LAWYERS IN RUSSIA
for foreign companies and individuals
Since 2007, our team of lawyers has been providing legal services to foreign companies, entrepreneurs, and investors doing business in Russia or with Russia.
The law firm Del Credere, Scherbakov & Partners provides full support for the activities of foreign businesses in Russia — from company registration and opening a representative office to drafting commercial contracts, corporate consulting, debt recovery, intellectual property protection, and representation in Russian courts.
We also provide legal assistance to foreign citizens on personal matters: we handle inheritance and family cases, support real estate transactions, document processing, and interactions with government authorities.
LEGAL SERVICES FOR FOREIGN BUSINESSES IN RUSSIA
CORPORATE LAW IN RUSSIA
Creation and registration of companies in Russia
We accompany the registration of various legal forms, including limited liability companies (LLC), individual entrepreneurs, as well as branches and representative offices of foreign companies.
We provide assistance at all stages of the process:
- consultations on choosing the optimal legal form for your business;
- preparation of the charter and other founding documents;
- assistance in choosing a legal address and opening a bank account;
- registration with tax authorities and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Russia;
- obtaining a tax identification number (INN), licenses (if necessary), and other permits.
Our many years of experience in supporting foreign investors and entrepreneurs allows you to start a business in Russia quickly, safely, and legally.
Amendments to the founding documents of a company in Russia
We help to process:
- Change of general director,
- Change of founders (participants),
- Change of legal address,
- Amendments to the charter and other founding documents,
- Change of business activities (OKVED codes),
- Increase or decrease of authorized capital,
- Reorganization or liquidation of the company,
- Withdrawal of a participant,
- Exclusion of a participant through court,
- Change of company name.
Corporate disputes between shareholders and management bodies
Our lawyers conduct a legal analysis of corporate documents, record violations, and develop a defense strategy.
We strive to resolve the conflict peacefully — through negotiations and mediation agreements.
If reaching an agreement is impossible, we ensure the protection of the client’s interests through the court, including the restoration of corporate control and the invalidation of decisions.
We help protect a participant’s share, return assets, and prevent unlawful actions by other parties.
We work confidentially and comprehensively — ensuring the preservation of the business and minimizing reputational risks.
Official liquidation of a company
The lawyers of our firm provide a full range of services for the liquidation of companies in Russia — from preparing documents and notifications to completing all registration procedures with the tax authorities and entering the liquidation record into the Unified State Register of Legal Entities (EGRUL).
Official liquidation of a company is carried out when:
- the activity has ceased and the company does not plan further operations;
- debts have accumulated, but there is an opportunity to settle them before closing;
- the participants have decided to terminate the project and distribute the property;
- it is necessary to eliminate legal risks and future claims.
Stages of company liquidation:
- Adoption of the liquidation decision by the participants and appointment of a liquidator.
- Publication of a liquidation notice in the official register.
- Inventory of assets and settlements with creditors.
- Closing bank accounts, dismissing employees, submitting reports.
- Submission of the liquidation balance sheet and exclusion from the Unified State Register of Legal Entities (EGRUL).
What the client receives:
- Full and official termination of the company’s activity.
- Absence of legal and tax risks after closure.
- Confirmation of exclusion from the EGRUL.
- Confidentiality and transparency of all actions.
Why clients choose us:
- experience in liquidating Russian and foreign companies;
- strict control of deadlines and compliance with the law;
- individual solutions — depending on the financial condition and business structure;
- support in foreign languages.
COMMERCIAL LAW IN RUSSIA
Legal consulting on business setup in Russia
Our lawyers help clients understand Russian corporate, tax, and commercial legislation, choose the optimal form of doing business, and build a legal structure with minimal risks.
We provide consulting on the following issues:
- registration of a company, branch, or representative office of a foreign business in Russia;
- contract and corporate law — preparation of contracts, founding documents, and internal regulations;
- tax and currency regulation in cross-border transactions;
- labor legislation and hiring foreign employees;
- licensing and certification of activities.
Drafting and legal review of contracts
We develop well-structured contracts that take into account the interests of the parties, the specifics of international law, and the requirements of Russian legislation.
We prepare:
- commercial contracts (supply, contracting, distribution, agency, provision of services);
- licensing and copyright agreements;
- foreign trade and international contracts (including under INCOTERMS and the law of a foreign jurisdiction);
- supplementary agreements, appendices, and protocols of disagreements.
Thanks to our experience in international transactions and cross-border projects, we help clients conclude safe and effective contracts, protecting their rights and commercial interests in Russia and abroad.
