The question of mental capacity is an important consideration in will-making and can be a contentious issue. How often do we hear family members arguing over a loved-one’s ‘state-of-mind’ and ‘what Grandad would have wanted’ when sadly, his memory and ability to make reasonable decisions comes into question. This may be due simply to age, […]
What a Will Kit doesn’t do
There are various ‘Will Kits’ available on-line – most are cheap or ‘free’ and all you need to do is download them and fill in the blanks. Many websites boast that you can prepare your Will ‘without spending hundreds of dollars on legal fees’. Simple, right? Not really. Generating an on-line Will may seem easy, […]
Is a testamentary trust right for you?
One of the most loving things that you can do for your family is to make plans for what happens after you die. This is particularly important if you have children or vulnerable adults who depend on you financially. A testamentary trust might be the right tool to help you look after those you love. […]
How to make the executors job easier
Undertaking the role of the executor of a will can be difficult, especially when dealing with the loss of a loved one. The executor has six months (Supreme Court Rules 1970, Part 78, Rule 16) from the date of death of the deceased to file for probate. Filing after this date requires an explanation to […]
Weird and Wacky Wills
It is estimate that over half of all Australians do not have a will, this can often lead to problems when dealing with the deceased’s estate. You should give careful consideration to your wishes when you die and who should inherit your estate. That being said, a will is often used for some weird […]
Electronic signing of legal documents during COVID-19
New South Wales has introduced temporary legislation to allow for electronic signing during the COVID-19 crises under the Electronic Transactions Amendment (COVID-19 Witnessing of Documents) Regulation 2020 by using Audio Visual Links. What is an audio visual link? An Audio Visual Link is often referred to as AVL and is simply any technology that enables […]