Last will

A last will and testament sets out who should inherit your property when you die. A last will and testament can be written in various ways. A handwritten note can be enough, as effective as a document drawn up by a lawyer or certified by a notary. The valid will is the last one written by the person who has died.

It is a good idea, though, to seek advice before writing your last will and testament, for example from a lawyer or notary. Inheritance law is complex. You need to make sure your will is clear and cannot be interpreted in a way you didn’t intend.

In order to be sure that the wishes in your last will and testament will be followed, you can deposit your will at the local court ("Amtsgericht") for a small fee. This ensures that it can always be found.