It’s a well-known fact that Australians are living longer than ever before. In 2017, 15% of the total population were aged 65 or over, compared to 9% in 1977.
This increase in life expectancy, as well as an increase in the number of assets and income older Australians have accrued, mean that it’s more important than ever to ensure you have adequate legal protections in place to so that you and your family are protected and any wealth is passed appropriately to the next generation after your death.
Our experienced estate planning team are well positioned to give you advice on all estate planning matters. We draft and review documents such as Wills, Binding Death Benefit Nominations, Testamentary Trusts, Powers of Attorney and Advanced Care Directives. We also work with clients to administer deceased estates. We have particular expertise in administering deceased estates under the laws of intestacy (these are laws which apply when someone has not left a valid Will).
We are highly regarded for our knowledge in estate litigation and have an experienced team dedicated to providing advice and guidance on potential claims. We advise beneficiaries on whether they are entitled to make a claim against an estate for greater provision and also assist executors and other beneficiaries in defending or negotiating these claims. We have experience in helping clients to determine whether the Will maker had capacity at the time of making a Will.
Mellor Olsson can advise seniors and their families on retirement village and nursing home contracts and disputes and South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) hearings.
