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.

Sarah Liebisch brings both legal expertise and practical equestrian experience to her work with horse owners, breeders, and buyers. She provides guidance on warranty claims, liability disputes, and contractual matters in German equine law.

Horse Purchase and Warranty Claims

Ms. Liebisch supports buyers and sellers through horse transactions in Germany. She reviews and drafts purchase contracts and assesses warranty provisions. When conflicts arise regarding agreed-upon characteristics or the quality of horses, Ms. Liebisch represents clients in warranty claims, working with veterinary experts to develop strategies for price reduction, rescission, or damage claims.

Equine Contracts and Liability

Ms. Liebisch drafts and reviews contracts related to equestrian activities, including boarding agreements and training contracts. German animal owner liability law (Tierhalterhaftung) imposes strict liability on horse owners for damages caused by their animals. She advises on liability issues involving animal owners and facility operators, representing clients in related disputes.

Expertise Based on Personal Experience

Horses have been Ms. Liebisch’s constant companions since childhood. She became a state champion with her first pony and was twice selected for the pony dressage rider squad, achieving competition success through medium level in dressage. She earned her trainer’s licence in Neustadt/Dosse and gained professional experience in training stables and as manager of a riding school. During her legal clerkship, she completed her elective station at the German Equestrian Federation. Ms. Liebisch holds a degree in equestrian sports management and attends the annual German Horse Law Day.