How to Obtain a Succession Certificate in Pakistan

In Pakistan, a succession certificate is a crucial legal document that establishes the rightful heirs of a deceased person and their entitlement to inherit the deceased’s property. It is a court-issued certificate required for the transfer of property to the legal heirs. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a succession certificate in Pakistan, ensuring a smooth and lawful transfer of assets.

A Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: File a Petition with the Relevant District Court

To initiate the process, the petitioner must file a petition with the District Court where the deceased person resided at the time of their death. The petition should be accompanied by the following essential documents:

• Death certificate of the deceased person.
• Proof of identity and residence of the applicant.
• List of all legal heirs of the deceased person.
• Proof of relationship between the applicant and the deceased person.
• Inventory of the deceased person’s property.

Step 2: Advertise the Petition in a Newspaper

After filing the petition, it is mandatory to advertise it in a local newspaper for a minimum period of 30 days. This serves as a notice to potential claimants or heirs, providing them with an opportunity to object to the grant of the succession certificate.

Step 3: Hearing of the Petition

Once the advertising period is complete, the court will schedule a hearing for the petition. During the hearing, the applicant must present evidence to establish their status as a legal heir and their entitlement to inherit the deceased person’s property. It is advisable to seek legal representation to ensure proper presentation of the case.

Step 4: Grant of the Succession Certificate

If the court is satisfied with the evidence presented and deems the applicant to be a legal heir, it will grant the succession certificate. This certificate serves as official documentation of the applicant’s rights to the deceased person’s assets. The court will issue the succession certificate to the applicant upon approval.
Important Considerations:

1. Application Fee and Stamp Duty: The application fee for a succession certificate may vary depending on the jurisdiction. Additionally, the applicant might be required to pay stamp duty on the certificate, which also varies from province to province.
2. Validity of the Succession Certificate: The succession certificate is valid for a period of 30 years from the date of issuance. It is essential to keep this in mind while executing property transfers or other related transactions.

Final Verdict

Obtaining a succession certificate in Pakistan involves a structured legal process. By filing a petition with the relevant District Court, advertising the petition, presenting evidence during the hearing, and ultimately securing the grant of the succession certificate, individuals can establish their rights as legal heirs and ensure a lawful transfer of property. For further assistance and guidance on any Buy or sell property in pakistan, explore our property blogs or dial 0304-111-0309.