Question from a reader:
Please tell me about inheritance. In a family structure consisting of a father, mother, and two children, when the mother first passes away, I believe the inheritance would be divided with the father receiving 1/2 and the children receiving 1/2 (1/4 each since there are two children). Then, when the father passes away, will all the inheritance
go to the two children? Will they each receive 1/2, making it 100% for the two children?

Basic Knowledge and Specific Examples of Inheritance

Inheritance is a topic that cannot be avoided, especially for those with families. Thinking about money and inheritance can sometimes feel heavy, but by understanding it properly, you may be able to avoid future troubles. In this article, we will take a specific family structure as an example and explain the flow of inheritance in detail.

Family Structure and Distribution of Inheritance

In the example you provided, the family structure consists of a father, mother, and two children. In this case, let’s assume the mother has passed away and consider the distribution of the inheritance. When the mother passes away, the heirs will be the father and the children. According to Japanese civil law, the spouse, in this case, the father, inherits 1/2 of the estate, while the remaining 1/2 is divided equally among the two children. Therefore, each child will receive 1/4. Now, what’s important here is the existence of a will. If the mother left a will, its contents will take precedence. In other words, if the will states that all specific assets should go to the father, the children’s share may change. In such cases, it is crucial to carefully check the contents of the will.

Inheritance After the Father’s Passing

After the mother has passed away, let’s assume that the father passes away after some time. At this point, the estate being inherited is that of the father. The inheritance of the father’s estate is generally considered in the same way as that of the mother. This means that the father’s estate will be inherited 100% by the two children. In this case, the children will each receive 1/2. Again, the will is important here. If the father left a will, the contents may change the distribution of the inheritance. For example, if he intended to give more to a specific child, it would be necessary to state that in the will.

Preventive Measures for Inheritance-Related Troubles

I know several friends and acquaintances who are troubled by inheritance issues. Inheritance can sometimes lead to disputes among family members, so it is essential to take preventive measures. Here are a few preventive strategies:

Creating a Will

First and foremost, creating a will is important. Having a will can prevent disputes among heirs before they arise. It is advisable to write down who you want to leave which assets to. Legally, there are several forms of wills, but a handwritten will is particularly easy to create and is recommended.

Confirming Family Intentions

Next, it is also important to confirm the intentions of the family. Especially by having discussions with family members while still alive, misunderstandings and dissatisfaction regarding inheritance can be reduced. I have also experienced surprising opinions emerging when discussing this topic with my family. It is essential to aim for discussions that everyone can agree on.

Utilizing Legal Consultation

Additionally, consider consulting with legal professionals. The laws regarding inheritance can be quite complex, so receiving professional advice can help facilitate the process more smoothly. Particularly in cases where the estate is substantial or there are complicated circumstances, it is wise to seek the help of an expert.

Consideration of Emotional Aspects

Discussions about inheritance tend to focus on money, but it is also necessary to pay attention to the emotional aspects. I believe that inheritance is a moment that tests family bonds. Whether one receives a large or small inheritance can sometimes strain relationships between siblings. From such experiences, when explaining inheritance matters, I try to emphasize not only the actual numbers but also the importance of family values and bonds. Money is important, but family relationships are invaluable.

Conclusion

As discussed so far, inheritance may seem simple but actually involves many elements. When the mother passes away, the father will receive 1/2 and the children will receive 1/4 each. After the father passes away, the two children will inherit the father’s estate equally, but the existence of a will becomes very important in this flow. Moreover, communication among family members and consulting with professionals are essential to prevent troubles. By thoroughly understanding inheritance and preparing accordingly, you can facilitate the process more smoothly. I hope this discussion is helpful for those close to you. As you deepen your thoughts on inheritance, please also strive to cherish your bonds with your family.