When a person passes away, their Estate (if they have a Will) will pass in accordance with that Will. A Will however, is not always challenge-proof. The law stipulates the people who are eligible to challenge your Estate if “adequate provision” has not been left to them.
There was a time in the last few weeks where it appeared that things were changing almost by the minute. From the statistics, to the recommendations, all appeared to happen in the blink of an eye. And generally, that’s how quickly significant events occur.
On the 22 April 2020, the Electronic Transactions Amendment (COVID019 Witnessing of Documents) Regulation 2020 was published. In a media release regarding the Amendment, the Attorney General Mark Speakman confirmed that this will allow for the temporary use of video conferencing technology including Zoom, Skype and Facetime to witness important legal documents.
Marsdens Law Group has been committed to servicing the legal needs of the Macarthur community for more than 50 years. As we have always done, Marsdens is committed to continuing this service during the COVID-19 health crisis.
Marsdens Law Group has been committed to servicing the legal needs of the Macarthur community for more than 50 years. As we have always done, Marsdens is committed to continuing this service during the COVID-19 health crisis.
A recent case from the New South Wales Court of Appeal detailed how two sisters lost their fight in Court to prove that their father was suffering from insane delusions when he created a new Will. The delusions included that his daughters were running or working in a brothel, someone had kidnapped his wife and one of his daughters was possessed by demons.
Being appointed as an Executor of an Estate may appear an overwhelming task initially. Paired with losing a loved one, comes what seems an insurmountable amount of paperwork and the important task of dealing with your loved ones Estate.
When people consider getting their affairs in order, the first thing that springs to mind is having a Will prepared. While having a Will is extremely important, a Will only comes into effect once someone passes away and does not protect you while you are living.
The life of Australia’s longest serving Prime Minister, Bob Hawke told an interesting story. As it would appear, the story may continue beyond his death, with his youngest daughter, Rosslyn Dillon reportedly seeking legal advice in relation to challenging Hawke’s Estate.
David Hogan, Associate in our Wills & Estate Planning Department, attended COTA NSW City office last Thursday for their 2019 Wills Day to meet with client to review and sign Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Appointment of Enduring Guardian documents.
