A will is a written declaration of how your property should be distributed after your death. It needs no stamp paper, must be signed by you and attested by two witnesses (Section 63, Indian Succession Act), and can be changed any time. Registration at the Sub-Registrar is optional but strongly recommended in Pune because it makes the will much harder to dispute.
Why make a will?
Without a will, your property passes by the default succession law that applies to you — for many Hindu families in Pune, equally to spouse, children and mother. That can leave a flat jointly owned by several heirs who must later sign release deeds, obtain heirship certificates and agree on every decision.
A clear will lets you choose who gets what, appoint an executor, provide for a dependent parent or a child with special needs, and avoid disputes. It only takes effect after death, and you can revoke or change it any time.
Documents required for will
Testator (person making the will)
- Aadhaar and PAN card
- Passport-size photographs
- Details of properties: Index-II, share certificates, 7/12, bank and demat accounts
- Medical fitness certificate (advisable for senior citizens)
Beneficiaries & executor
- Full names, relationship and address of each beneficiary
- Name of executor (optional but recommended)
Witnesses
- Aadhaar of two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries
How the will process works
- Consultation
A confidential call or home visit to list your assets, family members and wishes.
- Drafting
Our advocate drafts the will with clear bequests, an executor, a residuary clause and revocation of earlier wills.
- Review
You read the draft in English or Marathi and suggest changes until it says exactly what you want.
- Signing
You sign each page in front of two witnesses, who sign as attesting witnesses. We can video-record the signing.
- Registration (optional)
We book the Sub-Registrar appointment and accompany you. Sealed deposit with the Registrar is also possible.
Get your will done without the guesswork
Send your details on WhatsApp. We share the exact document list and stamp-duty estimate before you pay anything.
Should you register your will?
Section 18 of the Registration Act makes registration of a will optional. A registered will is still valid only if properly executed, but registration adds strong evidence that you signed it voluntarily before a government officer, and the original is preserved in public records — so it cannot be lost or destroyed.
You can also deposit a will in a sealed cover with the Registrar under Sections 42–46, to be opened after your death. There is no stamp duty on a will; only a nominal registration fee applies.
Tips for a will that won’t be challenged
- Describe each property precisely — flat number, building, survey number, account numbers.
- Add a residuary clause for assets you acquire later.
- Choose witnesses who are not beneficiaries and who are likely to be available later.
- For elderly testators, attach a doctor’s certificate of sound mind dated the same day.
- Remember: society nomination is not the same as a will — a nominee holds the flat as trustee for legal heirs.
Will Drafting & Registration in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Mumbai, Thane & Palghar
We handle will for clients across these cities. What differs locally:
| City | What to know locally |
|---|---|
| Pune | Registered at Haveli and Pune city Sub-Registrar offices; we draft, stamp and book the appointment. |
| Pimpri-Chinchwad | Registered at Jurisdictional Sub-Registrar office for Pimpri-Chinchwad (Haveli / Maval / Mulshi as applicable); we draft, stamp and book the appointment. |
| Mumbai | Registered at Mumbai City and Mumbai Suburban Sub-Registrar offices; we draft, stamp and book the appointment. |
| Thane | Registered at Thane district Sub-Registrar offices (Thane, Kalyan, Bhiwandi, Ulhasnagar, Ambernath); we draft, stamp and book the appointment. |
| Palghar | Registered at Palghar district Sub-Registrar offices (Vasai, Palghar, Dahanu and others); we draft, stamp and book the appointment. |
Frequently asked questions
Is it compulsory to register a will in Maharashtra?
No. Registration is optional under Section 18 of the Registration Act. However, a registered will is far harder to challenge and cannot be lost, so we recommend it, especially where property is involved.
Is stamp paper required for a will?
No. A will can be written on plain paper. No stamp duty is payable, and registration carries only a nominal fee.
How many witnesses are needed for a will?
Two witnesses must see you sign (or acknowledge your signature) and sign the will themselves. Beneficiaries and their spouses should not act as witnesses.
Can I change my will after registering it?
Yes. You can make a new will or a codicil at any time. The latest valid will revokes earlier ones, especially when it says so expressly.
Is probate required for a will in Pune?
For most wills relating to property in Pune, probate is not compulsory. It is mandatory for wills made in, or covering immovable property within, the original jurisdiction of the Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai High Courts. Some banks or societies may still ask for probate or a succession certificate.
Can you visit senior citizens at home for a will?
Yes. Our advocate visits your home in Pune for consultation and signing, and we arrange the Sub-Registrar appointment at a convenient time.