Recovery of debt under a contract
The lawyers of our firm provide comprehensive assistance in recovering debts, interest, and penalties — from preparing a pre-trial claim to obtaining a court decision and the actual return of funds.
We begin with pre-trial settlement, sending an official claim to the debtor, analyzing their financial situation, and proposing options for voluntary fulfillment of obligations.
If the counterparty ignores the demands, we prepare a statement of claim and handle the process in the arbitration court.
After obtaining a judgment, we ensure actual enforcement — we monitor the actions of bailiffs, initiate the seizure of property and accounts, and impose collection on accounts receivable.
We also protect clients in cases involving unjust enrichment, penalties, and interest for the use of another’s funds, helping to minimize financial losses.
Our goal is not just to win the case but to ensure the actual recovery of money and the financial restoration of the company.
Legal support of enforcement proceedings
We interact with the Federal Bailiff Service (FSSP), monitor the debt recovery process, the seizure of property, and the transfer of funds to the claimant.
Our specialists help to:
- achieve the actual enforcement of a court decision;
- challenge the inaction of bailiffs;
- initiate the search for the debtor and their assets;
- prepare and submit necessary applications, complaints, and requests;
- support the enforcement of foreign court decisions in Russia.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW IN RUSSIA
Recovery of compensation for the illegal use of your intellectual property
If your trademarks, photographs, videos, images, or other protected intellectual property objects were used without permission, you have the right to claim compensation.
We conduct an analysis of the infringement, prepare the evidence necessary for court, send a claim to the infringer, and, if required, represent your interests in court.
We work with both Russian and foreign rights holders.
Registration of trademarks in Russia and in 192 countries worldwide
Our patent attorney provides support at all stages:
- preliminary analysis of the uniqueness of the trademark;
- preparation of the application for registration;
- submission of documents to Rospatent (the Federal Service for Intellectual Property of Russia);
- filing the application through the international procedure with WIPO (the World Intellectual Property Organization);
- monitoring the status of the application review;
- resolution of possible objections or refusals;
- renewal of registration;
- conclusion of licensing agreements;
- legal protection in case of infringements.
Preparation and registration of license and other agreements with Rospatent
Our specialists prepare and support the registration of:
- agreements on the assignment of exclusive rights,
- license agreements,
- commercial concession (franchising) agreements,
- pledge and assignment of rights agreements,
- as well as the registration of amendments and termination of previously registered agreements with Rospatent.
Preparation of copyright assignment agreements
Such an agreement regulates the relationship between the customer and the author in the creation of works of science, literature, art, computer programs, design, photographs, and other objects of copyright.
We develop agreements in accordance with the client’s goals and the requirements of the legislation of the Russian Federation, ensuring:
- proper execution of the transfer of exclusive rights to the work;
- determination of payment terms, deadlines, and the scope of work;
- establishment of originality guarantees and the liability of the parties;
- specification of the scope of rights being transferred, etc.
Preparation of employment contracts for employee-created works (service works)
We develop contracts that regulate the ownership of exclusive rights to the work between the employer and the employee, as well as define the procedure for author remuneration, the conditions for using the created objects, and the protection of the company’s commercial interests.
A legally competent employment contract for a service work helps to:
- confirm the company’s right to use and register the intellectual property created by employees;
- avoid disputes over the ownership of copyright;
- ensure the protection of the employer’s and the author’s interests in accordance with the requirements of the legislation of the Russian Federation.
Depositing (registration) of works on the iReg platform
The registration complies with the requirements of the Berne Convention.
The certificate contains an electronic signature and a fixed upload date of the document using CryptoPro.
The certificates are accepted in 181 countries, and they remain valid for 70 years.
LEGAL SUPPORT FOR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS AND
REAL ESTATE DISPUTES IN RUSSIA
We support clients at all stages — from checking the legal clarity of the property and analyzing documents to court representation and registration of rights with Rosreestr. Our specialists effectively resolve disputes regarding: ownership rights, shares, and real estate lease; challenging purchase and sale, gift, and mortgage transactions; protection of the interests of investors and developers; removal of obstacles to the use of property.
Verification of the real estate property and the seller before purchase
Our lawyers carry out a comprehensive due diligence review of the real estate to ensure the legality of the transaction and eliminate any risks for the buyer or investor.
