After a death, families face paperwork, banks, property titles and sometimes disagreement. Al-Amthal helps heirs in Egypt obtain the heirs' certificate, list and divide the estate, settle disputes between relatives and keep family businesses running. We have advised families from our Cairo office since 1977.
When families need an inheritance lawyer in Egypt
The first step after a death is usually the heirs' certificate, known as the i'lam shar'i. It is issued by the court and lists the legal heirs and their shares. Without it, banks will not release accounts and property cannot be transferred to the heirs.
Problems arise when heirs disagree about what the estate contains, when one heir holds property and refuses to share it, or when assets are spread between Egypt and other countries. Withholding an heir's share can also be a criminal offence under Egyptian law, which often encourages a settlement.
From heirs' certificate to final division
We start by listing the estate: land and apartments, bank accounts, shares in companies, cars and debts. We then confirm each heir's share under the applicable inheritance rules and check any will, and any gifts the deceased made during his or her life.
Where the heirs agree, we draft a division contract and complete registration. Where they do not, we bring a court case for division of the estate and ask for an expert valuation. We also act in disputes over wills, which in Egypt are generally limited to one third of the estate, and in disputes over gifts and sales made shortly before death.
Estates for heirs living in the Gulf and abroad
Heirs often live in different countries. We act for heirs in Kuwait, the UAE and elsewhere on a power of attorney, so the estate can be settled in Egypt without each heir travelling. When the estate includes a family company, we advise on transferring shares, keeping the business running and agreeing who will manage it. For assets held in the Gulf, we give legal consultations and studies through our offices in Kuwait and Dubai, and can work alongside local counsel where a local procedure is needed.
What we handle
- Heirs' certificates
- Estate inventory and valuation
- Division of estates
- Inheritance disputes
- Wills and gifts
- Family company succession
- Transfer of property to heirs
- Claims for withheld shares
Questions clients ask
How do I get an heirs' certificate in Egypt?
An heir applies to the competent Family Court with the death certificate and the documents that prove the family relationship. Witnesses usually confirm who the heirs are. Once issued, the certificate lists all the heirs and allows banks and registries to deal with the estate. We prepare the application and attend on your behalf.
What can I do if one heir refuses to divide the estate?
Any heir can ask the court to divide the estate. Where a property cannot be split, the court may order its sale and divide the price. Withholding an heir's share can also expose the person to criminal liability. We usually start with a formal notice and negotiation, and go to court if that fails.
Can a will in Egypt leave more than one third of the estate?
As a general rule, a will cannot take effect beyond one third of the estate unless the heirs approve it after the death. Wills in favour of heirs and the mandatory bequest to certain grandchildren follow specific rules, so a will should be checked against the real family situation. We draft and review wills and advise heirs who want to challenge one.