Inheritance Law
Christian M. Reiser, Olivier Rivoire
The estate of a loved one often raises complex legal issues. Our lawyers specialising in inheritance law support heirs at every stage, both in Switzerland and abroad: recognition of foreign notarial deeds, the right to draw up an inventory, calculation of statutory shares, renunciation of inheritance, etc. We also act as executors or court-appointed administrators, which gives us a comprehensive understanding of the legal and tax issues involved. In the event of a dispute, we prioritise an amicable resolution, but act rigorously in court where necessary (actions for partition, reduction, annulment or claims to inheritance). Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Our inheritance law experts assist our clients in tracing bank assets in Switzerland in the context of international successions. This process, which is often complex, requires in-depth knowledge of Swiss banking law and procedures. Finally, thanks to our international network, we ensure the effective coordination of cross-border successions and propose preventative strategies to minimise disputes.
Our Expertise in Inheritance Law
Opening of the succession and rights of heirs
• • Advice to heirs upon the death of a loved one,, whether in Switzerland or abroad.
• Identification of legal heirs, compulsory heirs, and beneficiaries designated by will.
• Support with initial steps, such as taking an inventory, accessing assets and freezing accounts.
Administration and liquidation of the estate
• Representation of the heirs in the management of their succession in Switzerland or abroad
• Assistance in settling the deceased's debts, selling or transferring assets, and closing accounts.
• Coordination of the distribution of assets among heirs, including in cases of deadlock.
• Mandate as executor or administrator.
• Sharing our network of notaries, banks and tax experts.
Resolving inheritance disputes
• Providing defence in disputes between heirs or legatees.
• Providing legal support in cases of disagreement over distribution, contestation of wills, and eviction of an heir.
• Assistance with requests for asset freezing, asset protection, or access to information.
International inheritance and asset searches in Switzerland
• Support for heirs living abroad dealing with an inheritance involving assets in Switzerland.
• Assistance in obtaining recognition by the Swiss authorities of foreign deeds or decisions.
• Conduct searches for bank assets or real estate assets in Switzerland in the context of foreign inheritances.
• Coordination procedures with local and international correspondents.
Main contact in Inheritance law
Christian M. Reiser
Counsel
Olivier Rivoire
Partner