How and when does one become an heir?

The succession is opened with the death of the deceased. The estate devolves to the heir, provided that the latter accepts it; this acceptance may be tacit, or failing renunciation within the prescribed period of time. The time limit for accepting a succession is ten years from the time the heir becomes aware of the death and his/her entitlement to the inheritance.

In principle, the heir is liable for the deceased’s debts. However, heirs may limit their liability by accepting the estate without liability to debts beyond the assets descended. In this case, the heir must file a declaration. Joint heirs are liable for the debts of the succession, in proportion to the value of their respective portion of the inheritance.

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