l’archipelOllet · Vidal · Canovas-GadelSettlean estate.
A loved one has died. We help you identify the heirs, draw up the necessary deeds and settle the estate, at a pace that suits you.
The first consultation is free of charge. A 30 to 60-minute meeting to frame your plans.
How it works.
The main steps of a file; the person handling yours will tell you which apply.
- 01
The first appointment
Death certificate, family record book, marriage contract, will if any: we review the family and the assets.
- 02
The heirs
Theacte de notoriété (affidavit of heirship) establishes who inherits. It gives access to the accounts and is used to inform the bodies concerned.
- 03
The assets
Property, accounts, contracts, debts: we draw up the inventory and prepare thecertificate of ownership for the real estate.
- 04
The declaration and the division
The declaration is filed and any tax paid; the heirs can then divide the assets.
Documents, costs, contact.
You don’t need to gather anything before contacting us: these tools help if you want to get ahead on your side.
Your checklist
The list for your file, to prepare at your own pace and print (French).
Prepare my documents CostsEstimate inheritance tax
The tax depends on the family relationship: the tool applies the official allowance and scale to your share (French).
Estimate Your contact
Maître Cristelle Canovas-Gadel
Partner notary · Family & estates
Find out moreYour questions, our answers.
General answers, which do not replace a conversation about your situation.
Is a notary always required?
A notary is required when the estate includes property, a will or a gift between spouses. For a simple, small estate, other steps may be enough. Call us: we will tell you what applies to your situation.
What is the deadline for the estate declaration?
The declaration must in principle be filed within six months of the death when it occurred in mainland France; some small estates are exempt. Late filing may incur interest. Book an appointment in the first few weeks to gather the documents in time.
Do heirs have to pay the deceased’s debts?
An heir who accepts the estate unconditionally is liable for the debts, even beyond what they receive. They may also accept it up to the net assets, or renounce it. Before choosing, come and review the known assets and debts with us.
Does the surviving spouse inherit everything?
Not necessarily: their rights depend on whether there are children, the marriage contract, a gift between spouses or a will. They also have rights over the family home. Bring your marriage contract and any deed signed before a notary.
How do I find out whether the deceased made a will?
We search the central register of last wishes, which lists wills deposited with a notary. A handwritten will kept at home must be handed to us. Bring any document you find, even if it seems of no value.
How much does settling an estate cost?
The costs include the office’s fee, set by a regulated scale for most deeds, disbursements, and any inheritance tax. That tax depends on the family relationship and the share received. We give you an estimate at the first appointment.
To go further.
Related situations and the office’s articles on this subject (French).
Let’s talk about your situation.
Reception will put you in touch with Maître Cristelle Canovas-Gadel and offer you a time, at the office or remotely.