We analyze:
- title documents and the history of ownership transfers;
- the presence of arrests, pledges, court disputes, and encumbrances;
- the compliance of the property with urban planning and technical requirements;
- the legal capacity and reliability of the seller or developer;
- the compliance of the transaction terms with the requirements of Russian legislation.
We prepare a detailed legal opinion (due diligence report) and support the client at all stages — from verification to the registration of transfer of rights with Rosreestr.
Organization of a safe transaction for the purchase or sale of real estate
Our lawyers organize the process in such a way that each transaction is lawful, transparent, and safe for the client.
We:
- conduct legal verification of the property and the seller (due diligence);
- prepare purchase and sale agreements, investment agreements, shared construction participation agreements, or lease agreements;
- control the payment procedure and the transfer of ownership;
- support the registration of the transaction with Rosreestr;
- protect the client’s interests in case of disputes or claims.
Our specialists help avoid risks — from fraud to challenging transactions and loss of ownership rights — guaranteeing legal safety at every stage.
Disputes with the Department of City Property
We protect the interests of clients in matters of:
- lease and renewal of lease agreements for city premises and land plots;
- challenging decisions on termination of contracts or accrual of debt;
- refund of overpaid lease payments and penalties;
- challenging refusals in privatization or purchase of property;
- contesting inspection reports and DGI orders.
Thanks to our experience in interacting with DGI and our deep knowledge of the regulatory framework, we help clients defend their rights to real estate leased from the city and achieve a favorable and lawful resolution of the dispute.
Lease agreement disputes
- Recovery of rent and debt: We help property owners recover overdue rent, penalties, and fines. We prepare claims, participate in negotiations, represent the client’s interests in court, and ensure the actual enforcement of the decision.
- Negotiating rent for a new period: We represent the interests of the parties when revising or negotiating the rental amount, prepare legally substantiated proposals, and achieve fair lease terms.
- Inseparable improvements to leased property: Tenants often invest in repairs or upgrades to the premises. We protect our clients’ rights in disputes over compensation for inseparable improvements and record such investments in a legally significant way to avoid losses upon termination of the lease.
- Early termination of the lease agreement: We handle procedures for early termination of the lease agreement—whether initiated by the landlord or the tenant. We help to legally terminate the agreement, minimize losses, and avoid possible penalties.
- Vacating leased premises: If the tenant refuses to vacate the premises voluntarily, our lawyers obtain eviction through the court, ensuring the actual release of the property and its transfer to the owner.
- Obligation to perform major or current repairs: Our lawyers protect the interests of tenants and landlords in disputes related to performing repairs to the premises. We help compel the other party to perform major or current repairs within the established timeframe.
- Preferential right to renew the lease agreement: We defend the tenant’s preferential right to conclude a lease agreement for a new term if they have properly fulfilled their obligations. We help formalize the renewal or prove the violation of the tenant’s rights in court.
Challenging (reducing) the cadastral value of real estate
The cadastral value of real estate directly affects the amount of tax, rent, and buyout price. However, in practice, the valuation is often overstated — due to calculation errors, outdated data, or incorrect determination of market value. In such cases, the owner has full legal grounds to challenge the cadastral value and achieve its reduction through an administrative or judicial procedure.
Our company’s lawyers specialize in challenging the cadastral value of real estate — residential and commercial premises, land plots, buildings, and structures.
It is worth challenging the cadastral value if:
- the cadastral value significantly exceeds the market value;
- property tax or rent increased sharply after revaluation;
- there were errors in the accounting of the property’s characteristics (area, purpose, condition);
- market conditions changed, but the valuation was not updated.
Stages of challenging the cadastral value
- Collection and analysis of documents — extract from the Unified State Register (EGRN), valuation report, Rosreestr data.
- Preparation of a market value report by a certified appraiser.
- Submission of an application to the Rosreestr commission or directly to the court.
- Representation of the client in the commission and court hearings.
- Obtaining a decision to reduce the cadastral value and making changes to the EGRN.
Result of reducing the cadastral value:
- reduction of property tax for individuals and legal entities;
- reduction of rent for state or municipal property;
- reduction of buyout price during privatization or purchase;
- restoration of a fair market valuation of the property.
- experience in handling cadastral value reduction cases in courts and Rosreestr commissions;
- cooperation with licensed appraisers;
- accurate economic assessment of benefits and transparency of the process;
- comprehensive support until the final result is achieved.
Disputes over rights to real estate
The lawyers of our company specialize in disputes over ownership rights to real estate, helping protect the interests of clients both in pre-trial and judicial proceedings.
