Besides handwritten and oral (emergency) wills, the law also recognises the notarised variant. This offers advantages that can mostly pay off when circumstances are complicated or an estate is valuable.

The will is drawn up by the testator without the involvement of possible heirs or legatees. This can be a sensitive matter as the will is only effective after the death of the testator. Formal requirements are therefore imposed by law to protect all parties involved.

The rules of inheritance are actually all governed by the Swiss Civil Code (ZGB). If that were really the case, notaries and lawyers could devote themselves to other legal problems.