James Papas Solicitors acknowledges the Darug people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, and pays respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.

Estate Planning

Wills, Estate Planning
& Probate

Protecting your family's future with carefully prepared Wills, Powers of Attorney, and estate planning advice. Home and hospital visits available.

Free First Consultation(02) 9633 3122
Your Peace of Mind

Protecting what
matters most.

A properly prepared Will is one of the most important steps you can take for your family. Without one, the law decides how your estate is distributed — regardless of your wishes. We take the time to understand your personal circumstances and ensure your Will accurately reflects what you want.

We have been helping Parramatta families plan their estates for nearly 50 years. Many of our clients have had us prepare Wills for multiple generations of their family.

If you are unable to come to our office, we will come to you — at home, in hospital, or in an aged care facility.

Why plan your estate now?

✓Your wishes are respectedA valid Will ensures your assets go exactly where you intend.
✓Your family is protectedAvoid delays, disputes, and extra costs for those you leave behind.
✓You choose your executorAppoint someone you trust to carry out your wishes.
✓You protect vulnerable beneficiariesTestamentary trusts can protect assets for children, disabled family members, or those with financial difficulties.
✓Home visits availableWe come to you if needed — at home, hospital, or aged care.
✓Generations of experienceNearly 50 years helping Parramatta families plan with confidence.
Services

Our Estate Law Services

Preparation of Wills
Powers of Attorney
Enduring Guardianship appointments
Superannuation death benefit nominations
General estate planning advice
Grants of Probate
Letters of Administration
Estate distribution & administration
Family provision claims
Contested estate litigation
Charitable bequests
Trusts and testamentary trusts
Executor advice & support
Minor & disabled beneficiary provisions
Business succession planning
What to Expect

How We Work With You

1

Initial consultation (free)

We discuss your personal and financial circumstances, your family structure, and your wishes. We explain your options and what each document does — in plain English.

2

Tailored advice

We advise on the most appropriate structures for your situation — including whether a testamentary trust, blended family arrangements, or specific bequests are appropriate.

3

Drafting your documents

We prepare your Will, Power of Attorney, and Enduring Guardianship documents, incorporating your specific instructions and ensuring they are legally sound.

4

Review and signing

We go through the documents with you carefully before signing. We arrange a convenient time — including home or hospital visits if you are unable to come to us.

5

Safe storage

We advise on safe storage of your original Will and ensure your executors know how to locate it when the time comes.

Don't put it off any longer.
Your family deserves this peace of mind.

Free Consultation(02) 9633 3122
Common Questions

Wills & Estates FAQs

QWhy do I need a Will?
Without a valid Will, your estate is distributed according to a rigid legal formula that may not reflect your wishes. It can also cause delays, additional cost, and family conflict. A properly drafted Will ensures your assets go to the people you choose, in the way you choose.
QWhat happens if I die without a Will?
You are said to have died "intestate." Your estate is distributed according to the Succession Act 2006 (NSW) formula — which distributes to spouse and children in set proportions, with no regard to your personal wishes or the individual needs of your loved ones.
QWhat is a Power of Attorney?
A Power of Attorney (POA) authorises a trusted person to manage your financial and legal affairs if you are unable to do so yourself — for example, due to illness, accident, or travel. An Enduring POA continues to operate even if you lose mental capacity.
QWhat is an Enduring Guardianship?
An Appointment of Enduring Guardian authorises a trusted person to make personal, lifestyle and medical decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity — for example, where you live, what medical treatment you receive, and who can visit you.
QCan you visit me at home or in hospital?
Yes. We regularly visit clients at their homes, in hospital, or in aged care facilities to take instructions and arrange signing of documents. If you or a family member cannot come to our office, please call us and we will arrange a visit at a time that suits.
QWhat is Probate and do I need it?
Probate is the formal court process of recognising a Will as valid and authorising the executor to deal with the estate. It is generally required where the deceased owned real estate or where financial institutions require it before releasing assets. We handle the entire Probate application on your behalf.
QWhat if there is no Will and I need to administer the estate?
We apply for Letters of Administration on your behalf, which gives you legal authority to administer the estate. The process is similar to Probate but involves additional steps to establish entitlement.
QCan someone contest my Will?
Under the Succession Act, certain eligible persons — including spouses, children, and former spouses — can make a Family Provision Claim if they feel they have not been adequately provided for. Proper Will drafting and planning can minimise this risk. If you are facing a contested estate matter, we can assist on both sides.
QHow much does it cost to prepare a Will?
Your first consultation is free. The cost of preparing a Will depends on complexity — a simple Will is straightforward and affordable. We provide a clear fee estimate upfront before we begin. Call (02) 9633 3122 or contact us online for more information.
QHow often should I update my Will?
We recommend reviewing your Will after any major life event — marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a significant change in assets, or the death of a beneficiary or executor. Marriage automatically revokes a Will in NSW unless the Will was made in contemplation of that marriage.
Further Reading
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in NSW? →Powers of Attorney in NSW: Everything You Need to Know →