How supplementary probate proceedings work

Probate proceedings always conclude — the notary issues a ruling and the estate is divided among the heirs. But what happens if, years (sometimes even decades) later, more of the deceased's property turns up that nobody knew about during the original proceedings? That's exactly what supplementary probate proceedings are for.

When supplementary proceedings apply

Whenever, after the original probate proceedings have become final, more of the deceased's property comes to light — typically land that wasn't registered in the cadastre, or that the family simply didn't know about. The exception is when only a debt turns up — in that case, supplementary proceedings are not carried out.

Who can file the petition

A petition can be raised by the court, a notary, a state authority, or a municipality, but in practice it's most often filed by the heir who discovered the property.

What the petition must contain

1. The petitioner's identifying details — name, surname, date of birth, permanent address.
2. Precise specification of the newly discovered property — for example the cadastral area, land title number, or parcel number.
3. Proof that the property actually belonged to the deceased — for example an extract from the land title showing the deceased listed as owner.

Where to file it

With the court that handled the original probate proceedings — that is, the court corresponding to the deceased's last permanent address. If you don't know which notary or court handled the case, you can find out at the relevant district court or via the Notarial Chamber of the Slovak Republic.

What happens next

The court again appoints a notary as court commissioner. The notary verifies the documents, notifies the other heirs if any exist, and closes the matter by issuing a ruling — just as in the original proceedings.