International jurisdiction depends on the claim: Bulgarian property rights, contractual payments and succession do not automatically share one regime.
The presence of Bulgarian property does not mean every related dispute must be heard in Bulgaria. First identify the precise relief sought and the international instrument governing jurisdiction.
Within Regulation 1215/2012’s scope, Article 24 gives exclusive jurisdiction to the courts where the land is located for proceedings concerning rights in rem over immovable property. A foreign-court clause cannot displace that exclusive jurisdiction. The actual subject of the claim matters, not simply the mention of a notarial deed.
The Regulation also places tenancies within the special rule, but permits a limited exception for temporary private use lasting no more than six consecutive months where its tenant and domicile conditions are met. The particular tenancy must therefore be examined.
A demand for repayment or contractual damages may follow general or special contractual jurisdiction rather than automatically falling within Article 24. Check the defendant’s domicile, place of performance, any valid court agreement and applicable consumer rules.
Succession, matrimonial property and insolvency are excluded from this Regulation and require separate examination. International jurisdiction is also distinct from the substantive law governing the dispute. Before filing, assemble contracts, addresses, the precise claim and information about existing proceedings to avoid an inadmissible case and unnecessary costs.
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This article is for general information only. It does not constitute or replace individual legal advice.