Legal advice for your family
WORDS – Amy Nikolovski, Managing Partner, DBH Lawyers
Q: Why is having a Will one of the most important things you can do?
A: No one likes thinking about their own mortality. But one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones is clarity and certainty about your wishes. That’s exactly what a Will provides.
At DBH Lawyers, we often see the emotional and financial stress that can arise when someone passes away without a valid Will. Whether your estate is large or small, having a Will ensures that your voice is heard when you’re no longer here to speak for yourself.
So, why is it so important to have a Will?
1. You’re in control
A Will lets you decide how your assets are distributed. You can specify who gets what, whether it’s the family home, sentimental jewellery, or a share in your business. Without a Will, your estate will be divided according to a formula set by law. That might not reflect your wishes or take into account the unique needs of your loved ones.
2. You reduce conflict
One of the hardest parts of losing a loved one is navigating what comes next. A clear, legally valid Will can prevent misunderstandings, reduce the risk of disputes, and make the process of administering your estate more straightforward for your family. You’re giving them peace of mind during an already difficult time.
3. You protect your children
If you have young children, a Will allows you to nominate a guardian, someone you trust to raise them if you’re no longer around. It also means you can put financial structures in place, like a testamentary trust, to support them as they grow.
4. You leave a legacy
A Will is more than just dividing assets. It’s your chance to leave a legacy. You might choose to leave a donation to a charity, support a cause close to your heart, or pass down treasured heirlooms to the next generation.
5. Life changes – your Will should too
Your Will isn’t something you write once and forget about. Life events like marriage, separation, having children, or buying a home should all prompt a review of your Will. At DBH, we recommend reviewing your Will every 3 to 5 years or whenever a major life event occurs.
6. You avoid unnecessary stress
Dying without a Will, known as dying intestate, can leave your family with a legal and financial mess to untangle. It can delay the administration of your estate, increase costs, and even mean the wrong people inherit your assets.
The bottom line: A Will gives you the power to decide. It’s a simple document that can save your family from unnecessary stress and ensure that the people you care about are properly looked after.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help. At DBH Lawyers, we offer practical, compassionate advice to help you get your affairs in order and keep them that way.
Want to Ask Amy a question?
Reach out to the DBH Wills & Estates team.
We’re only a phone call away.
FREE CALL 1800 324 324
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