Service 03

Protection & Succession

International succession planning for families with assets in multiple countries, including probate, wills and litigation.

We organise the transfer of your wealth across generations and jurisdictions, anticipating conflicts of law and minimising tax impact. The goal is for the legacy to reach the right people, without friction or surprises.

When litigation is unavoidable, we represent you in probate and disputes, coordinating professionals in each country involved under a single strategy.

International succession planning anticipates what no one wants to leave to chance: passing on what you have built. When assets or heirs are in different countries, the rules of different laws apply and, without coordination, can create conflict, cost and delay.

Our role is to align those pieces — wills, dispositions and structures — so your legacy reaches the right people with as little friction as possible. And when litigation is unavoidable, we represent you with a single strategy across every jurisdiction involved.

Where you reside has a direct effect on succession. In the European Union, Regulation (EU) no. 650/2012 generally applies the law of the deceased's habitual residence — but allows you, by will, to choose the law of your nationality (professio juris), so that a change of country does not alter the rules of distribution. And in Portugal there is a notable advantage: inheritance between spouse, descendants and ascendants (direct line) is exempt from Stamp Duty.

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Protection & Succession
  • International succession planning
  • Wills and dispositions
  • Probate across jurisdictions
  • Succession litigation
  • Family asset protection

Ready to structure your international future?

An initial conversation, with no commitment. We understand your profile and assess how we can help.

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Frequently asked questions

Why do I need international succession planning?

Because when assets or heirs are in different countries, different rules apply and can conflict. Planning ahead reduces taxes, costs and disputes.

How does the Golden Visa affect my succession?

Residence influences the law applicable to succession. In the EU, the law of habitual residence generally applies (Regulation 650/2012), but you may choose the law of your nationality by will. We plan both together.

Is there inheritance tax in Portugal?

For the direct line — spouse, descendants and ascendants — the transfer is exempt from Stamp Duty; other heirs generally pay 10%. We always confirm the framework applicable to your case (Stamp Duty Code).

Is a will made in one country valid in another?

It depends on the jurisdictions and the applicable rules. That is why we coordinate the dispositions so they work together and avoid contradictions.

There is already a dispute underway — can you help?

Yes. We represent you in probate and litigation, coordinating the professionals of each country involved under a single strategy.

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Let's talk about your project

Every situation is unique. Before any proposal, we want to understand your goals — with all the attention they deserve.

Initial conversation, no commitment — we understand your case before any proposal.

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Portugal · São Paulo · Europa · EUA