Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte PartG mbB is a full-service law firm active all over Germany. We provide comprehensive legal advice and support to our clients on all aspects of German inheritance law, including estate planning, will drafting, inheritance disputes, and much more. Our experienced team of attorneys has in-depth knowledge and extensive experience in German inheritance law. We work closely with our clients to find specialised solutions that meet their specific needs. We take pride in offering our clients a personalised and professional service of the highest standard.
With offices and conference rooms across Germany, we are available nationwide. We offer comprehensive support to clients based outside of Germany who require guidance on German inheritance law. Please, do not hesitate to contact us directly for expert legal support.
German Inheritance Lawyer: Estate Planning
Some inheritance law issues will arise before a testator’s death and it is vital to get the right legal advice in such matters. It must be noted that there are complications inherent in drafting wills and in estate planning, as there are certain formalities which must be observed to ensure that the will is valid. Professional assistance with drafting a final testament can ensure that the following questions are answered:
- Who should my heirs be and how are they to receive their inheritance?
- Can I transfer my assets to my spouse or children under favourable conditions during my lifetime?
- How can I ensure that after my death, everything happens the way I envisioned?
Our experienced and accomplished inheritance lawyer, Dr Thomas Bichat, is available and ready to answer all of these questions and much more. Through a personal meeting, he will advise you on how you can best fulfil your wishes and ideas regarding your will and final testament.
Drafting and Review of German Wills
At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our lawyers assist our clients with drafting wills to ensure that they are legally valid. By working with our lawyers, you can make sure to avoid common pitfalls present within the will-making process. We also support our clients when they need to change elements within or revoke their wills. Often, wills have international elements, particularly for German testators with heirs abroad or testators from other countries with German heirs. Our team advises clients regarding issues, such as der Pflichtteil (the compulsory share) and how difficulties within the community of heirs (“die Erbengemeinschaft”) can be avoided.
Inheritance Contract
The inheritance contract (Erbvertrag) is a binding agreement between at least two parties, including the testator. It is a means of disposition of property and assets following the testator’s passing. In comparison to a will, an inheritance contract is less flexible and subject to more robust legal requirements. Changing or cancelling an inheritance contract involves drafting an agreement with the other parties, and it must be notarized. An inheritance contract allows the testator to place specific demands on the prospective heir. An inheritance contract may consist of the testator leaving their property to the heir; however, the heir may face obligations to take care of the testator in their old age.