Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Peristeri

1. About Will & Testament Law in Peristeri, Greece

Peristeri is part of the Attica region and follows the same national rules for making and executing a Will as the rest of Greece. In Greece, a Will ( διαθήκη ) determines how a person’s assets, including property in Peristeri, will be distributed after death. The Greek Civil Code governs the formalities, validity and effects of Wills and succession and sets out rules for forced heirship and executors.

There are several recognized forms of Will in Greece, including a public Will drafted before a notary and two witnesses, a private Will written and signed by the testator, and a holographic or handwritten Will in certain cases. Local practice in Peristeri often involves consultation with a lawyer or a notary to ensure compliance with the Civil Code and to avoid later disputes. A properly drafted Will in Peristeri helps clarify intentions, minimize family disputes and streamline probate.

According to Greek Civil Code provisions on Wills and Inheritance, a Will must comply with formalities and respect the rights of statutory heirs. Source: et.gr

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• You own real estate in Peristeri and want to ensure the property passes to your chosen heirs without triggering disputes or forced-heirship conflicts. A lawyer can draft precise dispositions and verify the correct form for validity in Greece.

• You are a foreign national with assets in Peristeri or Greek assets abroad. A lawyer helps coordinate cross-border issues, choice of law, and the appropriate Will form to avoid conflicts among jurisdictions.

• You have multiple heirs including a spouse, child from a previous relationship, or minor children. A lawyer can design a plan that respects forced-heirship rules while protecting vulnerable beneficiaries.

• You need to appoint an executor, guardian for a minor, or manage special bequests. A lawyer can draft clear appointment provisions and ensure execution in Greece.

• You are updating an existing Will after marriage, divorce, birth, or a relocation. A legal professional helps ensure changes are valid and properly witnessed or notarized.

• You want to contest or challenge an existing Will or handle a dispute among heirs. A lawyer provides guidance on grounds for contest, evidence, and probate procedures in Athens prefecture courts.

3. Local Laws Overview

The Greek Civil Code is the primary framework governing Wills ( διαθήκη ) and inheritance in Peristeri, including form, validity, and the rights of statutory heirs. It sets out the essential rules for how dispositions must be made and what portions must be reserved for close relatives.

Wills and inheritance in Greece are governed by the Civil Code, with formal requirements for public, private, and holographic wills. See official law text for details: et.gr

In addition to the Civil Code, inheritance and gift taxes are regulated by the Tax Code and administered by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). Tax rules affect how much beneficiaries receive and may influence how you structure gifts during life. For the latest rates and exemptions, consult the AADE resources.

Inheritance and gift tax rules in Greece are administered by AADE and are published in the Tax Code updates. See AADE for official guidance.

Notarial formalities also influence Will validity in Peristeri. A public Will is typically drafted by a συμβολαιογράφος (notary) with witnesses, while a private Will must meet specific handwriting and signature requirements. Local notary offices in the Athens area commonly handle Will drafting and storage.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Will in Greece and who can make one?

A Will, or διαθήκη, is a legal document stating how assets will be distributed after death. Any adult with full legal capacity can make a Will, provided it adheres to Greek law and formalities.

How do I draft a Will in Peristeri?

You typically meet with a lawyer or notary to draft a Will in Peristeri. You will decide beneficiaries, guardianship, and asset distribution, then sign in the presence of witnesses or a notary as required.

When should I update my Will?

Update your Will after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a beneficiary, or relocation. Regular reviews every 3-5 years are prudent if you have changing assets.

Where can I store my Will in Peristeri?

Public Wills are often stored at notary offices or government registries. Private Wills can be kept by your lawyer, notary, or a trusted party, with copies placed in secure locations.

Why do I need a lawyer for a Will in Greece?

A lawyer ensures compliance with the Civil Code, correct form, and avoidance of disputes among heirs. They also help coordinate cross-border aspects if you own assets abroad.

Can non-residents write a Will in Greece?

Yes. Non-residents can make a Will governing Greek assets. A local lawyer can tailor the document to Greek law and address cross-border considerations.

Should I use a notary for my Will in Greece?

Notaries often draft and witness public Wills, which can offer strong evidentiary value in probate. A private Will may be used if properly signed and witnessed according to law.

Is a handwritten Will valid in Greece?

Handwritten Wills are recognized if they are wholly in the testator’s hand and signed. They must clearly identify the testator and the dispositive provisions.

How much does it cost to draft a Will in Peristeri?

Costs vary by complexity and whether a notary or lawyer is used. Typical fees range from a few hundred to a few thousand euros depending on property value and number of beneficiaries.

How long does probate take in Greece?

Probate duration depends on the complexity of the estate and if disputes arise. In straightforward cases, probate can take 6-12 months; complex estates may take longer.

Do I need to consider forced heirship rules?

Yes. Greek law reserves portions of an estate for close relatives. Your Will should respect these rights to avoid invalid provisions or disputes.

5. Additional Resources

• gov.gr - Official government portal for legal information and e-services related to wills and inheritance. Useful for forms and procedural guidance. https://www.gov.gr
• et.gr - National Printing Office site hosting the text of the Greek Civil Code and related laws, including provisions on wills.
• AADE - Independent Authority for Public Revenue, with guidance on inheritance and gift tax, rates, exemptions, and filing requirements.