Why Choose RCT for Wills and Probate?

Our experienced Wills and Estates team have been practising in this area for decades. We have drafted innumerable Wills and assisted thousands of executors to administer the estates of loved ones.

We take care of all issues to do with Wills & Probate matters - the preparation of Wills and powers of attorney, the administration of deceased estates and obtaining Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration and claims over the division of deceased estates.

Starting a legal enquiry with us - first steps & fees

What happens at my first legal appointment?

An appointment will be made for you to see a member of our experienced Wills and Estates team.

You will have an opportunity to provide us with some information and we will prompt you with additional questions to ensure we have a clear understanding of your circumstances, including your financial position or the financial position of the deceased.

If you are seeing us about an Estate matter, you may be experiencing feelings of grief and sadness. It is common to feel daunted by the legal process and you may be facing financial stress. Your lawyer will explain the process and offer immediate sensitive and sound legal advice to help you act quickly to get things underway.

Fees and payment conditions

When you call to make an appointment, our experienced support staff will gather some basic details from you before providing a preliminary quote.

We have fostered close relationships with a number of unions so please let us know if you are a union member and we may be able to provide a discount for preparing your Will and Power of Attorney.

At the end of your first appointment with us, we will explain clearly how we charge fees and give you a more accurate estimate of the cost of your matter.

What to bring to your first appointment

Wills appointments

If you are making a Will, bring in the full names and addresses of those you wish to refer to in your Will. If you are over 75 years of age, you will also need to bring with you a Doctor’s letter of capacity, so that there can be no  doubt about the validity of your Will later on.

Estate matters

If you are seeking advice about an Estate matter, bring with you the Will (if you have it), any ideintification documents of the deceased and any documents confirming the assets, liabilities and superannuation of the Estate such as certificates of title, bank statements, car registration documents, and superannuation statements.

Can I bring a partner or friend?

Yes, absolutely - if that’s what will make you comfortable or help you through the process. However, if you are making a Will, it is important we talk to you alone if the Will is contentious or leaves out a family member who is not present so as to minimise any risk of the Will later being challenged.

Please note that you may be asked to share very personal information during your appointment with us. It is therefore important that, if you bring some with you, that person is someone who you trust with that information and to support you.

Home and Hospital visits

We often prepare Wills for older Australians who may be ill and cannot travel easily. In these circumstances, we can certainly make home or hospital visits  to you.

This service is also available after hours, although we do request some understanding in order to arrange a suitable time within which to make the appointment.

Travel fees and charges may apply. When you call to make an appointment, we can quickly advise you on how much these fees will be.

Confidentiality and privacy

Your information is personal and private and we respect that.

Our lawyers have ethical obligations to keep the information you disclose when obtaining legal advice confidential. This is called client legal privilege. This is a legal right belonging to you which ensures that you can obtain confidential advice about your circumstances. It allows for the proper administration of justice because it enables you to talk frankly and honestly with your lawyer about your legal concerns.

We also have a comprehensive privacy policy in place to ensure the proper collection, storage and use of your personal information. For further information about our commitment to your privacy, please see our Privacy Policy.

Respect, diversity and inclusiveness

Our society is diverse. A good law firm respects that diversity. We appreciate that everyone is different and that those differences can sometimes create barriers to justice which need to be overcome.

It is our approach to see and hear you on your terms, as a person.

It is important to us that you feel comfortable and understood. So no matter what age, cultural, ethnic, linguistic or religious background you have, and regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression, we strive to respect that difference.

Interpreter/translator service

It is important in legal matters to make sure your voice is heard. We need accurate instructions from you to prepare a Will or help you plan your Estate.

If English is not your preferred language, we can help you arrange an interpreter when you call to make an appointment. Just talk to one of our experienced and friendly legal support staff when you call.