Cross-Border Wills, Estates and Succession

Specialist knowledge and sensitivity are needed in equal measure for the efficient administration of estates after a death. We are here to help families administer the estate of a person with international links, and to assist with navigating across differing legal systems.

We cover all matters relating to probate, including UK tax reporting, applications for Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration (including reseals), negotiations with HMRC where necessary, advice on conflicting foreign succession law or foreign trusts, and realising assets in different jurisdictions.

We advise a broad range of clients on their duties and obligations as trustees, executors or beneficiaries and assist individuals and institutions, whether as personal representatives or beneficiaries, with the practical arrangements that are necessary. Our International Private Client Team also assist overseas law firms administer estates outside the UK which include UK assets and tax matters. We are experienced in preparing affidavits of English law, to assist in cases where English succession law applies to the administration of assets abroad, including where UK resident children inherit foreign property.  We also provide UK tax advice to foreign executors.

We also carry out lifetime estate planning for clients with cross-border connections. This might mean that you have assets in multiple jurisdictions, or residence or nationality connections with jurisdictions outside England and Wales, all of which may impact on how best to structure your Will, and your affairs more generally.  Team members have particular interests in the application of the EU Succession Regulation, and UK/US planning.