Wills
The team at Bastian Hancock Stynes Lawyers understands that the prospect of preparing a Will can be daunting and for some, confronting. We are here to make that process easy for you. Our team of experienced practitioners take the time to sit with you and properly understand your wishes for your estate. Noting that estate law is overwhelmingly litigated, we provide advice to you at the beginning of the process, the aim being to avoid future litigation amongst your family members, which ultimately dwindles down estate assets.
We appreciate that whilst some people may only require a ‘standard’ Will, it may be your preference to set up a testamentary trust (for numerous reasons, which can include for tax planning, for the benefit for grandchildren).
Powers of Attorney/Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker
When making your Will, our team strongly encourages you to also prepare a Power of Attorney and Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker. These documents are often overlooked, and in the unlikely event that you are rendered incapacitated, this can lead to a lot of uncertainty and family disputes (which should be avoided at all costs). As with Wills, our team takes an empathetic approach, and spends the time to sit with you and take thorough instructions as to your wishes.
Bastian Hancock Stynes Lawyers offers fixed prices for the preparation of Wills, Powers of Attorney and Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker documents, so please feel free to contact our friendly team and enquire within.
Probate/Administration of Estates
The passing of a loved one is an incredibly difficult and stressful time. Our team is here to assist you during this time, and make the administration of your loved one’s estate as streamlined as possible for you.
Whether it be applying for a Grant of Probate, a Grant of Letters of Administration, or a Grant of Letters of Administration with a Will Annexed, our experienced team is here to assist. We provide advice as to the steps involved in each process, the documents required for same and the general administration of an estate.
We will work with you through each step in the administration process right up until the finalisation of the estate. We appreciate that whilst some estates are straightforward, the administration of complex estates can sometimes take many months – and we will be with you every step of the way.
Disputed Estates
Unfortunately, it is too often the case that we see disputes arise in relation to a deceased estate. These disputes can vary from disputes between the beneficiaries of an estate, to a potential claim brought by someone not named in the Will, to the improper administration of an estate by an Executor/Executrix.
Our team is experienced in acting for parties in different capacities (beneficiaries, potential beneficiaries, Executors/Administrators) and can provide tailored advice to suit your needs. Whilst estate disputes can be lengthy and often lead to litigation, we aim to provide our clients with thorough yet cost effective legal services in order to positively (and reasonably) resolve the dispute at hand.