Determining shares in property ownership:
We help establish or change ownership shares in real estate — an apartment, residential house, land plot, or commercial premises. Our lawyers prepare legal positions, gather evidence of investments made into the property, initiate expert examinations, and represent the client’s interests in court. We achieve a fair determination of shares based on the actual contribution of each party to the acquisition and maintenance of the property.
Determining the procedure for using real estate:
When property is held in shared ownership, conflicts often arise between co-owners regarding who may use the property and how. We develop and formalize a legally valid procedure for the use of real estate — determining which rooms or areas belong to each owner, establishing usage schedules, and, if necessary, applying to the court to approve the usage procedure on a legal basis.
Division of real estate:
We provide legal support in the division of real estate between owners, spouses, heirs, or business partners. Our lawyers draft division agreements, conduct negotiations, and, when no agreement is possible, seek a court decision on the division of the property in kind or payment of monetary compensation for the share.
We pay special attention to preserving the client’s right to residence and preventing the infringement of their ownership share.
In addition to the above, we handle disputes regarding:
- recognition of ownership rights based on investment, shared construction agreements, or factual possession;
- invalidation of real estate transactions;
- removal of obstacles to property use;
- division of jointly acquired property after divorce;
- disputes between owners, tenants, and developers.
DISPUTES WITH MARKETPLACES IN RUSSIA
We protect the rights of sellers in cases of account blocking, withholding of funds, refusal to make payments, unlawful fines, and restrictions on access to sales on Russian marketplaces such as Wildberries, Ozon, Yandex Market, Megamarket, and others.
Challenging marketplace fines imposed on sellers
Наши юристы специализируются на спорах с крупнейшими маркетплейсами России (Wildberries, Ozon, Yandex Market, МегаМаркет) и имеют успешную практику по отмене незаконных штрафов и возврату удержанных сумм.
Мы проводим юридическую экспертизу документов, анализируем договор оферты и внутренние правила площадки, готовим претензии, жалобы и иски, добиваясь пересмотра начислений и восстановления финансовых прав продавца.
Благодаря знанию особенностей работы маркетплейсов и судебной практики, наша команда помогает клиентам минимизировать убытки и отстоять свои интересы, сохраняя доступ к продажам и репутацию надёжного партнёра.
Recovery of marketplace debts owed to sellers
We protect the interests of clients in disputes with Russia’s largest platforms — Wildberries, Ozon, Yandex Market, Megamarket, and others.
Debts from marketplaces often arise due to:
- unagreed deductions or fines,
- technical errors in calculations,
- account or balance blocking,
- unilateral termination of the offer agreement.
Our experience in litigation with marketplaces allows us to effectively achieve the return of funds to sellers and restore fair conditions of cooperation.
LEGAL SERVICES FOR FOREIGN INDIVIDUALS IN RUSSIA
FAMILY LAW IN RUSSIA
The main areas of our work include: divorce, division of jointly acquired property, recovery of alimony, determination of the child’s place of residence and visitation arrangements, annulment of marriage and challenging prenuptial agreements, and establishment of paternity.
Division of marital property
- the spouses are divorcing and cannot agree on the distribution of property;
- one of the spouses wants to secure their property rights even before the divorce;
- it is necessary to protect property from claims by the other spouse or creditors;
- it is required to challenge the unlawful disposal of property by one of the spouses.
Marital property includes:
- apartments, houses, land plots;
- cars and other movable property;
- bank deposits, shares, interests in companies;
- luxury items, electronics, furniture;
- a business registered in the name of one of the spouses.
How we work:
- We analyze documents and collect evidence of ownership rights.
- We determine the spouses’ shares and prepare a property division agreement.
- If necessary, we file a claim in court and represent the client at all stages.
- We achieve a fair outcome — including compensation for property that cannot be physically divided.
- extensive experience in marital property disputes;
- ability to resolve the conflict without court or effectively defend the client’s rights in court;
- assistance in dividing businesses, corporate rights, and complex assets;
- individual and confidential approach.
We protect clients’ interests competently, delicately, and in strict accordance with the law.
Determining the child’s place of residence and visitation arrangements
The lawyers of our company provide assistance in determining the child’s place of residence and establishing the procedure for communication with the child, guided exclusively by the interests of the child and the norms of family law.
Determining the child’s place of residence
If the parents cannot agree on where the child will live, the issue is resolved through the court.
The court takes into account:
- the child’s age and emotional attachment to each parent;
- the living conditions and financial situation of the parties;
- the ability to provide upbringing, education, and the child’s safety;
- the child’s own opinion (if the child is 10 years old or older).
