Skip to content
Get in touch

Glossary

Will

A will is a unilateral disposition upon death by which a person arranges their estate within the limits set by law. Swiss law recognises two ordinary forms. The holographic will must be entirely handwritten, dated and signed by the testator (Art. 505 CC), while the public will is drawn up before a notary and two witnesses (Art. 499 CC). A will can be amended or revoked unilaterally at any time.

At a glance

01

The holographic will must be handwritten throughout, dated and signed (Art. 505 CC).

02

The public will is drawn up with the involvement of a notary and two witnesses (Art. 499 CC).

03

A will is a unilateral disposition and can be revoked or amended at any time by the testator alone.

Frequently asked questions

Two ordinary forms are common: the holographic will, entirely handwritten, dated and signed (Art. 505 CC), and the public will before a notary and two witnesses (Art. 499 CC). An oral form additionally exists for exceptional situations.
Yes, a will is a unilateral disposition and can be revoked at any time or replaced by a new one. Unlike an inheritance contract, it does not bind any other person.

Sources: Systematische Rechtssammlung (fedlex), ZGB SR 210 · Gerichte des Kantons Zürich, Formvorschriften Testament und Erbvertrag