As a lawyer specialising in German inheritance law, Sarah Liebisch provides legal assistance across estate planning, probate administration, and inheritance disputes. Working alongside Dr. Thomas Bichat on complex cases with cross-border elements, Ms. Liebisch approaches each case with the necessary tact and attention to detail that inheritance matters require.

Estate Planning and Testament Drafting

Ms. Liebisch supports clients in structuring their assets through estate planning services. She advises on drafting holographic and notarial testaments, joint wills, and inheritance contracts (Erbverträge). Her work frequently involves cross-border considerations when heirs reside abroad, when testators hold assets in multiple countries, or when selecting the applicable law under EU regulations.

Compulsory Portion Law and Business Succession

The German compulsory portion (Pflichtteil) ensures that certain close relatives receive a minimum share of an estate, regardless of the testament provisions. Ms. Liebisch advises testators on calculating obligations and structuring estates to balance personal wishes with statutory requirements. For heirs, she calculates entitlements, negotiates settlements, and enforces claims when necessary.

For business owners, Ms. Liebisch develops succession strategies examining corporate structures, transfer timing, and tax implications. Her services include family succession planning, family foundations (Familienstiftung), and hybrid succession solutions.

Estate Administration and International Cases

Ms. Liebisch guides clients through estate settlement – from obtaining certificates of inheritance (Erbschein) to estate distribution. For communities of heirs (Erbengemeinschaft), she facilitates dissolution agreements and represents clients in partition proceedings. She handles will challenges and inheritance disputes through out-of-court settlement and court representation.

For international matters, Ms. Liebisch manages German estate administration for clients abroad, coordinating document translation, apostille certification, and communication with German probate courts and banks.