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How to Talk to Your Parents About Estate Planning
Most families know they should talk to their parents about estate planning. Few actually do. Here is a practical plain English guide to starting that conversation at the right moment and in the right way.

Val Antoff
2 days ago


Estate Planning Western Australia: The Perils of Dying Intestate Without a Will
A valid Will determines how your estate is dealt with after you die. Your Will can appoint a family member, trusted friend or professional to administer your estate (your executor), nominate guardians for young children, identify who will receive your assets and record your funeral and burial wishes. Without a Will, the administration of your estate could fall to somebody you would not choose, and your assets will be distributed according to a fixed legislative formula. This

Val Antoff
May 18, 2025


10 Essential Estate Planning Actions You Should Take Today
Whether you are just starting out or reviewing an existing plan, here are ten practical estate planning actions every Western Australian should take — and why they matter.

Val Antoff
May 18, 2025


Executor Duties for Deceased Estates in Western Australia
After a person dies, someone has to look after their assets and pay their debts. Even though the person is gone, their affairs must be finalised. The person responsible for doing this is usually appointed in the Will. In Western Australia, that person is called an executor. An executor is chosen by the Will-maker to carry out their wishes in managing the estate. They are responsible for administering the estate and distributing assets to beneficiaries in accordance with those

Val Antoff
May 18, 2025


Common Misconceptions About Estate Planning
Many Western Australians have misconceptions about Wills and estate planning that leave their families exposed. This article sets the record straight on the most common ones.

Val Antoff
Mar 9, 2025


Including Cryptocurrency in Your Will or Estate Plan
If you own Bitcoin, Ethereum or any other digital asset, your estate plan needs to address it. This article explains the key legal and practical considerations for Western Australian cryptocurrency holders.

Val Antoff
Mar 9, 2025


Will Contests and Estate Disputes - An Overview
Will contests and estate disputes are more common than most families expect. This article provides a plain English overview of how disputes arise in Western Australia and what can be done about them.

Val Antoff
Mar 9, 2025


Is a Testamentary Trust Right for Your Family?
A testamentary trust can protect your family's inheritance from relationship breakdown, creditors and tax. Find out whether this structure is right for your estate plan.

Val Antoff
Dec 3, 2024


Succession Arrangements for Family Businesses In Western Australia
If you own or are part of a family business in Western Australia, succession planning is one of the most important things you can do. Here is what you need to consider.

Val Antoff
Dec 3, 2024


How to Locate an Original Will in Western Australia
When someone dies, locating the original Will is one of the first and most important tasks. Here is a practical guide to finding a Will in Western Australia.

Val Antoff
Dec 3, 2024


Will Your Will Survive? Essential Questions to Protect Your Legacy
WA will planning guide helps prevent challenges under Family Provision Act. Covers claimants, family needs, assets and relationships.

Val Antoff
Nov 22, 2024


Why You Need a Valid Will: The Dangers of Writing Your Own
Think a DIY Will is good enough? Discover why homemade wills can put your family's future at risk and how legal advice protects your legacy.

Val Antoff
Oct 17, 2024


The importance of estate planning before legal capacity becomes an issue
Learn when legal capacity affects legal decisions and how to protect your loved ones' rights. Essential for families facing tough choices.

Val Antoff
Oct 17, 2024


The risks of being an executor – commissions and personal liability
Being appointed executor is an honour, but it also carries real legal responsibilities and personal risk. This article explains what executors in Western Australia need to know before they begin.

Val Antoff
Oct 17, 2024


Estate planning key considerations for young parents in Perth, appointing legal guardians
Young parents in Perth often put off estate planning, but it is one of the most important things you can do for your children. This article covers the key steps, including appointing a legal guardian.

Val Antoff
May 22, 2024


The Important Role of Estate Planning for Small Business Owners in Western Australia
Estate planning is crucial for managing one's affairs, especially for small business owners in Western Australia. While many people associate estate planning with asset distribution after death, its scope is much broader. It involves legal instruments and strategies to protect assets, minimise tax liabilities and ensure the smooth transition of business operations in case of incapacity or death. In this article, we will explore the importance of estate planning for small busi

Val Antoff
May 15, 2024


Why Should You Choose a Corporate Trustee for Your SMSF? 7 Key Reasons
Choosing between individual and corporate trustees for your SMSF is an important decision with long-term consequences. Here are seven reasons why a corporate trustee is often the better choice.

Val Antoff
May 14, 2024


Understanding the Basics of a Deed of Gift – Your Essential Guide
A deed of gift is a document that formalises the transfer of property ownership from the donor to the recipient without needing payment.

Val Antoff
May 11, 2024


Steps to Take After Receiving a Court Requisition for Probate Application
What is a probate requisition? A probate requisition is a letter from the Supreme Court of Western Australia to the applicant for a grant of probate. Most often, these letters are sent to executors who are using the Supreme Court online probate wizard. The requisition usually lists the issues with the application for a grant of probate and asks the applicant to provide additional information and documents to address the deficiencies in their application. The court's registrar

Val Antoff
Oct 30, 2023


Navigating the Maze: Advantages and Disadvantages of Family Trusts in Australia
Family trusts can offer significant tax and asset protection benefits, but they are not right for everyone. This article weighs the advantages and disadvantages for Australian families.

Val Antoff
Jul 9, 2023
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