Document background
An Estate Planning Letter of Intent is a crucial supplementary document in Indian estate planning that bridges the gap between formal legal documents and personal wishes. While not legally binding like a will, it provides essential context and detailed instructions that might be too informal or extensive for inclusion in statutory documents. The document is particularly valuable in the Indian context where family structures are complex and multiple personal laws may apply based on religious affiliations. It helps prevent potential disputes by clearly communicating the testator's intentions and reasoning behind various decisions. The letter typically includes information about asset distribution, care instructions for dependents, location of important documents, digital assets, and personal messages to family members. It operates within the framework of Indian succession laws while providing flexibility to address personal and family-specific matters.
