Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Kalamata

About Will & Testament Law in Kalamata, Greece

A Will and Testament is a crucial legal document that allows a person to specify how their property and assets should be distributed after their death. In Kalamata, Greece, the process and validity of Wills are governed by the Greek Civil Code, which outlines the rights and obligations for both residents and foreign nationals who own assets in Greece. A Will must adhere to certain formalities dictated by Greek law for it to be considered valid and enforceable.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal assistance in drafting or executing a Will is highly recommended in Kalamata. Here are some common situations where a lawyer’s expertise is beneficial:

• Ensuring that your Will complies with Greek legal requirements to avoid future disputes or invalidation
• Managing complex family arrangements, blended families, or providing for dependents with special needs
• Owning property or assets in multiple countries
• Dealing with inheritance tax issues and property transfers
• Disputes among heirs or potential Will contests
• Clarifying the legal implications of forced heirship rules, which limit how assets can be distributed
• Translation and interpretation of foreign Wills into valid Greek documents
• Executing a Will on behalf of an absent or incapacitated individual

Local Laws Overview

Greek inheritance law is notable for its forced heirship provisions, meaning a portion of your estate must go to close relatives, regardless of your wishes. Under Greek law, there are three main types of Wills: holographic (handwritten), public (declared verbally to a notary and witnesses), and secret (submitted in a sealed envelope to a notary). The validity of each type depends on careful adherence to formalities such as witnesses, signatures, and registration. In addition, property transfers and taxes are regulated by strict legal provisions. Non-Greek nationals who own property in Kalamata should also consider the interaction between Greek and their country’s laws, especially under the EU Succession Regulation.

Initiating probate proceedings, contesting a Will, and determining inheritance shares often require court intervention, professional evaluation, and communication with local authorities or notaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a Will in Kalamata, Greece?

In the absence of a valid Will, your estate will be distributed according to Greek intestacy laws. This means your closest relatives have priority rights to inherit your property, based on a set order defined by law.

Can foreign nationals make a valid Will for assets in Kalamata?

Yes, foreign nationals can draft a Will for assets located in Greece. However, it is essential to ensure the Will is recognized under Greek law, especially regarding formalities and language requirements.

Are there taxes on inheritances in Greece?

Yes, inheritance tax is imposed based on the relationship of the heirs to the deceased and the value of the assets. There are exemptions and different tax brackets for close relatives.

Can I leave my entire estate to anyone I choose?

Not entirely. Greek forced heirship rules guarantee a portion of your estate to close relatives, such as children, spouse, or parents. You can freely dispose of the remaining portion after these shares are allocated.

How do I make my Will legally valid in Greece?

Your Will must be executed in one of the three forms recognized by Greek law (holographic, public, or secret), with all required formalities such as signatures, witnesses, and, if needed, registration with a notary.

Where should I keep my Will?

It is advisable to deposit your Will with a notary, who will record it in the Greek Registry of Wills. This secures your document and ensures it will be located after your passing.

Can my Will be challenged by relatives?

Yes. Relatives can challenge a Will if they believe it does not comply with legal formalities, or if it unfairly disinherits those entitled by forced heirship, or if undue influence or incapacity is suspected.

What is probate, and how is it handled in Kalamata?

Probate is the legal process of validating a Will and distributing the estate. In Kalamata, it often involves notarial procedures and may require court oversight, depending on the circumstances and presence of disputes.

What should I do if I inherit property in Kalamata but live abroad?

You should consult a local lawyer or notary in Kalamata to assist with probate, inheritance declarations, and tax compliance. Legal representation can help manage any required court procedures and asset transfers.

Can I write my Will in English?

While a Will written in English may express your wishes, to ensure enforceability in Greece, it should be translated into Greek and follow all required formal procedures. Notary involvement is strongly recommended.

Additional Resources

The following organizations and governmental bodies can provide information and assistance for Will & Testament matters in Kalamata:

• Kalamata Bar Association (Δικηγορικός Σύλλογος Καλαμάτας) - For referrals to local inheritance lawyers
• Greek Ministry of Justice - For legal information on Wills and inheritance
• Greek Notaries Association - For procedures and to locate a local notary
• Local Probate Courts in Kalamata - For probate proceedings and court-based matters
• Greek Embassy or Consulate (for non-Greek citizens) - For guidance on cross-border inheritance issues

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding making a Will, updating an existing one, or handling an inheritance matter in Kalamata:

• Contact a qualified inheritance lawyer or notary in Kalamata to discuss your situation and receive tailored advice
• Prepare a list of your assets and your intended heirs before your appointment
• Gather any existing Wills, legal documents, or family records that may be relevant
• Consider arranging for proper translation of any foreign-language documents
• Ask about the costs, including notary and court fees, as well as any expected taxes

A knowledgeable local legal professional can guide you through compliance with Greek law to ensure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected.