Mountain valley town riverside landscape — photograph by Aleksandar Djeric
Estate Planning

Why Every Adult Needs a Will

Many Australians put off making a Will, assuming it can wait. But dying without one — known as dying intestate — can leave your loved ones in a difficult and costly situation. Here's why a Will matters at every stage of life.

What happens if you die without a Will?

Dying without a Will — known as dying intestate — means the law decides who receives your assets. In NSW, the Succession Act 2006 sets out a strict hierarchy of beneficiaries. Your assets may not go to the people you intended, and the process of administering your estate becomes significantly more complex and costly for those you leave behind.

Who needs a Will?

The short answer is: every adult. Whether you own property, have savings, run a business, or simply want to ensure your personal belongings go to the right people, a Will gives you control. It is especially important if you have children, a blended family, a de facto partner, or assets in more than one country.

Traditional Chinese temple ornate roof architecture — photograph by Aleksandar Djeric
© Aleksandar Djeric

What should a Will include?

A well-drafted Will appoints an executor (the person responsible for carrying out your wishes), identifies your beneficiaries, and deals with specific gifts and the residue of your estate. It can also include testamentary trusts for minor children or vulnerable beneficiaries, and guidance on funeral wishes.

Keeping your Will up to date

A Will is not a set-and-forget document. Marriage, divorce, the birth of children, significant asset changes, and the death of a beneficiary or executor are all events that should prompt a review. At Djeric Legal, we help you draft a Will that reflects your current circumstances and update it as your life changes. Contact us to get started.

Disclaimer: This article is intended as general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and procedures may change. You should seek independent legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances before acting on anything in this article.

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