When inheriting assets in Germany from abroad, heirs are often required to deal with German probate procedures, banks, real estate and administrative matters before an estate can be settled and distributed.

The good news is that in n many cases it is not necessary to travel to Germany. With the appropriate legal representation, much of the estate administration process can be handled remotely.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include identifying estate assets, communicating with financial institutions and authorities, transferring or selling German property, coordinating with co-heirs, and dealing with estate liabilities.

Where proof of heirship is required, an application for a German Certificate of Inheritance (Erbschein) may be necessary. The application is generally submitted to the competent German probate court. However, an Erbschein is not always required. In certain cases, a notarised will together with the probate court's official record of its opening may be sufficient to establish inheritance rights.

Beyond legal advice, we assist clients with the practical administration of estates in Germany. Acting under a power of attorney where appropriate, we can communicate with institutions and service providers on your behalf, coordinate the collection of information and documentation, and help manage the steps required to settle the estate efficiently.

Where additional expertise is needed, we work closely with a network of trusted professionals, including notaries, tax advisers, real estate agents, valuation experts, auction houses, household clearance companies and other service providers involved in the administration of estates.

For many international clients, the greatest benefit is having a single point of contact in Germany who can coordinate the process, address legal issues as they arise and ensure that matters continue to move forward, even when the heirs themselves are thousands of miles away.