Civil Code

A relative of the decedent who, by providing medical treatment, care or other labor to the decedent free of charge, has made a special contribution to the maintenance or increase of the property of the decedent (excluding heirs, persons who have renounced the succession, and persons who have lost the right of inheritance by falling under the provisions of Article 891 or through disinheritance; hereinafter in this Article referred to as a "special contributor") may, after the opening of the succession, demand that the heirs pay a sum of money in an amount corresponding to the special contributor's contribution (hereinafter in this Article referred to as a "special contribution payment").

If an agreement is not reached between the parties concerning payment of the special contribution payment under the provisions of the preceding paragraph, or if discussions cannot be held, the special contributor may file a request with the family court for a disposition in lieu of discussions; provided, however, that this does not apply if six months have passed since the special contributor learned of the opening of the succession and of the heirs, or if one year has passed since the time the succession opened.

In the case referred to in the main clause of the preceding paragraph, the family court determines the amount of the special contribution payment in consideration of the timing, means and extent of the contribution, the value of the estate, and all other circumstances.

The amount of the special contribution payment may not exceed the amount remaining after the value of legacies is deducted from the value of the property held by the decedent at the time the succession opens.

If there are multiple heirs, each heir bears the amount obtained by multiplying the amount of the special contribution payment by that heir's share of the estate as calculated pursuant to the provisions of Articles 900 through 902.