An estate where none or not all of the beneficiaries are known? It happens frequently. It may be that there is no direct family or that the family members have not been in contact with each for a long period of time, for instance because the family member emigrated many years ago. If not all beneficiaries are known and if there is no executor then we call this a vacant estate. A vacant estate is, as it were, locked.

The appointment by the court of a temporary administrator or liquidator clears the road to pick up the settlement of the estate. Both persons are entitled to administer the bank accounts, to start the research into the beneficiaries, and to pay the debts of the estate.

Janus Notarieel Juristen is frequently appointed by the court as a temporary administrator or liquidator in vacant estates. Outstanding debts are paid, (inter-)national research into beneficiaries is conducted resulting in the tracing of beneficiaries, and the required tax returns are filed. In short: the estate is settled.