What will you leave behind?
Estate Planning
If you were to pass away tomorrow, who would get your assets? Where would your superannuation go? And who would care for your children?
A will is one of the most important documents you’ll ever sign. It provides peace of mind that your assets will go to the people you love.
Expert will preparation
When preparing your will, we take the time to understand your circumstances.
In our office, we’ll discuss your wishes and prepare the will to your instructions. We’ll then present you with the will to check and sign under our supervision.
What should I consider when preparing a will?
Many people put off making a will, but we have a responsibility to make proper arrangements about our affairs after death. Younger couples might think that their assets are not great but they forget that their deaths may happen at the same time, leaving young children for whom proper arrangements need to be made.
A will is not simply a list of assets. It’s your chance to choose who will receive the wealth, no matter how big or small, that you’ve spent a lifetime building, and who will receive the things you’ve collected over the years.
It’s also an important way to avoid family arguments at a difficult time. You also need to consider who would look after any dependents (including vulnerable or minor beneficiaries), and protect their future.
There are other practical considerations too, such as tax advice, organ donation and funeral arrangements. You can also appoint a solicitor to execute your will, rather than placing the administrative burden on your family or friends.
Enduring powers of attorney and Appointments of enduring guardian
Not only should you consider what will happen to your assets when you die, you should consider who should manage them if you lose capacity or are physically unable to do so.
An enduring power of attorney allows you to nominate someone to manage your financial affairs for you. This is a useful document as it allows your attorney/s to manage your finances for the benefit of you and your family whilst you are still alive.
An appointment of enduring guardian allows you to nominate someone to make decisions about your health care and lifestyle should you no longer be able to.
Public notary
A public notary is able to witness signatures and certify copies of documents for use overseas. This includes personal documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, and university transcripts, or commercial documents such as company incorporations and loan agreements.