Cyprus-Forum.com

[venusdee]

Hi I have a bit of a problem and I'm hoping that I might get some advise from the forum as how to handle the situation.

1.When my granny died she left a house and some land, there was no will. One of my aunts has since taken possession over the property etc.
2. When my grandfather died he left a will that states that my fathers 4 daughters were to inherit some land that he owned in Cyprus (which is unfortunately in the North)

My problem is that this Aunt now wants to take possession of that land too.
As I've only recently returned back to Cyprus I've absolutely no understanding of the law on these issues.

Can any one advise?

Thanks

[theresa]

Hi there, as far I know if the land belonged to your Grandfather (and you have proof) and he made a will registered at a solicitor in Cyprus (and you have proof) then there is no question as to who inherits, unless the Aunt can prove otherwise, if she disputes the will then you may have to go to court. Wills made in countries other than the country of origin, are probably not valid, (that is, a will made say, in the UK for property in Cyprus) and the Aunt, as his daughter (?) may under rules of intestacy be entitled to the land.
Best to check with a solicitor.
Good luck
Tess

[venusdee]

Thanks Tess.
The will was written in Africa where he was living prior to his death, we were residing in Cyprus at the time.
My sister has registered the will in Cyprus. But as I had previously mentioned we have recently returned to Cyprus we don't have the money to pay lawyers etc and to bring on a long expensive litigation against her. Whereas she is very wealthy as I am lead to believe and has hired the best representation, to have the property registered in her name.
Yes she is my grandfathers daughter, he had 7 children but most have passed away, and their children have no interest in either my grannies property or in our inheritance as they are all overseas. We don't know where the title deeds are but we know that the land was registered in his name as my sister spoke to the 'muhtare'.
Is there no Legal Aid Society in Cyprus

[twinkle]

Regarding the land she is taking that didn't have a will, get your name registered at the land registry before she can do anything. You can register your interest as a charge and nothing can be done without your knowledge. The land registry must inform you before anything is transferred. As there was no will there are rights of inheritence and as a direct relative you are also entitled to some of that property. This is where the joys of having a large family come into play....greedy relatives and all that. Get a solicitor (the only way) to take the matter to court to settle it. You can arrange a fee in advance with the solicitor so you'll know what to expect. Even if Cyprus had legal aid and assistance, you wouldn't be entitled to legal assistance in the UK for this. As for the land in the occupied areas, try and get a copy of the deeds. The will should stand if there is nothing to dispute it.