Law
If you cannot attend probate proceedings in person, a notarially certified power of attorney allows you to appoint a trusted representative to act on your behalf. This article covers what such a document must include, which supporting documents to bring, and the key pitfalls to avoid.
Yes — and it is a perfectly common arrangement. Under Uzbek law, an heir may authorise a representative to conduct all probate proceedings before a notary by granting a notarially certified power of attorney (POA) for inheritance matters. The document must explicitly state that the representative is empowered to take actions connected with accepting the inheritance: filing applications, gathering and submitting documents, and collecting the certificate of inheritance rights. Without a clear enumeration of powers, the notary is entitled to refuse specific actions on the representative's part.
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In my practice I frequently see clients arrive with a "general" POA issued for entirely different purposes, expecting it to cover probate proceedings. This almost always creates complications. For inheritance matters, I strongly recommend drafting a dedicated POA that addresses the following:
Practising private notary of the Yunusabad district of Tashkent. Certifies transactions, powers of attorney, inheritance and family documents under the law of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
If you cannot be present in person to collect an important document — a passport, diploma, or official certificate — a notarially certified power of attorney offers a legal and reliable solution. A notary from the Yunusabad district of Tashkent walks you through everything you need to know.
| Document | General Procedure | Points to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| POA to accept the inheritance | Certified by a notary at the principal's location | Enumerate all required powers explicitly |
| POA to collect the certificate of inheritance rights | Can be combined with the acceptance POA in a single document | Confirm the authority is expressly stated |
| POA to disclaim the inheritance | Must be a separate document; requires a specific, explicit authority | Disclaimer is irrevocable — consider carefully before proceeding |
| POA to dispose of inherited assets | Separate document, issued after the certificate of inheritance rights is obtained | Requires precise description of the asset and the scope of rights |
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I recommend preparing the following package before your visit:
If the principal is located abroad, the POA may be certified at an Uzbek consulate or by a foreign notary with a subsequent apostille and certified translation. The specific legalisation procedure depends on the country involved — please verify the requirements in advance.
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A representative will no longer be able to act under a POA in the following circumstances:
From experience, I advise: if you have issued a POA and circumstances have changed, do not delay revoking it — this protects you from any unwanted actions by your representative.
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Can more than one representative be named in a single POA?
Yes, this is permissible. Specify whether they are to act jointly or independently — this determines how each of them may represent your interests.
Is it necessary to name the specific notary handling the estate?
No. It is sufficient to describe the subject of the mandate — the probate proceedings opened after a specific deceased person.
Can an heir disclaim an inheritance through a representative?
Yes, but only if the POA explicitly grants that authority. Disclaiming an inheritance is an irrevocable act, and notaries verify that the relevant power is clearly stated in the document.
Is a POA required when the heir is a minor?
Children under 14 are represented by their parents or legal guardians without a POA. From 14 to 18, the minor acts with the written consent of their legal representatives. Granting a POA to a third party in such cases follows a different procedure — please consult the notary for guidance specific to your situation.
How much does it cost to certify such a POA?
Fees are set in accordance with current legislation and are subject to periodic revision. We will advise you of the exact amount on the day of your visit to the notary's office.
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> Disclaimer. This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute individual notarial advice. Every inheritance situation has its own particular features that must be examined on a case-by-case basis.
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If you need to arrange a power of attorney for probate proceedings, or would like personalised advice on inheritance matters, please contact my notarial office in the Yunusabad district of Tashkent. I am ready to help you navigate your specific situation and prepare all necessary documents correctly from the outset.
