Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Nea Erythraia
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
List of the best lawyers in Nea Erythraia, Greece
We haven't listed any Estate Planning lawyers in Nea Erythraia, Greece yet...
But you can share your requirements with us, and we will help you find the right lawyer for your needs in Nea Erythraia
Find a Lawyer in Nea Erythraia
1. About Estate Planning Law in Nea Erythraia, Greece
Estate planning in Greece is governed primarily by national law, not local ordinances. The Greek Civil Code covers wills, succession, guardianship, and related matters. In Nea Erythraia, residents rely on Greek statutes, while notaries and courts handle the practical steps like drafting documents and overseeing probate. The process often involves choosing between a public will before a notary, a private will, or, in limited circumstances, an oral will that is later reduced to writing.
The central framework for cross-border planning is shaped by European Union rules when assets span more than one country. This means Greek residents with property or beneficiaries in other EU states may need to consider applicable foreign law and formalities to ensure their wishes are honored across borders.
Key official resources for understanding these basics include the Hellenic Civil Code and general government guidance. See the Greek Civil Code text for authoritative provisions and the official government portal for consumer-facing explanations.
Regulation (EU) 650/2012 on cross-border successions governs jurisdiction and applicable law for estates with assets in multiple EU states, including Greece. It applies across member states and affects Greek estate planning in cross-border cases.
EU Regulation 650/2012 (Brussels IV) - cross-border successions provides a cross-border framework that Greek residents should consider when planning estates with foreign elements. For national texts and guidance, see et.gr and gov.gr.
2. Why You May Need a Lawyer
Estate planning involves technical steps and precise formalities. A local lawyer in Nea Erythraia can help ensure your plan reflects Greek law and your family’s needs.
- You own property in Greece but reside abroad. A lawyer can coordinate Greek wills with foreign law to avoid double taxation or conflicting dispositions.
- You need a guardianship structure or a special needs arrangement that complies with Greek rules and ensures ongoing care.
- A family-owned business requires a formal plan for owners, heirs, and management continuity to minimize disruption after death or incapacity.
- You want to tailor inheritances to various spouses and children to prevent disputes and preserve assets for the next generation.
- You want durable powers of attorney and medical decisions addressed if you become incapacitated.
- Marriage, divorce, a new child, or a relocation to Nea Erythraia may require revising your will and related instruments.
3. Local Laws Overview
Α. Greek Civil Code (Αστικός Κώδικας) - Wills and succession
The Greek Civil Code governs the creation and validity of wills, intestate succession, and related dispositions of property. It recognizes several forms of will and sets out rules on beneficiaries, reservation of legitima, and the rights of surviving spouses and children. The civil code has been amended over time, and practitioners rely on the current version published in official sources.
For authoritative text and official updates, consult the Greek Civil Code on et.gr and related commentary on gov.gr guidance pages.
Β. Code of Civil Procedure (Κώδικας Πολιτικής Δικονομίας) - Probate and court procedures
The Code of Civil Procedure governs how probate matters are brought, how executors or administrators are appointed, and how assets are distributed under a will or by succession. This includes procedural timelines, notices, and appeals that affect Estate Planning matters handled in Nea Erythraia and courts across Greece.
Official references to procedural rules can be found on et.gr, and general procedural guidance is available through gov.gr resources for legal processes in Greece.
Γ. Regulation (EU) 650/2012 - Cross-border successions
This EU regulation coordinates jurisdiction, applicable law, and recognition of probate decisions for cross-border estates. It directly affects Greek residents who own assets in more than one member state or have heirs living abroad. Since its applicability began in 2015, it has become a standard framework in international estate planning for Greeks, including residents of Nea Erythraia with foreign connections.
For the text and official guidance, see Regulation 650/2012 and comprehensive summaries on gov.gr and et.gr when addressing cross-border issues.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is a will in Greece?
A will is a legal document that communicates your Asset dispositions after death under Greek law. It can be public, private, or oral in limited cases.
How do I make a will before a notary?
A public will is drafted and executed before a Greek notary (a public official). The notary authenticates the document and ensures it complies with law.
When should I update my will?
Update after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth or adoption of a child, acquisition or disposal of significant assets, or relocation to Greece.
Where can I store my will in Nea Erythraia?
Wills are typically stored with the notary who prepared them or filed with the competent probate court. A copy should be kept safely with your attorney as well.
Why might I need a guardian for a minor?
If you have minor children, a guardian arrangement is essential to ensure their care and inheritance matters are handled according to your wishes.
Can a non-resident own property in Greece and have a Greek will?
Yes. A foreign resident can own Greek property and draft Greek estate documents. You should coordinate with a Greek attorney to ensure cross-border validity.
Do I need a lawyer to make a will in Greece?
While not strictly required, a lawyer helps ensure your will complies with Greek formalities and reduces the risk of contest or misinterpretation.
How much does estate planning cost in Nea Erythraia?
Costs vary by complexity, assets involved, and whether a notary, a lawyer, or both are engaged. Expect multiple fee components for drafting, notarial act, and probate filings.
How long does probate take in Greece?
Probate timelines depend on asset size and court workload. Simple estates may finalize within several months; complex estates can take longer, particularly if disputes arise.
Is it possible to appoint multiple executors in a will?
Greek law allows designation of executors or administrators in a will, though practical administration benefits from clear designation and sometimes a professional executor.
What is the difference between a public will and a private will?
A public will is drafted before a notary and is immediately recorded; a private will is written by the testator and may require witnesses or later notarization to have formal effect.
Do I need to consider cross-border assets in Greece?
Yes, if you own assets in another country or have beneficiaries abroad. EU Regulation 650/2012 may affect applicable law and jurisdiction for those assets.
5. Additional Resources
- Official guidance for individuals on wills, succession and related processes in Greece. Gov.gr
- Official civil code provisions governing wills and succession. Et.gr
- EU framework for jurisdiction and applicable law in cross-border estates. EUR-Lex
6. Next Steps
- Clarify your objectives and assets: list all Greek assets, bank accounts, real estate, and any foreign holdings. This helps determine whether a will, power of attorney, or guardianship documents are needed and which jurisdiction applies. Time estimate: 1-2 weeks.
- Consult a local estate planning solicitor in Nea Erythraia or the Athens area: seek a lawyer with experience in wills, guardianship, and cross-border planning if you own foreign assets. Schedule initial contact within 1-2 weeks of compiling assets.
- Gather documents for review: ownership deeds, tax numbers, family details, and any existing wills or powers of attorney. Have copies ready for your first meeting. Allow 1-2 weeks to assemble.
- Discuss form and formalities: decide between a public will, private will, or other instruments and confirm the notary or court process. Expect a formal decision within 1 meeting or 2-3 weeks depending on schedule.
- Draft the documents with your legal counsel: ensure the will and any powers of attorney conform to Greek law and reflect your cross-border considerations if applicable. This typically takes 2-4 weeks depending on complexity.
- Review, sign, and notarize as required: finalize the will before a notary if choosing a public form, or complete the private will with witnesses or notarization as directed. Plan for 1-2 weeks for execution and filing.
- Plan for periodic reviews: set a reminder to revisit your estate plan after major life changes or every 3-5 years. This helps address changes in law and personal circumstances. Ongoing cadence
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.