Thinking about the future
can be tough
With the unrelenting pressures of everyday life, it’s no surprise that, for many of us, making a will is rarely a high priority. In Australia, a large proportion of people still pass away intestate – however, leaving things to chance can have difficult consequences for our loved ones should the worst happen.
The issues involved in modern estate planning can be complex, involving blended families, elaborate structuring, disabilities and concerns about capacity. Getting it right requires specialist knowledge and skill – but seeking timely advice can have a transformative effect on the lives of those closest to you.
Good estate planning secures your beneficiaries against financial worry and minimises the chances of future conflict.
We look at the bigger picture
Our estate planning team is led by Jay Clowes, a Principal of the firm and an Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates. Jay is a highly experienced practitioner in all aspects of wealth management and his team advises on everything from the simplest of wills to complex high-value estate matters.
Regularly instructed by local and state-wide individuals and families across the wealth spectrum, we provide sensitive, forward-thinking advice covering even the most technical aspects of will preparation, estate planning, powers of attorney and enduring guardianship.
With particular expertise in trusts, family companies and structuring, we work closely with specialist accountants to maximise the value of assets passed on through generations, avoiding any unnecessary exposure to taxation risks.
Stepping in when things go wrong
Sometimes, despite the best of intentions, fallouts over estate distribution can still arise. These can be some of the most difficult conflicts for families to overcome due to the highly personal nature of the issues involved. Whether you are a trustee, executor, or beneficiary, it is essential to set aside emotional factors and obtain a clear picture of your position and the options available to you.
Our estate litigation practice is run by Stephen Campbell, an Accredited Specialist in Commercial Litigation. Specialising in wills, trusts, and inheritance disputes, Stephen provides sympathetic but pragmatic advice, working to achieve a beneficial result through negotiation wherever possible. In the rare instance that litigation becomes necessary, Stephen also provides robust representation in court.
