Property & Real Estate Law
What it is: Intestate succession determines how a deceased person's estate is distributed when there is no valid will. For Muslims in the UAE, inheritance generally follows Sharia principles and fixed shares, while for non-Muslims the Civil Personal Status Law and, for assets in DIFC, registered wills or the law of nationality may apply. When it applies: This is relevant when a family member dies without a will, leaving property, bank accounts, business interests or other assets to be distributed and estate matters to be settled. How a lawyer helps: A lawyer identifies which law governs the estate, establishes the heirs and shares, and guides the family through the succession and estate-settlement process before the courts and authorities. The lawyer handles asset transfer, deals with debts and disputes among heirs, and advises expatriate families on how nationality and DIFC options affect the outcome. First steps: Gather the death certificate, identity and family documents, and details of assets and liabilities, avoid distributing assets prematurely, and consult a lawyer to understand the applicable rules and process. Because inheritance can be complex, early guidance prevents disputes and delays. This is general information, not legal advice for a specific case.
