Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Germany

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English
Rechtsanwaltskanzlei Pfisterer, based in Germany, offers comprehensive legal services across various domains, including family law, employment law, traffic law, criminal law, patient directives, and private insolvencies. The firm is committed to providing personalized and professional legal...
Anwaltsbüro im Hegarhaus
Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

English
Anwaltsbüro im Hegarhaus, located in the heart of Germany, is renowned for its comprehensive range of legal services, offering expertise that spans across various fields of law. The firm excels in providing top-tier legal counsel and representation in auditor practices, ensuring meticulous...
MARTIN RECHTSANWÄLTE
Karlsruhe, Germany

Founded in 1989
English
MARTIN RECHTSANWÄLTE stands as a distinguished law firm in Germany, renowned for its extensive expertise across various legal disciplines. Specializing as criminal justice attorneys, the firm is adept at navigating complex criminal cases, providing robust defense strategies tailored to each...
Lenhardt & Lenhardt Rechtsanwälte
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Founded in 2017
10 people in their team
German
English
Lenhardt & Lenhardt AttorneysYOUR LAWYERS FOR FAMILY LAW AND LABOR LAW IN FRANKFURTThe lawyers at Lenhardt & Lenhardt Partnerschaftsgesellschaft will represent you in all areas of family law and employment law . In addition, there is a network of colleagues specialized in tax law, real...
Rechtsanwälte Post & Giese
Ludwigslust, Germany

Founded in 1999
English
Established in 1999, Rechtsanwälte Post & Giese has been a cornerstone of legal expertise in Ludwigslust, Germany. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across multiple disciplines, including criminal justice, elder law, estate planning, family law, labor relations, and general practice....
Gassmann & Seidel law firm
Stuttgart, Germany

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
German
English
competent - ​​specialized - excellentWe have been supporting our clients nationwide with passion and expertise for 40 years. Our work is based on a clear philosophy. We provide specialized and personal advice. We place the highest demands on our work in order to achieve the goals of our...

Founded in 2000
English
Kanzlei SCHULTE RECHTSANWÄLTE, a Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH located in Germany, is renowned for its comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas. The firm brings a wealth of expertise to the table, specializing in employment law, estate planning, general legal practice, and real...
Wolfsburg, Germany

Founded in 2004
English
Prölß Mühlhaus Kollegen is a distinguished law firm located in Wolfsburg, Germany, offering a comprehensive range of legal services. The firm's areas of expertise include civil law, estate planning, family law, labor relations, real estate, and trial advocacy. Additionally, the firm provides...
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About Estate Planning Law in Germany

Estate planning in Germany involves the preparation of documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. It also involves minimizing estate taxes and avoiding probate court proceedings.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for estate planning in Germany if you have complex family dynamics, valuable assets, business interests, or investments in multiple countries. A lawyer can help ensure that your wishes are legally binding and properly executed.

Local Laws Overview

In Germany, inheritance laws are governed by the Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch), which outlines rules for intestate succession, wills, and gifts. Notable aspects include forced heirship rights for close relatives and strict formal requirements for wills.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed upon your death. A trust, on the other hand, is a legal entity that holds assets for the benefit of beneficiaries during your lifetime and/or after your death.

2. Can I disinherit a family member in Germany?

In Germany, close relatives such as children and spouses have forced heirship rights, meaning they are entitled to a portion of your estate. However, you can exclude them from your will to some extent, depending on individual circumstances.

3. Do I need to update my will periodically?

It is advisable to review and update your will regularly, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, or acquisition of significant assets. This ensures that your wishes remain up to date.

4. How can I minimize estate taxes in Germany?

Estate taxes in Germany can be minimized through proper estate planning strategies such as lifetime gifts, charitable donations, and utilizing tax exemptions for spouses and children. Consulting a tax advisor or lawyer can help you navigate these complexities.

5. What happens if I die without a will in Germany?

If you die without a will (intestate), German law dictates how your estate will be distributed, typically following a fixed order of succession among close relatives. This may not align with your wishes, so having a will is crucial.

6. Can I appoint a guardian for my minor children in my will?

Yes, you can appoint a guardian for your minor children in your will to ensure they are cared for by someone you trust in the event of your death. It is important to discuss this with the potential guardian beforehand.

7. What is a durable power of attorney, and why is it important for estate planning?

A durable power of attorney is a legal document that allows someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. It is important for estate planning to ensure your affairs are managed according to your wishes.

8. How can I protect my business interests through estate planning?

You can protect your business interests through estate planning by establishing a succession plan, creating a buy-sell agreement, and considering the implications of estate taxes on your business assets. Consulting a lawyer with experience in business succession is recommended.

9. What are advance healthcare directives, and why are they important for estate planning?

Advance healthcare directives are legal documents that outline your wishes for medical care if you become unable to communicate. They are important for estate planning to ensure your healthcare preferences are known and respected by family and medical professionals.

10. How can I ensure my digital assets are included in my estate plan?

You can include your digital assets in your estate plan by creating a list of accounts, passwords, and instructions for their management or transfer after your death. It is important to update this information regularly and store it securely.

Additional Resources

For more information on estate planning in Germany, you can contact the Bundesnotarkammer (Federal Chamber of Notaries), the German Bar Association (Deutscher Anwaltsverein), or consult a local notary or lawyer specializing in estate planning.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with estate planning in Germany, consider scheduling a consultation with a qualified lawyer to discuss your specific needs and goals. They can help you create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and complies with German laws.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Germany 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 Estate Planning, 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 Germany - 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.