Serious sources reckon that only one in seven persons leaves a will when he dies. Although a holographic will can be made, such wills are in very many cases invalid or ambiguous because they do not satisfy further formal requirements or do not comply with the deceased's real wishes and result in disagreements among the surviving dependants. On the other hand, the notary advises you in depth, draws your attention to the consequences of your wishes and points out appropriate alternatives. He helps you to make a valid and clear arrangement. At the same time he is familiar with typically problematic aspects such as rights to a compulsory portion of the estate, divorced marriages, participations in business undertakings assets situated abroad and points out the risks involved. Often tax implications must be considered, also jointly with a tax advisor. This may result in an extensive estate planning including so-called anticipated succession - i.e. lifetime transfers - and other corresponding documents such as waivers of compulsory portions. Page 2