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To ensure that you are always up to date, you will receive occasional notifications about important court rulings as well as legal commentary and notes from our experts on this page. Please be aware that the original language of our news content is German. While we strive for accuracy, automated or manual translations may occasionally contain errors. If any part of a ruling or commentary is unclear, do not hesitate to reach out to us for direct advice.
Better safe than sorry – why a precautionary prenuptial agreement makes sense
When getting married, most couples focus on their personal relationship and their future together. However, marriage also comes with a number of rights and obligations. For this reason, it makes sense to consider the legal consequences of marriage at an early stage. A notarized marriage contract allows these to be tailored to specific personal circumstances.
What happens if there are no heirs?
Westphalian Chamber of Notaries. If a deceased person had no direct relatives, the estate passes to more distant relatives or, if no heirs can be identified, to the state. Anyone who wishes to arrange the distribution of their assets individually instead of following this legal succession has various options for structuring their estate according to their own wishes. Succession regulated by law In Germany, succession is regulated by so-called...
Why single parents should also make a will – preventing your ex-partner from accessing your inheritance
Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Notaries. A will can and should not only specify who inherits what. Many single parents who have minor children, for example, want to prevent the other parent from later gaining access to the inheritance. This is precisely the danger that exists. Custody also includes the management of assets. If a single parent dies and the other parent has custody...
Looking for a property manager? – What apartment owners need to consider
Appointing an administrator relieves condominium owners and creates clear responsibilities. But what specific powers does the administrator have? How is he appointed and how is he dismissed? And what role does he play in the sale of a condominium? The Saxony Chamber of Notaries clarifies the legal requirements. Key role in the condominium owners' association If you imagine the condominium owners' association as...
Advantages of notarized powers of attorney - notary advises and ensures legally compliant wording
Westphalian Chamber of Notaries. Consumers often assume that a power of attorney must be certified or notarized by a notary in order to be valid. However, although powers of attorney are valid for many purposes without any formal requirements, a notarized power of attorney has numerous advantages. If it is a power of attorney for health care, with which provision is made for a sudden incapacity and a...
The electronic certificate of attendance – a major step toward fully digital notarial services
In May of this year, the government published a draft bill introducing electronic notarization in person. Since 2022, it has been possible to create electronic records as part of online notarial procedures, and in the future, this option will also be available for in-person procedures, i.e., when the parties are present at the notary's office. This will close gaps in digitization, avoid media breaks, and...