A will must comply with the statutory formal requirements in order to be valid. It may be handwritten, dated and signed, or executed in the form of a public deed. The attorneys of schochauer ag also act as notaries public and execute public deeds.

The statutory entitlements guarantee close relatives (e.g., children and spouses) a minimum portion of the estate. The forced share is smaller than the statutory succession rights. If you intend to leave an heir no more than their statutory entitlement, a will or inheritance agreement is mandatory. Through prudent drafting of a will or inheritance agreement, it is possible to make use of available leeway without violating the law.

In this case, the law on intestate succession applies: spouses and children inherit first, followed by further relatives. If you wish to leave assets to other close individuals – for example a partner or godchild – you must regulate this in a will or inheritance agreement. We clearly present to you the applicable intestate succession and the permissible structuring options.

Clear arrangements, transparent communication, and, where appropriate, the appointment of an executor can often prevent disputes among heirs. We help create solutions that significantly reduce the potential for conflict.

Inheritance and gift taxes are regulated at the cantonal level, which means that differences exist within Switzerland. If there is a cross-border element, foreign law, international treaties and bilateral agreements must also be taken into account. Early planning and professional advice often allow for substantial tax savings.