How do I check a lawyer is licensed in South Australia?

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

Wills & Estates lawyers in Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island, SA

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 Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island

The Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island directory area should not be treated as one convenient travel zone. Check whether a firm’s actual office and remote services suit your location before booking.

For wills & estates, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant SA experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island. 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 South Australia

In South Australia, the Magistrates Court hears most criminal and minor civil matters, with the District and Supreme Courts above it. Tenancy, guardianship and many administrative reviews go to SACAT. Practising certificates are issued by the Law Society of South Australia, and conduct complaints go to the Legal Profession Conduct 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 Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island?

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

Wills & Estates lawyers in Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island

Eckermann Conveyancers

Southern Coast Legal

Richards Adam

Why wills & estates matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to wills & estates in Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island