Making a will is one of the most important steps in planning for the future, yet many Australians delay it, thinking they’ll do it “when they get around to it”.
Many Australians seem to wait until they have acquired significant assets or have started a family before considering making a Will. However, Wills are not just for people who own property or have lots of money. Life is unpredictable for us all and putting off your estate planning can leave your loved ones in the lurch should you pass away without a Will in place.
When you have a valid Will, you give yourself the best chance of ensuring your assets go where you want them to. Making a Will is a positive step which allows you to:
1. provide for your loved ones;
2. leave valuable or sentimental items to people, such as jewellery, artwork, antiques and property;
3. appoint a person you trust to carry out your wishes (i.e. your executor), or
4. provide any other instructions you may have, such as guardianship for children and funeral arrangements.
A Will removes the doubts and difficulties that can arise when there is no evidence of your wishes after your death. When you pass away without a Will (i.e. ‘intestate’) legislation sets out who benefits from your estate, which could be quite different to what you wanted or intended to happen on your death. Passing away without a Will can also cause considerable delays, added stress and extra costs to those you leave behind.
The best way to ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes is to make a valid Will and keep it up to date. The experienced Solicitors at McNamara Law are able to provide you with expert advice in Wills and Estate Planning to ensure security and peace of mind after your death.
If you are planning on making a Will, contact McNamara Law on 1300 258 888.
Author: Therese Wilkes, Wills and Estates Solicitor at McNamara Law
Unit 10
88 Limestone St
Ipswich 4305
Queensland
Ph: 07 3816 9555
GE Building,
Level 1, 6 Yoga Way
Springfield Central 4300
Queensland
Ph: 07 3470 3600
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