Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Adelaide

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Evans Testa Lawyers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1982
2 people in their team
English
Our Core ValuesAt Evans Testa Barristers and Solicitors, the team understands that, whilst they deal with legal matters every day, for many clients the experience of finding a lawyer can be daunting or difficult. It was with this in mind that Founders Lauraine and Phil set out to create a firm...
Armour & Allen
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1978
10 people in their team
English
Overview Armour Allen Lawyers, based in Adelaide CBD, was first established in the early 1980’s. Since then our practice has developed a reputation for delivering reliable advice and practical solutions anytime, anywhere to clients throughout South Australia. Our lawyers have breadth and...
Stokes Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1988
10 people in their team
English
About Stokes LegalFounded by David and Angela Stokes, Stokes Legal has been providing effective legal solutions, advice and court representation to the South Australian community since 1988.In July 2021, Stokes Legal was acquired by Andersons Solicitors, bringing together two trusted and recognised...
Moloney & Partners
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1988
10 people in their team
English
We have been around for over 25 years now, having commenced operations on 21 October 1988. We commenced as a small-to-medium Firm and have deliberately stayed that way. We do not believe that bigger is better but have found that our size fits with the work we do and the way we want to do it. That...
Maurice Blackburn Lawyers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1919
5,000 people in their team
English
About usMaurice Blackburn Lawyers is Australia’s leading plaintiff and social justice law firm. We have built a reputation on the unwavering belief that the law should serve everyone, not just those who can afford it. For more than 100 years, Maurice Blackburn has had a proud history that...
Afortiori Barristers & Solicitors
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 2000
4 people in their team
English
About the FirmExperienced ExcellenceAfortiori Barristers & Solicitors has been serving the Port Adelaide & Metropolitan areas with measurable success. We pride ourselves on a deep tradition of excellence, ensuring only the highest quality service. We understand the challenges and...
WBH Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 2011
10 people in their team
English
OverviewWBH Legal is a vibrant, well established mid-sized firm based in Adelaide and Darwin. We are a multi-discipline legal practice with specific expertise in the areas of Building and Construction, Collaborative, Commercial, Conveyancing, Criminal, Debt Collection, Dispute Resolution,...
Patrick Liptak
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 2001
2 people in their team
English
Patrick LiptakPrincipal LawyerPatrick has been in practice since 1997.He has a comprehensive background in all aspects of the law.His litigation expertise is extensive appearing on behalf of individuals and sporting organisations.Patrick provides quality legal advice with a view to resolving...
Belperio Clark Lawyers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1992
30 people in their team
English
About Belperio Clark LawyersCharlie Belperio and Bev Clark started Belperio Clark in 1992. We have grown over the years, but still maintain the focus and personal touch of a small legal practice. At Belperio Clark, our goal has always been to make your situation as stress-free as possible. Our...
Jankus Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1992
1 people in their team
English
SME’s or business owners who require practical and cost effective business law advice make up most of Jankus Legal’s clients. They want to set things up well for the long term and carry on their business, not spend too much time or money on lawyers.Jankus Legal addresses its client’s needs by...
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About Will & Testament Law in Adelaide, Australia

In Adelaide, Australia, the laws governing Wills and Testaments ensure that individuals can control the distribution of their assets posthumously. A Will is a legal document that outlines how a person's estate should be managed and distributed after their passing. In South Australia, specific legislation governs the validity of Wills, including the Wills Act 1936, which stipulates the necessary requirements for a Will to be legally binding. It is crucial for both residents and non-residents within South Australia to adhere to these legal standards to ensure their wishes are honored without disputes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several scenarios where seeking legal advice in the field of Wills and Testaments is advisable. These include:

Complex estate planning: If you have significant assets, business interests, or complicated family dynamics, a lawyer can help structure your Will to minimize disputes and taxes.

Changing life circumstances: Events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or the acquisition of substantial new assets may require modifications to your existing Will.

Dispute resolution: In cases where a Will is contested, legal representation is essential to navigating the complexities of probate court.

Ensuring validity: A lawyer can ensure that your Will meets all legal requirements, avoiding potential challenges due to technical errors.

Local Laws Overview

Adelaide, as part of South Australia, follows specific legislative measures concerning Wills and Testaments. Key aspects include:

Execution and Witnesses: For a Will to be valid, it must be in writing and signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who are present at the same time. These witnesses cannot be beneficiaries under the Will.

Intestacy: If an individual dies without a valid Will, their estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy, which may not reflect their personal desires.

Revocation: A Will can be revoked by creating a new Will or by physically destroying the original document with the intention to revoke.

Family Provision Claims: South Australian law allows eligible family members to challenge a Will if they believe they have not been adequately provided for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Will?

A Will is a legal document that states how your assets should be distributed after your death. It can also appoint guardians for minor children.

Who can make a Will in Adelaide?

In Adelaide, any person who is 18 years or older and of sound mind can make a legally binding Will.

Can a Will be changed after it is made?

Yes, a Will can be changed through a codicil or by creating a new Will that revokes the previous one.

What happens if I die without a Will?

Your estate will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy, which may not align with your personal wishes.

Do I need to register my Will?

No, it is not a legal requirement to register a Will in South Australia, but it should be kept in a safe place where it can be easily found.

How can I ensure my Will is valid?

Ensure your Will is in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two people who are not beneficiaries under the Will.

Can a Will be challenged?

Yes, a Will can be contested on grounds such as lack of mental capacity, undue influence, or inadequate provision for family members.

What is a testator?

A testator is a person who has made a Will or left a testament.

Can I include funeral wishes in my Will?

While it is possible to include funeral wishes in your Will, these are not legally binding. It is better to discuss your wishes with family members.

Is a DIY Will sufficient?

While you can create a DIY Will, it is advisable to seek legal advice to ensure it meets all legal requirements and accurately reflects your wishes.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider contacting the following resources:

Legal Services Commission of South Australia: Provides free legal advice to the public on various issues, including Wills and estates.

Law Society of South Australia: Offers a referral service to find qualified solicitors experienced in estate planning and Wills.

Public Trustee of South Australia: Can assist with the preparation, updating, and safekeeping of Wills.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding a Will or Testament in Adelaide, the first step is to consult with a qualified lawyer who specializes in estate planning. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your circumstances. You may also want to attend free legal seminars or workshops offered by local organizations to enhance your understanding of the importance and intricacies of Wills and Testaments. Ensure that you keep your Will updated to reflect any significant life changes and store it in a secure location where it can be easily accessed by your executor or family members.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Adelaide through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Will & Testament, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Adelaide, Australia - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.