You have the right to maintain control of your affairs — let your voice be heard

Let me start by saying that your affairs are more than a will. In fact, a will does not cover everything you own.

Surprised? Many people are.

A large percentage of people assume that filling out a will kit from their local newsagency will cover them in the event of their passing away. This is not the case.

I’m sure that many of us would be aghast to think that our property and assets were not going where we wanted them to following our death.

This is why you should seek advice from your trusted solicitor. Solicitors are independent legal advisors with no stake in who gets what from you. Someone who is qualified, insured and acts in the best interests of you — their client. Someone who is charged with protecting your confidentiality even after you die. No other advisor has this duty.

This is what solicitors are here for — to help you protect everything you hold dear, so that it can go to those that you hold dear.

Many people do not realise that a standard will does not include where your superannuation goes, property you do not solely own or that is owned by your company.

Wills also do not cover key items such as enduring power of attorney should you require it in the event of becoming incapacitated or travelling abroad.

You must also have separate plans for your retirement including what happens if you purchase property in a retirement village, a separate advanced health care directive to take control of what happens to you when you are unwell or in hospital, or business succession planning particularly if you are a sole business owner.

Do you want to be in control of your own affairs?

Let your voice be heard. You do not have to walk this path alone. Your trusted legal advisor — your solicitor — is the person who is there to guide you through the complex maze of state and federal laws, to ensure your affairs are in order should your loved ones find themselves facing that grief stricken moment. Be it your loss of capacity or your untimely demise, your solicitor is there to help you, your family, and your loved ones, navigate the hard road ahead.

Solicitors are the protectors of your rights, and they are qualified and fully able to advise you on your affairs.

Using the services of your local solicitor ensures that your wishes are complied with by someone who only acts for you.

Be organised, protected and assured of your future and the future of your assets.

You can find a solicitor at www.qls.com.au or by phoning 1300 367 757.