Calix Lawyers Wills & Estates Specialists
At Calix Lawyers, we understand that planning for the future can be emotional and complex.
Our team of experienced lawyers offers clear, insightful, and compassionate advice to help you make informed decisions about your estate. We are committed to providing a stress-free, client-focused experience that ensures your wishes are clearly documented and legally binding.
Why Is Estate Planning Important?
Estate planning is about more than just writing a will – itβs about ensuring your loved ones are protected, your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and potential legal disputes are minimised in the event of death or incapacitation.
A well-structured estate plan can also help reduce tax obligations and provide clarity for your family during a difficult time.
Our Wills & Estates Services
We offer comprehensive support for all aspects of estate planning, including:
- Drafting Wills: Ensuring your wishes are clearly articulated and legally valid.
- Enduring Powers of Attorney: Appoint someone you trust to manage financial and legal matters if you become unable to do so. In NSW, this power covers financial and property decisions, while in Queensland, it also includes personal matters such as health care.
- Enduring Guardianship and Advance Health Directive: Assign a guardian to make personal or medical decisions on your behalf. NSW allows the appointment of an enduring guardian for health and lifestyle decisions, whereas Queensland uses an Advance Health Directive for similar purposes.
- Testamentary Trusts: Establish trusts within your will to protect beneficiaries and provide tax advantages. These trusts are particularly beneficial under both NSW and Queensland law for managing assets for minors or vulnerable beneficiaries.
- Estate Planning Advice: Tailored strategies to suit your personal, financial, and family circumstances, considering state-specific legal requirements.
Wills & Estates with Calix: What to Expect
Initial Consultation
We begin with a thorough discussion to understand your circumstances, assets, and wishes.
Drafting Documents
Our team prepares clear and legally sound documents that reflect your intentions and comply with Australian State & Territory estate laws.
Review & Finalisation
We walk you through the drafted documents, making sure everything aligns with your goals and is legally enforceable in your state.
Execution
We oversee the formal signing process to ensure your documents are valid under the specific witnessing requirements of your State or Territory.
Ongoing Updates
We recommend reviewing your estate plan regularly, especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Common Questions About Wills & Estates
What happens if I die without a will?
If you pass away without a valid will in NSW or Queensland, your estate will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy in that state. These laws may not reflect your true wishes and can lead to complications for your loved ones.
When should I update my will?
You should update your will after significant life changes, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or a change in financial circumstances. In NSW and Queensland, marriage automatically revokes a will unless the will explicitly states otherwise.
Can I contest a will?
Each state and territory has its own specific provisions for contesting and challenging wills. In NSW and Queensland for example, eligible personsβsuch as spouses, children, or dependentsβcan challenge a will if they believe they have been unfairly excluded or inadequately provided for under the Succession Act 2006 (NSW) or the Succession Act 1981 (Queensland).
Speak to us to understand whether you have the ability to contest or challenge a will, or what your options are in defending a claim.
Where does Calix Lawyers provide Wills & Estates services?
We provide our Wills & Estates services nationally, across all Australian States and Territories.
Why Choose Calix Lawyers for Your Estate Planning?
At Calix Lawyers, we are committed to providing:
- Personalised advice tailored to your unique needs and state-specific legal requirements
- Clear communication without legal jargon
- Compassionate support through every stage of the process
- A dedicated team that values integrity and professionalism
Get Started With Your Estate Plan Today
Planning for the future brings peace of mind for you and security for your loved ones. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your estate planning journey with confidence. We proudly serve clients across New South Wales and Queensland