Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Moscow

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GK Legal
Moscow, Russia

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
The specialization of the law firm "GK Legal" is family law. We have extensive judicial practice in all areas of disputes arising from family relationships. We help clients resolve complex issues related to:with divorce,division of jointly acquired property,establishing the place of residence of...
TRUNOV, IVAR AND PARTNERS
Moscow, Russia

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Russian
English
Moscow is a huge metropolis where life moves quite quickly and is filled with a wide variety of events. At such moments, it is difficult to notice how you can become a hostage to certain challenges of fate. These non-standard situations can significantly change the future if certain competent and...
Khrenov and Partners
Moscow, Russia

Founded in 2003
50 people in their team
Russian
English
Khrenov & Partners provides a comprehensive range of legal services to Russian and international clients. Core areas for the firm include corporate law and dispute resolution where Khrenov & Partners has established a loyal client following and received peer recognition.Established in 2003,...
Dvitex Law Firm
Moscow, Russia

Founded in 2001
50 people in their team
Russian
English
MORE ABOUT THE COMPANY Law firm Dvitex LLC is a legal company that provides complex legal services to individuals and business with payment for services after the client receives the desired result. We offer a unique service for legal services “client's personal account” with...
Extradition Law Firm
Moscow, Russia

Founded in 2014
17 people in their team
English
Russian
Ukrainian
Belarusian
Polish
German
Extradition Law Firm is a boutique law firm specializing in the areas of extradition defense, criminal defense, human rights and migration law in the Russian Federation and Ukraine. Our English-speaking criminal attorneys also represent our clients in countries abroad, including but not limited to,...
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About Will & Testament Law in Moscow, Russia

Will & Testament Law in Moscow, Russia, is governed by the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. This legal field encompasses the rules and regulations about how individuals can control the distribution of their assets after death. It includes the creation, interpretation, and enforcement of Wills, as well as the handling of inheritances and estate matters. Russian inheritance law upholds the principle that certain family members are entitled to a statutory share of an estate, ensuring their protection.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People may require legal help in Will & Testament for various reasons. Some common situations include:

  • Drafting a Will to ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes.
  • Updating a Will after significant life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the acquisition of substantial assets.
  • Understanding the rights of beneficiaries and heirs.
  • Navigating the probate process or estate administration after a loved one has passed away, including disputes or claims against the estate.
  • Dealing with cross-border inheritance issues, especially relevant in a cosmopolitan city like Moscow.

Local Laws Overview

In Moscow, as in the rest of Russia, the following key aspects of local laws are crucial with regard to Will & Testament:

  • Any legally capable individual over the age of 18 can create a Will.
  • Wills must be written by hand or legislated in the presence of a public notary to be valid.
  • The law governs forced heirship, meaning certain relatives (children, spouse, parents, and disabled dependents) are entitled to at least half of the share they would receive under the law if there were no Will.
  • Estate assets are first used to cover debts and funeral expenses before distribution to heirs.
  • Foreign nationals who are permanent residents in Russia are subject to Russian inheritance law for assets situated in Russia.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can inherit under Russian law?

Under Russian law, both relatives and non-relatives can inherit, either under a Will or, if there is no Will, according to statutory inheritance rules.

2. Can a Will be contested in Moscow?

Yes, a Will can be contested if there is suspicion of fraud, coercion, or if the testator was not of sound mind when creating the Will.

3. Is it mandatory to notarize a Will in Russia?

Wills can be written independently but must be certified by a notary or legislated to be considered valid in most cases.

4. Are there taxes on inheritance in Russia?

Inheritance is generally tax-free in Russia, provided the inheritance is claimed within six months after the death of the testator.

5. What happens if someone dies without a Will?

If someone dies intestate (without a Will), their assets are distributed according to the inheritance laws in the Civil Code, which dictate specific shares for different categories of heirs.

6. How is the estate administered if there is no Will?

Without a Will, an estate is administered by a probate court, which will appoint an administrator to manage the estate according to statutory inheritance order.

7. Can I leave my estate to a charity?

Yes, Russian law allows for bequests to charities or other organizations in your Will.

8. How long does the probate process take in Russia?

The duration of the probate process in Russia varies, but it can take several months to over a year depending on the complexity of the estate and whether there are any disputes.

9. Can a Will be changed after death?

No, a Will cannot be altered after the testator's death unless there are legal grounds for contesting its validity.

10. What should I do if I'm named as an heir?

If you are named as an heir, you should seek legal advice to understand your rights and obligations and ensure the correct procedures are followed.

Additional Resources

The Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation and the Federal Notary Chamber are key resources for those seeking information and assistance with Wills and inheritance matters. Estate planners and attorneys specializing in inheritance law can also be valuable resources.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with Will & Testament in Moscow, the first step is to contact a qualified attorney who specializes in estate law. Consider reaching out to the local bar association for referrals or contacting a notary for the formalities required to draft or certify a Will. Remember to keep all relevant documents organized and accessible for any consultations.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Moscow 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. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Moscow, Russia - 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.