Affadavits
///of law / legal
Opinion
we can provide you with the expertise
An affidavit of law, also known as a legal opinion, or certificat de coutume in France, is a formal document issued by a legal expert confirming how a specific area of law applies in particular circumstances. These are often required when dealing with cross-border estates, especially where foreign law applies.
We regularly provide legal opinions for France and England, and can assist with English law for use in France and French Law for use in England and Wales.
Affidavit of English law for use in France
When a Notaire is administering a French estate but English law or an English Will is applicable, they will often request an affidavit of English law. This may cover key questions such as:
- Is the Will valid under English law?
- Who is entitled to inherit?
- What are the powers of the Personal Representatives?
If a Notaire refers to an “acte de notoriété” or Certificat de Succession Européen, it’s important to clarify that such documents are not issued in England. Instead, a qualified solicitor can provide a certificate of custom (certificat de coutume de droit anglais) as a valid substitute.
Affidavit of French law for Court proceedings in England & Wales (including for the Probate Registry)
If you’re involved in probate or court proceedings in England & Wales, you may be asked to submit an affidavit of French law, or a statement of truth of foreign law, issued by a French law expert. This is common in:
- Applications to the Probate Registry where the deceased was domiciled in France
- Cases involving a French Will or French assets
We provide notarial certificates in relation to France that are fully compliant with UK legal procedures, and can assist in drafting a statement of truth or legal affidavit in line with the relevant requirements.
EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE
Our French Experts
Marc White
Solicitor, Notary Public & Accredited Mediator
Madeleine Carin
French Paralegal
Léa Maynard
Solicitor & Head of French Law