How U.S. Heirs Can Claim Their German Inheritance Without Leaving the Country
Receiving notice of an inheritance in Germany while living in the United States can be both overwhelming and confusing. German probate law differs significantly from the American legal system, and U.S.-based heirs often face procedural barriers, language issues, and jurisdictional challenges. Successfully claiming your share of a German estate requires precision, speed, and an understanding of how to comply with cross-border legal requirements. Mistakes, especially around deadlines or documentation can lead to delays or even forfeiture of your rights.
The first step is determining whether you wish to accept or reject the inheritance. In Germany, heirs inherit both assets and debts, and if no will exists, succession is governed by statutory law. U.S. heirs have six months from the date they learn of the inheritance to formally disclaim it. Failing to act within this timeframe can result in automatic acceptance including responsibility for any liabilities. This makes timely legal counsel essential.
If you choose to accept, the next step is securing a Certificate of Inheritance (Erbschein) from the German probate court. This legal document confirms your status as heir and is usually required to transfer title to real estate, collect funds from German bank accounts, or deal with tax authorities. U.S. documents such as wills or death certificates must be translated, notarized, and apostilled. Without professional coordination, this process can be delayed by bureaucracy or rejected outright due to technicalities.
The German American Law Center PLC, in cooperation with its partner office Rechtsanwaltskanzlei PECHER in Radebeul, Germany, helps American heirs handle every step of this process without having to travel overseas. Led by Attorney Mandy Pecher, Esq., LLM., MBA, a dual-licensed German and U.S. attorney, the team bridges both legal systems to ensure a smooth and legally sound transfer of assets. Their bilingual legal staff assists with Erbschein applications, tax compliance, real estate transfers, and probate court communication in both countries.
Navigating a German inheritance from the U.S. doesn’t have to be a bureaucratic nightmare. With the right legal guidance, you can protect your interests, minimize risk, and avoid unnecessary delays. Contact the German American Law Center PLC or Rechtsanwaltskanzlei PECHER today to begin the process and handle your inheritance confidently, efficiently, and in full compliance with 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
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