What’s wrong with a Will Kit?
Think of a lawyer like a ‘Will Kit’ – but with arms and legs.
How to pass on your farm
How does an older farmer exit farming, fund their retirement and keep the family happy? The average age of a farmer in Australia is 50 years old. If you are a farmer and haven’t yet thought about your retirement and succession plan, now is the time. Handing over control of the farm in exchange for […]
How to look after your pets after you’re gone
If you want to make sure your ‘furbaby’ is looked after when you’re gone, we can advise you how to best achieve this in your estate planning.
Are you paying for your grandchildren’s school fees?
If you’re paying for your grandchildren’s education costs, then you’re not alone. But is this financial support a ‘gift’ or a ‘loan’ to your children? If this is left in any doubt, then bitter family disputes will arise. Take the time now to make sure the ground rules are clear.
The legal issues you must consider before getting married…
Deciding to get married is a big emotional decision. But it’s also a massive legal and financial decision. Asset ownership, asset protection, super, life insurance, decision making, estate planning and family financial support, all need to be carefully considered to provide a solid legal foundation for a successful life together.
Lending to family members: How to avoid the pitfalls
So you want to help a family member under financial strain? What starts out with the best intentions can soon result is family disharmony. Confusion about whether the advance is a loan or gift can quickly result in argument. The tragedy is that this is so easy to avoid if you take some simple precautions from the outset.
Getting your estate planning up-to-date. Part 3: What happens if you’re incapacitated for a period of time?
If you are incapacitated for a period of time, things won’t stand still and wait for you to recover. Someone still needs to manage your legal and financial affairs, and others will need to make personal and healthcare decisions for you. Do you have the necessary documents in place to make this happen, and avoid the need for your loved ones to apply to the Government for help? If not, read this.
How to control a family trust when you die – our free downloadable Guide
Download our comprehensive guide to controlling your family trust.
Getting your estate planning up-to-date. Part 2: Who gets what?
In this article we cover the important questions you need to answer to put in place an effective Will, namely: why should you make a Will, who gets what, how do you fairly divide your assets if you are in a ‘blended family, and who you will need to involve in your estate plan? Time to act!
Getting your estate planning up-to-date. Part 1: Ownership of Assets
One of the reasons you accumulate assets and savings is to ensure your loved ones are adequately looked after when you die. Your accountant is likely to have put in place strategies to save you tax and protect your assets. But without proper planning, this can mean that your assets don’t end up in the hands of the people you intend. FInd out more.