Greece is preparing to reform its inheritance law for the first time in nearly eight decades, with proposed changes expected by the end of June. The legal overhaul, led by a committee under Professor Apostolos Georgiadis, is driven by the evolution of family structures and aims to reflect modern realities.
The committee is examining key issues such as inheritance rights in the absence of a will (intestate succession). One major proposal is to grant surviving partners in civil unions the same inheritance rights as married spouses when no will exists.
While existing inheritance tiers – such as parental rights – will remain, the spouse’s or partner’s share may be increased. Divorce proceedings or the dissolution of a civil union before death could exclude a partner from inheriting.
Particular attention is being paid to those in non-registered, informal relationships. The committee is considering limited rights, such as temporary residence and use of household items, for surviving partners in such cases.
Another proposal would allow caregivers – related or not – who provide long-term, unpaid support to elderly individuals to receive part of the estate, though such provisions may trigger legal disputes.
Confirmed changes include stricter regulation of handwritten wills, which may soon require deposit with a notary.
The introduction of inheritance contracts – a first in Greek law – will also be proposed, allowing individuals to set binding terms on their estate’s distribution. This legal instrument is already common in countries like Germany and Austria.
The committee is expected to finalize proposals at its next session in late April or early May. These reforms mark a significant shift in Greek civil law, aiming to adapt to the changing fabric of Greek families and modern social norms.