Understanding Estate Administration in Cyprus

Defining Estate:
Estate encompasses both movable and immovable property, representing all assets a person possesses during their lifetime. Estate administration involves the meticulous procedures of collecting and distributing these assets among legal heirs in Cyprus.
The Significance of Wills in Cyprus:
A will is a pivotal legal document in Cyprus, allowing an individual (testator) to express their wishes regarding the distribution of their estate upon death. Our team assists in drafting, registering, and understanding the formalities of making a will in Cyprus.
Formalities of Making a Will:
Ensuring a will is in writing and executed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses, the formalities of making a will are crucial. While a will can be registered at the District Court, its validity remains intact even if not registered.
Will or No Will:
A will provides authority in deciding crucial matters, including the appointment of an executor responsible for managing the estate. In the absence of a will, legal heirs play a pivotal role in appointing an estate administrator.
Distribution of Property and Assets:
Without a will, estate distribution follows the provisions of the Wills and Succession Law, categorizing legal heirs into seven classes based on the degree of relation to the deceased.
Disposable Portion of the Estate:
The Cyprus Wills and Succession Law restricts the testator's freedom to dispose of their estate freely, defining the disposable portion that can be passed mainly to family members.
Revocation of a Will:
A will can be revoked by a subsequent will that expressly annuls the previous one or by the testator through destruction.

Administration of Estates in Cyprus:

Laws Governing Estate Administration:
General matters related to estate administration in Cyprus fall under the Administration of Estates Law, Cap. 189, the Probates (Re-Sealing) Law, Cap.192, and associated rules. These laws, combined with the Cyprus Wills and Succession Law, Cap. 195, form the legal framework.

Grant of Probate:
This legal instrument empowers the estate administrator to manage and distribute the assets of the deceased. It includes the authority to transfer property, access bank accounts, and ensure assets' distribution adheres to inheritance laws.

Documents Required for Grant of Probate:
Essential documents include the certificate of death, details of heirs, and a certificate of heirs issued by the Community Council president or Mayor. A lawyer typically prepares these documents.

Probate Registrar and Registry:
The Chief Registrar serves as the principal probate registrar, and the Supreme Court Registry acts as the principal probate registry. Their duties involve receiving wills for safekeeping and managing applications for grants of probate or administration.

Probate in Cyprus:
The estate administration procedure initiates with the executor (in the presence of a will) or all legal heirs (in the absence of a will) filing an administration, probate application. The court grants the probate order, enabling the administrator to carry out their duties.

Finalization of Estate Administration:
To conclude the administration, the administrator files final accounts with necessary documents, details, receipts, and a declaration signed by heirs and beneficiaries. The probate registrar reviews these accounts, and upon proper execution, releases the administrator from their duties.

Our Services

Our law firm offers comprehensive services in inheritance and succession law, wills and probate, and estate administration in Cyprus. Our services include:

Will drafting and registration.
Expert advice on wills disputes.
Guidance on issues related to wills and succession law.
Safekeeping of the will until execution.
Preparation of applications and documentation for the grant of probate.
Representation before the Courts.
Acting as executors or administrators.
Full assistance in the grant of probate procedure.

Contact us for a free personal consultation and explore our competitive fee services. At Michalis C. Loizidis LLC, we prioritize your peace of mind in navigating the intricate landscapes of inheritance and succession law in Cyprus.

Contact Us

+357 99 789 280

Chrysanthou Mylona, Panayides Building, 4th floor, Limassol 3030, Cyprus

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