Article 50 — General Principles of Succession

1. 1.

   Upon the death of a person, the estate of the deceased passes to the heirs according to the provisions of this Title, subject to the conflict-of-laws rules established by Article 45 of the Fundamental Laws.

2. 2.

   The estate comprises all the rights, obligations, and property of the deceased that are transmissible by law. Rights and obligations that are personal to the deceased are extinguished upon death.

3. 3.

   No person may dispose of the whole or any part of the estate of a living person, whether by contract or otherwise. Any such agreement is void.

4. 4.

   An heir may accept or renounce the succession. Acceptance may be unconditional or under benefit of inventory. Acceptance may be express or implied by conduct. Renunciation must be by written declaration filed with the Royal Chancellery.

5. 5.

   An heir who accepts the succession under benefit of inventory is liable for the debts of the deceased only to the extent of the value of the estate received. An heir who accepts unconditionally is liable for the debts of the deceased without limitation.