Probate research: our approach
International Genealogy Services Belgium primarily works for notaries and lawyers when identifying and locating heirs for the settlement of an estate. Probate research is initiated based on a mandate in compliance with the requirements set forth in the Royal Decree of March 7, 2024, and an extract from the Civil Registry or the Belgian National Register.
Probate research is a rigorous process that requires, in addition to high-level professional knowledge, the necessary technological resources and techniques to find potential heirs worldwide. Thanks to our collaboration with many foreign correspondents, we are able to conduct heir searches globally. We typically begin our research with an extract from the Belgian National Register and/or the Civil Registry. Even with minimal information, we can solve the most complex genealogical questions.
In complete confidentiality
The information we collect about the testator's family is used solely within the strict and legal framework of the request we receive from the client.
We ask the client to provide us with as much accurate information as possible, in complete confidentiality, to enable us to carry out the heir search effectively.
We then begin our research in the archives and registers maintained in the municipalities where the family members resided.
Our mission
The mission of a probate genealogist is to find the beneficiaries of an estate in accordance with the rules of succession defined by the applicable inheritance laws. Heir tracing can take several months, depending on the complexity and size of the case. International Genealogy Services Belgium is committed to:
- respecting deadlines whenever possible
- using the necessary means to conduct accurate genealogical research
- keeping our client regularly informed about the progress of the search
At the end of the research, you will receive a final report containing:
- a research timeline with an overview of the research sources, etc.
- digital records, archival materials, and civil status certificates
- a research report with the complete contact information of all heirs, accompanied by a family tree