Determining the procedure for communication with the child
Even if the child lives with one parent, the other has the right to regular communication, participation in upbringing, and shared time.
Our lawyers help to:
- establish a schedule of meetings and calls, including weekends, holidays, and school vacations;
- determine a neutral place for communication in conflict situations;
- protect the rights of a parent if the other obstructs contact with the child;
- if necessary, apply to the court and ensure the enforcement of the established visitation schedule.
Why clients choose us:
extensive experience in family disputes involving children;
a delicate approach and prioritization of the child’s best interests;
knowledge of judicial practice and enforcement specifics;
confidentiality and support for the client at every stage.
Recovery of alimony
We handle cases of any complexity, including the recovery of alimony for a child, a spouse, parents, or disabled family members.
If a parent refuses to voluntarily contribute to the child’s support, payments can be obtained through the court.
We help to:
- draft and file an application for alimony recovery with the court;
- obtain payments calculated as a share of income (usually ¼, ⅓, or ½) or as a fixed amount if the income is unstable;
- organize the recovery of overdue alimony through bailiffs;
- hold the debtor accountable for evading payment.
- a former spouse who is on maternity leave, caring for a disabled child, or temporarily incapacitated;
- disabled parents in need of support.
If alimony has been awarded but is not being paid, our lawyers help to:
- calculate the total amount of arrears with indexation;
- file a claim for recovery of the debt and penalties;
- obtain the seizure of property, restrictions on travel abroad, or other enforcement measures.
- extensive experience handling alimony cases;
- comprehensive support — from filing the application to receiving the funds;
- ability to enforce court decisions and protect the child’s rights;
- careful and sensitive approach to every situation.
Our goal is to ensure the child’s financial stability and a fair distribution of responsibilities between the parents.
Annulment of marriage
Our lawyers provide full legal support in cases of annulment of marriage — from consultation and gathering evidence to representing the client in court.
The grounds for annulment of marriage are established by the Family Code of the Russian Federation and include:
- fictitious marriage — concluded without the intention to create a family;
- the existence of another registered marriage of one of the spouses;
- concealment of serious illnesses, drug addiction, or HIV;
- marriage concluded in violation of age requirements, without consent of parents or guardianship authorities;
- coercion, fraud, or deception;
- prohibited degrees of kinship, in which marriage is forbidden by law.
Unlike a divorce, annulment means that such a marriage is legally considered never to have existed from the moment it was concluded.
Once the court decision enters into force:
- the rights and obligations of the spouses are annulled;
- joint marital property ceases to exist;
- civil registry records are annulled;
- property transferred in connection with the marriage may be returned.
How we help:
- we provide consultation and identify the grounds for annulment;
- prepare evidence, documents, and the statement of claim;
- represent the client’s interests in court;
- ensure the annulment of the marriage record and protection of property rights.
- extensive experience in family law cases, including complex and disputed situations;
- deep knowledge of judicial practice on fictitious and invalid marriages;
- confidentiality and a sensitive approach;
- comprehensive protection of the client’s rights until the case is fully resolved.
Our task is to prove the violations, protect your interests, and obtain a fair court decision.
Challenging prenuptial agreements
Sometimes one party signs the agreement under pressure, in a state of misunderstanding, or without fully realizing its consequences. In such cases, it is possible to challenge the prenuptial agreement and have it declared invalid in court.
Our lawyers provide professional assistance in challenging prenuptial agreements — we defend clients whose property or personal rights have been violated.
According to the Family Code of the Russian Federation, a prenuptial agreement may be declared invalid in whole or in part if:
- it was concluded under threat, pressure, fraud, or dependence;
- it violates the equality of the spouses and places one of them in an extremely unfavorable position;
- it contains provisions that restrict the rights of one spouse (for example, prohibiting work or managing property);
- it was concluded in violation of the required form or notarial certification procedure;
- it was signed by a legally incapacitated person or without proper consent.
How the challenge process works:
- Legal analysis of the contract and identification of legal violations.
- Preparation and filing of a claim in court to declare the agreement invalid.
- Collection of evidence of pressure, fraud, or infringement of rights.
- Representation of the client’s interests during court proceedings.
- Cancellation of invalid provisions and restoration of the party’s property rights.
Why clients choose us:
- extensive experience with prenuptial agreements and marital property disputes;
- successful court practice in declaring agreements invalid;
- delicate approach and full confidentiality;
- comprehensive protection of the client’s interests at every stage — from consultation to enforcement of the court decision.
