Inheritance, Probate & Wills · Poland
Your trusted Inheritance, Probate & Wills lawyers in Poland
Navigating succession in Poland involves specific deadlines, forced heirship rules and formal acceptance of an estate. We match you with a vetted Polish lawyer who handles inheritance, probate and will matters, so you can make informed decisions without unnecessary delay.
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Why a specialist matters
Inheritance, Probate & Wills in Poland
When you are dealing with succession in Poland, the rules are set out in the Civil Code and enforced by the ordinary courts. A missed six-month declaration deadline, a forced heirship claim or a cross-border estate can quickly become a serious problem. That is why we match you with Inheritance, Probate & Wills lawyers in Poland who know the local procedures and the practical steps to protect your position. Whether you need to draft a will, accept an estate, challenge a zachowek or administer an inheritance, a specialist can guide you through each stage. Our service is free and without obligation, and you can expect a first response within 24 to 48 hours.
Poland-specific essentials
How inheritance and probate work in Poland
Poland’s civil law framework sets out clear rules for succession, but the interaction of forced heirship, time limits and cross-border elements can be complex. Below are the key points to understand before you engage a lawyer.
Ordinary courts handle succession matters
Inheritance and probate cases fall within the ordinary court system, organised into district courts (sądy rejonowe), regional courts (sądy okręgowe) and appellate courts (sądy apelacyjne). Civil matters, including succession, are heard by these courts. Polish is the language of proceedings.
Two legal professions may represent you
Both adwokat (advocate) and radca prawny (attorney-at-law) have equal rights of audience in all courts since 2015. Each must complete three-year professional training and pass a state exam, and is a compulsory member of the respective bar association. We match you with either profession.
Forced heirship restricts testamentary freedom
Polish law reserves a portion of the estate for close relatives through the zachowek. Descendants, spouse and parents who would inherit on intestacy may claim one half of their intestate share, or two thirds if a minor or permanently incapacitated. This applies even if a will says otherwise.
Acceptance of inheritance: six-month deadline
An heir has six months from learning of their entitlement to declare acceptance or rejection of the inheritance. Since 2015, the default if no declaration is made is acceptance with the benefit of inventory, limiting liability for debts to the estate’s value. A specialist can help you choose the right option.
Costs and legal aid
Court fees in civil cases are typically a proportional 5% of the amount in dispute, with statutory minima and caps. Lawyers’ fees are freely agreed. Persons of limited means may apply for free legal aid or a court-appointed lawyer. We help you find a lawyer who explains costs upfront.
Key time limit — Inheritance, Probate & Wills
Inheritance acceptance or rejection declaration — 6 months. A declaration accepting or rejecting an inheritance must be made within six months of the day the heir learned of their title to inherit (Article 1015 §1 of the Civil Code); failure to make the declaration in time is treated as acceptance with the benefit of inventory.
The data above is drawn from official Polish sources and the European e-Justice Portal, verified as of June 2025.
Common frustrations
Inheritance, probate and wills in Poland can feel overwhelming
We connect you with a lawyer who can guide you through each step.
Missing the six-month deadline
If you fail to declare acceptance or rejection within six months, you are automatically deemed to accept with the benefit of inventory. This may still limit liability, but an expert can advise on the best course.
Forced heirship disputes
Close relatives may claim a reserved portion under Polish law, even against your wishes. Understanding the zachowek and its calculation is essential to avoid protracted family conflicts.
Cross-border estate complexity
If the deceased owned assets in Poland and abroad, or lived abroad, EU Regulation 650/2012 and Polish private international law add layers. A specialist can help you determine which law applies.
What you gain
Why use our free matching service?
Get matched with a Polish inheritance lawyer who understands local rules and your language.
Targeted expertise
We match you with a lawyer who has proven experience in Polish succession law, including forced heirship and probate proceedings, so you avoid generalist guesswork.
Clear time-bound guidance
Your lawyer will ensure you understand the six-month deadline for accepting or rejecting an inheritance and any limitation periods that may affect estate claims.
Cost transparency
You receive a clear explanation of lawyers’ fees, potential court costs and available legal aid options, including reduced or court-appointed representation, before you make any commitment.
No obligation
The matching service is completely free and without obligation. You only engage a lawyer if you are comfortable with the proposed match and fee arrangement.
Serving clients across Europe
We match lawyers in these countries and more
Our network covers Poland and neighbouring European jurisdictions, helping you manage cross-border estates.
Frequently asked questions
Inheritance, Probate & Wills lawyers in Poland – FAQs
What do Inheritance, Probate & Wills lawyers in Poland do?
They advise on Polish succession law, including wills, forced heirship claims (zachowek), acceptance or rejection of inheritance, probate proceedings and cross-border estates. They can represent you before Polish courts and help you meet statutory deadlines.
How long do I have to accept or reject an inheritance in Poland?
You have six months from the day you learn about your entitlement to make a declaration. If you do nothing, you are deemed to accept with the benefit of inventory, which limits your liability for the deceased’s debts to the estate’s value.
Can a will override the forced heirship rules?
No. Polish law guarantees a reserved portion to certain relatives (descendants, spouse, parents) even if a will excludes them. They may claim half of their intestate share, or two thirds if a minor or permanently incapable of work.
What are the costs of hiring a Polish inheritance lawyer?
Lawyers’ fees are freely agreed and vary by complexity. Court fees may apply, often 5% of the amount in dispute with statutory caps. Free legal aid or a court-appointed lawyer may be available if you have limited means.
Do I need a Polish lawyer if I live abroad?
If the estate includes Polish assets or the deceased was habitually resident in Poland, you will likely need to deal with Polish courts or notaries. A Polish lawyer can coordinate with your local adviser and handle the proceedings remotely.
Which legal professionals can represent me in Polish probate matters?
Both adwokat (advocate) and radca prawny (attorney-at-law) have equal rights of audience in all Polish courts. They must complete three-year training and pass a state exam; membership of the respective bar is compulsory.
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