LEGAL advice from Stephen Poyner, Head of Commercial Litigation and Employment at FDR Law, Bold Street, Warrington. fdrlaw.co.uk.

QUESTION I have just inherited some money from a relative in Germany. How do I go about claiming my share of her estate? Are there any extra problems due to her estate being administered abroad?

ANSWER Anyone who is involved with sorting out wills, probate or powers of attorney across national borders may find they need the services of a local British notary.

In cases such as the one you mention, you will have to present English documentation to confirm your identity before any inheritance money can be paid to you.

The way to ensure that everything is legally acceptable abroad is to have your documents validated (notarised) by an official notary, such as myself.

A notary can also arrange translations from foreign documents into English and vice versa, witness signatures on deeds and documents, authenticate documents and facts, including family relationships such as marriage, birth and adoption.

They can also validate identification documents and help you draw up or activate powers of attorney.

Should the inheritance involve property, they can also help with validating and translating any contracts, deeds or documents connected with property sales or transfers.

Most notaries are solicitors but most solicitors are not notaries. Notaries have to be registered with the Faculty Office and there are only a small number in each town or city. I am one of the few people in this locality qualified to carry out this work.

Getting involved in legal issues across national borders can add an extra layer of complexity but a notary will be able to explain each necessary step clearly and simply.

For more information about international legal documentation and validation, get in touch with me Stephen Poyner at FDR Law on 230000 or email Stephen.poyner@fdrlaw.co.uk.