FEATURES OF THE LEGAL REGULATION OF PAYMENTS REGARDING INHERITANCE IN THE COUNTRIES OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2311-8040/2024-2-2Keywords:
inheritance, legal regulation, European Union, inheritance payments, EU law, inheritance law, taxation, inheritance rules, inheritance process, heirs, wills, inheritance taxAbstract
Inheritance payments constitute an important aspect of legal and financial relations in the European Union (EU), given the diversity of legal systems and cultural backgrounds of the member states. This article explores the nuances of the legal framework governing inheritance payments in the EU, highlighting key features and challenges. Central to the discussion is an examination of the basic principles underpinning inheritance law in the EU. These include the principles of freedom of testament, which gives people the right to dispose of their property by means of a will, and compulsory inheritance, which imposes legal obligations to ensure the protection of certain heirs, in particular spouses and children. The article examines the mechanisms for resolving conflicts of law and jurisdiction in cross-border inheritance cases within the EU. It analyses the application of the EU Succession Regulation (650/2012), which aims to streamline inheritance procedures and facilitate the recognition and enforcement of decisions in Member States. Taxation is an important aspect of inheritance regulation in the EU, as differences in national tax regimes and practices pose challenges to harmonisation. This abstract explores the efforts at national and EU level to prevent double taxation, ensure a fair distribution of wealth and promote economic efficiency. Particular attention is paid to the protection of vulnerable beneficiaries, such as minors and persons with disabilities, under EU inheritance law. As follows, the article explores the current debates and challenges in the legal regulation of inheritance benefits in the EU, including issues of cultural diversity, jurisdictional conflicts and the balance between freedom of testament and compulsory inheritance. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the specifics of inheritance law in the European Union, offering insight into the complexity and dynamics of this important legal area.
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