WILLS AND ESTATES

Clarity and Confidence in Wills & Estates

Matters of wills and estate administration require a delicate balance of legal precision and human understanding. At Waters & Co. Lawyers, we provide expert guidance to give you peace of mind, whether you are planning your own legacy or fulfilling the final wishes of a loved one.

For Estate Planning: We help you secure your family’s future by drafting clear, legally sound wills and establishing robust Powers of Attorney. Our focus is on creating a comprehensive plan that protects your assets and ensures your wishes are explicitly defined, preventing future complications.

For Estate Administration: If you are an executor, we offer the support you need to navigate this complex role with confidence. From applying for a Grant of Probate to distributing assets to beneficiaries, we manage the legal requirements efficiently and compassionately, allowing you to focus on your family.

Trust in our experienced team to provide the reliable advice and steadfast support you need to manage these important responsibilities.

Estate Litigation & Disputes: When disputes arise, our experienced lawyers provide strong advocacy. We handle matters including challenging the validity of a will, defending a will against a claim, and representing clients in Testator's Family Maintenance (TFM) claims.

In every case, our commitment is to provide clarity, protect your interests, and offer unwavering support every step of the way.

  • Crafting a will is a vital step for very individual, it ensures that your wishes are carried our precisely as you intend.

    A meticulously drafted will not only addresses present circumstances but also anticipates a spectrum of potential future scenarios. While the future may be unpredictable, a well-crafted will can offer peace of mind and security for you and your family.

    Why choose Waters & Co to draft your Will?

    We can ensure that your will is legally valid and properly executed, minimise the risk of it being contested or invalidated. We can also provide guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, helping you navigate complex legal considerations and make informed decisions about asset distribution.

  • Granting someone Power of Attorney over your financial and/or personal matters is a significant decision that requires careful consideration.

    At Waters & Co, we recognise the importance of this appointment and can assist you in drafting a comprehensive Power of Attorney document tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

    Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and objectives, ensuring that your Power of Attorney document reflects your wishes accurately. We will guide you through the process, explaining your options and helping you make informed decisions about the scope and duration of the powers granted.

  • Ensuring your medical wishes are honored is crucial.

    At Waters & Co, we understand the importance of appointing a Medical Treatment Decision Maker and can assist you in drafting a comprehensive Medical Treatment Decision Maker document.

    Having a legally binding Medical Treatment Decision Maker in place provides peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. It ensures that your healthcare preferences are respected and followed, even if you are unable to communicate them yourself.

    Our experienced team will work closely with you to understand your wishes and preferences regarding medical treatment, ensuring they are clearly outlined in the document.

  • When an individual passes away with assets in Victoria, the responsibility of concluding the deceased's affairs typically falls upon the executor named in the will. Before an executor can proceed to manage the deceased's estate, they must first obtain probate.

    Probate involves the court's issuance of a document confirming the validity and authenticity of the will as well as the executor's appointment.

    Obtaining probate entails a series of steps, such as advertising your application online. Your submission to the Supreme Court must include the deceased's will, death certificate, asset confirmation, and an affidavit. An affidavit serves as a legal document demonstrating to the court that the executor will effectively and lawfully manage the estate.

    Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional experience, and dealing with legal matters such as probate during this time can feel overwhelming.

    At Waters & Co. Lawyers, we understand the delicate nature of these circumstances and offer compassionate support to guide you through the probate process with care and understanding.

  • Letters of administration, issued by the Court, is the official approval for an individual to manage the assets and affairs of a deceased person who passed away intestate, meaning without a will.

    Typically, it is the next of kin who applies to administer the estate. However, if there is no eligible or willing next of kin, the State Trustees may step in to fulfill this role.

Our Areas of Expertise Include

Can't Visit Us? We Can Come to You!

At Waters & Co, we understand that life can be busy and sometimes it's challenging to make it to our office. That is why we offer personalised services to meet your needs.

If you are unable to visit our office to provide instructions for your Will, our experienced team is ready to accommodate you by arranging a convenient visit to your home, workplace, or any location that suits you best.