What to discuss at the first meeting
Explain which decisions you want someone to make and when. Planning documents and an application relating to an existing decision-making difficulty are different kinds of work.
Ask about the rules in the relevant state and the difference between financial, personal and health-related decisions.
Working with a firm in Alice Springs & Central
Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Katherine are combined in this broad directory area and are not all nearby to one another. The best starting point is a service that can clearly explain how it will work with you where you are.
For powers of attorney & guardianship, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant NT experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Alice Springs & Central. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
List family members, property, debts, companies, trusts and superannuation. Identify where original documents are held and which assets are jointly owned.
Ask what each document or application would achieve. Confirm which state rules and asset-ownership arrangements need to be considered.
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.