{"id":25074,"date":"2024-08-25T15:58:30","date_gmt":"2024-08-25T14:58:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/inheritance-law\/"},"modified":"2026-04-19T18:10:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-19T17:10:23","slug":"inheritance-law","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/","title":{"rendered":"Inheritance Law"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#In_brief\" >In brief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#What_does_an_inheritance_lawyer_do\" >What does an inheritance lawyer do?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Who_are_the_heirs\" >Who are the heirs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Statutory_share_what_are_your_rights_if_you_have_been_disinherited\" >Statutory share: what are your rights if you have been disinherited?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#How_is_an_estate_distributed\" >How is an estate distributed?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#What_can_you_do_in_the_event_of_a_conflict_over_the_inheritance\" >What can you do in the event of a conflict over the inheritance?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Inheritance_with_debts_what_are_your_options\" >Inheritance with debts: what are your options?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#When_should_you_engage_an_inheritance_law_attorney\" >When should you engage an inheritance law attorney?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#International_estate\" >International estate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Are_you_still_orienting_yourself\" >Are you still orienting yourself?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Trust_and_quality\" >Trust and quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/#Would_you_like_to_know_your_legal_position_regarding_an_estate_or_a_conflict\" >Would you like to know your legal position regarding an estate or a conflict?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-15683c21 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-91da06c0\">In brief<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_brief\"><\/span>In brief<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Inheritance law is the body of legal rules that determines who inherits, how the deceased&#8217;s debts are handled, and how an estate is divided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>In the event of a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/conflict-tussen-erfgenamen\/\">conflict between heirs<\/a>, the law or the will determines who is entitled to which part of the estate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In many cases, a disinherited child can claim the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/legitieme-portie-onterving\/\">statutory share<\/a>, even if the will excludes him or her.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Heirs can choose <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/beneficiair-aanvaarden\/\">acceptance under benefit of inventory<\/a>, formal acceptance, or <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/erfenis-verwerpen\/\">rejection<\/a> of an inheritance; each with different consequences for liability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In the case of an estate with international elements, additional rules regarding jurisdiction and applicable law apply.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/lawyer\/\">inheritance law lawyer<\/a> guides you through legal questions, conflicts, and the distribution of the estate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_an_inheritance_lawyer_do\"><\/span>What does an inheritance lawyer do?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An inheritance lawyer advises and represents clients in conflicts between heirs, disinheritance and the legitimate portion, the distribution of estates, inheritances with debts, and international estates. Inheritance lawyers are registered with the Netherlands Bar Association and litigate before the family chambers of the district courts and courts of appeal. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Inheritance law involves short statutory deadlines. The legitimate portion must be claimed within five years (Art. 4:85 Dutch Civil Code) and the choice between pure acceptance, acceptance under benefit of inventory, or rejection requires a timely assessment (Art. 4:190 Dutch Civil Code). A specialized lawyer maps out the legal position early on, ensuring that deadlines do not expire and that choices are made deliberately.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_are_the_heirs\"><\/span>Who are the heirs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Heirs are those who, by law or by will, are entitled to (a part of) the estate. Without a will, the statutory rules of intestacy apply (Art. 4:10 Dutch Civil Code): first the spouse and children, then parents, brothers and sisters, and subsequently grandparents. A testator can deviate from this with a will, within the limits of the legitimate portion.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When settling an estate, it is often first established who the heirs are and who is authorized to act on their behalf. This is done via a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/verklaring-van-erfrecht\/\">certificate of inheritance<\/a>, a notarial document that banks, insurers, and other institutions request before cooperating with the settlement. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Statutory_share_what_are_your_rights_if_you_have_been_disinherited\"><\/span>Statutory share: what are your rights if you have been disinherited?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/legitieme-portie-onterving\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"34818\">legitimate portion<\/a> is the statutory minimum share of the estate that a child can claim, even if the will excludes the child. It amounts to half of the intestate share and is a monetary claim against the heirs, not a right to specific assets from the estate (Art. 4:63 Dutch Civil Code). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The claim to the legitimate portion is subject to deadlines. Timely legal assessment is essential. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_is_an_estate_distributed\"><\/span>How is an estate distributed?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/verdelen-nalatenschap\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"34800\">estate is distributed<\/a> by inventorying all assets and debts, determining the shares per heir based on the law or the will, and subsequently recording the distribution in writing. Every heir has the right to demand distribution (Art. 3:178 Dutch Civil Code); no one can be forced to remain in an undistributed estate. The process generally proceeds as follows:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Inventory of assets and debts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Determination of each person&#8217;s share based on law or the will.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legal recording of the distribution.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Wanneer erfgenamen het niet eens worden, kan rechterlijke tussenkomst nodig zijn. In dat geval kan een <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/advocaat\/\">erfrecht advocaat<\/a> de procedure begeleiden.