The law of inheritance of the Russian Federation: Some characteristic features

Abstract

This chapter intends to draw attention to some of the most characteristic features of Russian tradition and the difficulties that might be expected there from. A characteristic feature of the Russian law of inheritance is the circle of heirs in case of intestate succession and the system of obligatory shares. An obligatory share is accorded to children who are minors or who are disabled, as well as to a disabled spouse or disabled parents. The chapter outlines the goods that are deemed to be part of the inheritance. The Western rule is focused on the goods of the inheritance as an object for creditors upon which to take recourse. The law of inheritance is a part of civil law that is very much linked to the specific culture and tradition of a country. This makes every comparison between national systems somewhat speculative. Keywords: civil law; law of inheritance; Russian Federation