In these exceptionally testing and uncertain times, we have noticed a significant increase in the number of clients giving instructions to prepare a Will (or Enduring Power of Attorney) or to revise a Will in consideration of their estate planning matters.
We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the provision of estate planning advice to our clients. Ensuring that you have the appropriate estate planning structures in place can enable both taxation advantages to beneficiaries as well as providing improved asset protection/security.
Hickey Lawyers can explore your options in respect to assets that may not necessarily form part of your estate (for example, superannuation funds, insurance and trust assets) and how these can be dealt with in terms of residual control and ownership.
We strongly recommend every client has an Enduring Power of Attorney in place, granting the power for someone to make decisions on health and/or financial matters, which is extremely useful if you are unable or unwilling to make your own decisions (for example, if you are hospitalised for a period of time).
Our team of experienced estate planning lawyers are also active in the provision of services in the administration of the estate assets to designated beneficiaries, including assisting with obtaining Probate.
Our office is continuing to operate and we are able to deliver estate planning advice quickly to our clients. We also have procedures in place that allow us to take instructions and deliver our estate planning service without the requirement of having to physically attend on the client, enabling us to comply with the current social distancing regulations. This is of course a very useful process if you would rather not attend an office, or if you live over the border in New South Wales.
If you do not have a current Will or require any estate planning advice, we encourage you to contact us so you can discuss with our Estates team to discuss having a new Will or Enduring Power of Attorney prepared. We will work with you to ensure your estate planning is finalised in an efficient, cost effective and safe manner.
If you would like advice or require assistance, please contact Hickey Lawyers on (07) 5574 1000.
