Name and Arms Clause Law & Legal Definition

Name and arms clause is the condition in a will, deed of gift, or deed of trust, that the person upon whom the property or beneficial interest is bestowed shall assume the name and arms or crest of the testator or settlor.

Name and arms clauses are for the purpose of imposing on one the condition that he shall assume the surname and arms of the testator with a direction that if he neglects to do so, the estate shall devolve to others. [Jiles v. Flegel, 9 Ill. App. 3d 74 (Ill. App. Ct. 4th Dist. 1972)].