Inheritance Lawyer in Poland
I help settle inheritance matters in Poland: confirmation of inheritance rights, estate division, forced-share (zachowek) claims and the validity of wills.
Inheritance lawyer in Wrocław, Poland
Polish inheritance law is intricate: statutory and testamentary succession, deadlines for rejecting an inheritance, liability for the deceased's debts, the forced share. Add family emotions, and a simple formality can turn into a years-long dispute. For years I wrote ABC Spadków, a blog on inheritance law; dozens of practical articles are now on the firm blog.
From formalities to court disputes
I assist with confirmation of inheritance acquisition (in court or before a notary), estate division between heirs, and forced-share claims where close family was omitted from a will. I also advise on safely rejecting an indebted inheritance, including on behalf of minor children, and on drafting a will that cannot be effectively challenged.
Cross-border estates
If you live abroad and inherit property in Poland, or a relative died leaving assets in several countries, the case involves EU succession rules on jurisdiction and applicable law. I handle such matters remotely for clients worldwide, with service in English and Ukrainian, including obtaining the European Certificate of Succession.
Frequently asked questions
I live abroad and inherited property in Poland. What do I do?
Most steps can be handled remotely through a power of attorney: confirmation of inheritance, land-register entries, even sale of the property. You usually do not need to travel to Poland; we handle documents by correspondence and video calls.
How long do I have to reject an inheritance?
Six months from the day you learned you are an heir, typically from the death. After the deadline the inheritance is deemed accepted with limitation of liability. For heirs living abroad the declaration can be made before a Polish consul.
What is the forced share (zachowek)?
Descendants, the spouse and parents who would inherit by statute are entitled to a monetary claim of half the value of their statutory share (two-thirds for minors and persons unable to work) if they were omitted from the will.
Is a handwritten will valid in Poland?
Yes: a holographic will is valid if entirely handwritten, signed and dated. In practice it is the easiest form to challenge, so for larger estates I recommend a notarial will.