French Law Consultancy

Inheriting a French Estate & French Probate

We understand how difficult it is to lose a loved one, and then to also deal with the complications of inheriting a French estate and navigating the French Probate system.

We can provide calm, compassionate, practical assistance, clear explanations, and full liaison on your behalf with the Notaire. So, let us take the stress away from you at this difficult time.

We provide a cost estimate including the Notaire fees and inheritance tax. Inheritance tax rates for beneficiaries vary according to who the beneficiary is, and can range from 5% to 60%. It is the individual beneficiary and not the estate that is liable for this tax, which is a key difference between French and English inheritance laws. It is important to contact us before contacting a Notaire, so that we can assess the situation and make you aware of any problems you may face, and what the Notaire will need from you. We can also help you choose a Notaire who is familiar with international estates. Once a Notaire is appointed it is very difficult to change them.

French Inheritance is often called French Succession or French Probate. Where a British national has died with assets in France or living in France, it can be difficult to know how to deal with this, even for an experienced UK Solicitor or French Notaire. Unlike the ‘testamentary freedom’ of making a will under English Law, France has a system of forced heirship that can make it obligatory for particular family members to inherit a proportion of a French estate, regardless of what is stated in the will. If you are about to inherit or acquire assets in France you should consider how they will be dealt with after you die to ensure administering your estate and so you might also find our Wills service of interest.

We have dealt with French Inheritance law and French estates for 18 years, and are happy to calmly guide you through the process, and to liaise with your UK Solicitor and the French Notaire to make sure that everyone understands the process, and that we reach the best outcome for you and your loved ones, and avoid unintended tax and legal problems.

Get in touch with us to discuss French Probate.