Power of Appropriation and Asset Distribution in NSW Estates
26th June, 2026 When a person dies in New South Wales (NSW), their assets form their estate and are managed by an executor. The executor must distribute the estate according to the Will or, if there is no Will, the rules of intestacy. However, this process is not always as simple as selling everything and […]
Do Annuities Affect Estate Planning in NSW?
17th July, 2026 Annuities are a retirement income option that some Australians consider when planning for their future. However, many people are unsure how an annuity interacts with their Will and whether it forms part of their estate. Understanding the relationship between retirement income products and estate planning can help ensure your assets are managed […]
What Happens If All Beneficiaries Pass Away Before I Die in NSW?
10th July, 2026 A carefully prepared Will sets out who should receive your assets after your death and can reduce uncertainty for your loved ones. However, life does not always go to plan. A beneficiary may pass away before you, raising questions about how your estate will be distributed. Understanding how New South Wales(NSW) law […]
Can a Property Sale Be Stopped During an Estate Dispute in NSW?
3rd July, 2026 Property sales from deceased estates in New South Wales (NSW) can become complicated when disputes arise between beneficiaries or family members. Property sales can be stopped during an estate dispute, depending on the circumstances and court involvement. This usually occurs when there is a challenge to the Will or disagreement about how […]
How Conveyancing and Estate Planning Work Together
18th June, 2026 Buying or selling property often marks a major life change. However, many people focus only on the transaction itself. They may overlook how property decisions affect their future plans. Conveyancing and estate planning often work together. Therefore, choosing a solicitor can offer benefits beyond the property transfer. While a conveyancer focuses […]
Why an Equal Will Doesn’t Always Mean an Equal Inheritance
11th June, 2026 Many people believe that leaving their estate equally among their children will prevent disputes. However, estate matters are rarely that simple. The circumstances surrounding gifts made during a person’s lifetime can create unexpected complications. The issues highlighted in Baker v Baker [2024] NSWSC demonstrate why careful estate planning remains essential. They also show that […]
Can You Make a Will in Australia If You Are Not a Citizen?
14th April, 2026 Many people living in Australia are permanent residents or visa holders. Therefore, Australian citizenship often becomes an important consideration when preparing a valid Will. The short answer is yes. Permanent residents and non-citizens can make a valid Australian Will. Who Can Make a Valid Will? In New South Wales, citizenship […]
Property Law Case Spotlight: Muschinski v Dodds
26th March, 2026 The High Court decision in Muschinski v Dodds (1985) 160 CLR 583 is an important case in Australian property law. It helps courts decide what happens when joint property arrangements fail. The case involved a de facto couple who bought a house together. One partner contributed most of the money, while the […]
Reverse Mortgages and Estate Planning in NSW
14th March, 2026 Many Australians reach retirement with significant wealth tied up in their home. However, retirement income does not always keep up with rising living costs. As a result, some retirees explore ways to access property equity without selling their home. One option is a reverse mortgage. Understanding how reverse mortgages work is […]
Life Insurance & Estate Planning in Australia
1st March, 2026 Life insurance is often a key part of estate planning. However, many Australians wonder whether family members can contest life insurance payouts. Understanding how life insurance interacts with estate planning can prevent conflict and protect beneficiaries. How Life Insurance Payouts Work A life insurance policy usually names a primary beneficiary who receives […]