One law for one estate.

EU Regulation 650/2012, known as Brussels IV, has unified the conflict-of-laws rules for succession across most EU Member States since August 2015. It also created the European Certificate of Succession.

Schedule a Virtual Consultation

One law, one estate

Before 2015, each EU country applied its own conflict rules, so heirs could meet contradictory answers in two capitals. Regulation 650/2012, known as Brussels IV, now sets a single rule for the whole estate.

The default rule

With no choice made, the law of the country where the deceased was habitually resident at death governs the entire estate. Habitual residence is factual: where life was centred, not a registered address.

A choice of law

A testator may elect the law of any nationality they hold, now or at death. The election must be express, set out in the will or another testamentary instrument.

One certificate, every state

The European Certificate of Succession, issued in Italy by the notary or the court, proves heirship, the shares, and an executor's powers. Bound Member States recognise it without further formality.

Which court hears it

General jurisdiction sits with the courts of the last habitual residence, deciding even on assets held abroad. Elect your national law and the parties may choose that country's courts instead.

Do not assume it applies

Ireland, Denmark, and the United Kingdom stand outside the regulation. We confirm whether 650/2012 actually governs your estate, and what you should elect.

Confirm My Position

L'Albero