WILLS

It is important to recognise that following a death, the legal and administrative procedures in Cyprus are not the same as those in England & Wales. The consequence of passing away without a valid Will can be serious. If you are considering moving to Cyprus from the United Kingdom or now live in Cyprus it is most important that you review the provisions of your existing Will (if you have one) and take legal advice to ensure you have the correct measures in place to deal with all your assets on your death.

LIVING WILLS

 A Living Will is also known as an "Advance Directive" and is a written document which provides an opportunity for people to give their wishes regarding medical treatment and intervention in the final stages of their life. It can set out the circumstances under which you would not want to receive life-prolonging medical treatment if you became seriously ill in the future and were incapable of making your own health care decisions.

The British Medical Association have stated in their booklet entitled “Advance Statements About Medical Treatment” that “Competent, informed adults have an established legal right to refuse medical procedures in advance”.

The formal document has to be signed by you before a witness and can be placed with your existing Will with copies being provided for you to retain and pass to your doctor. Copies should also be placed with a close friend or relative. Should you go into hospital, a copy should be shown to the medical professionals caring for you and attached to your notes. You may wish to carry a card in your purse or wallet indicating that you have signed a Living Will. Like a normal Will, you may wish to include some personal details and requests.  You can for example express a preference where you may wish to spend your final weeks, whether you wish to die at home or in hospital. You may also wish to give instructions for your funeral arrangements.  

The benefit of the above process is the knowledge that you have done everything possible to make your wishes known. A Living Will must be signed whilst the maker is mentally competent. Like an ordinary Will, Living Wills should be updated from time to time if your circumstances or requirements change.

Please contact us if you would like more information regarding the preparation of a Living Will by using our Contact Us page.