Your strategic partner in Estate Planning

What does estate planning involve?

Estate planning is the strategic structuring of the transfer of your assets, bringing together legal certainty, tax optimisation and your personal wishes. Within family and succession law, it is the discipline that looks ahead.

The objective is not only to reduce inheritance and gift tax, but also to safeguard the continuity of your assets and your business, anticipating succession to the next generation.

Where a civil-law notary is often only involved at the stage of formal execution, we as lawyers provide high-level strategic advice at an earlier stage. We analyse complex asset structures, anticipate potential disputes and advise on arrangements that remain robust — even if relationships come under pressure in the future.

What is our experience in estate planning?

Our Family & Succession Law practice ranks among the leading firms in the Netherlands. We advise high-net-worth individuals, directors-major shareholders (DGAs) and family-owned businesses on the most complex aspects of wealth planning. Our expertise includes:

Complex asset structuring – Advice on the structuring of your assets (including prenuptial agreements) to minimise risks in the event of divorce or death.
International estate planning – Do you hold assets abroad or do your heirs live in different jurisdictions? Our specialists in Private International Law advise on the applicability of foreign legal systems and international treaties.
Tax optimisation – In close cooperation with tax advisers, we ensure that your assets are not unnecessarily eroded by tax liabilities upon transfer.

Whether it concerns protecting private assets from business risks or drafting a “cassation-proof” arrangement, we deliver bespoke solutions tailored to your circumstances.

When should you engage a lawyer for estate planning matters?

Engaging a specialised lawyer is advisable when your situation goes beyond standard frameworks:

For entrepreneurs (DGAs):

When planning business succession to the next generation.
When you wish to prevent a divorce from jeopardising the continuity of your business.
For advice on prenuptial agreements in relation to business assets and share valuation.

For high-net-worth individuals:

Where assets cross borders (such as second homes or foreign bank accounts) or in the case of international marriages.
Where complex family relationships exist (blended families).
When you wish not only to achieve tax efficiency, but also to carefully regulate control over assets after your death.

In the event of potential disputes:

Where you anticipate that the division of the estate may lead to conflict.
If you require a second opinion on draft notarial deeds, assessed from your specific party interest.

How do we work?

We apply an approach that is characteristic of our firm: personal, expert and attentive to both the human and commercial aspects.

Strategic analysis – We begin with an in-depth assessment of your family and asset situation. Our analysis extends beyond succession law alone and also encompasses matrimonial property law and corporate law.
Bespoke advice – You receive a clear and concrete plan of action. We advise on legal options (such as types of wills, gifting strategies and lasting powers of attorney) and assess different scenarios.
Collaboration and implementation – Where necessary, we work alongside your accountant or tax adviser and guide the translation of our advice into notarial deeds.
Dispute resolution (if required) – Should discussions nevertheless arise despite careful planning, our experienced mediators and litigation lawyers are available to protect your interests, including proceedings before the Supreme Court.

Why choose our estate planning specialists?

Integrated approach – A unique combination of expertise in Family Law, Succession Law and Corporate Law.
International expertise – In-depth knowledge of Private International Law, essential for assets with cross-border elements.
Litigation and advisory expertise – Because we litigate in complex succession disputes, we understand the pitfalls in wills and agreements and use this insight to make your planning robust.
Focus on entrepreneurs – We speak the language of business owners and understand the dynamics of family enterprises.
Nationwide coverage & top-tier quality – From our offices, we serve clients throughout the Netherlands at the highest legal level.

With us, your assets are safeguarded for the future. Contact our family and succession law specialists for a confidential discussion about your estate planning.

Frequently asked questions about estate planning

What is the difference between a lawyer and a notary in estate planning?
A notary is impartial and formalises agreements. A lawyer represents your interests and provides strategic advice on what is best for you (and your business) before anything is signed.
How does estate planning work for a business?
For entrepreneurs, we consider the Business Succession Scheme (BOR), the shareholding structure and the impact of prenuptial agreements. This ensures business continuity and prevents inheritance tax from forcing a sale.
What if I hold assets abroad?
In that case, international succession law applies. Each country has its own rules on inheritance and taxation. We advise on the applicable law (for example under the EU Succession Regulation) and how to avoid double taxation.
Is estate planning only relevant for older people?
No. Particularly for entrepreneurs and individuals with blended families, early planning is crucial to mitigate risks arising from unexpected death or incapacity.