Best Private Client Lawyers in Schiphol

About Private Client Law in Schiphol, Netherlands

Private Client law in Schiphol, Netherlands, covers legal matters related to individuals and their families, wealth, and estate planning. This area of law focuses on services such as wills, inheritance, trusts, wealth management, tax planning, and personal legal affairs. Schiphol, being a major international hub close to Amsterdam, attracts a diverse population that may require specialized Private Client legal support, especially given the interplay between Dutch law and international regulations. Professionals in this sector help clients manage assets, prepare for succession, and protect interests across generations, often with cross-border considerations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where you might require legal help with Private Client matters in Schiphol. Frequent reasons include:

• Writing or updating a will to ensure assets are distributed as intended
• Inheritance issues or disputes among heirs and beneficiaries
• Establishing trusts or foundations for family wealth protection
• Managing tax obligations related to inheritances or gifts, especially with global connections
• International estate planning for expatriates or foreign nationals living or working in Schiphol
• Legal guardianship arrangements for children or vulnerable relatives
• Divorce or relationship breakdown that affects personal assets and property
• Buying or selling property, particularly where succession or inheritance is involved

Given the complexity of Dutch regulations and interplay with international laws, seeking professional legal advice is often necessary to ensure your rights and obligations are clearly understood and protected.

Local Laws Overview

Dutch law forms the legal framework for Private Client matters in Schiphol. Key aspects to be aware of include:

• Inheritance law: The Netherlands has forced heirship rules known as “legitieme portie,” which means certain family members, often children, cannot be fully disinherited regardless of the contents of a will.
• Wills and testaments: Dutch law sets formal requirements for executing valid wills. These typically require the involvement of a civil law notary (“notaris”).
• Gift and inheritance tax: Inheritances and gifts are subject to Dutch taxation, with rates and exemptions depending on the relationship to the deceased or donor.
• Marriage and registered partnership: Community property rules may apply to spouses unless prenuptial or postnuptial agreements are in place.
• International law: Many clients in Schiphol have cross-border situations. Dutch law recognizes foreign wills under certain conditions, and European regulations often play a role in succession and tax matters.
• Trusts: Traditional Dutch law does not recognize trusts in the same way as common law countries, though similar structures like “stichtingen” or “fonds voor gemene rekening” might be used.

Navigating these rules can be challenging, particularly if dealing with multinational assets or family matters spanning different jurisdictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is forced heirship or “legitieme portie” in Dutch law?

Forced heirship means that children are legally entitled to a portion of their parent’s estate, even if the will states otherwise. This cannot be bypassed, ensuring close family members receive a minimum inheritance share.

Do I need a notary to make a will in the Netherlands?

Yes, for a will to be valid under Dutch law, it generally must be prepared and executed before a Dutch civil law notary. Handwritten wills are rarely recognized.

How is inheritance tax calculated in the Netherlands?

Inheritance tax is based on the value of assets received and the relationship between the deceased and the beneficiary. Children and spouses benefit from lower rates and higher exemptions compared to other beneficiaries.

What happens if I die without a will in Schiphol?

Dutch intestate succession rules determine how your assets are distributed. Spouses and children are prioritized, with statutory shares assigned to each.

Can foreigners residing in Schiphol make a Dutch will?

Yes, foreigners may make a Dutch will, and in many cases, this is advised to address local assets and comply with Dutch inheritance law.

Are trusts recognized in Dutch law?

Traditional Anglo-Saxon trusts are not recognized under Dutch law. However, similar legal structures such as foundations (“stichtingen”) can sometimes be established for specific purposes.

Do marriage or partnership agreements affect inheritance?

Yes, Dutch law applies community property rules by default, but prenuptial or registered partnership agreements can override this, impacting the division of assets on death or divorce.

What legal support is there for cross-border estates?

Dutch lawyers with expertise in international private law can assist in navigating different succession regimes and tax laws. EU regulations may also influence how cross-border estates are handled.

Can I disinherit a spouse or child?

While it is possible to disinherit a spouse (with some exceptions), children cannot be fully disinherited due to the forced heirship provisions in Dutch law.

How can I minimize inheritance tax for my family?

Proper estate planning with a qualified Dutch lawyer can help use available exemptions, gifts, or legal structures to reduce potential tax liabilities for your heirs.

Additional Resources

If you are looking for more information or assistance, consider the following resources:

• Civil Law Notaries (“Notaris”): Professionals authorized to draft and execute legally valid wills and estate documents in the Netherlands
• Netherlands Bar Association (Nederlandse Orde van Advocaten): Offers a directory of qualified private client lawyers
• Kadaster: The Dutch land registry office - useful for property succession matters
• Belastingdienst: Dutch Tax Authority, provides guidelines on inheritance and gift taxes
• Council for Child Protection (Raad voor de Kinderbescherming): For legal guardianship and child-related matters

Local expat centers and community legal advice clinics may also be able to recommend qualified professionals and offer guidance in English.

Next Steps

If you require legal advice in the field of Private Client in Schiphol, Netherlands, it is recommended to:

1. Identify the specific issue you are facing, such as drafting a will, estate planning, or handling an inheritance dispute
2. Gather all relevant documents, including identification, property deeds, tax forms, and any previous legal agreements
3. Consult a qualified Dutch private client lawyer or civil law notary with experience in matters relevant to your situation, especially if international considerations are involved
4. Prepare a list of your questions and clarify your goals for the legal process
5. Follow the advice provided, including any next steps regarding documentation, registration, or tax reporting

Proactively addressing your private legal affairs with specialist support can provide peace of mind and ensure that your wishes are respected, assets are protected, and tax obligations are carefully managed for you and your family.