Estate Planning
When it comes to estate planning, we start with the end in mind.
Why Choose Dormer Stanhope?
With over two decades of experience, we offer:
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Personalised guidance
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Transparent pricing
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A proactive approach to avoid disputes
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Genuine care in securing your legacy
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re starting fresh or reviewing an existing plan, we’ll guide you with compassion and clarity.
Estate Planning Packages
The cost of preparing an Estate Plan depends on various factors, such as:
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The types of assets you own
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The complexity of your wishes for asset distribution
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Who drafts the Will for you
ESSENTIALS PACKAGE
$800
PLUS GST AND DISBURSEMENTS
Includes:
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Basic Will
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Power of Attorney
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Enduring Guardianship
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Safe custody with Dormer Stanhope
Get the must-haves sorted without the fuss. Our Essentials Package covers the basics to make sure your wishes are clear and protected.
CUSTOM PACKAGE
FROM $950
PLUS GST AND DISBURSEMENTS
Includes:
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A Will tailored to your specific needs, for example, if you own a business, have a blended family, a self-managed super fund, or require a long-term trust (known as a testamentary trust) or certain conditions in your Will
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Power of Attorney
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Enduring Guardianship
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Safe custody with Dormer Stanhope
Key Differences at a Glance
Title | When It Takes Effect | What It Covers | Who You Appoint | When It Ceases |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Will | After you pass away | Distribution of your estate and guardianship of minor children | Executor (and possibly a guardian) | Your Estate is finalised and assets distributed |
Testamentary Trust | After death, through the terms of your will | Asset protection, tax flexibility, provision for minors or vulnerable beneficiaries | Trustee(s) appointed in the will | As defined in the terms of the trust |
Power of Attorney | While you're alive - either immediately or on loss of capacity | Financial and legal matters | Attorney | You revoke it or pass away |
Enduring Guardianship | Only if you lose decision-making capacity | Personal, health, and lifestyle decisions | Enduring Guardian | You revoke it or pass away |
Our Expertise in Estate Planning
At Dormer Stanhope, we’ve been guiding individuals and families through estate planning for over 25 years.
We don’t just draft documents – we anticipate potential issues, help prevent disputes, and ensure your plan remains up-to-date with current laws. Our approach is personal, practical, and protective.
Where to Begin
We’ve broken estate planning down into four key pillars. Together, they form the foundation of a secure, well-considered plan:
Wills
A will is the cornerstone of any estate plan. It outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death and allows you to outline how you want your assets distributed, who should look after your children, and any other final wishes you’d like respected.
Even a Simple Will must be valid and legally sound to avoid complications or disputes. A professionally prepared Will ensures your voice is heard, even after you’re gone.
Powers of Attorney
What if you’re unable to manage your finances due to illness, injury, or incapacity? A Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone you trust to step handle your financial and legal affairs for you.
Without one, your family may have to go through a lengthy legal process just to help you. With one, life keeps moving even if you can’t.
Enduring Guardianship
If you’re ever unable to make personal or medical decisions for yourself, who will? By appointing an Enduring Guardian, you choose who will make medical, health and lifestyle decisions on your behalf.
It’s about preserving your dignity and ensuring your values guide your care even when you can’t speak for yourself.
Why Estate Planning Matters
At its heart, estate planning is an act of love and responsibility.
Whether you're preparing a simple will or setting up more complex structures to protect your family’s future, estate planning gives you peace of mind knowing that those you care about will be supported and your wishes respected.
Without a clear plan, your family could face unnecessary confusion, costs, or even disputes. With one, you give them the gift of clarity and direction.
What is Estate Planning?
Estate planning involves preparing legal documents to manage your assets and personal affairs both during your lifetime and after you pass away. It's not just for the wealthy or elderly; it’s for anyone who wants to make sure their wishes are honoured and their loved ones are protected.