We have purchased a house in France and we need an attorney (avocat)
who can advise us as to the inheritance law. We would perfer a french
english speaking attorney. The property is located in Bulat-Pestivien
France which is in the department of Cote D'Armour.
Thank you Brenda Earley

In France, when it comes to real estate, you don't need to go to the
attorney, but to the "notaire", an official administrative agent that
register all real estate transactions.



I don't know what is your need, and i am not a specialist in
inheritance law. but it can be as well your country's law that would
apply if you choose it

I recommand to go to a notaire, which is fully competent for most
questions you could ask. Consider a lawyer only if it is a very
complex situation

herebelow is the website of the chambres of the notaires in Cote d'armor
http://www.notaires22.com/chambre/chambre.htm
Phone them or send them an email for the english speaking ones
I think there should be some as you are not the only english speaking
persons to buy real estate in that region
The closest city is guingamp

I just wanted to precise real estate transactions also means shift of
ownership through inheritance,
Well inheritance is maybe half the job of the notaire

definitely they are what your need

In my understanding, Inheritance Law often depends on your Country of Domicile.

For example, if you are ordinarily resident in England, then your
estate in its entirety would be subject to UK Inheritance Tax which is
quite hefty.

If you are intending that France should become your Country of
Domicile then I would assume that you would become subject to French
Inheritance Tax provisions (if any).

I don't know what the French rules are and, of course, they can always
change at any time.

I do know that it's not a good idea to die in Belgium and a lot of
wealthy folk try to arrange their affairs accordingly.

It's a very interesting question!

some explanation in english on inheritance law and their role on the
french notaires website
http://www.notaires.fr/notaires/notaires.nsf/V_TC_PUB/GBACC

I had a quick look at the site for you
it is very interesting



Read about this page on the international will
http://www.notaires.fr/notaires/notaires.nsf/V_TC_PUB/SMSD-5WFER9

here is the paragraph that might be of interest
Finally, there is the international will. Introduced into French law
in 1994, this will is suitable for people ?on the move?. It is useful
for foreigners living in France, French citizens living abroad and
those who have property in several countries. It can remain
confidential and may be written in any language.

You may freely and easily change or annul a will under any
circumstances. French law protects the will?s contents, but in order
to be valid the will must comply with certain requirements. Feel free
to ask your notaire for more information. He or she will guide you
towards the format that is best suited to your circumstances and
concerns, to ensure that your wishes are respected.


and find your english speaking notaire  located in cote d'armor on this page
click on the name to find adress & phone number
the one in Rostrenen seems to be the nearest to your location (10 kms)

http://www.notaires.fr/notaires/annuaire.nsf/F_RN_RESULT_PUB?OpenForm&comLangue=GB&nom=&ville=&departement=22&langueAutre=&langue=Anglais

(copy paste this link on your browser adresse box if the link doesnot work)

As French may have invented all taxes that currently exist on earth, i
confirm that inheritance taxes exist  ;-)
(but i'm sure other countries citizens feel the same of their country)
but don't forget that is for public good...