Succession & Inheritance in Pakistan

Succession certificates, letters of administration, NADRA filings, and inheritance dispute resolution under the Succession Act 1925 and Shariah principles.

Succession & Inheritance Law in Pakistan

Inheritance law in Pakistan is primarily governed by the Succession Act, 1925 and the Letters of Administration and Succession Certificates Act, 2021. For Muslims, distribution follows Islamic law (Shariah principles). A succession certificate serves as legal proof of heirs' rights to inherit and transfer property.

Succession Certificate Procedure

1
Application to NADRA

Submit application to NADRA along with required documents for initial processing.

2
Verification of Legal Heirs

NADRA verifies family registration details and legal heir status.

3
Publication / Public Notice

Notice published for public objection and verification period.

4
Issuance or Court Referral

NADRA issues certificate or refers to civil court if disputed.

5
Civil Court Proceedings

If declined by NADRA, matter referred to relevant civil court.

6
Final Certificate

Court issues succession certificate or letter of administration.

Common Inheritance Disputes

01
Property Distribution

Disagreements on division especially with properties in multiple cities.

02
Inheritance Rights

Differing interpretations of Shariah shares or applicable law.

03
Guardianship of Minors

Disputes regarding management of minor heirs' share of inheritance.

04
Overseas Assets

Foreign properties and cross-border inheritance complications.

05
Validity of Will

Challenges regarding genuineness and legal validity of wills.

06
Undisclosed Assets

Discovery of hidden bank accounts, properties, or investments.

Shariah Inheritance Shares (Key Sharers)

HeirShare (With Descendant)Share (Without Descendant)
Husband1/41/2
Wife1/81/4
Father1/6Residuary
Mother1/61/3
Daughter (1)1/21/2
Daughters (2+)2/3 collectively2/3 collectively
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