Cross-border inheritance issues are complex. We resolve them efficiently, so you secure your rights, access German assets, and avoid costly delays without traveling overseas.
Inheriting Assets in Germany? Get Clarity, Control, and Fast Legal Action.
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The Right Lawyer - a German Inheritance Lawyer
Makes All The Difference
German inheritance law is strict, formal, and very different from U.S. probate. Without expert guidance, heirs often face:
- Delays with banks and courts
- Missing or untranslated documents
- Disputes over compulsory share (Pflichtteil)
- Risk of accepting debt
- Real estate complications
- German inheritance tax exposure
- Conflict among co-heirs
- Procedural errors that block access to assets
You should not navigate these issues alone. We handle the following:
1. High Dollar German Inheritance or Liabilities
2. We Secure Your Inheritance
3. No Travel To Germany Necessary
4. We Bridge the Language Barriers
5. We Prepare the Application For The Certificate of the Inheritance
6. We Prepare the Application For The Certificate of Executorship
7. Prepare Inheritance Tax Return
We Work on a Flat Fee Agreement Based on the Value of the Inheritance.
What We Handle for You is
A Full-Service Representation for U.S.-Based Heirs
Full-Service Representation for U.S.-Based Heirs includes:
Certificate of inheritance (Erbschein).
Bank account access and release of funds.
Sale or transfer of German real estate.
Sale or transfer of German real estate.
Pflichtteil enforcement or defense.
Disclaimer of inheritance if debt is involved.
Executor support for compliance with German law
Recognition of wills across borders
German inheritance tax analysis and filings
Negotiations with co-heirs and executors
We handle the entire process in Germany so you don’t have to.
How It Works
1. Initial Case Evaluation
We determine your rights, identify risks, and map the fastest route to resolution.
2. Strategic Roadmap
A tailored plan based on your assets, family structure, and German legal requirements.
3. Legal Execution
We manage all filings, deadlines, bank communications, tax documentation, and negotiations.
4. Resolution Without Delay
You gain access to assets and bring the estate to completion without unnecessary stress.
We Work on a Flat Fee Agreement Based on the Value of the Inheritance.
Who we serve & Why Clients Choose Us
We serve:
U.S. citizens inheriting assets in Germany
Executors needing cross-border legal compliance
Families facing compulsory share claims
Heirs managing German real estate
Beneficiaries who want to avoid travel
Beneficiaries who want to avoid Language barriers
Recognition of wills across borders
Why Clients Choose Us:
Deep expertise in German inheritance, tax, family, and corporate law
Full cross-border representation
Decisive, strategic approach
Clear communication and predictable outcomes
Proven results for U.S.-based heirs
Secure your inheritance. Avoid costly mistakes.
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We handle the entire process in Germany so you don’t have to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to travel to Germany to claim an inheritance?
No. In most cases, U.S.-based heirs can handle the entire probate process remotely through a German attorney with power of attorney. You do not need to appear in person to claim your inheritance or handle legal filings.
What documents are required to start the probate process in Germany?
Typically, you will need:
- The death certificate (German or translated)
- The last will (if any)
- Proof of your relationship to the deceased (birth or marriage certificates)
- A copy of your passport or ID
- Apostilles
- Translations
- Additional documents may be required depending on the case and location of assets.
What is a German Certificate of Inheritance (Erbschein)?
The Erbschein is a legal document issued by the German probate court that identifies the rightful heirs. It is often required to access German bank accounts, sell property, or deal with official institutions in Germany.
How long does the probate process in Germany typically take?
Standard cases take 4 to 8 months, but timing can vary based on court backlogs, whether there is a will, and if multiple heirs or foreign assets are involved. Complex cases can take longer.
Can I use a U.S. will in German probate?
Not automatically. A U.S. will may not meet German formal requirements. However, it may be recognized if it complies with international succession law and is properly translated and legalized. Legal review is essential.
Am I liable for the debts of the deceased?
Yes, German inheritance law includes both assets and liabilities. Heirs inherit the entire estate, including debts, unless they formally disclaim the inheritance within six weeks (or six months if abroad) of learning about it.
How do I disclaim an inheritance in Germany?
You must submit a formal disclaimer (Ausschlagung) to the competent German probate court. If you're abroad, the disclaimer must be notarized and sent through proper channels—usually via a German consulate or a U.S. notary with an apostille.
What taxes apply to a German inheritance?
German inheritance tax (Erbschaftsteuer) is levied based on the heir’s relationship to the deceased and the value of the estate. U.S. citizens may also have to report the inheritance to the IRS, though there is typically no U.S. tax on inherited assets unless income is later generated.
Can I sell inherited property in Germany from the U.S.?
Yes, but you’ll need an Erbschein or official probate order and a notarial deed of sale under German law. Transactions must be handled through a German notary, and proceeds may be subject to capital gains tax under certain conditions.
What if there are multiple heirs?
Germany treats multiple heirs as a community of heirs (Erbengemeinschaft). Any sale or distribution of estate property must be agreed upon unanimously. Coordination between heirs and legal representation is essential to avoid disputes and delays.
How do I access German bank accounts or investments?
Banks require proof of inheritance—usually an Erbschein or notarized will with probate order—and personal identification. If you’re abroad, a power of attorney can authorize your legal representative to manage these affairs.
Can I get legal help in English?
Yes. Many German probate attorneys work with international clients and provide bilingual service. It is strongly advised to work with someone familiar with cross-border probate and the U.S.–German legal interface.
What if I suspect fraud or mismanagement in the estate?
You can petition the German probate court for a Testamentsvollstrecker (executor) or file legal claims against co-heirs. Proper documentation and prompt legal action are critical in contested or suspicious cases.
How do I get started with my German inheritance case from the U.S.?
Begin by collecting available documents related to the deceased and your relationship, then consult with a German probate attorney who works with U.S.-based clients. They can handle all filings, representation, and correspondence with the German probate court.
Call USA Office
+1.989.687.5255
Email USA Office
info [@] galawcenter.com