Act: France does not have a national certificate of succession. Instead, proof of heirship is typically established through a notarial deed (acte de notoriété).
Legal Framework: Articles 730 ff. of French Civil Code;
Competent Authority: notaries (Probate Court just when heirship is disputed)
Procedure: The notarial deed is based on the declaration of the parties. Notary must carry out the necessary civil status checks. If necessary, he may suggest the services of a genealogist in the most complex cases.
In the event of a dispute, the Probate Court has jurisdiction, and its decision will establish the status of heir or legatee.
Nature and Function: This act has a declarative nature. It serves as an official document, useful for proving the heirs’ identity and their share of the estate, enabling them to act on those rights (e.g., registering property, transferring assets).