Will and Estate Lawyers
At Shore Lawyers, we specialise in a wide range of will and estate services that cater to the legal needs of individuals and families. Our areas of expertise include probate, letter of administration, wills, trusts, estate planning, and powers of attorney. We understand that dealing with matters involving bereavement and death can be emotionally challenging, which is why we approach each case with empathy and sensitivity.
Estate Litigation
If you’re facing estate litigation, it can be an incredibly stressful and intimidating process. It’s important to remember that the goal of any lawsuit is to ensure fair resolution for all parties involved. Estate disputes are no different; they typically arise when a will or trust fails to address certain issues adequately, causing confusion over how assets should be distributed among family members and other stakeholders in the deceased person’s estate.
Estate litigants may include beneficiaries under wills or trusts; heirs at law who have been left out by an improperly executed will; creditors seeking payment from estates before distribution among named beneficiaries takes place; former spouses making property division claims arising from divorce proceedings prior to death; adult children challenging their parents’ judgment on end-of-life decisions involving care for them during incapacity due to illness or advanced age and much more.
Our team of will and estate lawyers are experienced in all matters relating to estate litigation and approach all situation with sensitivity and care.
Wills and Legal Matters
Our team of experienced solicitors recognises the importance of having a well-drafted Will that is regularly updated. In the absence of competent legal assistance when preparing a will, there is a risk of matters ending up in court, which can result in costly family court battles and unnecessary strain on surviving relatives.
As experienced litigators, we have seen the issues that are often contested in courts over Wills (including the use of DIY Will Kits), and we have the expertise to navigate these pitfalls. We carefully assess each individual’s circumstances and pay due regard to the current position of courts regarding certain matters prior to drafting a Will.
In situations where elderly or disabled individuals need more dedicated help, we can also come to your residence or another suitable location. If required, we can engage with your doctor to ensure that proper documentation is prepared.
Everyone should have a properly prepared Will, and our experience ensures that your initial Will is soundly prepared.
Probate Law
Obtaining a grant of probate can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is also an important one. A grant of probate confirms the executor’s right to administer the estate of someone who has passed away. This document helps settle any outstanding debts or taxes that may have been left behind, as well as ensuring all assets are distributed according to their wishes in their last will and testament. The legal procedures involved with obtaining this vital document require attention to detail and patience; however, investing your energy into attaining a successful outcome can make things easier for those grieving after losing a loved one – giving them comfort and knowing they’ll receive what was intended for them.
We are open to some of the fees being paid out of the Estate at the end of the matter should your circumstances be such that preclude you from proceeding otherwise.
Enduring Power of Attorney
Enduring powers of attorney are created with the assurance that they will stay in effect even if you become mentally incapacitated or otherwise unable to make decisions on your own behalf. This type of legal document gives you peace-of-mind knowing that someone trustworthy and reliable (like a family member) can take care of matters such as managing finances, property transactions and medical decision making should something happen down the road. It’s important for everyone, young or old to consider appointing an enduring power so their wishes continue when unexpected circumstances arise.
With careful consideration over who would be most suitable, choosing this option puts control back into your hands.
Enduring Guardianship
Enduring Guardianship provides for an appointment of a person as an Enduring Guardian to make lifestyle, health and medical decisions for you when you are not capable of doing this for yourself. Your Enduring Guardian may make decisions such as where you live, what services are provided to you at home and what medical treatment you receive. We provide Enduring Guardianship for our clients. Speak to us regarding this service at the time of drafting or updating your Will.
Trusts and Tax Planning
We trust that none of our clients wish for the legal default rules to apply to the way their Estate is distributed after their death.
By planning during your lifetime and setting up a trust, you can often achieve a tax saving and preserve assets, whether for vulnerable beneficiaries, for future generations or otherwise. We can guide you through the options available.
Estate planning is vital if your holdings are complex. We provide expertise in structuring so as to enable the best outcome based on size and complexity of the estate.
Effective estate planning and a Will that reflects your personal circumstances and wishes gives you control over the distribution of your assets and liabilities during your lifetime and thereafter.
Please feel free to Contact Shore Lawyers to arrange for your initial consultation.