Family & litigation
International succession in Luxembourg
For a cross-border succession in Luxembourg, EU Regulation 650/2012 in principle designates the law of the deceased's last habitual residence, unless the law of their nationality has been chosen (professio juris). The Regulation also created the European Certificate of Succession, which makes it easier to exercise rights across the EU. The firm secures both planning and settlement.
As soon as a succession involves a foreign element (residence, assets or heirs abroad), the question of the applicable law becomes central and may upset the heirs' expectations.
Cerno Law Firm anticipates these questions (drafting of dispositions, choice of law) and coordinates the cross-border settlement.
The need
A succession involves several countries (residence, assets, heirs).
The applicable law may differ from the one expected and change the shares.
The risk
Application of an unanticipated law, conflict between heirs, freezing of assets abroad, double taxation.
Without planning, the succession may follow unfavourable rules.
Our involvement
Determination of the applicable law, advice on the professio juris, obtaining the European Certificate of Succession, and coordination of the settlement.
Liaison with notaries and foreign advisers.
Practice areas
When to call on the firm
- Plan a succession with assets in several countries.
- Choose the applicable law (professio juris).
- Obtain a European Certificate of Succession.
- Settle a contentious cross-border succession.
Method
Our engagement process
- 1
Information intake
You describe your need via a structured form or an initial call. Our digital tools serve only to organise this information and save time.
- 2
Lawyer qualification
Maître Maglo reviews your situation, identifies the legal issues and confirms the feasibility and exact scope of the engagement.
- 3
Transparent quote
You receive a clear fee proposal, a fixed fee or a range, before any engagement. Nothing is billed without your approval.
- 4
Legal work
The firm drafts, negotiates or litigates as required. Every deliverable is designed and approved by a lawyer admitted to the Luxembourg Bar.
- 5
Tracking and delivery
You follow your matter transparently and receive your finalised documents with the explanations you need.
Documents required
- • Civil status records and any will
- • Inventory of the assets and their location
- • List of the heirs and their residence
Deliverables
- • Analysis of the applicable law
- • Planning advice
- • Coordination of the settlement
Indicative timing
Variable depending on the countries involved and the complexity; upstream planning reduces deadlocks.
On a fee quote
Depending on the number of jurisdictions and the complexity of the estate.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which law governs an international succession in Luxembourg?
Under EU Regulation 650/2012, in principle the law of the deceased's last habitual residence, unless the deceased chose the law of their nationality (professio juris).
What is the European Certificate of Succession?
A document created by Regulation 650/2012 that allows heirs and executors to prove their status and exercise their rights in other Member States.
Can you choose the law applicable to your succession?
Yes, you can choose the law of your nationality (professio juris), preferably through a clear testamentary disposition. The firm advises you on this.
Go further
Related pages
Let’s talk about your matter
Describe your situation: you receive an initial analysis and a transparent quote, with no obligation. One dedicated lawyer, from start to finish.