Mgr. Timotej Práznovský

Bequest: The Sphinx in the New Civil Code? The study critically evaluates the proposed introduction of the bequest (legatum) into the new Slovak Civil Code, which was submitted for public consultation in September 2025. The article aims to elucidate the dogmatic structure of the draft, which blends three historical models: the bequest by damnation (legatum per damnationem), the bequest by vindication (legatum per vindicationem), and the Roman fideicommissum. Using doctrinal legal analysis, the article first examines the internal coherence of the damnation model within the broader framework of the proposed Code. It then explores the functional role of the bequest in Slovak society, its relationship to the modus, and the permissible scope of objects. Further sections address legal and axiological challenges linked to substitute legatees and formal requirements. Findings indicate that the proposal diverges significantly from classical models: it prohibits bequeathing future or third-party property and restricts conditional bequests beyond the moment of delation. Furthermore, a bequest unregistered during creditor convocation, or one exceeding 25 % of the net estate, becomes a natural obligation. These constraints risk undermining testamentary autonomy and complicating practical enforcement. The article concludes that, while the damnation model offers a more sophisticated approach to private autonomy, the current draft may render the bequest overly formalistic and inaccessible. Without targeted revisions, the "Slovak bequest" could fail its intended purpose and depart from historical and comparative traditions. The study advocates a more liberal and dogmatically consistent approach, stressing the need for judicial interpretation and legislative clarity to secure the bequest's viability in Slovak private law. Key words : legatum per damnationem, legatum per vindicationem, obligation, recodification of private law in Slovakia, modus PRÁZNOVSKÝ, T.: Odkaz: sfinga v novom Občianskom zákonníku? *) Právny obzor, 109, 2026, č. 2, s. 191 - 207. https://doi.org/10.31577/pravnyobzor.2026.2.05