Establishment and recognition of paternity
Our lawyers assist in the recognition and contestation of paternity, providing full support from filing the application to the enforcement of the final court decision.
The paternity recognition procedure is necessary if:
- the parents are not married, and information about the father is not listed on the child’s birth certificate;
- a man wishes to officially confirm his paternity and obtain the corresponding rights;
- the mother or guardian seeks to recover alimony from the biological father;
- disputes arise regarding the child’s parentage.
If voluntary consent is absent, paternity is established by a court decision.
The court considers:
- results of genetic testing (DNA evidence);
- proof of cohabitation and involvement in the child’s upbringing;
- witness testimony and other evidence confirming the parental relationship.
After paternity is recognized:
- the child receives the father’s surname, patronymic, and inheritance rights;
- the father becomes legally obliged to pay alimony;
- the father gains the right to participate in upbringing and maintain contact with the child;
- the parent-child relationship is officially registered with the civil registry authorities (ZAGS).
- extensive experience in paternity recognition and contestation cases;
- strong cooperation with expert institutions and courts;
- a sensitive, discreet approach to delicate family matters;
- legal support combined with confidentiality and care.
INHERITANCE LAW IN RUSSIA
Division of inherited property
Our lawyers provide qualified assistance in dividing inherited property of any complexity — from consultations and drafting agreements to judicial protection of heirs’ rights.
The division of inherited property may occur:
- according to a will, if the decedent predetermined the shares of each heir;
- according to the law, if no will exists or if the will is declared invalid.
How we assist in inheritance division:
- we analyze the composition of the estate and the legal situation;
- determine the shares of each heir;
- prepare a property division agreement or a lawsuit;
- arrange independent property valuation;
- represent the client’s interests in negotiations and court proceedings;
- ensure enforcement of the court’s decision and registration of ownership rights.
If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the division is carried out through the court.
During the proceedings, the court:
- determines the composition of the estate;
- establishes the circle of heirs and their rights;
- evaluates the shares and, if necessary, orders financial compensation.
Why clients choose us:
- extensive experience in inheritance cases and disputes among relatives;
- strong knowledge of judicial practice and mechanisms for protecting inheritance rights;
- a delicate and confidential approach;
- complete support — from pre-trial negotiations to obtaining a certificate of ownership.
Reinstatement of the deadline for accepting an inheritance
Our lawyers help restore the missed deadline, prove that the reasons were valid, and secure the heir’s inclusion as a full participant in the inheritance proceedings.
A court may reinstate the deadline for accepting an inheritance if the heir:
- did not know and could not reasonably have known about the opening of the inheritance;
- missed the deadline for valid reasons (illness, work trip, extraordinary circumstances);
- was not notified by the notary or other heirs;
- took actions indicating acceptance of the inheritance (paying utility bills, protecting the property, etc.) but did not formalize them officially.
How the deadline reinstatement process works:
- We analyze the circumstances of the delay and prepare the evidence base.
- We prepare and file a lawsuit to reinstate the deadline.
- We represent the client in court proceedings.
- After a favorable decision — we ensure the heir is included among those entitled to the estate.
- We oversee the issuance of the certificate of inheritance by the notary.
What can be obtained after reinstating the deadline:
- inclusion in the list of heirs;
- receiving a share of the inheritance;
- reallocation of property among other heirs;
- return of property that was transferred to others in violation of your rights.
- extensive experience in inheritance cases;
- successful court practice in reinstatement of inheritance deadlines;
- individualized approach to every situation;
- discretion and full protection of the client’s interests at every stage.
Contesting a will
Our lawyers have extensive experience in will contestation cases and help heirs protect their lawful rights to inheritance.
A will may be declared invalid if:
- it was drafted in violation of the required form or notarization procedure;
- the testator was legally incapacitated, suffering from a serious illness, or under the influence of a mental disorder;
- the document was signed under pressure, threats, or deception;
- the testator’s signature is forged;
- interested parties were present during its drafting;
- the will contradicts the law or violates the mandatory shares of certain heirs.
How the contestation process works:
- Legal analysis of the will and the circumstances of its creation.
- Gathering evidence — medical records, handwriting examinations, witness statements.
- Preparation and filing of a lawsuit to declare the will invalid.
- Representation of the client in court and interaction with the notary.
- Restoration of violated inheritance rights after the will is declared invalid.
