Succession Law
Wills, forced heirship and estates — protecting family wealth across generations.
Succession law concerns the most personal and sensitive matters — the passing of wealth from one generation to the next. SmartLaw provides advice and litigation with discretion, so that the testator's wishes are respected and the heirs' rights are protected.
We draft wills, handle acceptances and renunciations, claim the forced share and resolve succession disputes, judicially and out of court. We also handle cross-border estates for the diaspora and non-residents with assets in Greece.
What we handle
- Drafting of wills & publication/probate
- Acceptance & renunciation of inheritance (within deadlines)
- Forced heirship & abatement of excessive gifts
- Certificate of inheritance & inheritance tax
- Estate distribution — judicial & out of court
- Cross-border estates (non-residents)
Frequently asked questions
- Can I challenge a will?
- Yes, where grounds exist — e.g. forgery, defective intent (fraud/duress), lack of capacity or breach of form — and within the statutory deadlines. We assess the prospects before filing.
- What is the forced share (légitime)?
- It is the portion of an estate that the law guarantees to close relatives (children, spouse, parents), which cannot be freely removed by will. We claim the forced share when it is impaired.
Related insights
Wills in Greece: types, process and costly mistakes
A will is the key instrument for deciding what happens to your estate. The types recognised under Greek law, how to draw one up validly, and the mistakes that lead to nullity or dispute.
The forced share: what you are entitled to as an heir
The forced share protects close relatives from being fully excluded by a will. See who is entitled to it and how it is claimed.
Other areas
Civil Law
Contracts, real estate, obligations and succession — with strategy at every step.
Commercial Law
Companies, contracts and transactions — legal structure that supports growth.
Banking Law
Loan agreements, security and debt settlements — protecting the client.
Tax & International Investments
Tax planning, international investments and cross-border transactions — with security and strategy.
Company & Real Estate Acquisitions
Company buy-outs and real estate transfers — secure from due diligence to closing.
Family Law
Divorce, custody, maintenance and matrimonial property — with sensitivity and resolve.
Insurance Law
Insurance coverage, compensation and product liability — with technical expertise and effectiveness.