No one is presumed to trifle at the point of death.

Explanation

A dying man's declarations are presumed to be earnest and sincere — the law gives the greatest weight to words spoken in contemplation of death.

Where this applies

• My father made a confession on his deathbed — should the court take it seriously?
• A dying person made statements about who should get their property — are those statements credible?

See also

• 5.7.2 In wills, the intention of the testator is more especially regarded.
• 9.3.1 All things are presumed to have been done rightly and in due form.