When the existence of a notarial will has been established, who has to be contacted to obtain information about its content?

The information on the content of the will is sent by the court responsible for settling the succession or by an executor. Testator might have chosen an executor in the will or might have decided the succession should be handled privately amongst the heirs.

Who is entitled to receive the information?

The will itself will be sent to the heirs of the deceased. Information contained in the will, and if necessary, a copy of the will itself, can be sent to public authorities and legal professionals responsible for settling the succession, wherever they are located, provided they can provide evidence of their legitimate interest.

Is there a particular procedure to be followed? If so, which one?

If a person wishes to get a copy of their own will, they must contact the courthouse where they signed the will at the notary office.

As long as the testator is alive, it is not possible to get a copy of the will or information contained in the will, unless the testator wishes to share the will with others.

Once the testator has passed away, the responsible court will contact the heirs of the will and provide the needed information. A will cannot be obtained if it has no legal relevance for the person requesting it, and testator is still alive.

The general procedure for opening wills, is after the funeral or burial of the deceased.

By what means can the information be sent?

The information contained in the will and/or a copy of the will itself is usually sent electronically but can also be sent by post.