Inheritance
Q. A sibling has been out of contact for over 10 years. We're told all heirs must agree for estate division. What if an heir is missing?
A.
Apply for an absentee property administrator at family court to participate in estate division on behalf of the missing heir.
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Estate division requires all heirs; it's void without one. For missing heirs: apply for appointment of an absentee property administrator (Art. 25) who participates with court permission (Art. 28). If missing 7+ years, file for declaration of disappearance (Art. 30(1)), treating them as deceased. Start by having a lawyer obtain residence records (koseki no fuhyō) to investigate current address.
This article provides general legal information and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal issues, please consult with a qualified attorney.
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