If you have inherited assets, property, or financial accounts in Germany, dealing with the legal and practical consequences from abroad can be challenging. German inheritance procedures, court requirements, and communication with banks and authorities are often unfamiliar to international heirs.

I assist heirs and international families worldwide with German inheritance matters and the administration of estates located in Germany. Many of my clients live outside Germany and require reliable legal support without the need for frequent travel.

Whether the estate includes real estate, bank accounts, investments, or other assets, I provide practical guidance and legal representation throughout the process.

Common Challenges for Heirs Living Abroad

International heirs frequently face challenges such as:

• Understanding German inheritance procedures
• Communicating with German courts, banks, and authorities
• Managing inherited property from abroad
• Coordinating matters between heirs living in different countries
• Dealing with German-language documents and administrative requirements

How I Assist International Heirs

I advise and represent international clients in matters including:

• German probate proceedings
• Applications for certificates of inheritance
• Communication with probate courts
• Correspondence with German banks and financial institutions
• Administration of inherited assets
• Transfer and distribution of inheritance shares
• Representation in inheritance-related disputes

Where appropriate, I coordinate with trusted professionals involved in the administration of the estate, including notaries, real estate professionals, valuers, estate clearance services, and other specialists whose involvement may be required to facilitate the efficient administration, transfer, or sale of inherited assets in Germany.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which country's inheritance law governs an international succession? In cross-border inheritance matters, the applicable law is not always the law of the country where assets are located or where the heirs reside. Depending on the circumstances, the succession may be governed by the law of the deceased's habitual residence, a valid choice of law contained in a will, or other applicable conflict-of-law rules. Determining the applicable law is often one of the first issues that must be addressed in an international estate.

Do I need to travel to Germany to deal with an inheritance? Not necessarily. Many inheritance matters can be handled remotely, depending on the nature of the estate and the documentation required.

Can foreigners inherit property in Germany? Yes. Foreign nationals may inherit property and other assets located in Germany.

What is a German Certificate of Inheritance (Erbschein)? An Erbschein is an official document issued by a German probate court confirming who has inherited the estate and in what shares.

Can inherited property in Germany be sold from abroad? In many cases, yes. The exact procedure depends on the circumstances of the estate and the ownership structure.

How long do German probate proceedings take? The duration varies depending on the complexity of the estate, the available documentation, and the workload of the probate court. It can take from several months to several years.