by Erika Hanrahan | Sep 15, 2026 | Estate Planning, Insights, News, Probate
When someone dies, their family may be left with questions about outstanding loans, credit cards, mortgages and other financial obligations. One of the most common concerns is whether those debts pass to their spouse, children or other beneficiaries. In most cases,...
by Erika Hanrahan | Sep 8, 2026 | Estate Planning, Insights
A Will made a decade ago, for a life that’s changed substantially since, can end up doing more harm than having no will at all, because it looks current, even when the law itself has already moved it aside. Marriage Can Revoke Your Will Under the Succession Act...
by Sarah Lamb | Jul 29, 2026 | Client focus, Cost of a Will, Estate Planning, Insights, Personal, Wills
In short: if you die without a will in NSW (known as dying “intestate”), your estate is divided by a fixed legal formula under the Succession Act 2006 — which may not reflect your wishes. A will lets you decide who inherits, who raises your children, and...
by Sarah Lamb | Jul 22, 2026 | Client focus, Cost of a Will, Estate Planning, Insights, Personal, Wills
In short: we charge a fixed fee for a straightforward will, while a will with a testamentary trust or more complex family, business or superannuation needs costs more. At Southern Waters Legal, we quote your fixed fee upfront at your initial consultation — before any...
by Erika Hanrahan | Jun 4, 2026 | Business Law, Capital Gains Tax, Estate Planning, Insights
The Crackdown on Discretionary Trusts The 2026-27 Federal Budget has dropped. Buried beneath the headline economic figures are some of the most significant changes to trust and estate taxation in recent years. If your Will includes a Testamentary Trust, or your family...
by Erika Hanrahan | Mar 3, 2026 | Estate Planning, Insights, Probate
Why Probate and Estate Administration Can Create Financial Pressure A common question we hear at Southern Waters Legal is: “Can I access money from an estate before probate is finalised?” In certain circumstances, there may be options available. Before estate assets...
