Italian inheritance tax, “Imposte di Successione” was abolished by law no. 383 of 18 October 2001. Subsequently, the government re-introduced inheritance tax through law no. 286, dated 24th November 2006. The law has been applicable to inheritance cases since 3rd October 2006. (more…)
Italian Inheritance Tax – Imposta di successione
Property Selling Guide
This property selling guide focuses on the issues that a seller may encounter during an Italian property conveyance.
When selling an Italian property, there are some legal issues which should be seriously considered. Due to the language barrier and differences in 
legal systems, real estate transactions in Italy can appear as a difficult and protracted process for foreign investors. The Italian legal process is obviously technical and might expose you to some risks. Considering the interests at stake in a real estate transaction, it is advisable that you seek the assistance of a qualified bilingual legal advisor, who has the competence to guide you through the process and advise on potential risks. (more…)
Property Buying Guide
This article aims to cover key elements of the Italian purchasing process.
For a more in-depth explanation, you may wish to read our comprehensive guide to buying property in Italy.
The purchase of a property in Italy proceeds through 3 key stages:
- Proposta irrevocabile d’acquisto (Reservation offer)
- Contratto preliminare di vendita (Preliminary contract)
- Atto di vendita (Deed of sale)
Once you have chosen your property you should engage the services of a solicitor, whether you buy through a real estate agent or directly from the vendor. The knowledge that an Italian solicitor has about Italian real estate law is invaluable – plus, your own solicitor is there exclusively to look after your interests. (more…)
2017 New Legislation: Holding Account
Keeping Your Money Safe in a Holding Account until the Completion of Your Italian Property Purchase
On 29th August, 2017, the holding account was introduced. The new legislation governing payments for the purchase of Italian residential and commercial 
real estate property came in to effect as part of the Law of Competition. The legislation is retroactive, which means that it also applies to ongoing property purchases started prior to 29th August 2017.
New rules aim to give better protection to both buyers and sellers. Funds for the completion of purchase of Italian property real estate will now be held in a holding account by the chosen notary to the transaction. Deposits connected with a reservation offer and preliminary contracts are not subject to this new legislation. (more…)
Buying an Italian property: how to avoid pitfalls
Buying an Italian property should be an exciting process, but it can also be complex.
The best way to protect your investment when buying an Italian property is to engage an English-speaking Italian lawyer. Instructing an independent, English-speaking Italian lawyer could save you money and stress in the long run.
Choosing the right Italian lawyer is a very important decision. Make sure you instruct an independent English-speaking lawyer, who has experience advising international clients in relation to property purchases in Italy.
Reserved Acceptance – Italian Inheritance
Reserved Acceptance – Brief Case Study
For a better comprehension of reserved acceptance, we have provided a brief case study concerning this topic.
Silvia and Eric Jones owned a beautiful property in Liguria. They were resident in Italy, loved life here and were well-integrated in to their local community. Sadly, recently, in close succession, Silvia and Eric died.
The Jones’ sons, Larry and Tom, have been in touch with De Tullio Law Firm about their parents’ Italian Wills. They have some concerns regarding what happens when heirs are unsure exactly what they are inheriting. Larry and Tom are very concerned that their parents’ estate may be encumbered with debt. (more…)
The Law of Economic Relationship between Foreign Married Couples Resident in Italy
This article deals with the issue of the choice of law ruling the economic relationship between foreign married couples resident in Italy.
Matrimonial regime in Italy, “Regime patrimoniale coniugale” in Italian, is governed by Italian Civil Code. Italian law no. 218 of the 1995 amendment reforming international private law, determines applicable law.
Concerning the economic relationship between married couples, if they have the same nationality, the national law of the two partners will be enforced. (more…)
Italian Attorney. Role and competences
The steps of an Italian Attorney’s legal career
The path to a legal career to become an Italian Attorney involves several years of study and internships.
Future lawyers first need to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in law, (Laurea in Scienze Giuridiche), which takes three years. To proceed along the path towards practising law, students require a two-year post-graduate degree (Laurea Specialistica in Giurisprudenza) or, a further five-year Master’s Degree (Laurea a ciclo unico Magistrale in Giurisprudenza). (more…)
Partition of The Estate: how does it work?
Partition of the estate
Should there be more than one heir nominated in a Will or in accordance with Italian law, a condition of joint-ownership of rights and duties concerning the inheritance is established among the co-heirs.
A testator’s estate is composed of assets and real rights: the co-heirs receive the estate in proportion to their inheritance quota, either as apportioned in the testator’s Will or in accordance with the law – and, in the same proportion, they acquire any credits due and take on all the debts of the testator. (more…)