The city of Mogi das Cruzes in Brazil has experienced a remarkable increase in the number of wills, with a 42% rise from the previous year, according to the São Paulo Association of Natural Persons Registrars (Arpen). In total, 110 wills were registered in 2024, marking a historical peak for the city. This surge reflects a broader trend observed over the past five years, where there has been a staggering 77% increase in will registrations.

Wills serve as an essential tool for individuals to plan the distribution of their assets after passing away. While the will is a public document once registered, its contents remain confidential while the testator is alive. The absence of a registered will means that inheritances would follow the default rules set out in the Civil Code, which determine the order of succession among relatives. This can significantly affect how assets are distributed, as it may exclude certain heirs.

The increase in will registrations could indicate a growing awareness among the population regarding the importance of estate planning. As more people recognize the need to outline their wishes following their death, it may prompt further discussions on inheritance laws and the implications of not having a legally binding will. This change could have far-reaching effects on families and the legal landscape surrounding inheritance in Brazil.