Inheritance & succession

What has been built over decades should pass into good hands – planned, fair and tax-efficient.

Mr and Mrs Andrews · Thomas Gainsborough, c. 1750

What it is about

Handing over a business or substantial assets is rarely a single moment but a process lasting years. Starting early allows allowances to be used more than once, avoids family disputes and keeps the business stable.

We support succession within the family as well as sales to third parties – from business valuation to the transfer of shares.

Who it is for

  • Entrepreneurs who want to arrange their succession
  • Families with assets in several countries
  • Heirs who need to organise a transfer
  • Shareholders preparing a sale

Scope of services

What we take care of.

01

Succession concept

Who takes over what, and when? We develop a roadmap for the handover with you.

02

Lifetime gifts

Gradual transfer of assets to make sensible use of allowances.

03

International estates

Assets and heirs in several countries require the legal systems to be coordinated.

04

Business valuation

A transparent valuation as the basis for handover, sale or equalisation between heirs.

05

Buying and selling

Support with buying and selling businesses, from preparation to completion.

06

Structures for the next generation

A holding, foundation or trust as a framework that keeps wealth together.

Process

How we work.

01

Initial consultation

We discuss your family, your assets and your ideas for the future.

02

Inventory

Assets, shareholdings, contracts and wills are recorded and assessed.

03

Succession plan

You receive a roadmap with options, timing and tax implications.

04

Implementation

Transfers, contracts and structures – coordinated with notaries and advisers.

Frequently asked questions

Good to know.

When should I start planning my succession?

As early as possible. In many countries allowances can be used again at regular intervals. That only works if planning starts in good time.

What applies if I live abroad?

Even after you move away, your former home country may still levy inheritance tax for a certain period. We take this into account in our planning.

Do you also support sales to third parties?

Yes. We help with valuation, preparation and execution of the business sale.

Related areas

Foundations & trusts Holding structures Emigration & change of residence All services

W-V Law Firm LLP advises on formal company law and – where agreed – on the tax law of the United Kingdom. Tax and legal questions under German, Austrian or Swiss law are addressed together with qualified advisers from our network in your country.

Let’s talk about your plans.

We almost always reply the same day.

Free initial consultation Get in touch