Notary family law: union, separation, adoption

Updated on Thursday 1 October 2026

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A question ? Need help ?

My father is experiencing serious financial difficulties. We have been estranged for 20 years. Can he ask me for financial support?

Yes. Article 205 of the Civil Code provides for a maintenance obligation towards parents or other ascendants who are in need. However, Article 207 of the Civil Code provides an exception: the judge may relieve the debtor of this obligation if the creditor has seriously failed in their own obligations…
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A few years ago, my mother had her notary draw up a mandate for future protection and appointed me as proxy. I've accepted this responsibility, but I'd like to give it up. Is this possible?

Yes, but under certain conditions. As long as the mandate has not taken effect, you can renounce your status as mandatary (art. 489 al. 2 C. civ. and 492 al. 3 C. civ.). You must notify your decision to your mother, the mandator, by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt…
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I am married. Can I buy property alone?

Yes. Ownership depends on your matrimonial regime. Under separation of property, you are sole owner; under community property it is generally joint unless funded with personal assets (Civil Code, Articles 1421 and 1424).
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Pacs: how can you reserve your entire inheritance for your partner?

"I'm currently in a civil union with my partner and we have two children. I also have a child from my first marriage. We each own 50% of an apartment. I'd like to bequeath the entire usufruct to my current wife, but above all, I don't want to bequeath it…
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