No one likes to consider the end of life or the possibility of illness, but it’s important to think about the consequences of becoming incapacitated or passing away without an Enduring Power of Attorney, Personal Directive, and Will.

One of the most crucial documents to ensure a smooth transition after death is your Last Will and Testament. It ensures that your loved ones are cared for and facilitates the easy settlement of your assets and debts with minimal disruption to those you leave behind.

An Enduring Power of Attorney and Personal Directive are vital while you are still alive. These documents appoint individuals to manage your financial and healthcare decisions according to your wishes, preventing costly applications for Guardianship or Trusteeship if you become incapacitated.

Estate Planning Services (for Death & Incapacity).

A will is the cornerstone of estate planning, offering several important benefits:

> Appoint an executor (personal representative) of your choice to manage your estate after your passing.

> Ensure appropriate guardianship and trusteeship for your children.

> Specify how your assets should be distributed and to whom.

> Outline your wishes for the handling of your remains and the arrangements for your funeral.

> Grant authority to individuals to manage your online and social media accounts, if desired.

> Provide instructions for the care of your pets.

Without a will, the distribution of your estate will follow statutory procedures and default priorities for asset distribution, appointment of a personal representative, and child guardianship. By preparing a will, you ensure that these crucial decisions and appointments are made according to your preferences, providing for your loved ones in the way you intend.

Enduring Powers of Attorney & Personal Directives.

While a will addresses planning for after death, the Enduring Power of Attorney and Personal Directive are essential for outlining your wishes in the event of mental or physical incapacity.

Often overlooked, these documents are crucial for ensuring that your assets are managed according to your preferences and that you receive proper care during periods of incapacity.

With an Enduring Power of Attorney, you can:

> Appoint someone to handle your legal and financial matters if you become incapacitated.

> Provide detailed instructions on how you want your assets managed.

> Set limitations on the authority granted to your attorney.

A Personal Directive allows you to:

> Designate an agent to make decisions about your medical and social care.

> Specify your preferences for social activities, living arrangements, and medical > treatment in various situations.

> Arrange for guardianship and trusteeship for your children if needed.

> Alleviate the stress on your loved ones by guiding them in making tough medical decisions on your behalf.

Estate Administration Purposes (Upon Death).

Estate administration can be a challenging and stressful task for many individuals appointed as personal representatives, and it’s easy to understand why.

Although a will may designate a personal representative, certain aspects of estate administration require a Grant of Probate or Grant of Administration before the representative can handle specific assets like real property and bank accounts. Additionally, personal representatives face significant responsibilities and potential liabilities that need to be managed with care and expertise.

Our aim is to assist personal representatives in efficiently and effectively managing the estate of the deceased, while reducing stress, conflicts, and liabilities.

Our estate administration services are designed to simplify the role of the Personal Representative and include:

> Guidance in reviewing and interpreting the will.

> Preparation and submission of Applications for Grants of Probate or Grants of Administration.

> Advice on the personal representative’s duties, including detailed information on the process and necessary steps.

> Counsel on managing liability and strategies to minimize any potential risks for the personal representative.