When Estrangement Meets the Law: What Adult Children Can (and Can’t) Claim From an Estate
At Hill Legal, one of the most common concerns we hear from clients is: “If I choose not to leave anything to my adult children, can they challenge my will?” A recent decision from the Supreme Court of Tasmania provides a clear and reassuring answer — and highlights why thoughtful estate planning remains essential. A […]
A Final Wish on a Menu: How Informal Wills Can Reshape an Estate
What happens when a dying man scribbles his final wishes on a hospital menu form — and a court is asked to treat it as his last will? The recent New South Wales Supreme Court decision in Muhvich v Arena [2026] NSWSC 333 answers that question. From Hill Legal’s perspective, the case provides powerful and […]
When Relationships Change but the Law Doesn’t: Estate Planning Lessons from Dunham
Imagine this: a long-term partner passes away without a will—and suddenly, multiple people step forward claiming entitlement to their estate. At Hill Legal, we see firsthand how often this situation arises—and how devastating it can be for those involved. Research conducted by NSW Trustee and Guardian in 2023 found that 60% of NSW residents do […]
Navigating Treasury Laws Amendment Act 2026 for High Balance SMSFs
Navigating the Complex Draft Regulations for SMSFs The landscape for high-balance Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) underwent a significant transformation on March 13, 2026, with the Royal Assent of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Building a Stronger and Fairer Super System) Act 2026. While the primary focus of this legislation has been the introduction of a 15% […]
Estate Planning Lessons from Crothers v Cahill: Protecting Your De Facto Partner in Life and Beyond
The Western Australian Supreme Court decision in Crothers v Cahill [2025] WASC 478, handed down on 12 November, offers important insights for couples in de facto relationships—and for those advising them. At Hill Legal, we are seeing a growing number of modern family structures. With second marriages and de facto partnerships increasing by 10% post-COVID, […]
UK Australians Prepare for Major Changes in Inheritance Tax Laws
UK-Born Australians Face a Ticking Tax Bomb Over 1.1 million UK-born Australians are facing a significant tax challenge as the UK’s inheritance tax changes are set to take effect in April 2025. These changes could have profound implications for individuals who hold dual citizenship or have assets in both Australia and the UK. Understanding these […]
Top Factors to Consider Before Selling Your Investment Property
Should I Sell My Investment Property? From a conveyancing perspective, the decision to sell your investment property involves weighing various factors, including capital gains tax considerations, tenancy agreements, and your personal circumstances. Understanding these elements is crucial to making an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals. 1. Capital Gains Tax Considerations One of […]
Supreme Court Ruling Highlights Need for Effective Estate Planning
Supreme Court Decision Reinforces Importance of Estate Planning At Hill Legal, we frequently encounter concerns from will-makers and advisers regarding the potential for adult children to contest an estate if they are not included in a will. A recent Supreme Court decision from Tasmania provides a timely and reassuring answer to this concern, highlighting the […]
Better Targeted Superannuation Concessions Impact on High Balance Individuals
Government Pushes Forward with Division 296 Laws The Australian Government has introduced the Better Targeted Superannuation Concessions package to Parliament through the Treasury Laws Amendment (Building a Stronger and Fairer Super System) Bill 2026. This legislative measure aims to reduce the tax concessions available to individuals with superannuation balances exceeding $3.0 million, thereby addressing concerns […]
ATO Draft Determination TD 2026D1 Impact on Deceased Estates and CGT Exemption
ATO Draft Determination TD 2026/D1: Implications for Deceased Estates The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has recently issued draft determination TD 2026/D1 on January 28, 2026, which significantly narrows the circumstances under which a deceased estate can access the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) main residence exemption. This change is particularly relevant for cases where an individual […]
