Do I need an executor?
After someone dies, their heirs often have to deal with a lot of organisational and legal matters. This can quickly become a burden, especially if there is uncertainty or conflict within the community of heirs. To relieve the heirs in such situations, the testator can appoint a person as executor in a will or inheritance contract.
Certificate of inheritance required: What happens in the case of unclear international spouse inheritance contracts and inheritance agreements?
A recent ruling by the Federal Supreme Court on 28 March 2025 (BGer 5A 595/2024) shows that a certificate of inheritance may be mandatory in the case of spousal inheritance contracts and inheritance agreements that are open to interpretation – especially if real estate is involved.
Is a property company worthwhile for me? – An overview of the opportunities and pitfalls
Sooner or later, many property owners in Switzerland are faced with the question: should I hold my properties privately or incorporate them into a property company? A separate public limited company or limited liability company for property sounds tempting – from a tax and liability perspective. However, it is not always worth the effort. We provide an overview.
What you should look out for when buying a property: A guide for buyers
Buying a plot of land is an important decision. Whether you are buying for your own use, as an investment or to build your own home, there are several legal points that you should consider in order to minimise risks and secure your rights.
Property purchase and lost securitized promissory note – what to do?
Liens are often encumbered on properties, as these were necessary to finance the property. A distinction is made between mortgage notes and mortgage bonds.
Is prevention better than cure? Considerations on the establishment of a precautionary order
In addition to the living will and the power of attorney, the advance care directive is one of the living wills. It designates a natural or legal person to take over personal and/or financial care, including representation in legal transactions, in the event that the author becomes incapable of judgement.
My partner and I want to get married this year. In which case is a marriage contract advisable?
The definition of the matrimonial property regime is important in this context. The matrimonial property regime regulates which objects and assets are to belong to which partner during and after the marriage, or how income earned during the marriage or the registered partnership is to be distributed in the event of divorce.