Inheritance Law · Germany
Experienced inheritance lawyers in Germany for wills, estates and Pflichtteil claims
Inheritance matters in Germany follow the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch and involve strict deadlines, compulsory shares and often notarial formalities. We match you with a vetted German inheritance lawyer who understands your cross-border or domestic situation – free of charge.
- Vetted lawyers in Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and across Germany
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Why it matters
Inheritance law in Germany: clear guidance for complex estates
When a loved one dies, the legal process in Germany can feel overwhelming, especially if you are dealing with a cross-border estate, a will drafted abroad, or disagreements among heirs. The German Civil Code (BGB) governs succession and imposes strict rules on wills, compulsory shares (Pflichtteil) and the disclaimer of inheritance. For many families, the first practical step is to understand which deadlines and formalities apply and to work with a lawyer who knows the local courts and land registers. Our platform helps you find qualified inheritance lawyers in Germany for exactly this purpose. We do not give legal advice; instead, we match you with a vetted lawyer who can explain your position under German law and represent you in negotiations, probate proceedings or inheritance disputes. Matching is free and without obligation.
Germany – specific information
How inheritance law works in Germany
Inheritance in Germany is governed by the Civil Code (BGB) and handled by the ordinary courts, from local Amtsgerichte to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH). German inheritance law includes strict formalities, compulsory shares for close relatives, and specific deadlines that can affect your rights. Below is a plain-language overview based on official sources.
Which courts handle inheritance matters?
Ordinary civil jurisdiction applies. Local courts (Amtsgerichte) are the first instance for smaller civil claims, while regional courts (Landgerichte) hear larger ones. Higher regional courts (Oberlandesgerichte) and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) review judgments. Parties before Landgerichte and higher courts must be represented by a lawyer.
Compulsory share (Pflichtteil) protects close relatives
Under Section 2303 BGB, descendants, the surviving spouse or registered partner, and parents (if no descendants) retain a compulsory share equal to half the intestate share. This is a monetary claim against the heirs, so a testator cannot entirely disinherit these relatives.
Deadline to disclaim an inheritance
German law gives only six weeks to disclaim an inheritance. After that period, the right to disclaim may be lost. Heirs should seek advice immediately to decide whether to accept or reject the estate, especially if debts may be involved.
Real property and notarial formalities
If the estate includes land, any contract to transfer ownership must be recorded by a notary. Ownership passes only through the agreement on transfer (Auflassung) declared before a notary and registration in the Grundbuch kept by the local court.
Lawyer fees and legal aid
Lawyer fees are set by the statutory Lawyers’ Remuneration Act (RVG) based on the value in dispute. The losing party generally bears court fees and the opponent’s statutory lawyer fees. Legal aid for court proceedings is available to those who cannot afford costs, subject to an income test.
Key time limit — Inheritance, Probate & Wills
Succession (disclaimer of inheritance) — 6 weeks. An heir who wishes to disclaim (Ausschlagung) an inheritance must declare so within six weeks of learning of the accrual and of the ground of succession (Section 1944 BGB); the period is six months where the deceased’s last residence or the heir’s own location is abroad.
Data sourced from official German legal texts and European e-Justice Portal information, current as of the latest update.
- National justice systems – Germany (e-Justice Portal)
- Bundesrechtsanwaltskammer (BRAK)
- Section 78 ZPO – Lawyer representation
- Section 1944 BGB – Disclaimer of inheritance
- Section 2303 BGB – Compulsory share
- Section 311b BGB – Notarial recording for real property
- Land register – Auflassung and Grundbuch
- Legal aid – Germany (e-Justice Portal)
Common challenges
Inheritance disputes can be emotional and complex
We help you find a lawyer who understands German inheritance law and your family situation.
Cross-border estate confusion
Assets in multiple countries, a will drafted abroad, or heirs living elsewhere create legal uncertainty. You need a German lawyer who can coordinate with foreign advisors and clarify which law applies.
Compulsory share disputes
Pflichtteil claims often lead to conflict when a will excludes close relatives. Our lawyers can advise on the value of the share and negotiate a fair settlement or represent you in court.
Strict deadlines and formalities
Missing the six-week disclaimer deadline or overlooking notarial requirements for property can have irreversible consequences. A specialised lawyer ensures you meet every legal formality on time.
Our advantages
Why use our lawyer matching service?
We are not a law firm; we connect you with the right legal expertise.
Quick lawyer matching
We match you with a vetted inheritance lawyer within 24–48 hours, so you do not waste time searching through directories or worrying about deadlines.
Vetted specialists
Every lawyer in our network is a qualified German Rechtsanwalt with experience in inheritance law, probate and Pflichtteil claims. We only work with professionals.
Free, no obligation
Our matching service costs you nothing. You only pay the lawyer if you decide to instruct them, and you are never under any obligation to proceed.
Clear communication
You get a lawyer who can explain German inheritance law in plain English, ensuring you understand your rights, obligations and the likely next steps.
Nearby jurisdictions
Inheritance lawyers in neighbouring countries
If your estate involves assets or heirs in other European countries, you may also need advice from lawyers there. We can match you across Europe.
Frequently asked questions
Inheritance lawyers in Germany – FAQs
Do I need a lawyer for inheritance matters in Germany?
In many cases you can handle simple matters yourself, but before the regional courts and higher courts a lawyer is mandatory. A lawyer is also essential for complex estates, cross-border assets, or disputes over the compulsory share. We match you with a specialist who can explain your obligations.
What is the Pflichtteil and who can claim it?
The Pflichtteil is a compulsory share under Section 2303 BGB. Descendants, the surviving spouse or registered partner, and parents (if no descendants) can claim half the value of their intestate share, even if a will disinherits them.
How long do I have to disclaim an inheritance in Germany?
You have six weeks to disclaim an inheritance once you know you are an heir. This deadline is strict. If you are unsure whether to accept, consult a lawyer immediately, because missing it can mean accepting the estate with its debts.
Do I need a notary for inherited property in Germany?
If the estate includes real property, any transfer of ownership must be recorded by a notary, and the new owner must be registered in the Grundbuch. A lawyer can coordinate the notarial steps and ensure the land register is updated correctly.
What does it cost to engage an inheritance lawyer in Germany?
Lawyer fees are set by the statutory Lawyers’ Remuneration Act (RVG) based on the value in dispute. The losing party generally bears the costs in litigation. Legal aid is available for those who cannot afford fees, subject to an income test.
How quickly will I be matched with a lawyer?
We aim to match you with a vetted inheritance lawyer within 24–48 hours. The service is free and without obligation; you only pay the lawyer once you agree on representation.
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