Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

Can a will be left to a non-human?

To preface, I am a spec script writer and am doing research for a screenplay, so this is purely speculative.

Would a man be able to leave his wife and adult children out of his living will and will his estate to his dog? What actions would he need to take (i.e. obtaining an SSI # for the animal?) to make this action legal? What would happen to the dog's estate if the dog were to die? Would the owner need to set up a will for the dog as well?

Thanks!


Asked on 4/24/05, 8:53 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
John O'Donnell Attorney at Law

Re: Can a will be left to a non-human?

You are asking for a legal anwser--forget the dog, it can't happen.

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Answered on 4/24/05, 11:15 am
David Slater David P. Slater, Esq.

Re: Can a will be left to a non-human?

An estate can be put in trust for the benefit of a pet, during its life, and to others upon its death. You cannot leave your estate outright to a pet.

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Answered on 4/24/05, 11:41 am


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