Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Denmark

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Advokatfirmaet Dickmeiss
Copenhagen, Denmark

Founded in 2006
3 people in their team
English
Advokatfirmaet Dickmeiss is an Odense based law practice that prioritizes a personal and trusted collaboration with each client and delivers professional, qualified legal representation across a broad spectrum of matters. The firm uses encrypted email for all communications and ensures that...
Advokat Lindahl Andreasen
Copenhagen, Denmark

Founded in 2013
English
Advokat Lindahl Andreasen, located in Sorø, Denmark, offers comprehensive legal services with a focus on real estate transactions, estate planning, and family law. Led by attorney Lotte Lindahl Andreasen, the firm provides expert guidance in property purchases, ensuring clients navigate the...
Viborg, Denmark

Founded in 2014
6 people in their team
English
Horstmann advokater is a full-service law firm based in Viborg, Denmark, offering a broad spectrum of legal services to individuals and businesses. The firm combines local insight with a practical, solution-oriented approach and emphasizes clear, timely communication to help clients make informed...
Advodan Thisted
Thisted, Denmark

12 people in their team
English
Advodan Thisted is a locally anchored law office serving businesses, public authorities and private individuals in the Thisted region. The office combines deep local and regional knowledge with a structured team approach, ensuring that clients are matched with lawyers who have specific experience...

Founded in 2013
22 people in their team
English
Advokatfirmaet Grotkjær Elmstrøm is a Denmark-based mid-sized law firm with offices in Aarhus and Copenhagen that focuses on advising private clients. The firm delivers specialist services in areas such as real estate, wills and estates, compensation law, family law and immigration, blending...
Advodan Lolland Falster
Maribo, Denmark

23 people in their team
English
Advodan Lolland-Falster is a modern Danish law firm with offices in Maribo, Nakskov and Nykøbing Falster, and is part of the nationwide Advodan network. The firm combines strong local market insight with a cross-disciplinary approach to serve corporate and private clients across a wide range of...
Spektrum advokater
Herning, Denmark

Founded in 2014
English
Spektrum Advokater, located in Herning, Denmark, offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including inheritance law, monetary claims, real estate, business law, intellectual property, company law, tort law, and procedural law. The firm is staffed by a team of five...

Founded in 2010
1 person in their team
English
Advokatfirmaet Søren Olesen ApS is a Danish law firm based in Bogense, established in 2010 by founder Søren Olesen. The practice focuses on business law and private client matters, delivering professional guidance to individuals and small businesses across Denmark.The firm is known for its client...

Founded in 1983
English
Toxen-Worm is a boutique Danish firm offering integrated real estate and legal services tailored to individuals and businesses. The practice combines real estate brokerage with home buyers advisory and legal counsel, enabling clients to navigate property transactions with confidence. The team...
Roskilde, Denmark

Founded in 1998
13 people in their team
English
Forum Advokater A/S is a Roskilde-based law firm recognized for private client and dispute-resolution work. The team advises individuals and families on wills, estates, probate and family matters, and handles property transactions and court proceedings. With roots dating back to the late 1990s, the...
AS SEEN ON

About Will & Testament Law in Denmark

Will and Testament law in Denmark is governed by the Danish Inheritance Act, which provides clear guidelines on the distribution of a person’s estate after death. A will, known as “testamente” in Danish, allows individuals to specify how their assets should be allocated beyond the default plans set by the law. The regulations ensure that certain family members, such as spouses and children, receive a mandatory portion of the estate. However, having a will in place allows more flexibility and specificity in other allocations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance may be necessary for various reasons when dealing with wills and testaments. Common scenarios include:

  • Complex Estates: High-value or multifaceted estates may require specialized knowledge to manage effectively.
  • Disputed Wills: If someone contests the validity of a will, legal intervention may be needed to resolve the matter.
  • Estate Planning: Lawyers can provide strategic advice to minimize taxes and ensure efficient distribution of assets.
  • Legal Compliance: Ensuring the will complies with Danish law and effectively outlines the testator’s wishes.
  • Updating Wills: Significant life changes may necessitate updates to a will, requiring legal consultation.

Local Laws Overview

The Danish Inheritance Act lays the groundwork for how estates are handled posthumously. Key aspects include:

  • Forced Heirship: Children and spouses are entitled to a portion of the estate, known as the forced heirship, which cannot be overridden by a will.
  • Formality Requirements: For a will to be valid, it must be compliant with specific formal requirements, notably being documented in writing and witnessed appropriately.
  • Inheritance Tax: Estates may be subject to inheritance tax, with rates and exemptions varying based on the relationship to the deceased and the value of the estate.
  • Trusts and Gifts: The Danish law also allows for certain structures, like trusts and lifetime gifts, to be employed in estate planning under specified conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a will in Denmark?

Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to the Danish Inheritance Act, which prioritizes your spouse and children.

Can I disinherit my children in Denmark?

While you cannot completely disinherit your children due to forced heirship rules, you can limit their share to the statutory portion.

Are there language requirements for a Danish will?

While it is not legally required, drafting a will in Danish can help avoid misinterpretations and ensure it is easily understood by local authorities.

How can I update my will in Denmark?

To update your will, you must create a new document that clearly states the revocation of the previous one and meets all formal requirements.

What is the role of an executor in Denmark?

An executor ensures the deceased’s wishes, as expressed in the will, are carried out and handles administrative aspects of the estate distribution.

Can I include foreign assets in my Danish will?

Yes, you can include foreign assets; however, it's vital to consider the legal systems of the countries where the assets are located.

What are the fees for hiring a lawyer for a will in Denmark?

Costs can vary significantly based on the complexity of the estate and the lawyer’s experience, often starting from a few thousand DKK.

Do I need witnesses for my will in Denmark?

Yes, the presence of witnesses is necessary to validate the signing of a will, ensuring it reflects the testator's intent.

How does marriage affect my will?

Marriage can alter inheritance rights, so reviewing and potentially updating your will upon marriage is beneficial.

Can joint wills be created in Denmark?

Danish law allows for joint wills, particularly common among spouses, to ensure harmony in estate planning.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • The Danish Bar and Law Society: For finding qualified lawyers specializing in wills and estates.
  • Local probate courts: They can offer guidance regarding procedural requirements.
  • Public libraries and online legal platforms: These are great for accessing literature on Danish inheritance law.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding a will or testament in Denmark, consider taking the following steps:

  1. Identify Your Needs: Understand the specific legal issues you face and the type of help you require.
  2. Research Qualified Lawyers: Use resources such as the Danish Bar and Law Society to find a lawyer experienced in wills and inheritance law.
  3. Schedule a Consultation: Discuss your situation with a lawyer to gain insights into your legal standing and options.
  4. Prepare Documentation: Gather relevant documents and information needed for the legal process.
  5. Follow Legal Guidance: Work closely with your lawyer to ensure all legal steps are carefully and correctly executed.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Denmark through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Will & Testament, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Denmark — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.