We, the people of Kenya

The Law of Succession ActThe Law of Succession Act (Cap 160) of Kenya provides the legal framework for the distribution of a deceased person's estate. It governs how property and assets are allocated among heirs, ensuring that the wishes of the deceased are respected while adhering to statutory guidelines.

The Act outlines the procedures for administering estates, including the appointment of executors or administrators, the valuation of assets, and the payment of debts. It sets out the rules for intestate succession (when a person dies without a will), providing a hierarchy of heirs such as spouses, children, and other relatives. The Act also covers the validity and execution of wills, including the requirements for making and contesting them.

The Core objective of the Law of Succession Act is to provide a clear and equitable system for the distribution of estates, ensuring that the deceased’s assets are distributed fairly according to legal principles and the wishes of the deceased. It aims to minimize disputes among heirs and streamline the process of estate administration.

The Act The Act has been updated to address contemporary issues such as gender equality in inheritance rights and the treatment of matrimonial property. Recent amendments and judicial interpretations have aimed to modernize succession laws, reflect changing social norms, and ensure that succession processes are just and efficient.

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