Inheritance disputes

Inheritance matters are often complicated by a missed deadline, a contested will, or conflict between the heirs. Most of these questions can only be resolved in court.

When to get in touch

• the six-month period for accepting the inheritance has been missed
• the notary has refused to issue the certificate of inheritance
• there are doubts about the validity of the will
• the heirs cannot agree on how to divide the estate
• the deceased’s creditors have brought claims against the heirs

What the lawyer does

• identifies the heirs and what the estate consists of
• handles acceptance of the inheritance and dealings with the notary
• prepares a claim for an additional period in which to accept the inheritance
• contests the will, or defends its validity
• makes the case for the statutory share
• represents the client in disputes over division of the estate and creditors’ claims

Legal basis

Inheritance is governed by Book Six of the Civil Code of Ukraine: what the estate consists of is set out in Article 1218; the period for accepting an inheritance is six months from the time it opens (Article 1270), and the consequences of missing it are set out in Article 1272; the right to a statutory share is governed by Article 1241; and claims by the deceased’s creditors by Article 1281.

Legislation and case law are updated over time; this page reflects the position as of August 2026.

Frequently asked questions

What if the six months were missed?

Where there are valid reasons, the court may set an additional period for filing the application to accept the inheritance (Article 1272 of the Civil Code).

Who is entitled to a statutory share?

The deceased’s minor children, children under 18 and adult children unable to work, and the surviving spouse and parents who are unable to work — regardless of what the will says (Article 1241 of the Civil Code).

Need legal assistance? Call us or leave a request — a lawyer will contact you and explain what to do in your situation.