It is crucial that your Will and Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) accurately reflects your present wishes. If you do not have a Will or EPA, it is important that you take steps to have one prepared. Our office can assist in the preparation of your Will and EPA.

Separation itself does not revoke the effect of a Will and the Rules of Intestacy, that is, what happens if someone passes away without having made a Will, rarely gives effect to that person’s true wishes. Not having a Will that reflects your current wishes may also lead to disputes between members of your family, following your passing.

Having a valid Will is particularly crucial in circumstances where you have a dependent or dependents and, even if you do not own substantial assets, it is important to have a Will. For example, your estate may be entitled to receive the proceeds from your life insurance policy or your superannuation fund upon your passing and it is important that these funds are distributed in accordance with your own personal wishes.

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) records who you personally choose to make health and/or financial decisions on your behalf, in the event that something happens to you. For example, if you have an accident and are in a coma, you would want to feel secure that you have chosen a particular person or persons to make the appropriate financial and/or health decisions on your behalf. This is an important choice which only you should make for the benefit of your family.