Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Denmark

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Viborg, Denmark

Founded in 2014
6 people in their team
English
Horstmann advokater is a full-service law firm based in Viborg, Denmark, offering a broad spectrum of legal services to individuals and businesses. The firm combines local insight with a practical, solution-oriented approach and emphasizes clear, timely communication to help clients make informed...
law firm Deleuran
Frederiksberg, Denmark

Founded in 1946
50 people in their team
Danish
English
Business and family developmentSince Egon Deleuran established the Deleuran Law Firm, it is now the second, third and fourth generation that assists the office's clients in Frederiksberg.During the period 1958-1991, the company was located at Herlufsholmvej 2 in Vanløse - directly opposite...
Spektrum advokater
Herning, Denmark

Founded in 2014
English
Spektrum Advokater, located in Herning, Denmark, offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including inheritance law, monetary claims, real estate, business law, intellectual property, company law, tort law, and procedural law. The firm is staffed by a team of five...
Baker Tilly Legal Advokatfirma
Copenhagen, Denmark

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Danish
English
We provide high-quality legal advice to Danish and international companies.We combine a high professional level, good business understanding and expert knowledge, which enables us to deliver result-oriented solutions that create value for our clients.Our valuesWe have the following core...
Leoni Advokater Viborg
Viborg, Denmark

Founded in 2014
47 people in their team
English
Leoni Advokater is a leading full service law firm with offices in Viborg, Holstebro and Aalborg, delivering specialist legal guidance to private individuals and businesses. The firm organises itself around specialized practice groups to provide in depth, 360-degree advisory that addresses the full...
Præstø, Denmark

Founded in 2015
English
Advokatfirmaet Engelbrecht, established in 2016 by Attorney Charlotte Engelbrecht, has grown to become a prominent law firm in Denmark, specializing in estate planning. With offices in Præstø, Nykøbing Falster, Næstved, Køge, and Kolding, the firm offers comprehensive services including wills,...
Advodan Slagelse
Slagelse, Denmark

English
Advodan Slagelse, established in 1999, is the largest law firm in West Zealand, Denmark, offering comprehensive legal services to both businesses and private individuals. The firm specializes in corporate law, family law, insolvency law, and cross-border legal issues, providing tailored solutions...
Lawyer Charlotte Bengtson
Helsinge, Denmark

Founded in 2015
English
Advokat Charlotte Bengtson, based in Helsinge, Denmark, offers specialized legal services in real estate and estate planning. With extensive experience in property transactions, the firm provides comprehensive assistance, including document review, negotiation of terms, and handling of all...
Advokat Lindahl Andreasen
Copenhagen, Denmark

Founded in 2013
English
Advokat Lindahl Andreasen, located in Sorø, Denmark, offers comprehensive legal services with a focus on real estate transactions, estate planning, and family law. Led by attorney Lotte Lindahl Andreasen, the firm provides expert guidance in property purchases, ensuring clients navigate the...

Founded in 2016
6 people in their team
English
Brunse Mæhlisen Advokatfirma I/S is a Danish law firm based in Hørning near Aarhus, led by Advokat Jakob Brunse Mæhlisen and Advokat Johnny Mæhlisen. The firm provides specialized counsel across insolvency and corporate matters, real estate, family and inheritance law, contracts and litigation,...
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About Will & Testament Law in Denmark

Will and Testament law in Denmark is governed by the Danish Inheritance Act, which provides clear guidelines on the distribution of a person’s estate after death. A will, known as “testamente” in Danish, allows individuals to specify how their assets should be allocated beyond the default plans set by the law. The regulations ensure that certain family members, such as spouses and children, receive a mandatory portion of the estate. However, having a will in place allows more flexibility and specificity in other allocations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance may be necessary for various reasons when dealing with wills and testaments. Common scenarios include:

  • Complex Estates: High-value or multifaceted estates may require specialized knowledge to manage effectively.
  • Disputed Wills: If someone contests the validity of a will, legal intervention may be needed to resolve the matter.
  • Estate Planning: Lawyers can provide strategic advice to minimize taxes and ensure efficient distribution of assets.
  • Legal Compliance: Ensuring the will complies with Danish law and effectively outlines the testator’s wishes.
  • Updating Wills: Significant life changes may necessitate updates to a will, requiring legal consultation.

Local Laws Overview

The Danish Inheritance Act lays the groundwork for how estates are handled posthumously. Key aspects include:

  • Forced Heirship: Children and spouses are entitled to a portion of the estate, known as the forced heirship, which cannot be overridden by a will.
  • Formality Requirements: For a will to be valid, it must be compliant with specific formal requirements, notably being documented in writing and witnessed appropriately.
  • Inheritance Tax: Estates may be subject to inheritance tax, with rates and exemptions varying based on the relationship to the deceased and the value of the estate.
  • Trusts and Gifts: The Danish law also allows for certain structures, like trusts and lifetime gifts, to be employed in estate planning under specified conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a will in Denmark?

Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to the Danish Inheritance Act, which prioritizes your spouse and children.

Can I disinherit my children in Denmark?

While you cannot completely disinherit your children due to forced heirship rules, you can limit their share to the statutory portion.

Are there language requirements for a Danish will?

While it is not legally required, drafting a will in Danish can help avoid misinterpretations and ensure it is easily understood by local authorities.

How can I update my will in Denmark?

To update your will, you must create a new document that clearly states the revocation of the previous one and meets all formal requirements.

What is the role of an executor in Denmark?

An executor ensures the deceased’s wishes, as expressed in the will, are carried out and handles administrative aspects of the estate distribution.

Can I include foreign assets in my Danish will?

Yes, you can include foreign assets; however, it's vital to consider the legal systems of the countries where the assets are located.

What are the fees for hiring a lawyer for a will in Denmark?

Costs can vary significantly based on the complexity of the estate and the lawyer’s experience, often starting from a few thousand DKK.

Do I need witnesses for my will in Denmark?

Yes, the presence of witnesses is necessary to validate the signing of a will, ensuring it reflects the testator's intent.

How does marriage affect my will?

Marriage can alter inheritance rights, so reviewing and potentially updating your will upon marriage is beneficial.

Can joint wills be created in Denmark?

Danish law allows for joint wills, particularly common among spouses, to ensure harmony in estate planning.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • The Danish Bar and Law Society: For finding qualified lawyers specializing in wills and estates.
  • Local probate courts: They can offer guidance regarding procedural requirements.
  • Public libraries and online legal platforms: These are great for accessing literature on Danish inheritance law.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding a will or testament in Denmark, consider taking the following steps:

  1. Identify Your Needs: Understand the specific legal issues you face and the type of help you require.
  2. Research Qualified Lawyers: Use resources such as the Danish Bar and Law Society to find a lawyer experienced in wills and inheritance law.
  3. Schedule a Consultation: Discuss your situation with a lawyer to gain insights into your legal standing and options.
  4. Prepare Documentation: Gather relevant documents and information needed for the legal process.
  5. Follow Legal Guidance: Work closely with your lawyer to ensure all legal steps are carefully and correctly executed.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Denmark 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 Will & Testament, 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.

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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.