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Family Office

Legacy and Succession

Passing on more than an inheritance.

A successful transition hands over understanding as well as assets. We help families prepare for that moment years before it arrives, with care for every person involved.
An early photograph of Hofwijck reflected in its pond
Hofwijck in an early photograph from the Dutch heritage archive

The path of a transition

Five stages, taken at the family's pace.

  1. I

    Understanding

    We listen to each generation separately and together, and learn what the family hopes for.

  2. II

    Preparing

    The next generation is introduced to the family's affairs gradually, with education suited to their age and interests.

  3. III

    Planning

    With your lawyers and tax advisors, we map out how and when assets and responsibilities will pass.

  4. IV

    Transferring

    We coordinate the practical steps so that the transition is orderly and nothing is overlooked.

  5. V

    Continuing

    After a transfer we stay alongside the family, helping the new generation settle into its role.

Where we help

The questions families bring to us.

  1. I

    Preparing the next generation

    Practical education in investment, governance and responsibility, and a gradual place at the table.

  2. II

    Business succession

    Whether a family business will be kept, passed on or sold, we help the family think through the options and coordinate the specialists involved.

  3. III

    Estate planning

    Working with your legal and tax advisors in each relevant country to make sure wishes are recorded clearly and structures are fit for purpose.

  4. IV

    Philanthropy

    Helping families decide what they wish to support, how to give well, and whether a foundation or a simpler arrangement suits them best.

  5. V

    Family history and collections

    Recording the family's story, archive and collections so that later generations understand what they have inherited.

A Golden Age still life of tulips, roses and irises in a vase in a stone window
Ambrosius Bosschaert the Elder, Vase of Flowers in a Window, Mauritshuis

A note on legal advice

We coordinate. Your lawyers advise.

Succession planning touches on law and taxation in every country where a family has ties. We do not provide legal or tax advice ourselves.

Our role is to bring the right advisors together, ask the questions the family may not think to ask, and make sure the plan that emerges is understood by everyone it affects.

By introduction

Begin planning while there is time to do it well.

Tell us a little about your family and what you would like to put in order. We will listen, ask a few careful questions, and tell you honestly whether we are the right office for you.

Request a Private Conversation