After a will is declared invalid, the decedent’s property is distributed according to the law — among the heirs of the first priority (children, spouse, parents) or the next in line.
The court may declare a will invalid either fully or partially if only some provisions of the document violate the law.
Why clients choose us:
- extensive experience in inheritance disputes and will contestation cases;
- cooperation with experts in psychiatry and handwriting analysis;
- deep knowledge of judicial practice;
- sensitive handling of family conflicts and full confidentiality.
Our goal is to uncover the true circumstances of the case, protect the rights of heirs, and achieve a lawful distribution of the estate.
Recognition of the right to inherit
Our lawyers provide professional assistance in establishing and recognizing the right to inherit, helping clients restore fairness and receive the property that rightfully belongs to them.
Judicial recognition of inheritance rights is necessary if:
- the notary refused to issue a certificate of inheritance;
- the heir missed the deadline for accepting the inheritance and was not included among the heirs;
- a dispute has arisen among heirs over the ownership of specific property;
- the inheritance was registered in another person’s name by mistake or due to fraud;
- the heir lacks documents confirming kinship or actual possession of the property.
How the process of recognizing inheritance rights works:
- Collecting documents and evidence — certificates, records, contracts, extracts from the Unified State Register (EGRN), etc.
- Preparing a statement of claim to recognize the right to inherit.
- Representing the client in court — from filing the claim to enforcement of the final judgment.
- Pursuing amendments in registration documents and obtaining the inheritance certificate from the notary.
What can be recognized by the court:
- ownership rights to an apartment, house, land plot, or other property;
- rights to bank accounts, business shares, or corporate rights;
- rights to property the heir actually possessed but failed to formalize properly.
Why clients choose us:
- extensive experience handling complex inheritance cases in courts of all levels;
- deep knowledge of inheritance law and judicial practice;
- careful and sensitive handling of family disputes;
- protection of the client’s interests until their rights are fully restored.
OBTAINING AND LEGALIZATION OF OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS IN RUSSIA
Obtaining state certificates
- Birth Certificate,
- Death Certificate,
- Marriage Certificate,
- Divorce Certificate,
- Adoption Certificate,
- Paternity Establishment Certificate,
- Name Change Certificate.
- Duplicate certificates — if the original documents were lost.
- Civil status registration extracts — for example, a certificate of marital status.
Translation of official and legal documents
We provide professional document translation services from foreign languages into Russian and from Russian into foreign languages.
Our translations are accepted by Russian and foreign authorities, embassies, courts, notaries, and educational institutions.
We perform official and notarized translations of:
- passports and identification documents;
- birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce certificates, death certificates, name change certificates, adoption certificates, paternity establishment certificates;
- diplomas, school certificates, qualification certificates;
- powers of attorney, statements, certificates;
- corporate documents: charters, contracts, extracts from registries, certificates;
- court decisions and procedural documents.
registering a company in Russia or abroad;
submitting documents to courts, migration authorities, and government agencies;
obtaining visas, residence permits, or citizenship;
concluding transactions and contracts with foreign partners;
submitting documents to foreign universities and institutions.
Apostille on documents in Russia
We provide assistance to foreign citizens and companies in processing and obtaining an apostille on Russian documents.
An apostille is a special stamp that confirms the legality and authenticity of an official document issued in one country for its use in another.
The apostille is affixed in accordance with the 1961 Hague Convention and serves as proof that the signature, seal, or stamp on the document is genuine.
An apostille is required if a document issued in Russia must be presented abroad — in a country that is a party to the Hague Convention.
This may be necessary when:
- submitting documents to foreign authorities, courts, banks, or universities;
- registering a company or real estate abroad;
- entering into marriage or handling inheritance matters in another country;
- obtaining a residence permit, citizenship, or visa.
- civil status certificates (birth, marriage, divorce, death);
- notarial documents (powers of attorney, statements, translations);
- court decisions and certificates;
- diplomas, school certificates, and other similar documents.
Notarial certification of translation
We provide services for the notarial certification of document translations for use in Russia and abroad.
Such certification confirms the legal validity of the translation and makes it officially recognized for submission to government authorities, courts, embassies, and commercial organizations.
Notarial certification confirms that the translation was completed by a qualified translator and that the translator’s signature has been notarized.
Such a translation is recognized as valid in the territory of Russia, as well as in the countries with which Russia has concluded international agreements.
A notarized translation is often required when:
- registering a company or a transaction in Russia;
- submitting documents to a court, bank, or government authorities;
- preparing powers of attorney, certificates, diplomas, and contracts.
