12:58 GMT]]>

slmkhoo:
jetsetter:

[quote=\"MrsKiasu\"]I had it done via a law firm years back but that time I was in a big rush and I handover my car on the same day, I threw the envelope away thinking that it was an old doc. More on the guardianship of my kids actually as I m not sure if the law states auto for kids to go to paternal family side. Now couldnt locate the law firm details after chg of handphone..so not sure if there is any way to chk which law firm or just dont bother and do up another one to supersede the current one..


Or can get the details of my issue from the website provided? Havent look into it properly yet.

MKS no offence but u really come across as a disorganised mom!! :pokeeye: how can u lose your Will? Even if u didn't deposit with the will registry then, the hardcopy should be safely kept somewhere in a safe deposit box, or with your ILs/parents when you were overseas mah...

try recalling location of the place u got it done.

The Will Registry doesn't keep an actual copy of the will, and only has the info if it was submitted in the first place. There is no mandatory requirement to give them any info, and wills are still valid even in not registered. In MKS' case, the original is probably still with the lawyer. Any new will invalidates older ones.[/quote]Thanks slmkhoo...maybe I go around the area see if I could still recognize the firm else I just do a new one.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732178https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732178Thu, 10 Nov 2016 05:12:58 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 04:56:21 GMT]]>

jetsetter:
MrsKiasu:

I had it done via a law firm years back but that time I was in a big rush and I handover my car on the same day, I threw the envelope away thinking that it was an old doc. More on the guardianship of my kids actually as I m not sure if the law states auto for kids to go to paternal family side. Now couldnt locate the law firm details after chg of handphone..so not sure if there is any way to chk which law firm or just dont bother and do up another one to supersede the current one..


Or can get the details of my issue from the website provided? Havent look into it properly yet.

MKS no offence but u really come across as a disorganised mom!! :pokeeye: how can u lose your Will? Even if u didn't deposit with the will registry then, the hardcopy should be safely kept somewhere in a safe deposit box, or with your ILs/parents when you were overseas mah...

try recalling location of the place u got it done.

The Will Registry doesn't keep an actual copy of the will, and only has the info if it was submitted in the first place. There is no mandatory requirement to give them any info, and wills are still valid even in not registered. In MKS' case, the original is probably still with the lawyer. Any new will invalidates older ones.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732171https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732171Thu, 10 Nov 2016 04:56:21 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 03:49:29 GMT]]>

jetsetter:
MrsKiasu:

I had it done via a law firm years back but that time I was in a big rush and I handover my car on the same day, I threw the envelope away thinking that it was an old doc. More on the guardianship of my kids actually as I m not sure if the law states auto for kids to go to paternal family side. Now couldnt locate the law firm details after chg of handphone..so not sure if there is any way to chk which law firm or just dont bother and do up another one to supersede the current one..


Or can get the details of my issue from the website provided? Havent look into it properly yet.

MKS no offence but u really come across as a disorganised mom!! :pokeeye: how can u lose your Will? Even if u didn't deposit with the will registry then, the hardcopy should be safely kept somewhere in a safe deposit box, or with your ILs/parents when you were overseas mah...

try recalling location of the place u got it done.

yeah I know :sad: I remembered asking for extended hours to hand over the car at a shopping centre and fly off the next day..don't even have time to sleep for 2 days before that. think back real madness and life is such a breeze now 😓 😂

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732144https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732144Thu, 10 Nov 2016 03:49:29 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 03:38:01 GMT]]>

MrsKiasu:
I had it done via a law firm years back but that time I was in a big rush and I handover my car on the same day, I threw the envelope away thinking that it was an old doc. More on the guardianship of my kids actually as I m not sure if the law states auto for kids to go to paternal family side. Now couldnt locate the law firm details after chg of handphone..so not sure if there is any way to chk which law firm or just dont bother and do up another one to supersede the current one..


Or can get the details of my issue from the website provided? Havent look into it properly yet.
MKS no offence but u really come across as a disorganised mom!! :pokeeye: how can u lose your Will? Even if u didn't deposit with the will registry then, the hardcopy should be safely kept somewhere in a safe deposit box, or with your ILs/parents when you were overseas mah...

try recalling location of the place u got it done.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732136https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732136Thu, 10 Nov 2016 03:38:01 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 01:11:53 GMT]]>I had it done via a law firm years back but that time I was in a big rush and I handover my car on the same day, I threw the envelope away thinking that it was an old doc. More on the guardianship of my kids actually as I m not sure if the law states auto for kids to go to paternal family side. Now couldnt locate the law firm details after chg of handphone…so not sure if there is any way to chk which law firm or just dont bother and do up another one to supersede the current one…


Or can get the details of my issue from the website provided? Havent look into it properly yet.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732067https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732067Thu, 10 Nov 2016 01:11:53 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Thu, 10 Nov 2016 00:42:20 GMT]]>

MrsKiasu:
I wonder if there is any way to check if we have done a will? Say we misplaced our copy of the will and forgot which legal firm? Wonder if they have registrar or something..

To register your will:
http://www.ifaq.gov.sg/MINLAW/apps/fcd_faqmain.aspx?qst=hRhkP9BzcBImsx2TBbssMsxu7lqt6UJK70a1wAEVmydSuV%2FNrEun2mZpSBfQHzE%2FN4qfRCVIWZUTMtiWmhZBKCwvwMgV2M5QkDNqoNOo4OBXfRC379gogcq1CozIn9pZ51MPQlPVn9SJpGm7GzE5xF27A0m6nsQniotP0KevcM885IbZrhlkKEx468h0PhmGchRcKp5dmQJoaGRyP2Ki8kNMzrR7yf80

They do not keep a copy though. You should keep a copy somewhere safe! Another thing you can do is to make sure that you have a document somewhere easily located with a copy of the will, and a note to say where the original is kept. My husband and I have a folder with copies of our identity documents, wills, lists of bank accounts, insurance policies and financial assets etc which we keep handy, and our kids have been told that it's there. Our assets are simple and easily traceable, so just the info will be sufficient for whoever is handling to locate.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732062https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1732062Thu, 10 Nov 2016 00:42:20 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:34:42 GMT]]>I wonder if there is any way to check if we have done a will? Say we misplaced our copy of the will and forgot which legal firm? Wonder if they have registrar or something…

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1731995https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1731995Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:34:42 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:01:41 GMT]]>Thanks for your advice...i dont think they will approach our neighnours though, maybe have to pay just to get this done properly in a law firm. I guess i'm lucky my parents are not 'pantang' abt this. There doesnt seem to have much info around, maybe pple still prefer not to think abt such matters in advance.


In any case, found this for those who need it:
https://www.pa.gov.sg/Our_Network/Community_Clubs/Legal_Advice_Service

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1731990https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1731990Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:01:41 GMT<![CDATA[Reply to Law firm told me dont need a will for parents on Tue, 08 Nov 2016 08:56:52 GMT]]>Just personal opinion andsuggestion. My grandfather passed away without a will, and all the siblings started to argue who should get what. The process of going through Letters of Administration was just horrible. I wouldn’t want anyone to go through it. It would be best if your parents write out a will. Get your neighbours to be witness. Spell out clearly who gets what. In USA, people now video record their will, so that it becomes a testimony (in times of contention or challenge in court) that they were sane, reasonable and consciously made a decision without any duress or influence. It also makes a nice keepsake and some families also record extended messages to view and listen to in the future.


All the best.

]]>https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1731596https://forum.kiasuparents.com/post/1731596Tue, 08 Nov 2016 08:56:52 GMT