It is a paradox in life that death is certain, but the timing of death is uncertain. Estate planning involves helping the individual plan for his needs, not only whilst alive, but also upon death. 

A well-thought-through estate plan will enable one to secure the necessary financial foundation for their loved ones. Good estate planning can help create the desired estate for loved ones immediately. It can protect accumulated estate from creditors’ risk, and distribute estate either in a lump sum or periodically to loved ones, depending on the financial maturity of the beneficiaries. 

It is important to know the timeline when one is alive and upon one’s death. An estate settlement process explains what happens during the time period upon death till the distribution of the deceased’s estate.

Upon death, most of the deceased’s assets would be frozen. These assets would be available for distribution only after the Court issues the Grant of Probate or Letter of Administration. If there is a Will, the distribution would usually be based on the choice of the testator or deceased. If there is no Will, the distribution would be based according to the Intestate Succession Act.

For Muslims, the distribution will be in accordance with the Administration of Muslim Act and other instruments that the testator has prepared whilst he was alive.