Wills and Succession Law
PRACTICE AREA
Experienced Lawyers for Wills, Probate, and Inheritance Matters in Cyprus
Our Wills & Succession Services
Our services include:
- Will Drafting & Estate Planning: Preparing valid and legally sound Wills that reflect your wishes and align with Cyprus succession laws.
- Probate & Estate Administration: Guiding executors through probate or assisting with Letters of Administration when there is no Will, ensuring assets are distributed correctly and efficiently.
- Resealing of Foreign Grants: Helping clients reseal foreign probate grants in Cyprus, enabling recognition of overseas court orders and administration of local assets without unnecessary delays.
- Trust Formation & Asset Protection: Establishing and managing trusts to protect your assets and provide ongoing benefits to your chosen beneficiaries.
- Inheritance Disputes & Litigation: Representing clients in inheritance-related disputes, including Will contests and estate claims, through negotiation or court proceedings.
Supporting International Clients
Why choose our law firm?
Selecting the right legal partner ensures peace of mind and protects your estate from complications. Here’s why clients trust our firm:
- Extensive Experience: Decades of experience advising clients on Cyprus inheritance and succession matters.
- Specialised Knowledge: Skilled in both local and cross-border estates, including cases affected by Cyprus forced heirship rules.
- Personalised Support: Each family and estate is unique. We tailor our advice to your family, assets, and long-term wishes.
- Professional Integrity: Our firm maintains the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism in every matter.
- Clear Communication: We explain every step in simple, transparent language, keeping you fully informed throughout the process.
Secure Your Legacy with Confidence
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if someone dies without a Will in Cyprus?
If a person dies intestate (without a Will), their estate is distributed under Cyprus succession law. The court appoints an administrator through Letters of Administration to manage and distribute the estate among the legal heirs. Read our article “What happens when someone dies intestate” to learn more.
Does Cyprus have forced heirship rules?
Yes. Cyprus law reserves a statutory portion of an estate for family members such as a spouse or children. We advise on how these rules affect your estate planning and ensure your Will complies with legal requirements.
Do I need a separate Will for assets in Cyprus?
It is often advisable to have a Cyprus-specific Will. While foreign Wills may cover local assets, a Cyprus Will helps avoid delays in probate and simplifies the process of recognising foreign documents.
How long does probate take in Cyprus?
Probate may take several months for straightforward cases. Complex estates or disputes can extend the process to a year or more. Our experienced lawyers help minimise delays by ensuring all procedures and documents are correctly handled.
Can foreigners make a Will in Cyprus?
Yes. Non-residents and foreign nationals can prepare a Will in Cyprus for their local assets. Our firm assists in drafting Wills that comply with Cyprus succession laws and ensures coordination with any existing foreign Wills.
Can I amend or update my Will later?
Yes. You can amend your Will at any time as long as you have legal capacity. It is recommended to review your Will regularly, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, or acquiring new assets.
Are handwritten Wills valid in Cyprus?
Handwritten Wills may be recognised if they meet legal formalities under Cyprus law. However, professional drafting is strongly advised to avoid errors or challenges that could invalidate the document.
What taxes apply to inheritance in Cyprus?
Currently, there is no inheritance tax in Cyprus. However, other fees or administrative costs may apply during the probate process. Our lawyers can provide clear advice on potential expenses and compliance requirements.
Can a Will made abroad be recognised in Cyprus?
Yes. Foreign Wills can be recognised in Cyprus if they comply with certain legal formalities. We can assist in validating and applying such Wills for the administration of local assets.
What happens if there is a dispute between heirs?
If disputes arise, our team provides mediation and, when necessary, litigation support to resolve matters efficiently while protecting your rights and interests.
Can digital or online Wills be used in Cyprus?
Currently, digital or online Wills are not legally recognised in Cyprus. A physical, properly signed, and witnessed document is required to ensure validity.