'Estate planning' and selection of a hereditary order

Introduction: the article analyzes the types of posthumous inheritance orders that spouses can choose according to the norms of Russian legislation. The introduction of new types of the orders - a joint will and an inheritance agreement - makes the tasks of researching them, comparing them with the traditional, 'classical' will, and identifying the most efficient method of estate planning extremely relevant. Purpose: based on the analysis of doctrinal sources, norms of the current Russian and foreign legislation, practice of their application, to determine the main criteria that should be followed by spouses when choosing the type of inheritance order. Methods: general scientific and special scientific research methods were employed: formal and dialectical logic, methods of describing, comparing, interpreting, legal-dogmatic, historical methods, and the method of interpretation of legal norms. Results: analysis of the current legislation showed that a number of provisions of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation on joint wills and inheritance agreements require more detailed study and clarification. All the types of posthumous inheritance orders established by law are aimed at the realization by citizens of the right of inheritance and are guaranteed by the norms of the current legislation. However, it turned out impossible to guarantee unhindered exercise of the right of inheritance, on the one hand, and to ensure the interconnectedness of the will in a joint testament or inheritance agreement, on the other hand. Therefore, the legislator made its choice in favor of freedom of the will. Conclusions: when spouses choose the type of inheritance order, their own interest and the goals they want to achieve are of decisive importance. In terms of the content and terms, the inheritance agreement is more diverse as compared to the will and joint will. However, none of the types of posthumous orders can guarantee the receipt by the heir of the property indicated in the will, including the joint will, or in the inheritance agreement. In such a situation, inter vivos methods of disposition ofproperty appear to be more preferable.