A will is a legal document that allows you to declare how your property and possessions should be distributed after your death. In Meru County, having a valid will ensures your wishes are respected, protects your loved ones, and helps prevent inheritance disputes — particularly over land, which is often a sensitive issue in the region.

This guide explains how to draft a legally binding will in Meru and how our law firm, AWK Advocates, can help you protect your legacy.

📚 Legal Basis for Wills in Kenya

Wills are governed by:

• The Law of Succession Act (Cap 160, Laws of Kenya)
• Probate and Administration Rules

There are two types of wills:

• Written wills – clear and preferred
• Oral wills – valid only in exceptional, time-sensitive situations (e.g. imminent death)

✅ Legal Requirements for a Valid Will in Meru

1. The testator (person writing the will) must:
   • Be 18 years or older
   • Be of sound mind
2. The will must:
   • Be written and signed by the testator
   • Be witnessed by two competent adults (who are not beneficiaries)

✍️ How to Draft a Will in Meru

1. List Your Assets

Document all your possessions including:

• Land and property (e.g., in Nkubu, Timau, Kithoka, or Meru Town)
• Livestock and farm produce
• Vehicles and machinery
• Bank and SACCO accounts
• Shares and business assets

2. Identify Your Beneficiaries

State clearly who will inherit what. Beneficiaries may include:

• Spouse(s)
• Children
• Parents
• Extended family members
• Charities or religious institutions

3. Appoint an Executor

This is the person who will carry out the instructions in your will. You can appoint:

• A trusted family member or friend
• A professional such as a lawyer from AWK Advocates

4. Appoint Guardians (If You Have Minor Children)

Name someone responsible and willing to care for your children if you pass away while they’re still underage.

5. Settle Debts and Liabilities

Include instructions to settle any debts, loans, or expenses (e.g. hospital bills or funeral costs) before distributing assets.

6. Sign the Will in the Presence of Witnesses

• You must sign the will in the presence of two adult witnesses
• They must also sign in your presence and in each other’s presence
• Witnesses must not be beneficiaries

📄 Sample Will (Meru-based)

Last Will and Testament of [Full Name]

I, [Your Name], of [Village/Sub-location in Meru County], declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.

1. I revoke all former wills.
2. I appoint [Executor’s Full Name] of [Location] as the executor of my estate.
3. I bequeath:

   – My land in Kithoka to my wife [Name]

   – KES 200,000 to my son [Name]

   – My livestock and tools to my daughter [Name]

4. I appoint [Guardian’s Name] as guardian of my minor children.

Signed: ___________________   Date: _________________ 

Witness 1: __________________ 

Witness 2: __________________

🏛️ Why Draft a Will in Meru?

• Meru is a region where land ownership disputes are common — a will can prevent this
• Protects your spouse and children from being disinherited
• Simplifies the probate process at the Meru Law Courts
• Ensures a smooth transfer of land, livestock, and businesses

💼 How AWK Advocates Supports Meru Residents

AWK Advocates provides legal services across counties, including:

• ✅ Personalized drafting of valid wills
• ✅ Guidance on customary and statutory succession laws
• ✅ Safe custody of your will
• ✅ Legal representation in probate and succession disputes
• ✅ Appointment as executor or trustee

🔗 Visit our website: awkadvocates.co.ke

📞 Ready to Draft Your Will in Meru?

Whether you want to protect family land, distribute wealth fairly, or appoint guardians for your children — we’re here to help.

📧 Contact AWK Advocates via awkadvocates.co.ke today. We offer custom will drafting, estate planning advice, and court assistance for clients in Meru County and beyond.