Succession Planning

We strongly advise all our Clients to make a Will. If you want to ensure that certain assets are dealt with in a specific manner, it is important to ensure you have created a valid Will so that the assets will be dealt with according to your wishes and not according to the Rules of Intestacy.

A Will only becomes effective on death. Until then, a Will can be amended or revoked provided the testator has full testamentary capacity. We take detailed instructions to ensure the Will we draft for you is tailored to meet your wishes. In time, if you wish to review, revoke or amend your Will, we can assist you.

We can advise you as to the tax implications for the beneficiaries who will receive an inheritance from you and we will ensure that your Will is drafted in the most tax efficient manner possible taking your wishes into account at all times.

Once your Will is finalised, we store your Will safely for you.

A situation can arise where you are no longer able to look after your own affairs due to mental infirmity. An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) allows you to appoint an attorney or multiple attorneys who will be responsible for looking after you and your affairs should you become too unwell to do so.

An EPA is not a substitute for a Will but it does provide protection in the event that you were no longer able to look after your own affairs during your lifetime.

We can advise you as to the process and implications of an EPA and if it is appropriate for you. Once executed, we store the EPA safely.

It may be necessary to appoint a legal guardian to care for a minor or a vulnerable person who is unable to take care of themselves. In order to support and maintain a minor or vulnerable person, it may be advisable to create a trust to ensure there are sufficient assets available for the support and maintenance of that person. These trusts and the appointment of a legal guardian can be incorporated into your Will or prepared separately.

Inheritances and trusts often give rise to tax liabilities. We can advise you in relation to the likely tax implications that may arise on foot of your Will or trust. We will advise you so that you can proceed in the most tax efficient manner to ensure the maximum benefit vests in your beneficiaries.