A Will is a legally binding document that outlines how a person’s assets and affairs will be handled after their death. Along with appointing an executor of a Will, it specifies the distribution of property, money, and other possessions among beneficiaries. Additionally, a Will can appoint guardians for minor children, detail funeral arrangements, and establish trusts. Creating a Will ensures that your wishes are respected and that your loved ones are taken care of according to your instructions. Without a Will, the distribution of your estate will be determined by SA state laws, which may not align with your preferences.
If you are wondering how to make a Will in South Australia and want to make sure you do it properly and avoid the needless costs that mistakes in Wills can often cause after death, contact our Wills and Estates lawyers. Lawyers and Wills are inextricably linked for a reason.
Our experienced Will lawyers provide comprehensive services to ensure your estate planning is thorough and legally sound. Consulting lawyers for Wills is always advised. We assist with:
Don’t leave your future to chance. Schedule a consultation with our expert Will lawyers today to show you how to make a Will in South Australia and to ensure your estate planning is in order and your loved ones are protected. Call us on 8366 7900 or complete an online form and we will be in touch. Our Estate and Will lawyers are Adelaide and Mount Gambier based, with appointments also available in Glenelg, Victor Harbor, Gilles Plains and Mount Barker.
So if you wish to speak to an experienced lawyer who can deliver experienced and personalised Wills and Estate services, then contact us at: 08 8366 7900 or via the online form.
The cost of a Will in South Australia can vary depending on the complexity of your estate and the services required. Basic Wills may start from a few hundred dollars, while more complex arrangements may be higher.
The cost of making a Will with a lawyer will also vary depending on the complexity of your family situation, your assets and liabilities and how they are structured, and what you want to happen after your death.
Attorneys that do Wills in movies often allow their clients to include wild ideas and conditions that must be met before an inheritance is given to a beneficiary, such as a requirement that a beneficiary be married. In reality, getting creative with your Will would be very expensive to draft, and even more expensive when it comes to administering your estate, particularly if your beneficiaries dispute the Will.
Anyone over the age of 18 and of sound mind can make a will in South Australia. Exceptions may apply for minors in certain circumstances, such as if they are married.
If you die without a Will, your estate will be distributed according to the intestacy laws of South Australia. This may result in your assets being distributed in a way that you did not intend.
While it is possible to write your own Will, using a lawyer ensures that your Will is legally valid and comprehensive, reducing the risk of challenges and ensuring your wishes are clearly communicated.
Your Will should include instructions for the distribution of your assets, the appointment of executors to deal with your estate, guardianship of minor children, and any specific funeral arrangements or trusts you wish to establish.
Yes, you can change or revoke your Will at any time, as long as you are of sound mind. It is important to review and update your Will regularly to reflect changes in your circumstances.
An executor is responsible for managing your estate, paying any debts and taxes, and distributing your assets according to your Will. Your executor is not required to take part in preparing your Will though if you choose to appoint a company as your executor, that company may assist you to prepare it. Choosing a trustworthy and capable executor is crucial.
To ensure your Will is legally valid, it must be in writing, signed by you and witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries. Consulting a lawyer can help ensure all legal requirements are met.
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