Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Biržai

About Will & Testament Law in Biržai, Republic of Lithuania

A Will & Testament is a legal instrument that specifies how a person’s assets and property should be distributed after their death. In Biržai, as throughout the Republic of Lithuania, Wills are governed by the Lithuanian Civil Code and related regulations. Having a properly executed Will ensures that your intentions regarding inheritance are honored according to Lithuanian law. If no Will is in place, state intestacy laws apply, which could result in different distributions than you may intend. Preparing a Will is an important step in managing your estate, protecting your loved ones, and avoiding possible disputes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While it is possible to write your own Will, many individuals in Biržai seek legal help to ensure their wishes are clear and legally enforceable. A lawyer can help in situations such as:

• Drafting a Will that complies with Lithuanian legal requirements
• Ensuring all assets, including real estate, investments, and personal property, are included
• Preventing potential challenges or disputes among heirs
• Updating an existing Will after marriage, divorce, or major life changes
• Addressing minor children’s guardianship
• Establishing specific bequests or conditional gifts
• Settling complex family or business situations

Having legal guidance can provide peace of mind and minimize the risk of errors that may delay or complicate estate settlement.

Local Laws Overview

Will & Testament matters in Biržai are subject to national Lithuanian law, with some aspects overseen by local court districts and notaries. Key aspects include:

• Anyone 18 or older, or emancipated minors, may make a Will
• Wills can be notarial (certified by a notary) or holographic (entirely handwritten and signed by the testator)
• Witnesses are not required for notarial Wills, but are recommended for other forms
• Mandatory heirs have special protections - these generally include children, spouse, and in some cases parents
• Foreign nationals may make Wills concerning assets located in Lithuania
• Wills can be revoked or amended at any time before the testator’s death
• Upon death, the Will must be submitted to the local notary for probate proceedings

It is important to comply with formalities, as improperly executed Wills may be invalid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to make a Will in Biržai?

You must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor to make a valid Will in Biržai, Republic of Lithuania.

Do I need a notary to make a Will?

Notarial Wills are common and provide legal security, but you can also write a handwritten Will. However, using a notary is highly recommended to avoid disputes or administrative issues.

Can I exclude my family members from my Will?

Certain family members, such as children and the spouse, are entitled to a mandatory portion of the inheritance and cannot be fully disinherited without strong legal grounds.

How can I change or revoke my Will?

You may revoke or change your Will at any time before your death by making a new Will or revocation statement with a notary.

What happens if I die without a Will?

Your estate will be distributed according to Lithuanian intestacy laws, primarily to your surviving spouse, children, and possibly other relatives.

Can foreigners make a Will for property in Biržai?

Yes, foreign nationals can make a Will concerning property or assets they own in Biržai, but it must comply with Lithuanian legal requirements.

Who keeps the original Will?

If the Will is notarial, the notary retains the original. If privately created, it should be stored in a safe place and its location made known to trusted individuals.

What are the main risks of DIY Wills?

Improper execution, vague language, or exclusion of mandatory heirs may result in the Will being partially or entirely invalid, leading to disputes and delays.

How are debts handled in Lithuanian inheritance procedures?

The deceased person’s debts must be settled using estate assets before inheritances are distributed to heirs.

Are there taxes on inheritance in Lithuania?

Inheritance between close relatives is usually tax-free, while more distant relatives may be subject to inheritance tax according to applicable rates and exemptions.

Additional Resources

Here are some useful organizations and government bodies that can assist with Will & Testament matters in Biržai:

• Local notary offices in Biržai
• Biržai District Court
• State Enterprise Centre of Registers (for property registration)
• Lithuanian Bar Association (for finding attorneys specializing in inheritance law)
• Lithuanian Ministry of Justice (for legal information and publications)

Visiting these organizations or consulting their published materials can offer valuable guidance at each stage of the Will preparation or probate process.

Next Steps

If you are considering making a Will or have questions about inheritance law in Biržai, consider the following steps:

• Take inventory of your assets and clearly outline your wishes
• Consult a local inheritance law attorney or notary to ensure legal compliance
• Prepare and execute your Will in the appropriate legal form
• Notify trusted individuals of your Will’s existence and storage location
• Review and update your Will as circumstances change

Taking these steps will help ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes and will protect the interests of your loved ones. If in doubt, seeking professional legal advice is highly recommended.