Inheritance in Slovakia

Inheritance in Slovakia. Inheritance in Slovakia is regulated by law and can take place either by legal succession or by will. It is important to understand the rules applicable in each case to avoid unexpected situations and disputes among heirs.

Inheritance without a Will. When there is no will, the distribution of assets follows legal succession. The primary heirs are the deceased's children, spouse, and parents, if they are alive. If these relatives are absent, more distant family members—such as siblings, uncles, and aunts—become the legal heirs. If no heirs exist, the property is transferred to the state.

Inheritance with a Will. A will is a legal document in which a person specifies how their assets should be distributed after death. It must be written and comply with legal requirements. The testator can name any individuals or organizations as beneficiaries. The document can be modified or revoked at any time.

Key Differences. A will allows the testator to distribute assets according to their wishes, whereas legal succession automatically determines the circle of heirs. By law, children and the spouse have the right to a mandatory share of the inheritance, even if the will specifies a different distribution. If no will exists, the estate is distributed according to predetermined legal rules, which may not align with the deceased's wishes.

To avoid inheritance disputes, it is advisable to draft a will. This helps minimize misunderstandings and ensures that your intentions are clearly recorded. The will must be legally valid to prevent potential challenges.

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