UIA Mid-Year Reunion 2025: Family Commission and International Estate Planning Commission

The 2025 Mid-Year reunion of the UIA Commissions on Family Law and International Estate Planning took place in Munich, Germany, on 26th and 27th June, bringing together legal professionals from across the world for two days of enriching dialogue, legal analysis, and professional connection. The meeting began with a warm and informal welcome dinner at the historic Augustiner Stammhaus in the heart of Munich. Attendees had the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new colleagues, and set the stage for the collaborative spirit that defined the event.

A Full Day of High-Level Legal Discussion!

On Friday, June 27, the formal programme commenced with the opening by Carolina Marin Pedreno, President of the Family Commission and a welcome address by Ms. Anne Riethmüller, President of the Munich Bar Association. The day featured three substantive panels and a special presentation, addressing some of the most current and complex challenges in the fields of family law and international estate planning.

Panel 1: “10 Years of Regulation (EU) No. 650/2012 – Success or Flop?”
Moderated by Carlos Anglada Bartholmai, President of the Estate Planning Commission, this session examined the decade-long impact of the EU Succession Regulation across jurisdictions. Contributions from experts representing Germany, France, the UK, Belgium, Italy, Hungary, and Spain offered a multi-jurisdictional analysis of how the regulation has shaped cross-border succession cases.
Special Presentation: “Foundations in the Context of Inheritance and Tax Law”
Presented by LGT Bank Liechtenstein, this insightful session highlighted the growing relevance of foundations in estate and tax planning, particularly in high-net-worth cross-border scenarios.

Panel 2: “Cryptocurrencies – How to Handle Those Assets?”
Led by Simon Bruce from England, this lively discussion benefitted from the exchange of professionals from the Belgium, France, Italy, and LGT Bank. They explored the legal complexities surrounding the treatment of crypto assets in family and inheritance matters. The session delved into practical considerations in identifying, valuing, and dividing digital wealth.

Panel 3: “Asset Division – Keeping Assets Together After Divorce, Separation, or Death”
Chaired by Muriel Cadiou from France, this panel brought together experts from Poland, Slovakia, Romania, the UK, France, Spain, and Italy to discuss legal frameworks and practical strategies for preserving family wealth structures while navigating life’s most difficult transitions.

Throughout the day, participants enjoyed engaging debate, peer learning, and meaningful insights into the cross-section between evolving societal trends and established legal practice.
The meeting concluded with a festive farewell dinner at Albarone Monaco, where attendees reflected on the day’s discussions and celebrated new friendships and collaborative possibilities.
This meeting was an opportunity for members to be invited to attend the annual Congress in Guadalajara and to promote UIA to potential members.

The UIA Family Law and International Estate Planning Commissions extend their heartfelt thanks to all speakers, attendees, and supporters who contributed to the success of this exceptional event but a particular thanks is for Karin Delerue, current Vice President of the Family Commission for all her efforts for the success of this reunion.

The Munich Mid-Year Meeting was not only a moment for professional development but also a reminder of the strength of international legal networks in building dialogue, innovation, and trust across borders.

We look forward to welcoming you to our future events!