We regularly advise clients in relation to preparation of their Wills, Powers of Attorney and Enduring Guardianships.
Probate – if a deceased person has left a valid Will, then an application to the Supreme Court for a grant of Probate is usually required (with some exceptions for modest estates). We are experienced in preparing applications for probate, including executor’s affidavits and schedules of assets and liabilities. Once probate has been granted, we assist the executor to manage the administration of the estate including gathering in assets; obtaining income tax assessments for the estate where necessary; and distributing the gifts in accordance with the Will.
Letters of Administration – if a person dies without leaving a Will, we can advise you on how to make an application to the Supreme Court for Letters of Administration; and whether you are the appropriate person to make that application. We prepare the application for you, including affidavits and schedules of assets and liabilities. Once a grant of Letters of Administration is made, we assist the administrator to manage the administration of the estate including gathering in the assets, obtaining income tax assessments for the estate where necessary, and then distributing the gifts in accordance with the law.
Estate Disputes – relatives and friends of the deceased are sometimes aggrieved about how they have been dealt with in the Will. We are experienced in acting for executors in defending the Will. We also advise aggrieved relatives and friends of the Deceased who wish to make an application in the Supreme Court to challenge the Will. We will provide you with advice on the merits of your case, prepare the court documents and also attend pre-Hearing mediation with you in an effort to resolve the matter amicably if possible.
Call us to make an appointment on (02) 9199 0666.