Two things in life are certain - death and taxes.
Whilst death may be certain, it can happen at any stage and when family members least expect it.
The laws governing Wills and Estates can sometimes be complex, even in the case of a simple, modest Estate. Sometimes a Will does not comply with relevant legislation, and is therefore deemed "informal" or must be subject to a Court Application for a Grant of Probate to issue.
If somebody passes away without a Will, and their Estate is based in Tasmania, their Estate will be distributed pursuant to Tasmania's Intestacy laws. That process is often stressful and potentially costly for those left behind.
If your family member has passed away "intestate", that is, without a Will, we can also assist you in making the relevant application to the Supreme Court of Tasmania.
Just because a person has a Will, their Estate is not necessarily protected from a Court action. Here at Tamar Legal, we have experience in both acting for people contesting deceased estates (for example, a relative "cut out" of a new Will), and for the executors of Estates in responding to those claims.
Estate matters are time sensitive, so do not hesitate to seek advice at the earliest opportunity.
NOTE: We do not offer an Estate planning / Wills service. Our Estate and Guardianship practice areas are detailed further below.