We advise on the structuring of succession through wills, inheritance contracts or anticipated succession during lifetime, including gifts.

The first step in any inheritance consultation regarding estate planning is to assess the individual situation. This determines whether and to what extent an individual will, a joint will (e.g. in the form of a Berlin will) or an inheritance contract is appropriate, and which specific provisions should be included. The focus is on ensuring that the wishes of the testator are carried out and avoiding disputes between the heirs, with beneficiaries of compulsory portions (“Pflichtteilsberechtigten”) or within the community of heirs (“Erbengemeinschaft”). We also take into account special issues that may arise, for example, in the case of entrepreneurs, patchwork situations, and assets abroad.

When a succession occurs, we assist with the settlement of the estate, certify declarations of renunciation of inheritance (“Erbausschlagung”), apply for certificates of inheritance (“Erbschein”), executor’s certificates (“Testamentsvollstreckerzeugnisse”), and settle inheritance disputes. We are also happy to collaborate with tax advisors and external lawyers in all of these matters.