Erbschein Help for U.S. Heirs | German Inheritance Experts
When someone passes away owning property or assets in Germany, heirs often find themselves unable to access the estate without first obtaining a Certificate of Inheritance, known in German as an Erbschein. This document is issued by a German probate court (Nachlassgericht) and serves as official confirmation of the heir's legal status under German law. Without it, banks, land registries, and other institutions in Germany will typically refuse to recognize your rights as an heir—regardless of what a U.S. will or probate document may state.
An Erbschein identifies who inherits what and on what legal basis—either under a will (Testament) or Germany’s statutory inheritance law (gesetzliche Erbfolge). The application process requires submitting detailed documentation, including death certificates, proof of kinship, and, if applicable, foreign wills translated and apostilled. If multiple heirs exist, each one must be accounted for, or their claims renounced. This process can be burdensome, especially for U.S.-based heirs unfamiliar with German legal procedures and language requirements.
Many Americans mistakenly assume that U.S. estate documents are sufficient to handle German assets. They’re not. Germany does not automatically recognize foreign probate decisions, and attempts to access bank accounts or real estate without an Erbschein are typically denied. This is where specialized legal guidance becomes not only helpful but necessary. Missing a procedural step or failing to meet evidentiary standards can delay or jeopardize the transfer of valuable assets.
The German American Law Center PLC, in collaboration with Rechtsanwaltskanzlei PECHER in Radebeul, Germany, provides cross-border legal representation specifically tailored to American heirs of German estates. Under the leadership of Attorney Mandy Pecher, Esq., LLM., MBA, the firms manage the entire Erbschein process, translating documents, coordinating with German courts, and acting on your behalf to prevent costly errors and unnecessary travel. Their unique dual-licensed structure ensures continuity and legal efficiency across two jurisdictions.
If you’ve inherited German assets or expect to, obtaining an Erbschein is likely unavoidable. Don’t leave the process to chance. Contact the German American Law Center PLC or Rechtsanwaltskanzlei PECHER today to receive expert legal guidance and ensure your rights are fully recognized under German law.
Contact the German American Law Center PLC
The German American Law Center PLC specializes in international surrogacy, parentage rights, and cross-border family law.
We guide intended parents through every step from surrogacy agreements and legal parentage to citizenship filings and ethical oversight.
📞 Phone: +1 (989) 687-5255
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://galawcenter.com