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_can_you_do_in_the_event_of_a_conflict_over_the_inheritance\"><\/span>What can you do in the event of a conflict over the inheritance?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In the event of a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/conflict-tussen-erfgenamen\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"34785\">conflict between heirs<\/a>, it is first legally established who the heirs are, what claims apply, and what duties regarding information and cooperation exist. Heirs are obliged to provide each other with information about the estate (Art. 3:166 Dutch Civil Code) and to cooperate in the distribution; in case of refusal, legal proceedings can be initiated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the circumstances, consultation, mediation, or court proceedings offer a solution. A <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/second-opinion\/\">second opinion<\/a> can be valuable if a procedure is already underway or if you want to have the chosen strategy independently reviewed. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Inheritance_with_debts_what_are_your_options\"><\/span>Inheritance with debts: what are your options?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Heirs have three choices regarding an estate that contains <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/erfenis-met-schulden\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"34810\">debts<\/a>: pure acceptance, acceptance under benefit of inventory, or rejection (Art. 4:190 Dutch Civil Code). With pure acceptance, you are personally liable for the deceased&#8217;s debts; with acceptance under benefit of inventory, you are only liable to the extent that the estate is sufficient; with rejection, you receive nothing but are also not liable.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The choice must be made within three months after the inventory of the estate (Art. 4:188 Dutch Civil Code), unless a longer period has been requested. Unintentional pure acceptance, for example by taking items from the home or paying bills, can have serious financial consequences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is advisable to seek advice on this before you sign or do anything:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pure acceptance.<\/strong> <br\/>You accept everything: assets and debts. If the debts exceed the assets, you pay the difference out of your own pocket (Article 4:191 Dutch Civil Code). <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/beneficiair-aanvaarden\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"35446\">Acceptance under benefit of inventory<\/a>.<\/strong> <br\/>You accept the inheritance subject to an inventory of the estate. Your liability is limited to the value of the estate. The estate is settled (Articles 4:192 and 4:202 Dutch Civil Code). In most unclear situations, this is the safest choice.   <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/erfenis-verwerpen\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"35440\">Rejection<\/a>.<\/strong> <br\/>You waive the inheritance and are not liable for debts. You also receive nothing (Article 4:190 paragraph 1 Dutch Civil Code). <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You record your choice at the probate chamber of the district court. If you choose incorrectly, it can have major financial consequences. Always seek advice if the situation is unclear.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_you_engage_an_inheritance_law_attorney\"><\/span>When should you engage an inheritance law attorney?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to grief, an estate brings practical and legal questions. Timely guidance prevents you from making choices that are difficult to reverse later. It is wise to engage an inheritance lawyer if:  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>disagreement is imminent or already exists between heirs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>you have been disinherited and want to know if you have a claim to your <strong>legitimate portion<\/strong> \u2014 that claim expires after five years. Therefore, do not wait too long (Article 3:306 Dutch Civil Code) <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the distribution of the estate has stalled<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>you are unsure whether or not you want to accept the inheritance \u2014 you have three months to decide after the death; this can be extended upon request (Article 4:188 Dutch Civil Code)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>you have accepted purely but discover afterwards that the estate is full of debts \u2014 in some situations, this can be reversed (Article 4:194a Dutch Civil Code)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>there are assets abroad or the deceased lived abroad<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/conflict-tussen-erfgenamen\/\">conflict between heirs<\/a>, the primary goal is clarity regarding everyone&#8217;s rights. Consultation may then suffice. In other cases, legal proceedings are necessary.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"International_estate\"><\/span>International estate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>An international estate arises when the deceased lived abroad, had assets in multiple countries, or when heirs have different nationalities. Within the EU, the <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/NL\/TXT\/?uri=CELEX%3A32012R0650\">EU Succession Regulation (EU 650\/2012)<\/a> determines which court has jurisdiction and which national law applies: in principle, the law of the country of the deceased&#8217;s last habitual residence, unless they chose another legal system by will. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Did the deceased live abroad, or is part of the assets located outside the Netherlands? Then it is not self-evident which law applies. Within the EU, the following applies.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The general rule: the law of the country where the deceased habitually resided applies to the entire estate. If he or she lived in the Netherlands, Dutch inheritance law applies \u2014 also for assets abroad. An exception is the <strong>choice of law<\/strong>: anyone who chooses the law of their country of nationality by will can deviate from the general rule. This is relevant for expats or people with multiple nationalities.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can read more about international situations on the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/erfrecht\/internationaal-erfrecht\/\">international inheritance law<\/a> page.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-advocaten-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"advocaten\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Attorneys_at_Law\"><\/span>Our Attorneys at Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Simmelink Lawyers team specializes in family law, International family law, and inheritance law.<br\/>The lawyers combine legal expertise with international experience.<br\/>Clients are guided by one dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire process and communicates discreetly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In complex financial matters or an international component, a specialized lawyer is important.