Comprehensive Wills, Trusts, and Estates

Having a valid will in Costa Rica ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and helps avoid the lengthy and costly intestate succession process governed by Costa Rican law. Without a will, your estate will be distributed based on strict legal hierarchies that may not reflect your intentions, potentially causing disputes among heirs.

Costa Rican law mandates that certain portions of an estate must be reserved for immediate family members, such as spouses, children, and parents. This forced heirship means you cannot completely disinherit these heirs, but proper estate planning tools—including wills and trusts—can help structure your assets to respect these rules while minimizing taxes and conflicts.

The primary tools include: Wills, which specify asset distribution and guardianship arrangements. Trusts (fideicomisos), which provide flexible management and protection of assets during and after your lifetime. Business succession plans, facilitating smooth transfer of corporate control. Each tool offers different levels of control, flexibility, and protection depending on your needs.

Yes, foreign wills may be recognized if they comply with Costa Rican legal formalities or go through the proper legalization and recognition procedures. However, it is often advisable to draft a Costa Rican will or work with local counsel to ensure your estate plan is valid and enforceable within Costa Rica’s legal framework.

Business succession planning organizes the transfer of ownership and control to the next generation or partners, minimizing taxes and avoiding business disruption. This includes drafting agreements, updating corporate documents, and defining clear legal mechanisms for seamless transition.