Petition to determine heirship (Erbenfestellungsklage)
In contested probate matters, any person claiming to be the sole heir (Erbe) or a co-heir (Miterben) may petition to to determine heirship or/and his/her share in the estate (Nachlass). Such proceedings are more formal than the proceedings to obtain a German certificate of inheritance (Erbschein) and the district court`s decision will be final and will bind all parties of the proceedings (inter partes decision).