Inheritance in Greece
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Joanne, really took the time to explain the process and the best way to fulfill our requests. She was very good at communicating timelines and what was to be expected. She worked quickly to make sure we completed our process.
Flavia Krause
28 Mar 2024
28 Mar 2024
Service Details
Inheritance
This service is available across Greece
Who Can Benefit from this Service?
- This service is tailored for English-speaking individuals who are heirs or potential heirs to an estate in Greece.
- This includes expats residing in Greece or abroad with inheritance interests, such as property, assets, or financial investments, within the Greek jurisdiction.
- The intricacies of Greek inheritance law, governed by articles 1710 – 2035 of the Greek Civil Code, necessitate professional guidance to navigate the legal process efficiently.
Useful Information
- Legal Documentation: Essential documents include the deceased's will, if available, death certificate, property deeds, and comprehensive lists of assets and liabilities. Greek law recognizes several will types, including Holographic, Public, and Mystic/Secret Wills, each with specific procedural requirements for validity and execution.
- Heirship Verification: Identification of heirs based on the Greek Civil Code’s classifications. Inheritance law in Greece outlines a hierarchy of heirs in six classes, with provisions for accepting or renouncing inheritance.
- Inheritance Declaration and Acceptance: Formal declaration of intent to accept or renounce the inheritance in Greece is critical. For those living abroad, the deadline to renounce is extended to one year from the date of death or will's publication.
- Tax Compliance: Filing an inheritance tax declaration and settling any due taxes in accordance with the heir's classification and the estate's value. The Greek tax system categorizes heirs into three groups, with rates varying by relationship to the deceased and estate value.
Process: Our Approach
- Initial Legal Consultation and Case Review: Our first step involves an in-depth discussion with you to understand your specific situation, your relationship to the deceased, and any existing Will or testamentary documents. This is critical for setting the groundwork for the entire inheritance process.
- Document Gathering and Verification: We assist in collecting all necessary legal documents, such as the death certificate, Will(s), property deeds, and any relevant financial records of the deceased. Verification of these documents ensures authenticity and legal standing, which is essential for the subsequent steps.
- Heirship Classification and Legal Analysis: Based on the Greek Civil Code (articles 1710 – 2035), we determine the classification of heirs and analyse the implications for the processing of your inheritance. This includes understanding the statutory entitlements, the rights to compulsory portions, and any restrictions that might apply to the inheritance.
- Estate Valuation and Asset Assessment: A thorough assessment of the deceased's estate is conducted to ascertain the total value of the assets and liabilities. This step involves appraisals, property evaluations, and consultations with financial experts to ensure an accurate representation of the estate’s net value.
- Taxation Consultation and Filing: Inheritance tax implications are a critical aspect of the inheritance process. We provide specialized advice on the tax categories, rates, and exemptions applicable to your inheritance under Greek law, ensuring compliance and optimization of tax liabilities. The preparation and submission of the necessary tax declarations are handled meticulously, adhering to the deadlines set forth by the Greek tax authorities.
- Legal Representation in Inheritance Acceptance or Renunciation: Whether you choose to accept or renounce the inheritance, legal formalities must be strictly followed. We guide you through the process of officially accepting or renouncing the inheritance, including the preparation of all necessary legal documents and their submission to the appropriate Greek authorities.
- Asset Transfer and Registration: Upon acceptance of the inheritance, we assist in the legal transfer of assets, ensuring that property titles, financial assets, and other inherited items are correctly transferred and registered in your name. This includes liaising with the Land Registry Office and other relevant institutions to finalize the inheritance process.
- Resolution of Disputes and Legal Challenges: Should any disputes or legal challenges arise during the inheritance process, our legal team is prepared to represent your interests. This may include mediation, negotiation, or litigation to resolve issues related to Will contests, asset distribution, or claims by other potential heirs.
- Ongoing Support and Advice: Even after the completion of the inheritance process, we remain available to provide ongoing support and advice, including estate planning, tax planning, and any other legal services you may require.
Benefits - Why Choose Our Service
- Expertise in Greek Inheritance Law: Providing specialised knowledge and tailored advice.
- Bilingual Support: Services offered in both English and Greek.
- Personalised Legal Strategy: Customised approach considering family dynamics and asset types.
- Efficient Tax Planning: Strategies to optimise tax liabilities within the framework of Greek law.
Components of this Service
- Legal Heir Identification and Rights: Advising on the rights of legal heirs under Greek law.
- Will and Testament Consultation: Review of existing Wills to confirm compliance with Greek legal standards and effects on the distribution of assets and taxation.
- Inheritance Dispute Resolution: Assistance with resolving disputes over estate division and inheritance rights.
- Asset Management and Transfer: Managing and facilitating the transfer of assets in Greece.
Free Support Services Included
When combined with the free and innovative Advocate Abroad support services you can be sure that you are obtaining completely transparent legal services from registered and regulated English-speaking lawyers abroad.These support services include:
- Verification of the regulatory status of your professional.
- Fees as recommended by the Local Professional Body
- Fees specified in advance and legally guaranteed.
- Service levels agreed in advance and guaranteed.
- All professionals must hold professional indemnity insurance.
- Professionals' proficiency in English monitored.
- Continuous quality controls and reviews.
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