pärimismenetlust

Pärimismenetlust, often translated as probate or inheritance proceedings, is the legal process by which an estate of a deceased person is transferred to their heirs. This process ensures that the deceased's assets and liabilities are properly identified, valued, and distributed according to their will or, in the absence of a will, according to the laws of intestacy.

The initiation of pärimismenetlust typically begins with an application filed with the relevant court or notary. This application usually requires a death certificate and information about the deceased's assets and potential heirs. The court or notary then oversees the process of identifying and notifying all legal heirs, creditors, and beneficiaries.

During the proceedings, an inventory of the deceased's estate is compiled, which may include real estate, bank accounts, investments, personal property, and any debts or obligations. If the deceased left a valid will, its contents are examined and applied. If there is no will, Estonian inheritance law dictates how the estate is to be divided among the closest relatives.

Creditors are given an opportunity to submit their claims against the estate. After all debts and taxes are settled, the remaining assets are distributed to the heirs. The pärimismenetlust concludes when the estate has been fully administered and all distributions have been made, often culminating in a certificate of inheritance that formally recognizes the heirs' rights.