Wills and estates

How we help

Wills, including testamentary trusts
Enduring powers of attorney and advance health directives
Estate administration and probate
Letters of administration when there is no will
Contesting a will, or defending one

How it works

A free first call about your family, your assets and what you want to happen.
We prepare a draft in plain English and walk you through it line by line.
You sign at our office, or we arrange signing and witnesses somewhere that suits you.
We keep your original will in safe custody at no charge.

What it costs

Wills and enduring powers of attorney are fixed fee, quoted before you start. For estate administration we give you a written estimate, and fees are usually paid from the estate rather than by the family.

Time limits to know

If you believe a will doesn't provide properly for you, you generally need to give the executor written notice of your claim within six months of the death.
The claim generally has to be filed in the Supreme Court of Queensland within nine months of the death. After that you need the court's permission.

General information only, not legal advice. Deadlines depend on your circumstances, so talk to us early.

Common questions

What happens if someone dies without a will?

Their estate passes under a formula set by Queensland law, which may not match what they would have wanted. Someone has to apply to the Supreme Court to be appointed administrator. We can do that for you.

How often should I update my will?

Whenever something big changes: marriage, separation, divorce, a new child or grandchild, or buying or selling a major asset. In Queensland, marriage and divorce can change the effect of an existing will.

Do I need an enduring power of attorney too?

We recommend one. It lets someone you trust make financial and personal decisions if you lose capacity. Without one, your family may need to apply to QCAT to be appointed.