GASCÓN BERNABÉU ABOGADOS
English-speaking probate lawyers in Spain
SPANISH PROBATE
Losing a loved one is never easy, and managing their affairs can be even more challenging, especially when it involves property or assets in a foreign country like Spain. The complexities of Spanish probate laws can feel overwhelming, particularly when dealing with these matters from abroad, as they differ significantly from the laws in the UK and the USA that you may already be familiar with.
At Gascon Bernabeu, our team of English-speaking lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the Spanish probate process. We’ll help you understand the legal requirements, manage the paperwork, and answer any questions you may have so you can focus on what matters most during this challenging time.
For more information about our Spanish probate services, get in touch with our expert team via the form on our website, email us at info@gbabogados.co.uk, send a message through WhatsApp, or give us a call on +44 (0)20 3137 1320.
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process used to manage and distribute a person’s estate after their death. This includes handling their property, money, and possessions. Probate gives the legal authority to deal with the deceased’s assets, ensure any debts are paid, and divide the remaining estate, either based on the instructions in the will or according to the law if no will exists.
How does probate work in Spain?
Probate or the “inheritance process,” as it’s known in Spain, is quite different from the UK and USA systems. It’s based on Roman law and rooted quite deeply in the Catholic traditions of the country, making it a much more formal process. It typically involves a lot of paperwork, including details about the deceased’s assets and who will inherit what. Generally, it takes around three months, but it can take longer, depending on the complexity of the situation.
At Gascón Bernabéu, our English-speaking lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the Spanish probate process. We understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate a foreign legal system, especially after the passing of a loved one.
If you would like to learn more about our Spanish probate services, you can reach out to our expert English-speaking probate solicitors via the form on our website, email us at info@gbabogados.co.uk, send a message through WhatsApp, or call us directly on +44 (0)20 3137 1320.
How can our English-speaking probate lawyers can help in Spain
Whether your loved one simply had assets in Spain or was living there full-time, we can manage the entire probate process on your behalf without you having to fly out to Spain. From gathering the necessary documentation to liaising with local authorities and ensuring compliance with Spanish laws, our English-speaking team is here to handle all the legal details while you focus on your family.
Our Spanish probate services include:
- Initial consultation and advice – We’ll explain the inheritance process in Spain and provide a clear outline of what’s involved, including potential inheritance tax and timeframes.
- Will search and verification – If a will exists, we’ll confirm whether it has been registered in Spain and assess its contents. If no will is present, we will help navigate the intestate rules and determine who is entitled to the estate.
- Power of Attorney – If you cannot be in Spain, we can arrange a Power of Attorney, allowing us to represent you and handle all legal aspects of the probate process.
- Estate administration – From gathering assets to settling debts and distributing the estate, we’ll take care of all aspects, ensuring everything is handled correctly under Spanish law.
- Inheritance tax management – We can calculate and file the necessary Inheritance Tax return, advising on ways to minimize your tax liability within the framework of Spanish law.
- Property sales and asset distribution – If the estate includes property, we can handle the sale and ensure that the proceeds are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or Spanish law.
- Legal compliance – We will make sure all documentation is completed correctly, including obtaining necessary certificates like the NIE and managing any additional paperwork for beneficiaries.
- Multinational wills – If your loved one has multiple wills in different countries, we can guide you through the coordination process so everything is valid and handled smoothly.
If you’re unsure about anything or just need more information specific to your situation, don’t hesitate to get in touch for a no-obligation consultation. Every probate case is unique, and our team of English-speaking probate lawyers can provide insight and guidance so you can decide on your next steps with confidence.
Spanish probate lawyers who speak your language
At Gascon Bernabeu, we specialise in the Spanish probate process. With over a decade of experience, our English-speaking lawyers are here to offer clear, expert advice, making this often complex process easier for you. We’ll assist you through every step of the process to remove any uncertainty or unease.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the probate process in Spain, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether by phone at +44 (0)20 3137 1320, via email at info@gbabogados.co.uk, via WhatsApp, or through the contact form on our website, we’re always on hand to help.
Related Articles
Selling an inherited property in Spain