Resolving a Multi-Million-Dollar Inheritance Dispute in Dubai
Case Study Caption
About This Case
A wealthy Emirati family faced a bitter inheritance dispute after the patriarch passed away without a clear will. The estate included multiple properties, businesses, and offshore accounts worth over $50 million. The siblings were divided, with some seeking equal distribution while others argued for a larger share based on their contributions to the family business. The dispute threatened to tear the family apart and damage their reputation in the business community.
Intestate Law Inheritance
Time Frame8 Months
LawyerAhmed Al Falahi
The eldest son claimed he deserved a larger share because he had managed the family business for over 20 years, while the youngest daughter argued that she had been excluded from decision-making and deserved equal compensation. The middle siblings were caught in the middle, unsure of how to proceed. The case was further complicated by the involvement of offshore accounts and properties in multiple jurisdictions.
Legal Strategy
Ahmed Al Falahi was brought in to mediate the dispute. He conducted a thorough review of UAE inheritance laws and Sharia principles, which govern inheritance in the absence of a will. Ahmed proposed a fair distribution plan that considered both legal requirements and the family’s unique circumstances. He also facilitated negotiations between the siblings, emphasizing the importance of preserving family harmony and avoiding a public court battle.
Ahmed worked with financial experts to value the estate accurately and ensure transparency in the distribution process. He also drafted a family agreement to prevent future disputes and ensure the smooth operation of the family business.
Our Process
Initial Consultation: Ahmed met with each sibling individually to understand their concerns and expectations.
Document Review: He reviewed all financial records, property deeds, and business documents to assess the estate’s value.
Mediation Sessions: Ahmed organized multiple mediation sessions to facilitate open communication between the siblings.
Legal Drafting: He drafted a family agreement outlining the distribution plan and future governance of the family business.
Court Approval: The agreement was submitted to the Dubai courts for formal approval.
Result
The family reached an amicable settlement, with assets distributed according to Ahmed’s proposed plan. The siblings agreed to maintain their business partnerships, and the family’s reputation remained intact. The case set a precedent for resolving complex inheritance disputes in the UAE.