Affadavits
///of law / legal
Opinion
Expert Legal Support
When French or English law applies to your affairs across borders, getting a clear, legally sound opinion is essential.
Our bilingual French law experts provide affidavits of law (also known as statement of truth of foreign law, legal opinions, or certificat de coutume) that are accepted by Notaires, courts, and probate registries. We clarify which laws apply, protect your interests, and ensure documents meet formal requirements
Why You May Need a Legal Opinion (Affidavit of Law)
- To confirm the validity of a Will made under foreign law
- To explain who has legal title or inheritance rights under English or French law
- To assist executors, Notaires, or courts when estates cross jurisdictions
- To satisfy statutory or procedural requirements (in France, England or Wales)
What We Do – Types of Legal Opinion / Affidavit of Law
Affidavit of English Law for Use in France
When a Notaire handling a French estate requires proof of English law, we provide opinions on:
- Validity of your Will under English law
- Identity and rights of Personal Representatives (Executors)
- Whether the Will complies with any required formalities
We can also provide a certificat de coutume de droit anglais valant dévolution successorale—an equivalent document to French acte de notoriété where needed.
Affidavit of French Law for Use in England & Wales
If you’re engaged in probate or court proceedings in England & Wales and French law or French assets are involved, we prepare affidavits or statements of truth on:
Our Process
Case Assessment
We review your circumstances: which jurisdictions are involved, what laws likely apply, what documents already exist (Wills, certificates, etc.).
Research & Legal Opinion Preparation
Our team (French law and English law experts) reviews relevant statutes, case law, and procedural requirements. We draft the opinion or affidavit in a form suitable for the receiving authority (Notaire, court, probate registry).
Support & Submission
We advise on how to present the affidavit or opinion, deal with formal requirements (translations, notarisation or equivalent), and liaise with the receiving authority to ensure acceptance.
FAQs
What is a certificat de coutume?
A certificat de coutume is a document certifying how foreign law operates in your particular situation. It is commonly used by French Notaires when foreign (e.g. English) law needs to be applied to part of an estate.
Do I need a legal opinion if I have a Will already?
Possibly. Even with a Will, foreign law may impose requirements not reflected in your document. A legal opinion ensures that the Will is valid under the applicable law and will be accepted in the jurisdiction where it’s needed.
Can I use a legal opinion instead of a Notaire’s certificate or document?
In many cross-border situations, yes. While French Notaires issue acte de notoriété and similar documents, in England & Wales you often cannot get identical documents. A legal opinion by a qualified expert serves as an accepted alternative in many cases.
How long does it take and what does it cost?
It depends on complexity (jurisdictions, number of questions, documents to review). After an initial assessment, we will estimate the timeframe and provide a fee quote.
Get Your Legal Opinion or Affidavit
If you need an opinion of law for use in France, England, or Wales — to settle inheritance, probate, or estate administration issues — contact our team of French law experts now.
EXPERT LEGAL ADVICE
Our French Experts
Marc White
Solicitor, Notary Public & Accredited Mediator
Madeleine Carin
French Paralegal
Léa Maynard
Solicitor & Head of French Law