How do I check a lawyer is licensed in New South Wales?

Practising certificates in New South Wales are managed by the Law Society of New South Wales. You can check a solicitor's status on its public register or by contacting it directly.

Wills & Estates lawyers in Western Sydney, NSW

What to discuss at the first meeting

Decide whether you are making a will, reviewing an old one or seeking advice after a death. The lawyer needs to know who owns the assets and who is intended to benefit before recommending documents.

Ask separately about superannuation, trusts and powers of attorney instead of assuming a simple will covers every asset and decision.

Working with a firm in Western Sydney

Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith and Liverpool offer different starting points for a Western Sydney search. If several family members or businesses are involved, give their names at the initial enquiry so a firm can check whether it can act.

For wills & estates, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant NSW experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Western Sydney. 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.

Questions to ask a wills & estates adviser

Courts and tribunals in New South Wales

In New South Wales, most criminal and minor civil matters start in the Local Court, with more serious matters in the District Court and Supreme Court. Tenancy, strata, consumer and guardianship disputes usually go to NCAT. Solicitors are licensed by the Law Society of New South Wales, and complaints about lawyers go to the Office of the Legal Services Commissioner.

Frequently asked questions

Is a DIY will kit valid?

It can be, if properly signed and witnessed, but errors in wording or execution are common and can lead to disputes.

Does super pass under my will?

Not automatically. Super is paid according to the fund's rules and any binding nomination you've made.

Which courts hear cases from Western Sydney?

Most matters start in the Local Court. More serious cases go to the District Court or the Supreme Court of NSW. Family law matters are heard by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

Wills & Estates lawyers in Western Sydney

Turner Freeman Lawyers

Warren & Warren Incorporating the office of Adrian G Byrne

Warren & Warren Incorporating the office of Adrian G Byrne

Western Suburbs Compensation Lawyers - McDonnell Schroder

Why wills & estates matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to wills & estates in Western Sydney