CONSUMER RIGHTS PROTECTION IN RUSSIA
Our main areas of work include: recovering the cost of undelivered goods or unrendered services; violations of delivery or performance deadlines; refunds for defective or low-quality goods; challenging imposed services and hidden contract terms; compensation for moral damage; and penalties for violations of consumer rights.
We represent clients in court and obtain additional compensation — including a 50% penalty on the awarded amount, as provided by the Russian Law “On Consumer Rights Protection.”
Recovery of the cost of unrendered services or undelivered goods
You may recover the cost if:
- the goods were not delivered within the agreed time;
- the service was not provided at all or was provided improperly;
- the seller or service provider ignores your demands;
- the seller fails to return the prepayment after termination of the contract.
How we help:
- We conduct a legal analysis of the situation and determine the grounds for recovery.
- We prepare a claim to the seller or service provider demanding a refund and penalties.
- We negotiate to settle the dispute out of court.
- If necessary, we represent the client in court and secure the return of funds, interest, and compensation for moral damages.
When filing a lawsuit, you may claim:
- the amount paid for the goods or services;
- penalties for delays in refunding the money;
- compensation for moral damages;
- a fine equal to 50% of the awarded amount in favor of the consumer (in accordance with Article 13 of the Law “On Consumer Rights Protection”).
Delay in delivery or provision of services
A delay is considered a violation if:
- the delivery date or service deadline is specified in the contract, receipt, order, or on the seller’s website;
- the product or service is not provided on time without objective reasons;
- the service provider did not notify you about the postponement and did not offer an alternative;
- the delay in delivery caused losses (for example, cancellation of an event, equipment downtime, etc.).
What we do to protect your rights:
- We conduct an analysis of the contract and documents to establish the violation of deadlines.
- We prepare a claim demanding immediate performance, a penalty, or a refund.
- We achieve compensation for the delay — both in pre-trial and judicial procedures.
- We represent the client’s interests in court, ensuring the recovery of money, penalties, and compensation for moral damages.
The consumer has the right to demand:
- a refund of the amount paid;
- a penalty for each day of delay;
- compensation for moral damages;
- a fine amounting to 50% of the awarded sum (in favor of the consumer).
Refund for a defective product
You have a legal right to a refund if:
- the product is defective, faulty, or has hidden flaws;
- the product does not match the description or characteristics provided by the seller;
- the product was sold expired or incomplete;
- the seller refuses to accept the product back or violates repair/replacement deadlines.
How we help you:
- We analyze the documents and determine the legal grounds for a refund.
- We prepare a formal claim to the seller or manufacturer demanding a refund.
- We negotiate with the seller to resolve the dispute out of court.
- If necessary, we represent you in court and obtain full compensation — including penalties, fines, and moral damages.
In addition to the cost of the product, a consumer has the right to recover:
- a penalty for missing the refund deadline;
- compensation for moral damages;
- a fine equal to 50% of the amount awarded in favor of the consumer;
- losses resulting from the purchase of a defective product (for example, the cost of an expert examination or transportation).
Challenging imposed services and hidden contract terms
Many companies and service providers include additional services or fees in contracts without properly informing the client. This may involve insurance, paid subscriptions, service packages, data-processing fees, or other imposed conditions. Under the law, such actions constitute a violation of consumer rights, and the client has the right to demand a refund and to have those terms declared invalid.
Imposed services include those that:
- were added to the contract without your consent or without a clear indication of the price;
- do not affect the fulfillment of the main obligation but are presented as mandatory;
- were included automatically when making a purchase, placing an order, or taking out a loan;
- were paid in advance but not used.
How we work:
- We analyze the contract and determine violations of the law.
- We prepare a claim demanding a refund and the removal of additional conditions.
- If the company refuses, we file a lawsuit and seek a refund, moral damages, and statutory penalties.
What can be recovered:
- the amount paid for the imposed service;
- penalties for refusing to return the funds on time;
- compensation for moral damages;
- a fine equal to 50% of the awarded amount in favor of the consumer (under the Russian Consumer Rights Protection Law).
LAWYERS FOR FOREIGN COMPANIES AND BUSINESS IN RUSSIA
LAWYERS FOR FOREIGN INDIVIDUALS IN RUSSIA
WHY IT IS CONVENIENT FOR FOREIGN CLIENTS TO WORK WITH US
"In our team, there are experienced lawyers of various specializations, which allows us to effectively solve practically any task of our clients."