Wills, Estates & Probate

Estate planning and probate matters require accurate family, asset, liability and document information so the appropriate structure or grant can be identified.

The first consultation is used to identify the immediate issue, any deadline, the available evidence and the most practical next step.

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What to prepare

Documents and information to bring

For estate planning: identification, family details, intended beneficiaries, proposed executors and any existing will or power of attorney.
A broad list of assets and liabilities, including property, bank accounts, investments, businesses, trusts, companies and significant personal assets.
Superannuation and life-insurance details, including any known beneficiary nominations.
Details of blended-family arrangements, dependants, overseas assets, vulnerable beneficiaries or anticipated disputes.
For probate: the original will and any codicils, the death certificate and the executor's contact details.
A current list of the deceased person's assets, debts and liabilities, together with contact details for beneficiaries named in the will.

Questions for the first conference

Issues the solicitor will usually need to clarify.

Is there an original valid will, and who is appointed executor?
Are assets jointly owned, held through a trust or company, or located overseas?
Are there concerns about capacity, undue influence, family provision or a competing will?

Preparation guide Read the detailed wills, estates & probate consultation checklist. Open guide →