Is a Post Office or Online DIY Will ok?
We know what you’re thinking: “You’re lawyers – of course you’re going to say that I should see a lawyer to prepare my Will”. You’re right. We think you should see a lawyer to prepare your Will.
Keep readingDoes everything automatically go to my spouse when I die?
It is a common assumption in estate planning that a spouse will automatically inherit everything. However, that is not always how the law operates.
Keep readingWhat is a testamentary guardian?
A testamentary guardian is the person who you appoint in your Will to look after your minor children if you pass away.
Keep readingLeaving a charitable bequest in your Will
Leaving a charitable bequest in your Will can be a thoughtful way to support the causes you care about, but it’s important to get it right. Here are the things you should consider.
Keep readingWhen should you update your Will?
While our goal is to put in place an estate plan that you can ‘set and forget’, it is important that you undertake a regular review of your circumstances and estate planning documents to check that your estate planning strategy remains appropriate, as changes can creep up on you.
Keep readingCan a pet be a beneficiary in your Will?
Pets are a beloved part of many Australian households. But have you thought about what would happen to your pet if you died? Under Australian law, pets are considered property. This means that pets are unable to inherit directly under a Will. However, there are still options to protect pets in your estate plan.
Keep readingTestamentary guardians
Who will look after your kids if you die? I know – as a parent just thinking about it is enough to tie your stomach in knots. Choosing a testamentary guardian for your children is one of the most signficant decisions you will make as a parent.
Keep readingTestamentary trusts – protecting your legacy
Testamentary trusts (also known as testamentary discretionary trusts) have become a cornerstone of modern estate planning, particularly for parents who want to protect their children’s inheritance, manage tax outcomes and safeguard assets from relationship breakdowns or unforeseen life events.
Keep readingJoint tenants or tenants in common?
Did you know that how your property is owned can matter more than what your Will says When buying property with someone else, the way you legally own the property often gets far less attention than its price and location. However, it can have serious consequences later on.
Keep readingDo I need an Enduring Power of Attorney?
Many people think an Enduring Power of Attorney is only something you need later in life or if you’re unwell. But if you’re over 18, it’s something you should have in place now.
Keep readingDo I need an Estate Plan?
Many people think estate planning is something you only need later in life, or that it’s just for the wealthy. But if you own a home, have super, a business, life insurance or a family, then you already have an ‘estate’, and you need to plan now.
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