Inheritance Dispute in Germany – English-speaking Lawyer in Berlin
Inheritance Dispute: Enforcing or Defending Inheritance Claims with the Law Firm Dr. Wessel in Berlin Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
“I never expected that losing a loved one would also mean facing a legal battle in a foreign country.”
When a relative passes away in Germany, the emotional weight is heavy. But for heirs living abroad, grief is often followed by legal confusion. You may suddenly find yourself involved in an inheritance dispute – without understanding the language, the legal process, or your rights under German law.
I am Dr. Markus Wessel, an English-speaking lawyer in Berlin Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, specializing in German inheritance law. For over 30 years, I’ve advised and represented foreign heirs – from the first question about a will to court proceedings and settlement of complex estates.
A Real Client Story
“When my uncle died in Berlin, I felt completely lost. The will was handwritten in German, and I had no idea what to do. My cousins in Germany had already taken control of everything.
Dr. Wessel explained my rights, translated the documents for me, and ensured I wasn’t left out. I can’t imagine having gone through this without his help.”
— L.J., heir from Toronto, Canada
Common Problems Faced by Foreign Heirs in Germany
- You have been left out of the will, even though you are a legal heir under German inheritance law.
- The contents of the will are difficult to understand due to language barriers or legal complexity.
- You believe the will may have been influenced or created under questionable mental capacity.
- Other heirs are making decisions without involving you or sharing information.
- You’re unsure how to formally claim your share of the estate or apply for your rights from abroad.
“I don’t understand what’s going on. All I came for was to collect my share of a German estate.”
How I Can Help You
- Reviewing and explaining wills and inheritance documents
- Advising you on your rights under German inheritance law
- Contesting wills when appropriate (due to formal errors or undue influence)
- Helping you claim your compulsory share (Pflichtteil) as a child, spouse, or parent
- Representing you in probate court and during inheritance certificate (Erbschein) proceedings
- Resolving conflicts in inheritance communities (Erbengemeinschaften)
- Supporting you in cross-border inheritance matters involving foreign assets or heirs
Why Choose Me?
- More than 30 years of experience in German inheritance and probate law
- Full legal support in English
- A personal, responsive approach – no call centers or intermediaries
- Convenient location in Berlin Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
- Familiarity with cross-border cases and international inheritance law
Discreet Support. Clear Advice. Wherever You Are.
Whether you are only beginning to navigate the inheritance process or already facing legal resistance – I offer personal guidance and solid legal representation in fluent English.
Phone: +49 (0)30 985 12 411
Email: mw@ra-dr-wessel.de
Office: Katharinenstraße 8, 10711 Berlin – Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf
FAQ about Inheritance Claims in Germany
Can I still inherit in Germany even if I was left out of the will?
Yes. Under German law, close relatives such as children, spouses, and parents may be entitled to a compulsory portion (Pflichtteil), even if disinherited in the will.
How can I claim my inheritance rights from abroad?
You can appoint a lawyer in Germany to handle everything on your behalf – including communication, document processing, and court filings – without needing to travel.
What if I don’t understand the will because it’s in German?
Dr. Wessel provides full legal support in English and will translate and explain all relevant documents so you can make informed decisions.
Can I contest a will if I suspect undue influence or lack of capacity?
Yes. A will can be contested if there is evidence of coercion, manipulation, or mental incapacity. Legal procedures are available to challenge its validity.
What is the mandatory share (Pflichtteil) in Germany?
The mandatory share is the right to claim 50% of your statutory inheritance share in cash, not 50% of the total estate.
What can I do if other heirs are excluding me?
You have a legal right to be involved. German law requires all heirs to act jointly. A lawyer can help enforce your participation and access to information.
How does Dr. Wessel support heirs from abroad?
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Wessel offers clear, English-language legal advice and representation for cross-border inheritance matters, including court proceedings and negotiations.