
Introduction
If you’re an English-speaking individual living in or investing in Italy, dealing with legal matters like inheritance, real estate, contracts, or damage compensation can feel daunting.
An English-speaking lawyer in Italy can make all the difference guiding you in both languages with clarity and expertise to safeguard your interests.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of:
- Inheritance: what to know when you inherit property in Italy
- Real estate: how to buy or sell safely
- Contract law: avoiding misunderstandings
- Damage compensation: how to get legal help when needed
By reading each section, you’ll gain clear, practical insights, real-world examples, and understand when to contact a law firm such as Ticozzi Sicchiero & Partners.
You can directly contact us by:
- phone: +39 041 0986 428
- mail at: info@legus.it
To directly contact our english-speaking assistant write a mail to: lorenzo.saviane@legus.it (profile Lorenzo Saviane).
English speaking lawyer for Inheritance in Italy
In Italy, inheritance law can hold surprises for those unfamiliar with the continental European system.
Unlike common law countries, Italy enforces forced heirship rules, meaning certain heirs —like a spouse or children— are entitled to a fixed share of the estate.
For instance, if a parent leaves half the estate to one child, the other heirs may legally claim the remaining share.
An English-speaking lawyer in Italy can help you:
- Check whether a will is valid under Italian law
- Determine if inheritance tax and formal declaration are required
- Mediate disputes between foreign and Italian heirs
Real example:
A U.S. citizen inherits property in Tuscany. The lawyer prepares the succession declaration, negotiates with the Italian spouse, and transfers usufruct or bare ownership to the rightful heir.
English speaking lawyer for Real estate in Italy
The Italian real estate market demands attention: the offer to purchase (“proposta d’acquisto”) can be binding upon signing.
It’s essential to conduct:
- Thorough due diligence (registry checks, planning constraints, illegal constructions)
- Verification of easements or pre-emption rights
- A clear, protective preliminary contract (compromesso)
An English-speaking lawyer in Italy ensures all documents are translated and understood, coordinating with notaries, agents, and surveyors.
Practical example:
A UK investor buys an apartment on Lake Como. After due diligence, the lawyer identifies an unresolved planning violation and includes clauses to resolve it before closing.
English speaking lawyer for Contract law
Contracts in Italy can differ significantly from those in Anglo-Saxon systems:
- Mandatory implied clauses (e.g., in goods sales)
- Written form required for certain transactions (e.g., leases over 4 years, property sales)
- Restrictive interpretation of ambiguous terms
An English-speaking lawyer in Italy translates and clarifies:
- Lease agreements, commercial contracts, service agreements
- Contract terms, warranties, and party liabilities
- Termination, penalties, and force majeure clauses
Illustrative case:
A Canadian expat signs a commercial lease in Florence. The lawyer explains terms about deposits, automatic renewals, and subletting rights.
English speaking lawyer for Damage compensation
In Italy, securing compensation often involves:
- Collecting valid documentation (e.g., medical reports, logs)
- Timely filing (statute of limitations generally 5 years)
- Handling insurance and direct negotiations
An English-speaking lawyer in Italy guides you to:
- Properly document the damage (traffic, medical, civil)
- Send a *letter of claim* or formal notice
- Initiate mediation or litigation if needed
Real-world scenario:
A U.S. tourist slips in a Rome museum. The lawyer drafts the claim against the museum and insurer, securing a fast out-of-court settlement.
Conclusions
In conclusion, engaging an **English-speaking lawyer in Italy** gives you clear, secure guidance through complex issues such as inheritance, real estate, contract law, and damage compensation. A lawyer fluent in your language and versed in Italian law helps you:
- Avoid costly mistakes
- Translate and clarify legal documentation
- Negotiate with counter-parties, notaries, and institutions
If you want to safeguard your interests with confidence and clarity, contact Ticozzi Sicchiero & Partners to request an appointment today. Our team is ready to provide you prompt, expert, and multilingual legal support.
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What does an English-speaking lawyer in Italy do for inheritance cases
They guide you through Italian forced heirship rules, prepare succession declarations, assess tax liabilities, and mediate between heirs. For expats or dual nationals, they ensure correct transfer of assets and minimize disputes.
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Do I need a lawyer for buying property in Italy?
No, but it’s preferable. Italian real estate law differs from Anglo-Saxon systems. An English-speaking lawyer ensures due diligence, explains each clause, and coordinates with notaries, protecting you from legal and financial risks.
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Can I draft contracts in English for use in Italy?
Contracts in English may be used, but only an Italian-valid version holds legal value in court. A bilingual lawyer translates, aligns both versions, and ensures they meet mandatory Italian legal requirements.
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How does damage compensation work in Italy?
You must document the incident clearly, submit a formal claim within the legal deadline (usually 5 years), and negotiate with the liable party or insurer. A lawyer helps validate evidence, draft claims, and achieve resolutions effectively.
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How do I choose the right English-speaking lawyer in Italy?
Look for expertise in inheritance, real estate, contract law, and compensation. Ensure they offer clear communication, transparent fees, remote consultation options, and have experience handling cross-border issues
Hai bisogno di una consulenza?
Ricevo i miei clienti in un moderno studio vicino al centro di Mestre in via Torino 180. A breve distanza dall’uscita autostradale, comodamente raggiungibile con i mezzi pubblici e a pochi passi dalla stazione dei treni di Mestre-Venezia.
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