The law governing descent, adoption and names
The question of descent is of considerable significance in German law – for instance, in cases where it is necessary to determine who are the “rightful heirs” or in the event of mutual maintenance liabilities of persons related to each other in lineal descent. The law governing adoption plays an important role in this respect since more and more couples are turning to adoption when they find they are unable to have their own offspring. The same applies to situations where one of the couple is thinking of adopting his/her partner’s child from a former relationship or would like to give the child his/her name. In such cases, a careful assessment and elaboration of the consequences surrounding inheritance and maintenance rights are of utmost concern.
- What significance does the issue of descent have on mutual maintenance liabilities and on hereditary succession?
- What requirements do I need to meet to be recognised as the legal father?
- What can I do if I call paternity in to doubt?
- What points must I take in to account if I intend to proceed with adoption?
- What are the legal consequences of an adoption?
