Practice area
Inheritance matters
Inheritance in Russia and abroad: property, accounts, documents, deadlines, courts and dealings with foreign institutions.
When this applies
The deceased died abroad
Assets are located in different countries
Documents from a foreign jurisdiction are needed
There is a dispute among the heirs
What the lawyer does
Determines the composition of the estate
Checks the deadlines and the applicable law
Prepares documents and requests
Supports court procedures
What to have ready
Death certificate
Documents proving kinship
Will and property documents
Bank and registration records
Where it usually goes wrong
Missed deadlines
An incomplete picture of the assets
Conflict among the heirs
The need to legalise documents
FAQ
Questions and answers
- How do you claim an inheritance if the deceased died abroad?
- You will need death and kinship documents with an apostille/legalisation and translation, together with a determination of the estate and the applicable law. The procedure depends on the country where the assets are located.
- What is the time limit for accepting an inheritance?
- In Russia the general period is six months from the opening of the succession. Missing it has consequences, although in certain cases it can be restored. Different rules apply to foreign assets.
- Do foreign documents need to be legalised for an inheritance case?
- As a rule yes — by apostille or consular legalisation with a notarised translation, unless a treaty provides otherwise.
Consultation
Discuss your situation
Briefly describe the situation, the countries involved and any deadlines. The fee and format are agreed before the consultation.
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