Consulting a Lawyer for Inheritance Matters

Inheritance proceedings in Russia require following specific legal procedures. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check if There’s a Will

• If the deceased left a will, the inheritance is distributed according to its terms (Articles 1118–1140 of the Russian Civil Code).

• If there’s no will, inheritance follows legal succession in order of priority (Articles 1141–1151 of the Russian Civil Code).

2. Determine the Place of Inheritance Opening

This is either the last residence of the deceased or the location of their property (Article 1115 of the Russian Civil Code).

3. Contact a Notary

• You must file an inheritance claim within 6 months of the death (Article 1154 of the Russian Civil Code).

• If you miss the deadline, you may restore the right through court (Article 1155 of the Russian Civil Code).

4. Prepare the Required Documents

Key documents for the notary:
✔ Death certificate of the deceased
✔ Heir’s passport (ID)
✔ Proof of relationship (if inheriting by law)
✔ Will (if applicable)
✔ Property documents (ownership certificates, EGRN extracts, contracts, etc.)

5. Pay the State Fee

The fee depends on the heir’s relation to the deceased (Article 333.24 of the Tax Code):

• 0.3% of the property value (max 100,000 RUB) – for children, spouses, parents, siblings.

• 0.6% (max 1 million RUB) – for other heirs.

Exemptions apply for disabled persons (Group I & II), minors, and certain other categories.

6. Receive the Certificate of Inheritance Rights

After 6 months, the notary issues a certificate confirming your inheritance rights.

7. Register Ownership (If Needed)

• Real estate must be registered with Rosreestr.

• Vehicles must be registered with the traffic police (GIBDD).

Important Notes:

• If there are multiple heirs, property is divided by agreement or through court.

• The deceased’s debts pass to heirs, but only up to the value of the inherited property (Article 1175 of the Russian Civil Code).

• If the case is complex (disputes between heirs, missed deadlines, missing documents), it’s best to consult an inheritance lawyer.

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Key Differences in American Terminology:

• «Notary» (in Russia, they handle inheritance; in the U.S., a «probate attorney» or «estate lawyer» is more common).

• «State fee» → «Inheritance tax» (though Russia has a fee, not a direct inheritance tax like in some U.S. states).

• «EGRN extract» → «Property deed / land registry record.»