Recognition of a marriage contracted abroad
A marriage abroad is not immediately valid in Switzerland. Swiss authorities need to authenticate the marriage. This article explains the recognition of a marriage contracted abroad.
Marriage for everyone: same-sex marriage and its legal consequences
The law came into force as of 1 July 2022 after adoption of the “Marriage for everyone” referendum bill. This means that same-sex couples can now marry. In this article, we will highlight what this changes for family planning and provision.
Statutory entitlement in law of succession
Swiss law not only determines who the heirs of a person are, it also stipulates the share of the estate to which the heirs are usually entitled. In order to determine the legal succession, Swiss law uses a parentelic system.
What is a matrimonial property regime? Joint ownership of acquired property, joint property, and separation of property
Swiss matrimonial law speaks of “ordinary” and “extraordinary” matrimonial property regimes… but just what is a matrimonial property regime? Which matrimonial property regimes are there, and how far can you adjust them with a marriage contract? This article will give you an overview and explain the three matrimonial property regimes: joint ownership of acquired property, […]
Calculating the acquired property
Matrimonial property is divided before the estate is calculated. This is indispensable for the start of the inheritance process. Calculating the acquired property results in the ‘surplus’. This is divided equally between the spouses.
Favouring the surviving spouse
When one parent dies, the children are usually entitled to a share of the estate. However, if this is not applicable, the surviving spouse can be favoured to the maximum or granted a usufruct.