<br\/>We strive for legally correct, practically feasible agreements that give you predictability and peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/quote.svg\" title=\"quote\">\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-text testimonial-text\"><em><em>Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-author testimonial-author\">Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_you_still_orienting_yourself\"><\/span>Are you still orienting yourself?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not everyone who has legal questions about an estate is ready for a full file. In many cases, it helps to first map out your situation and the possible routes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers offers a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">consultation<\/a> for this purpose. You discuss your situation, gain insight into your legal position, and understand which steps you can take without immediately committing to a procedure. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\" data-accordion-multiple-open>\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">What is inheritance law?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\"><code>Erfrecht is het deel van het burgerlijk recht dat regelt wie de erfgenamen zijn van een overleden persoon, hoe de schulden van de nalatenschap worden afgewikkeld en hoe de nalatenschap wordt verdeeld. De regels staan in Boek 4 van het Burgerlijk Wetboek en omvatten versterferfrecht, testamentair erfrecht, de legitieme portie en de keuzemogelijkheden van erfgenamen.<\/code><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3600de9f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ba8b12fe gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ba8b12fe\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">When do I need an inheritance law lawyer?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-54bea308\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-54bea308\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-784447a0 gb-headline-text\"><em>In many cases, legal guidance is wise if a conflict is imminent between heirs, if you have been disinherited, if the distribution of the estate has stalled, or if there are international elements in the estate. Depending on the circumstances, a lawyer can mediate, negotiate, or start a procedure.  Every situation requires its own assessment.<\/em><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d7e7a6c6 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-361ea87d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-361ea87d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What is the statutory share?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-c5948222\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c5948222\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51ced355 gb-headline-text\">The legitimate portion is the statutory minimum share of the estate that a child can claim, even if they have been disinherited via a will. It concerns a monetary claim, not a right to specific assets. Claims to the legitimate portion must be invoked within a statutory period.   This is general information, not individual legal advice.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fc394c18 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8dd43315 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8dd43315\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>What does acceptance under benefit of inventory mean?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-d545942c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d545942c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c9e904f9 gb-headline-text\">Acceptance under benefit of inventory means that you accept the estate but are not privately liable for the deceased&#8217;s debts. You receive what remains after the debts have been paid. With formal acceptance, you take over all rights and obligations. With rejection, you are no longer an heir and have no claims or liability. Depending on the circumstances, the most appropriate choice varies per situation.    <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0f16104c gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-95504ac1 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-95504ac1\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong>Does Dutch inheritance law apply if my family member died abroad?<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-2289c7e3\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2289c7e3\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-772c554d gb-headline-text\"><code>Niet automatisch. Binnen de EU geldt de Europese Erfrechtverordening (nr. 650\/2012): in beginsel is het recht van toepassing van het land waar de overledene zijn laatste gewone verblijfplaats had. Een overledene kan bij testament hebben gekozen voor het recht van het land van zijn nationaliteit. Bij nalatenschappen buiten de EU gelden nationale regels van internationaal privaatrecht per betrokken land.<\/code><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trust_and_quality\"><\/span>Trust and quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.advocatenorde.nl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Dutch Bar Association<\/a>.<br\/>Read more about our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/reviews\/\">reviews<\/a> or see how we work via our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/\">working method<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-element-eab29512\">\n<div class=\"s-btn-group gb-element-7313c4f1\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Would_you_like_to_know_your_legal_position_regarding_an_estate_or_a_conflict\"><\/span><strong>Would you like to know your legal position regarding an estate or a conflict?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Schedule a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"31583\">consultation<\/a> or contact our inheritance law lawyers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-text s-btn-primary s-btn--small\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/contact\/\">Contact Us<\/a>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Or contact us by phone via: <a href=\"tel:+31303078732\">030 &#8211; 30 787 32<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page In brief In brief Inheritance law is the body of legal rules that determines who inherits, how the deceased&#8217;s debts are handled, and how an estate is divided. What does an inheritance lawyer do? An inheritance lawyer advises and represents clients in conflicts between heirs, disinheritance and the legitimate portion, the distribution &#8230; <a title=\"Inheritance Law\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/inheritance-law\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Inheritance Law\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":27868,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-25074","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"infinite-scroll-item","7":"resize-featured-image"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/25074","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25074"}],"version-history":[{"count":19,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/25074\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37163,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/25074\/revisions\/37163"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27868"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25074"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}