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 Riverland & Murraylands
Berri, Murray Bridge and Renmark are separate centres in Riverland & Murraylands. For land, business or succession advice, describe the relevant ownership and agreements rather than assuming all work is a standard conveyance or will.
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 Riverland & Murraylands. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
- 01
List family members, property, debts, companies, trusts and superannuation. Identify where original documents are held and which assets are jointly owned.
- 02
Ask what each document or application would achieve. Confirm which state rules and asset-ownership arrangements need to be considered.
- 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.
