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.
In short
For an international estate in Luxembourg, European Regulation 650/2012 in principle designates the law of the deceased's last habitual residence, unless the law of their nationality was chosen (professio juris). It also creates the European Certificate of Succession, which eases the exercise of heirs' rights across the EU.
Responsible for legal content: Maître Cora Maglo, Avocate à la Cour, Liste I du Barreau de Luxembourg depuis 2009. · Applicable law: Luxembourg
International succession in Luxembourg: key points at a glance
| Item | What to know |
|---|---|
| Fees | On a fee quote. Depending on the number of jurisdictions and the complexity of the estate. |
| Indicative timing | Variable depending on the countries involved and the complexity; upstream planning reduces deadlocks. |
| Documents required |
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| Deliverables |
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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.
International succession in Luxembourg: when should you call on the firm?
A succession involves several countries (residence, assets, heirs).
The applicable law may differ from the one expected and change the shares.
What happens if you do nothing?
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.
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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.
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Founded in 2013; Maître Cora Maglo has been admitted to the Luxembourg Bar since 2009
- 2013
- independent firm
- 2009
- at the Bar since 2009
- 4,7/5
- 81 Google reviewsRead reviews
Expertise & authority
Ongoing review and analysis of Luxembourg and European case law
Avocate à la Cour, List I of the Luxembourg Bar since 2009
Trained at the London School of Economics, formerly at Clifford Chance and Bonn Steichen & Partners
Member of international networks: EILN, AEA, Cross Border Advisory Solutions
Every matter handled and approved by a lawyer admitted to the Bar
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What our clients say
Selected excerpts from public reviews. Consult the Google listing for all ratings and comments; a testimonial does not guarantee a legal outcome.
Had a consultation with Me Cora Maglo about my Luxembourg Blue Card application. She explained everything clearly: the process, timeline and documents I need, and helped me with my wife’s family reunification too. Honest and practical advice. I felt confident after talking to her.F. P.J’ai beaucoup apprécié le service de Maître Maglo : son sérieux, sa sympathie, son professionnalisme et sa disponibilité. Toujours répondu rapidement et clairement, avec des conseils pragmatiques, sans pousser à des procédures longues et coûteuses lorsqu’elles ne sont pas justifiées.N. W.Super assistance and great support! Highly recommend. All my questions were answered, Cora and her team kept me updated all the time. I will definitely reach out to them next time for my residency.T.They talk about us
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