Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte PartG is a full-service law firm active all over Germany. Our inheritance law specialist Dr Thomas Bichat advises clients on the legal issues arising, while at all times being aware of the sensitivity inherent in inheritance law disputes. With offices and conference rooms in Aachen, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, Hamburg and Berlin, we are available nationwide. We offer comprehensive support to clients based outside of Germany who require guidance on German inheritance law.
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.
Guidance with International Inheritance Cases
If you are a testator who has heirs based abroad or if you live outside of Germany but wish to leave property or assets to an heir in Germany, consulting with an inheritance lawyer may be in your best interest. Complex questions concerning inheritance tax, the power of disposition and obtaining bank account information can arise, preventing your heirs from obtaining their inheritance.
At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our German inheritance lawyers will outline the legal requirements specific to your personal situation. Once we have the required information, our team will support you by making you aware of the legal necessities and help you to avoid pitfalls that may cause your heirs difficulty in the future. We have worked with clients worldwide.