assets owned before marriage

Suppose I own a property jointly with a sibling for many years then the sibling got married. And suppose later he/she passes away due to an accident, would the spouse automatically be entitled to the sibling's share of the property (even though the property was inherited in the first place and this spouse made no economic contribution)? thanks.

There are legally two ways to jointly own a property, and it depends how it was structured at the time of the sibling passed away. We would need to look at the title deed. One way would allow the surviving sibling to inherit it, another way, not. Even if he or she does leave a will it may not necessarily be conclusive evidence as to what goes to whom.


There can be a number of variables of someone who can inherit interest in a property.


Consultation meeting can be arranged if your require further legal advice. You may wish to contact us for further details : weirlaw@hongkonglaw.com


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By looking at the deed you'll find out the property is Joint Tenant or Tenancy in common. That spouse can only inherit if it's 'tenancy in common'