Elder Law & Aged Care lawyers

What to discuss at the first meeting

Identify the person who needs advice and whether the issue concerns accommodation, finances, decision-making or a dispute. A relative arranging the meeting is not automatically the lawyer’s client.

Ask how the lawyer will manage potential conflicts between relatives and protect the client’s independent wishes.

How the engagement may progress

1. 01

   List family members, property, debts, companies, trusts and superannuation. Identify where original documents are held and which assets are jointly owned.

2. 02

   Ask what each document or application would achieve. Confirm which state rules and asset-ownership arrangements need to be considered.

3. 03

   Agree on signing, storage and future reviews, or on the executor’s responsibilities for records and distributions. Identify changes that should prompt further advice.

Fees and the scope of work

Compare a simple-will quote with more involved planning or estate administration. Ask about searches, applications, valuations and coordination with an accountant.

Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.

Dates to raise at first contact

Provide the date of death and any estate correspondence promptly. Ask about relevant deadlines before distributing assets, signing a release or assuming a dispute can wait.

Questions to ask a elder law & aged care adviser

• Who will give instructions and receive the advice?
• Can support and accessibility needs be accommodated?
• Does the scope address assets outside my own name?
• Who is the client if relatives attend together?
• What information is needed before documents can be finalised?