Deceased Estates

-This applies where a person has made promises of testamentary provision in return for services rendered but who has died before making the promised will changes. Geoff Jenkin helps claimants to dispute a will under this particular statute.

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-This applies after death of married or de facto couples.  The Act provides a useful tool  to  resolve  property  ownership  issues  that  arise  after  death.  The  Act  is  also useful for “trust busting”  purposes.  Assets transferred to a trust can be recovered in  certain  circumstances  under  ss44  and  44C  of  the Property (Relationships)  Act 1976. ­
 

-The  law  recognises  that  a  person  has  the  right  to  make  his  own  will.  However, certain family members such as partners, children, and in some cases grandchildren can contest a will according to the provisions of the Family Protection Act 1955.   ­
 

-Assistance can be given in regard to validation of wills where the procedures set out in the Act for the signing of wills have not been properly followed. ­
 

-The High Court has broad powers around misconduct surrounding the signing of a will.  This  includes  cases  where  the  deceased  has  been  subjected  to  undue influence  and/or  duress  or  in  circumstances  where  the  deceased  lacked  mental capacity  when  he  or  she  signed.  These  cases  are  often  complex  and  difficult  to prove.   ­
 

-Problems  often  arise  in  the  general  administration  of  a  deceased  estate,  whether there is a will or not.  Parties may be able to apply to the High Court for directions in the  administration  of  a  deceased  estate  and/or  for  the  removal  of  executors  and appointment of new executors.  Contentious probate applications in solemn form are a specialist area of Geoff Jenkin.