I am a beneficiary under a Will. What can I expect?
After the death of a family member, it usually takes a bit longer than a beneficiary would like to receive their inheritance under a Will. Why is this and what can you do about it? On the death of the Will maker, the person appointed as the executor of their Will becomes responsible for ensuring […]
Can my stepchildren challenge my Will?
In all states and territories of Australia, stepchildren either have an explicit or conditional right to challenge their stepparent’s Will. If you think there is a risk that your stepchild(ren) may make a family provision claim, this blog will answer some of your questions.
Help! I am the Executor of a Will
When someone dies there are things that must be done immediately and things that may take 12 or more months to action and resolve. Who does these ‘things’ and what are they? In many cases it is the executor of the deceased’s Will who must act. Usually, the executor is a family member or members, a friend, a professional or a combination of the above. The Will maker has chosen you because you have the skills and experience to occupy that role, have a vested interest in administering the estate or you are a trusted relative or friend.
Can I get a copy of someone’s Will?
Generally speaking, the contents of a Will are private and are not able to be disclosed without the testator’s authority until after they have died. However, there are some circumstances where you might be able to get a copy of Will without waiting for it to be admitted to probate.
How does an executor resign?
If you’ve been named as an executor in someone’s Will but don’t want to act, here’s what you need to do.
Why do I need more than one Executor for my Will?
Do you have more than one executor named in your estate planning documents? If you don’t, then you need to read on.
Executors and the Bankrupt Beneficiary
Beware the bankrupt beneficiary
Will Makers and the Bankrupt Beneficiary
The protest rallies around every major city in the last two years suggests many people are struggling financially, so what can you do if you have a bankrupt beneficiary?
Andrew Andreyev chats with Tony Catt about family succession and conflict
If you are a family advisor or you are personally thinking about how you can keep family harmony in check when the next generation of your family steps up to the plate, this episode is a must-listen for you.
Do I need to carry out a ‘reading of the Will’?
We are often asked by clients who are appointed as an executor of an Estate whether they need to gather the family around and ‘read the Will’ out loud. While this is often the kick off point for an Agatha Christie murder mystery, this formality is not required in Australia. So, how do you find […]