Pollock Ingram Solicitors
WILLS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST
- Trusted Local Firm: A well-established, locally owned and operated business with deep community ties.
- Property & Estate Law: Focused on conveyancing, retirement village advice, leasing, and estate planning.
- Personalised, Client-Focused Service: Known clear communication, adaptability, and reasonable fees.
SUNSHINE COAST WILLS & ESTATES
Planning for the future is crucial when it comes to managing your estate. At Pollock Ingram Solicitors in Caloundra, we provide comprehensive will and estate services to individuals across the Sunshine Coast. Our team can assist with creating a legally binding will that clearly outlines your wishes regarding asset distribution. In addition, we offer support with estate administration and probate services.
Our goal is to help clients plan for the future with clear, reliable legal guidance. For those who need to administer an estate, we provide support with the entire process, from managing assets to distributing them to beneficiaries. With over 50 years of experience, we aim to provide straightforward legal services.
For assistance with your will or estate planning, contact us today at
07 5491 1444.
what we can provide
We offer an array of services relating to wills and estates:
- Will Drafting: We assist with creating valid and legally binding wills, outlining how your assets will be distributed after your passing.
- Estate Administration: Our team helps manage the administration of estates, including applying for probate and distributing assets in line with the will.
- Powers of Attorney: We provide assistance in setting up powers of attorney to appoint someone to manage your affairs should you become unable to do so.
- Trust Creation: We assist in creating trusts as part of your estate plan, outlining how assets will be managed for beneficiaries.
- Deceased Estate Services: We guide clients through the legal process of administering a deceased estate, including obtaining probate and distributing assets to beneficiaries.
Wills & Enduring Power of Attorney
Taking the time to prepare and update your Wills and Enduring Power of Attorney documents helps ensure your affairs are in order. A basic Will and Enduring Power of Attorney may be important documents to have in place, depending on your circumstances.
- Will – Appoints an executor of your estate and states who will be the beneficiaries of your estate.
- Enduring Power of Attorney – Appoints an attorney to act on your behalf in the event that you are mentally or physically incapacitated.
- Power of Attorney – Appoints an attorney to act on your or your company’s behalf, generally for financial matters.
Estate administration services
In the event of a loved one passing, we provide guidance on the estate administration process and support with managing responsibilities as the executor of the estate.
Our services include information on administrative procedures and potential considerations associated with the role of executor, as well as assistance with preparing and lodging Supreme Court applications for Probate, advertising, notifying beneficiaries, and overseeing the distribution process through our trust account.
For all estates enquiries, please contact us at
estates@pollockingram.com
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between a will and an estate?
A will is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets will be distributed after their death. It details who will inherit specific property, money, and other assets, and may also include instructions for guardianship of minor children. An estate refers to all of a person’s assets, including property, money, and personal belongings, as well as any debts or liabilities they may have. Estate administration involves managing and distributing the estate according to the will or, if no will exists, in line with the laws of intestacy.
How can I make a will, and what should it include?
To make a will, a person must be of sound mind and over the legal age, typically 18 or older. A will should include details about how assets are to be distributed, who will manage the estate (the executor), and any specific instructions regarding guardianship if there are minor children. It’s important to list beneficiaries clearly and state any specific gifts or bequests. A solicitor can provide guidance on drafting a will that meets legal requirements and accurately reflects the individual’s intentions.
What happens if someone dies without a will?
If someone dies without a will, they are considered to have died "intestate." In this case, the distribution of the estate is governed by the laws of intestacy, which vary depending on the jurisdiction. Typically, the estate will be distributed among surviving family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, according to a set order. If no family members can be located, the estate may be passed to the state. It is often beneficial to have a will in place to ensure that assets are distributed according to personal wishes rather than statutory rules.
What should I consider when making a will?
When making a will, consider who will be your executor, how your assets will be distributed, and any provisions for dependants. Ensure it is legally valid and reflects your wishes. Seeking legal advice can help avoid disputes and ensure your estate is managed correctly.