Insights

Insights

Why More People in Australia Are Talking About Estate Disputes

Estate disputes aren’t a topic most families expect to be part of their story. They often feel distant; something that happens to other people, in other families, under very different circumstances.  Yet across Australia, conversations...

Why Having a Will Is So Important

Many people assume a Will is something to sort out “later in life” or once major assets are accumulated.   In reality, a Will is one of the most important legal documents...

Blended Families and Inheritance: Planning for Fairness (and Clarity)

Modern families are rarely straightforward. Second relationships, stepchildren, shared and non-shared assets – what feels natural in day-to-day life can become far more complex when it comes to estate planning. ...

Community, Connection and a Cause that Matters

At August & Claire, we believe being part of the community means more than simply working within it. It means showing up, supporting important causes, and standing alongside organisations making a...

What Happens When Family Wealth Is Tied Up in Long-Term Disputes? 

Family wealth is often built over decades, sometimes generations. But, when that wealth becomes the subject of dispute, it can just as easily unravel over the same timeframe.  A recent Australian court ruling involving Gina Rinehart...

Thinking About Downsizing? The Estate Planning Considerations Often Overlooked 

Downsizing is often positioned as a practical decision. A way to simplify, reduce maintenance, and unlock equity tied up in the family home.  But while the focus is typically on lifestyle...

The Hidden Gaps in DIY Wills (and why they cost more later)

Creating a Will has never been more accessible, with online platforms and templates readily available. But estate planning is not simply about having a document, it is about ensuring that your intentions...

Signs It Might Be Time to Update Your Will

As we have mentioned, a new year often brings a quiet moment of reflection. Not the kind filled with resolutions or deadlines, but the kind where you pause and think...

Valentino Garavani’s Passing:  Practical Estate Planning Lessons from a Life of Global Success.  

The passing of Valentino Garavani marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in fashion history. Best known for building one of the world’s most recognisable luxury houses, Valentino’s influence extended far beyond...

A New Year Reset for Your Family’s Future

 A new year is a time when we look ahead, set intentions, and take steps toward a more secure and organised future. While many New Year’s resolutions focus on personal health or...

Do I need to provide equal provision to all my children in my Will? 

When it comes to writing their wills many parents face the dilemma of whether to distribute their assets equally among their children. This decision is deeply personal and often influenced...

What is the difference between Challenging and Contesting a Will? 

When dealing with the complexities of a deceased estate, it’s crucial to understand the differences between challenging and contesting a will. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer...