Menu

In the current international context, where families and their assets are spread across various countries and continents, it is common for heirs from different parts of the world to be involved in legacies in Belgium.

At present, we assist heirs from the United Kingdom, the United States, and various European countries. This can be very overwhelming, especially if you are not familiar with Belgian inheritance law and tax regulations.

 

Step 1: Declaration of Inheritance and Payment of Inheritance Taxes

The first crucial step in the process is filing a declaration of inheritance. This is a legal obligation that must be adhered to within specific timeframes, which can vary by region. At DGDM lawyers, we ensure that this declaration is correctly and timely filed.

 

What does this involve?

  • Inventory of Assets: All the deceased’s assets, such as bank accounts, real estate, and stocks, must be identified and declared worldwide.
  • Valuation of Assets: Each asset must be correctly valued. This may require a certified appraiser for real estate.

After the declaration follows the payment of inheritance taxes, which can vary by region and sometimes be significant. We ensure everything is handled correctly.

 

Step 2: Obtaining a Certificate or Deed of Succession

After the payment of inheritance taxes, the next step is obtaining a certificate or deed of succession. This document is essential for further handling the estate. Additionally, the deed confirms who the heirs are and their respective shares in the estate.

This official document is often needed to access the deceased’s assets, such as blocked bank accounts and real estate.

In a European context, there is also the possibility to obtain a European Certificate of Succession.

We ensure this document is applied for and received correctly, so you can proceed with the estate settlement without issues.

 

Step 3: Liquidation and Distribution of the Estate

The final step is distributing the estate according to Belgian inheritance law, taking into account any wills. This can be done in two ways: amicably or judicially.

 

Amicable Settlement

At DGDM, we always strive for an amicable settlement. This means we negotiate to reach an agreement acceptable to all parties.

Advantages of an Amicable Settlement:

Faster: An amicable agreement can often be reached more quickly than a court procedure.
Cheaper: Avoiding lawsuits saves costs.
Better Relations: Negotiations can help maintain or restore family ties.

 

Judicial Settlement

Sometimes an amicable settlement is not possible, especially if heirs do not cooperate. In such cases, we do not hesitate to defend you in court, if you wish.

“Are you inheriting from a deceased person in Belgium but living abroad? We help you with an international estate.”

Jeroen De Man Ellen Moreau Josie Gijbels Steffie Carels Charlotte Van der Gucht

 

Our Approach

  • Experience: We have extensive experience with court procedures and work closely with notaries to achieve a fair distribution.
  • Result-Oriented: Our goal is always to successfully settle the estate, even if it requires going to court.

 

Why Choose DGDM Lawyers for an International Estate?

  • Full Support: We guide you through every step of the process, from declaration to distribution.
  • International Network: Thanks to our network, we can effectively collaborate with foreign lawyers, notaries, and other professionals.
  • Efficiency: Our team is known for our efficient coordination of legacies, even if heirs are on different continents.
  • Multilingualism: De Groote-De Man law firm has specialists ready to assist you in English, Dutch, and French.

 

Are you dealing with an international estate in Belgium? Let DGDM Lawyers help you. Contact us today for a consultation.

 

Review from a Satisfied Client

“I engaged lawyer Charlotte Van der Gucht to represent my interests in a complex and challenging inheritance case. Ms. Van der Gucht is very knowledgeable, professional, and competent. She kept me informed, answered all my questions, and responded very quickly. She worked directly with parties on four different continents and provided guidance and advice to move the process towards a resolution while always prioritizing my interests. Charlotte Van der Gucht and her law firm De Groote De Man are highly recommended.”

– Scott B.