Australia is experiencing the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in its history, with rising property values, economic pressures, and changing family dynamics contributing to a surge in inheritance disputes. Here, we explore the factors driving the rise in estate disputes and what families and lawyers need to understand about navigating an increasingly contested area of law.
In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Armstrong Legal managing associate James Daly about the growing prevalence of contested wills and estate litigation, what is driving the increase in disputes and why inheritance battles are no longer confined to Australia's wealthiest families. They discuss how surging property values and housing affordability pressures are changing the way Australians approach inheritance; the complexities created by blended families, second marriages, and estranged relationships; and the risks associated with outdated, homemade, and off-the-shelf wills. They also explore the circumstances that can leave an estate vulnerable to a legal challenge, the implications for families and beneficiaries, and what lawyers and individuals can do to reduce the likelihood of disputes.
If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn.
If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email editor@lawyersweekly.com.au