Some of you may have seen recently the SBS Insight program, where the presenter, Jenny Brockie, investigated issues relating to the apparent every increasing preponderance of siblings to challenge their parents’ Wills.
Of particular interest was the comments made by the Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Trustee & Guardian office Imelda Dodds, when asked about Kit Wills and DIY Will kits, and her response is set out in the link http://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/video/512920643763/insight-where-theres-a-will. If you do not want to watch the entire show her comments are made in at 48.15 to 48.52 (minutes) into the program.
You can also read a summary of the show on the SBS website at
http://www.sbs.com.au/news/insight/article/2015/09/07/your-will-really-your-last-word.
At various stages of the program, guests asked the question “why then, do a Will, if the Court is just going to rewrite it?”
During the course of the program it was suggested that perhaps 75% of contested Wills result in a variation to the Will.
What is not clear however is that of the total number of Wills that are read and applicable, only a relatively small percentage are ever challenged.
If your Will is drawn properly, with full background information provided, then it should be that your wishes will be protected and that the beneficiaries nominated by you will receive the benefit and gifts that you want them to receive.
Contact us at Foulsham & Geddes so we can help you ensure that your wishes and intentions are respected and effective.