Question

The benefit left behind by way of a Will is primarily known as a , which represents the assets, money, or property that a person leaves to beneficiaries after their death.

• A. Legacy
• B. Testament
• C. Codicil
• D. Deathbed Gift

Hint:

Key terminology in testamentary law:

• Will/Testament = Legal document expressing final wishes.

• Codicil = Amendment or supplement to a Will.

• Legacy = Property or benefit received by a beneficiary.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: The law of succession, governed under testamentary legal frameworks such as the Indian Succession Act, 1925, regulates how an individual's estate is distributed following their death. It defines specific terms for the documents used, the changes made to those documents, and the property distributed to beneficiaries.

Step 1: Define the term ``Legacy''. A legacy (often used interchangeably with a bequest) is a gift of personal property or assets left to an individual through the explicit text of a valid Will. It represents the actual benefit transferred from the deceased person's estate to the beneficiary.

Step 2: Analyze alternative testamentary terms.

• Testament: Refers to the Will itself or the declaration of a person's final wishes.

• Codicil: A document that explains, alters, or adds to the provisions of an existing Will and is considered part of the original Will.

• Deathbed Gift (Donatio Mortis Causa): A gift made by a person expecting imminent death, which becomes effective only if the donor dies from that anticipated cause.

Step 3: Match the definition. The question asks for the term that denotes the actual benefit, money, or property left to beneficiaries through a Will. This corresponds to the legal meaning of a Legacy. Therefore, Option (A) is correct.