Estate planning is more than just the preparation of a will. Historically a couple would prepare wills leaving their assets to each other. However, in modern times there are numerous issues which may no longer make such wills appropriate. Why?

• More and more assets are being owned outside of a persons will. E.g. Assets held in trusts or superannuation funds.
• Families are becoming more fractured and blended. E.g A couple may now have children of current and previous marriages.
• The propensity for people to live together in less permanent relationships.
• Increasing complexity of the tax laws and the ability to structure in a more beneficial way to pass assets to beneficiaries.

Whilst the preparation of a suitable will is critical, a will is only effective on death. We strongly urge clients to look at taking appropriate measures to ensure in the event of an accident or illness; someone has been given the power to act on their behalf. The preparation of Powers of Attorney and Guardianship we see are crucial to ensuring clients affairs can be properly managed in the event of an inability of the client to handle their own affairs.

Appropriate estate planning is all about ensuring efficient management of a person's affairs in life and in death. At Casey Partners we have the expertise to advise clients on the appropriate measures and structuring to ensure the clients wishes are carried out.