Flyout Menu
Estate Planning
Wills and Estate Law Professionals
We offer a range of estate planning services to ensure that your family members are aware of what you would like to happen to your assets, and in doing so, minimise potential disputes over your estate after your death.
East Coast Law has an experienced team of Estate Planning specialists with offices across NSW in Newcastle, Maitland, Centra Coast, Edgeworth, and Port Macquarie. With a legal team that thoroughly understands the many facets of Estate law, you can count on our counsel and services to ensure your wishes are documented.
What is estate planning?
Estate planning is the process by which an individual or family arranges the transfer of assets in preparation for death or incapacitation. Simply put, it allows you to arrange your affairs now, so they can be continued according to your wishes, in the event of your death or serious illness.
Estate planning considers your current assets, superannuation, life insurance policies, pensions and entitlements as well as tax implications and many other factors and creates a detailed and legally binding plan to divide and manage your estate in accordance with your wishes.
We can help you with preparing documents that appoint someone to manage your financial affairs (Power of Attorney) and make decisions about your care and welfare (Enduring Guardian) whilst you are alive but no longer capable of making decisions. Often these documents are prepared at the same time that we prepare your will.
In some circumstances, it may be appropriate to prepare a testamentary trust to ensure that your assets are adequately protected for your beneficiaries. This is a complex area of estate planning that requires careful and considered advice.
If one of your family members has passed away, we can apply for probate and administer the estate on behalf of the executor of the Will. We can also assist you in cases where there is a dispute over the distribution of the Estate and the Court is involved.
Wills and Power of Attorney
You, like most people, want peace of mind and certainty about what happens to your assets in the event of your death. Having a well drafted Will has become even more important in our ever-changing society. We can document your wishes so that your family members are aware of what you would like to happen to your assets and in doing so minimise potential disputes over your estate after your death.
A testamentary trust is sometimes necessary to ensure your bequests reach your intended recipients. An independent trustee can guarantee that vulnerable beneficiaries, such as very young children or the ill, incapacitated, unstable or disabled, will be provided for.
Testamentary Trusts are also used in succession and control in Intergenerational Business Estate Planning.
Probate and Letters of Administration
Probate and Letters of Administration allow for a Court to grant an executor the ability to deal with a deceased persons estate. This is normally when the nominated executor is unable to deal with your estate effectively.
Family Provisions Claims
The law recognises that sometimes, people who would ordinarily be a beneficiary under a Will may either not be provided for or may be inadequately provided for.
Peace of mind and certainty about what happens to your assets in the event of your death
Holding a comprehensive and legally sound plan for your estate has become increasingly important in our changing society. With the value of assets like property and small businesses soaring, blended families becoming increasingly common, and same-sex marriage gaining legal recognition, planning for what happens to your assets has become far more complex.
Speak to our team of estate lawyers to create a plan that protects your assets and your family
Our team of conveyancers and solicitors
Paul Bollen
Solicitor and Director
Read Paul’s Bio
Paul is the Director of East Coast Law and was admitted to practice as a Lawyer in 1981 and is a member of the Law Society NSW. Paul specialises in property development, Retirement Villages Business, Commercial Law, and Estate Planning, demonstrating a wealth of expertise in these areas over his 40+ years of practice.
“I was drawn to Law by its fascinating complexity and ever-evolving challenges. Beyond the office, you’ll often find me immersed in joyful moments with my extended family, cherishing every opportunity to create lasting memories together.” ~ Paul
Vicki Andrews
Senior Solicitor
Read Vicki’s Bio
Vicki holds Bachelor degrees in Economics and Laws from Sydney University, and is a member of the New South Wales Law Society. With over three decades of continuous practice since January 1986, Vicki specialises in Family Law, Wills and Estates, and Family Provision Claims, showcasing a wealth of expertise in these areas.
“I chose to enter the legal profession because I believe in its power to provide crucial support during difficult times, helping people navigate through challenging legal issues and move forward with their lives. Outside of work, you’ll often find me tending to my garden, diving into the pages of an Australian crime thriller, and unwinding with a glass or two of red wine.” ~ Vicki
Kerry Dowling
Conveyancer
Read Kerry’s Bio
Kerry is a Licensed Conveyancer at East Coast Law. With over 12 years of experience, Kerry’s passion lies in simplifying the conveyancing process for clients. Outside of work, Kerry dreams of retiring or pursuing Event Management, while her bucket list includes travelling to Hawaii, Fiji, or both!
“As I approach retirement, the reasons for choosing this profession may have faded, but my dedication remains steadfast. My aim is to ensure the conveyancing journey is smooth and stress-free for every client.” ~ Kerry
Olivia Koltsis
Solicitor
Melena Murphy
Legal Assistant
Read Melena’s Bio
Melena holds the esteemed title of Justice of the Peace. With a specialised focus on Conveyancing, Melena’s expertise lies in navigating the intricacies of property transactions. Melena’s dedication to our team ensures smooth and successful outcomes for clients in the complex realm of conveyancing.
“I chose this profession because I thrive in fast-paced work environments. Outside I work you can find me at the beach or hanging with my fur baby and beautiful grand babies” ~ Melena
Anabelle Castro
Legal Assistant
Read Anabelle’s Bio
Anabelle is a seasoned Legal Assistant, she brings a great skill set honed through years of experience. Renowned for her attention to detail, organisational skills, and clear communication, she excels under pressure, meeting tight deadlines effortlessly. With expertise in critical thinking and multitasking, Anabelle is an invaluable asset to our team.
“I chose this profession because I want to be able to showcase my skills and be in an environment where I can fully apply my skills into practice. Outside of work you can find me spending time with my family, friends and my cats, enjoying good food and drinks. I also love singing!” ~ Anabelle
April Spriggs
Practice Manager
Read April’s Bio
April has qualifications including Cert IV in Accounting and Cert IV in Business Administration, and is currently studying towards a Cert IV in Human Resource Management and a Diploma of Business. With expertise in Accounts & Administration, April’s career journey began post-High School, initially as an Accounts assistant, eventually evolving into a Practice Manager. Outside work, April enjoys dancing, horseback riding, and spending quality time with family, friends, and her cats, while also indulging in her passion for singing.
“Choosing this profession straight after high school, I seized an opportunity at a local business and have since evolved from an Accounts assistant to a proficient Practice Manager through experience and training.” ~ April
Jo Abdelnour
Administration Assistant
Read Jo’s Bio
Jo holds a Diploma in Children’s Services. With a keen focus on Office Administration, Jo supports our law firm, and has experience with government agencies, and medical practices. Her expertise lies in ensuring smooth operations and efficient workflows. With a commitment to professionalism and attention to detail, Jo adeptly handles the administrative needs of our office and clients.
“I chose this profession for its supportive nature and the opportunity to interact with diverse individuals. Outside work, I cherish moments with my family, engage in volunteering, and indulge in hobbies like fishing, reading, and travelling.” ~ Jo
Michelle Rae
Administration
Hayley Pearson
Reception
Client Testimonials
Our Locations
From The Blog
Looking for a conveyancer or solicitor?
Speak to the law firm with the experience and dedication you need.