The common misconception that younger people don't have any assets of worth can lead them to believe they don't need a will. Sadly, that misconception can cause additional hardship for their families should the worst occur.
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Writing your own will, either from scratch, by modifying another or through a will kit has the serious risk that you do not get the result you are after. In this article Russell shares from his experience some of the problems that can arise.
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Most people put off making a will, because they are waiting for an event which will prompt them to complete the task. Entering into a relationship would be a good time to make a will. Ending a relationship is absolutely the best time to make a new will or update an existing will.
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Financial and Guardianship Powers of Attorney will change on 1 September 2015 with the introduction of new legislation. Some of the changes include different options for specifying the number of attorneys required to act and the provision for continuing gifts.
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With online purchases of music, movies and books you may not own what you think you own. And that means you won't be able to pass it on after you die.
Read MoreOur clients are increasingly experiencing the impact of the Internet on their legal matters. Understanding the Law means keeping up to date with the latest developments both in technology and the law.
We asked each of our lawyers to write a piece describing how the Internet effects their clients. This series is titled Internet and the Law.
Read MoreAustralians' reputation of helping out their mates sadly does not translate to charitable gifts in their wills where the focus is understandably on family. Russell Robertson describes what makes a good charitable gift.
Read MoreThough it can be tempting to leave a child out of a will because of some past wrong, the process of creating a new will can provide the catalyst for reconciliation.
Read MoreFrequently I am preparing Wills for people who have a number of children spread over a relatively wide period of time. Usually the desire to leave the assets equally between the children seems straight forward and appropriate. But is it?
Read MoreWho hasn't seen a movie where the plot hinges on how old someone has to be before they come into their inheritance? In real life selecting the appropriate age when you create your will requires consideration of several factors beyond what you see in the movies.
Read MoreA normal Will provides a gift to a beneficiary without any conditions. However, a Discretionary Testamentary Trust (“DTT”) has the effect of supercharging the gift. Tax, protection from creditors and relationship breakdowns, and savings, all enter into your decision.
Read MoreHaving prepared more than 5,000 wills over 30 years; Russell Robertson has been able to resolve plans for just about every situation that could possibly arise. For even the most complex situation, there is a solution. Many clients are often surprised that after a detailed conversation, a workable solution could be agreed upon relatively quickly. If you go to a specialist Doctor, you would expect that they would be able to diagnose and treat your condition, no matter how unusual. A specialist lawyer is no different. This post lists the key information you should bring with you to a meeting with your lawyer.
Read MoreThis interesting Supreme Court judgment on a hospital bedside will reinforced the vital need that you make sure you get your will done right.
Read MoreWhen most people need us it's usually for something they would describe as "big" and that can make meeting a lawyer intimidating. At OFRM we take specific care to ensure your visit with us is comfortable.
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Planning for serious, life-threatening illness is not something anyone likes to do. When the time comes, being prepared with an Medical Enduring Power of Attorney can make things easier.
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