Inheritance & estates
Wills, heirs, gifts, life insurance, division of the estate.
Ask a free question →French inheritance law organises the transfer of assets after a death: order of heirs, the reserved portion (*réserve héréditaire*), wills, gifts, life insurance and division. The notary plays a central role in settling an estate.
On a death, assets pass according to legal rules or the wishes expressed in a will, subject to the réserve héréditaire that protects children. Gifts and life insurance make it possible to plan this transfer in advance.
Settling an estate requires precise steps: declaration, inventory, division. If heirs disagree, the judge can be asked to intervene. Our guides explain wills, heirs' rights and how to optimise the transfer.
All articles: inheritance & estates
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Read →Frequently asked questions
Can I disinherit my children?
In principle, no. Children are protected heirs: a minimum share, the *réserve héréditaire*, is guaranteed to them. Only the available portion can be freely passed on.
Is a handwritten will valid?
Yes, a *testament olographe* is valid if it is entirely written, dated and signed by the testator's own hand. It is wise to deposit it with a notary to avoid loss or challenge.
Is life insurance part of the estate?
In principle, no: the sums pass outside the estate to the named beneficiary, with their own tax treatment, except for clearly excessive premiums.
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