Understanding International Surrogacy: A Comprehensive Guide for Intended Parents

Introduction to International Surrogacy International surrogacy has emerged as a viable and increasingly popular option for intended parents seeking to build their families. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the process, providing essential insights into what international surrogacy entails, the reasons behind its growing popularity, and current trends in the field. What is International Surrogacy? International surrogacy refers to arrangements … Read More

Navigating German Probate Law: A Guide for Americans

Overview of German probate law and its significance for Americans with ties to Germany. Explanation of the unique challenges faced by U.S. citizens in navigating this legal landscape Introduction Overview of German probate law and its significance for Americans with ties to Germany. Explanation of the unique challenges faced by U.S. citizens in navigating this legal landscape. Navigating the complexities … Read More

German Probate – German Estate Distribution

Handling an Inheritance in Germany – Pitfalls, Obligations, and the Right Steps Dealing with an inheritance in Germany can quickly become overwhelming. Heirs do not just acquire assets; they also assume legal responsibilities, obligations, and, in many cases, significant risks. Without proper guidance, heirs may lose assets, face family conflicts, or even be held personally liable for the debts of … Read More

German Surrogacy Law

Why German Parents Face Legal Challenges After U.S. Surrogacy Surrogacy law in Germany is characterized by its stringent prohibition of the practice. The German Embryo Protection Act (Embryonenschutzgesetz) of 1990 makes it illegal to perform surrogacy within the country. This legislation explicitly forbids the implantation of an embryo into a woman who is not the biological mother, effectively banning both traditional … Read More

Understanding German Parentage Law & and German Surrogacy Law

Introduction to German Parentage Law (Abstammungsrecht) and German Surrogacy Law German parentage law (Abstammungsrecht) is the legal framework that determines who is recognized as a child’s legal parent under German law. While it appears straightforward in cases of natural conception and marriage, complexities arise in situations involving unmarried parents, surrogacy, assisted reproduction, and international parentage claims. Understanding the principles of … Read More

Michigan Surrogacy Journey: Compensation, Expenses, Medical Procedures & Escrow Accounts

Understanding Michigan Surrogacy Compensation On April 2, 2025, Michigan made history by passing the Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act (ARSPA). This new law finally ended Michigan’s decades-long ban on paid surrogacy, making it legal for intended parents and surrogates to enter fair, enforceable agreements. What does this mean? Families and surrogates in Michigan now have the same protections that … Read More

Why You Need a Certificate of Inheritance (Erbschein) & How to Get It

When a loved one passes away owning property in Germany, U.S.-based heirs often discover that American probate papers are not enough. To claim real estate, close bank accounts, or access assets, German law requires a Certificate of Inheritance (Erbschein).

This court-issued document confirms who the rightful heirs are and is essential for handling an estate in Germany. At the German American Law Center, PLC, our dual-licensed attorneys guide American families through every step of the Erbschein process from preparing documents and translations to filing with the German probate court, so you can secure your inheritance with confidence, without needing to travel abroad.

What to Do When You Inherit Property in Germany from the U.S.

Inheriting property in Germany while residing in the United States involves a complex intersection of two legal systems. German inheritance law does not operate like U.S. probate. It automatically passes both assets and debts to the heir unless a formal disclaimer is filed within a specific time limit. U.S.-based heirs often find themselves overwhelmed by the bureaucracy, deadlines, and language … Read More

Selling German Property as a U.S. Heir: What You Need to Know

U.S.-based heirs must secure an Erbschein, register in the Grundbuch, and complete notarized procedures under German law before selling inherited property. This article outlines the process, timelines, tax considerations, and how cross-border counsel coordinates a compliant sale from the U.S.