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 […]
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?
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 […]
How long does it take to get a grant of probate in South Australia?

If you are an executor tasked with obtaining a grant of probate, feeling overwhelmed and confused while attempting to navigate this process without assistance is not uncommon.
You may be wondering when you will be able to distribute inheritances to beneficiaries. This article sets out what you should expect in terms of timing to prepare an application for and receive a grant of probate, as well as how to avoid unnecessary delays.
How long does it take to get a grant of probate in New South Wales?

Dealing with the death of a loved one is a difficult enough experience without having to navigate the complexities and legal formalities of obtaining a grant of probate from the New South Wales Supreme Court.
If you are an executor tasked with obtaining a grant of probate, feeling overwhelmed and confused while attempting to navigate this process without assistance is common.