Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Switzerland

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SWISS LAW INTERNATIONAL
Zurich, Switzerland

Founded in 1998
10 people in their team
Italian
German
English
Spanish
Welcome to our site!We are your experts in foreign law and immigration and present you directly here with a variety of interesting services. This enables us to assist you with all legal problems and inconveniences and to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Together with us, you are always on the...
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Studer Zahner
Kreuzlingen, Switzerland

Founded in 2001
10 people in their team
German
English
WHO WE ARE. - WHAT WE DO. - HOW WE WORK.Founded: 2001Number of employees: 7Locations: 3Cases processed (as of August 2023): 3695, plus over 1800 short consultationsWhat we do: Provide the best possible support to people facing demanding legal challenges. This can concern the consequences of a...
Waldmann Petitpierre
Basel, Switzerland

Founded in 1953
50 people in their team
Romansh
Italian
French
German
English
In 1953 Dr. Jürg Heinz Faesch together with Dr. Werner Blumer our law firm at today's location on the market square. The partnership soon joined Dr. Peter von der Mühll, which also turned the law firm into a notary’s office. Until Andreas Waldmann joined in 1982, this trio worked in an...
Kanzlei im Turm AG
Winterthur, Switzerland

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Romansh
French
Italian
German
English
Does your case require team work of several specialists? Or do you prefer exclusive contact with but one of our partners? What is the best approach for safeguarding not only your current but also your future interests?​The focus of our attention is always on you. Your interests and your success...
SG Avocats
Geneva, Switzerland

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
Romansh
French
Italian
German
English
Active for several years in Geneva, our lawyers put their multiple skills at the service of their clients, individuals or companies. Our lawyers are committed to defending the interests of their clients and provide them with personalized and dynamic follow-up.Active for several years in Geneva, our...
Stieger+Schütt Rechtsanwälte
Winterthur, Switzerland

Founded in 2016
50 people in their team
Romansh
French
Italian
German
English
What we doWe advise private individuals, companies and authorities on legal problems and represent our clients before courts and official bodies. We support you with six lawyers in legal matters. Are you facing termination of employment or have you separated from your spouse? Contact us. We...
Schwarz Breitenstein Rechtsanwälte AG
Winterthur, Switzerland

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Romansh
French
Italian
German
English
For SMEs, private individuals and communitiesAs lawyers, we advise small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and support private individuals and foundations. Municipalities and public institutions also make use of our advice.Advisory and in courtAs lawyers, we help you with contracts and legal...
Niederer Kraft Frey AG
Zurich, Switzerland

Founded in 1936
500 people in their team
Romansh
Italian
French
German
English
The NKF StoryThe history of a premier Swiss law firmFind out more about the long history and the notable role that we have played in forming Swiss law.Constitution of Niederer Kraft FreyIt all began with three partners who decided to work together under the name of “Niederer, Kraft & Frey”....
Schaub Hochl Rechtsanwälte AG
Winterthur, Switzerland

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Romansh
French
Italian
German
English
Your law firm in WinterthurSchaub Hochl Attorneys AG is an established and well integrated law firm in Winterthur. We provide a comprehensive range of services in the areas of social insurance law, matrimonial and family law, modern families, reproductive medicine and inheritance law, in the...
WAEBER MAITRE
Geneva, Switzerland

Founded in 1908
50 people in their team
Romansh
French
Italian
German
English
YOUR HORIZONS, OUR MISSION.For more than 10 years, our private, commercial and institutional clients, in Switzerland and abroad, have trusted us and appreciated our values: rigor, anticipation, transparency, pragmatism.Thanks to our targeted skills, our experience and our network, we help companies...
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About Estate Planning Law in Switzerland

Estate planning in Switzerland refers to the process of organizing how your assets will be distributed upon your death. This involves creating a will, establishing trusts, and making decisions about inheritance tax planning. Proper estate planning can help ensure that your wishes are carried out and can minimize potential disputes among beneficiaries.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require legal help with estate planning in Switzerland. These include the need to navigate complex inheritance laws, establish trusts for minor children or vulnerable adults, minimize estate taxes, or resolve disputes among beneficiaries. A lawyer can provide valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and ensure that your estate plan is legally valid.

Local Laws Overview

In Switzerland, inheritance laws are governed by the Swiss Civil Code. One key aspect of Swiss estate planning law is the forced heirship rules, which dictate that a portion of an individual's estate must be passed on to certain family members, such as children or spouses. Additionally, Switzerland has specific rules regarding gift taxes and inheritance taxes that may impact your estate planning decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the legal age to create a will in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, individuals must be at least 18 years old to create a will.

2. Can I disinherit a family member in Switzerland?

Swiss law allows you to disinherit a family member, but certain individuals, such as children or spouses, may have a legal right to a portion of your estate regardless of your wishes.

3. Are trusts common in Swiss estate planning?

Trusts are less common in Swiss estate planning compared to other countries, but they can still be a valuable tool for asset protection and wealth preservation.

4. Do I need to pay inheritance taxes in Switzerland?

Switzerland imposes inheritance taxes on the transfer of assets upon death. The amount of tax owed depends on various factors, such as the relationship between the deceased and the beneficiary.

5. How often should I update my estate plan in Switzerland?

It is recommended to review and update your estate plan in Switzerland every few years or whenever significant life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.

6. Can I create a joint will with my spouse in Switzerland?

Swiss law does not recognize joint wills. Each individual must create their own will to outline their wishes for their estate.

7. What happens if I die without a will in Switzerland?

If you die without a will in Switzerland, your assets will be distributed according to the country's intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes.

8. Can I challenge a will in Switzerland?

Challenging a will in Switzerland is possible under certain circumstances, such as if there is evidence of coercion, fraud, or incapacity at the time the will was created.

9. Do I need a notary to create a will in Switzerland?

While it is not required to involve a notary in the creation of a will in Switzerland, doing so can help ensure that your will is properly executed and legally valid.

10. How can a lawyer help with my estate planning in Switzerland?

A lawyer experienced in Swiss estate planning laws can provide guidance on creating a comprehensive estate plan that meets your specific needs and objectives. They can also help navigate complex legal processes, minimize tax liabilities, and ensure that your wishes are protected.

Additional Resources

If you need legal advice on estate planning in Switzerland, you can contact the Swiss Bar Association or consult with a specialized estate planning lawyer in your area. The Swiss Federal Tax Administration website also provides information on inheritance and gift taxes in Switzerland.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with estate planning in Switzerland, consider scheduling a consultation with a reputable lawyer who specializes in this area of law. They can review your individual circumstances, provide tailored advice, and help you create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Switzerland 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 Switzerland - 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.