Almost 50 per cent of Australian’s die without a valid will. It’s a staggering - and sobering - statistic.

With a significant proportion of Baby Boomers now well into retirement phase, preparation of a well-structured estate plan will help ensure a seamless transfer of wealth to the next generation and beyond.

While writing a will is a central part of an overall estate plan, other aspects requiring consideration include the bequeathing of assets to heirs, the settlement of taxes and debts, and guardianship of underage children.

Estate planning can be an emotional and sensitive undertaking, requiring strong interpersonal skills on the part of professionals advising on such matters.

How we help clients

HLB Mann Judd considers estate planning to be an integral part of an overall wealth strategy. A significant part of the process is ensuring that upon death, your wealth is passed on to the people of your choosing in an appropriate, tax effective and timely manner.

Our team of wealth management advisers and dedicated estate planners are highly skilled and experienced in both the technical and interpersonal aspects of estate planning, and advise a range of private clients, many of which have complex circumstances and needs.

We also regard each and every plan as unique, and gain an intimate understanding of each client and their family prior to the development of an estate plan. Additionally, our advisers approach estate planning in a logical, rational manner and understand transparency and diplomacy are required at pivotal times of the process.

Importantly, estate planning is not a set-and-forget exercise. A will, for example, will often require updating, as the value of a person’s estate can change over time. Our teams view the relationship with our clients as a long-term partnership, working alongside families to maximise wealth and quality of life now and well into the future.

We offer a number of services as part of the estate planning offering, including:

 

  • Estate planning
  • Drafting of wills and other testamentary documents
  • Trust law
  • Intergenerational wealth transfer
  • Probate
  • Estate administration
  • Estate disputes.

Estate administration services

We also work alongside the executors of your estate who seek our assistance with the preparation of financial statements, probate documentation, collection of assets and paying debts.

We can also assist with investments, maintenance of records and distributions in accordance with your will. By doing so, you have certainty that the transfer of assets to your beneficiaries will be executed effectively and professionally.

There is no better time to prepare an estate plan than now. As with all areas of wealth management, preparation is key, and planning for every eventuality will go a long way in making sure your loved ones are financially secure after your passing.

It can involve difficult conversations, but they nonetheless need to be had – sooner rather than later. For a confidential conversation about where and how to start your estate planning, contact our team.

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