Advice on Cyprus wills and deceased estates, from drafting and probate through administration, distribution and disputes.
M. ANASTASOPOULOU & CO LLC advises on the preparation of wills and the administration of deceased estates in Cyprus.
We handle matters ranging from a home and bank account to estates comprising property, company interests, investments and beneficiaries in different countries. We work closely with individuals, families, executors and administrators, with attention to the personal and practical aspects of each estate.
How we advise
Wills, probate and estates
Wills
We draft, review and amend wills concerning assets in Cyprus. Our advice covers the appointment of executors, the designation of beneficiaries, gifts of specific assets and the legal requirements for signing and witnessing a will.
We also review existing wills when family circumstances, the composition of an estate or the testator’s wishes change.
Family and Beneficiary Rights
We advise on the inheritance rights of spouses, children and other beneficiaries, including any restrictions on the freedom to dispose of assets by will. We consider how the applicable rules affect the testator’s wishes and the rights of those with an interest in the estate.
Probate and Estates Without a Will
Where the deceased left a will, we prepare applications for grants of probate and guide executors through the subsequent steps. Where there is no valid will, we advise on identifying the heirs, appointing an administrator and distributing the estate under the applicable intestacy rules.
Executors and Administrators
We advise executors and administrators on their appointment, authority and responsibilities. We assist them in identifying and collecting assets, settling debts and claims, maintaining the necessary records and distributing the estate to beneficiaries.
Estate Assets and Liabilities
We assist in identifying and dealing with property, bank accounts, company shares, investments and other assets, as well as debts or claims affecting the estate. Where needed, we coordinate with tax, accounting and other professional advisers.
Foreign Grants and Cyprus Assets
Where a person dies abroad leaving assets in Cyprus, we advise executors and administrators on the procedure required here. We review the foreign will or grant, prepare the necessary documentation and assist with the administration or transfer of property, accounts and other interests in Cyprus.
Cross-Border Estates
We handle the Cyprus aspects of estates involving assets or beneficiaries in different countries. We coordinate with foreign counsel and the family’s other advisers so that the steps taken in Cyprus form part of the wider administration of the estate.
Distribution of the Estate
We advise on beneficiary entitlements, prepare distribution and transfer documents, and support executors and administrators through to the distribution of assets under the will or the applicable intestacy rules.
Wills and Estate Disputes
We advise and represent clients in disputes concerning the validity or interpretation of wills, inheritance rights, estate assets, and the conduct of executors or administrators.
Selected Areas of Advice
- Drafting, reviewing and amending wills
- Family and beneficiary inheritance rights
- Probate applications
- Appointment of administrators and estates without a will
- Advice to executors and administrators
- Identification of estate assets and liabilities
- Transfer and sale of Cyprus property
- Transmission of company shares and investments
- Foreign grants affecting Cyprus assets
- Coordination of cross-border estates
- Distribution of assets to beneficiaries
- Wills and inheritance disputes