As Australia celebrates National Families Week, it is vital that we embrace and support the diverse nature of modern families. It is undeniable that family structures have evolved significantly from the traditional nuclear model to blended families, single-parent households, de facto relationships and other non-traditional arrangements. It is imperative that these structures and family dynamics are duly recognised and accommodated when it comes to estate planning and family law to ensure the proper protection and intended distribution of family wealth. What we do Recognise and understand family diversity and dynamics. Help you to navigate complex family dynamics when considering who to appoint in key roles such as the guardians of any minor children, your attorneys, medical guardians and executors/trustees in your Will. Offer bespoke estate planning strategies and documents to fit the needs and objectives of your unique circumstances. Identify vulnerable family members and tailoring strategies to protect and safeguard them. Considering the effective use of life insurances and superannuation in your estate planning. Identify and help mitigate potential family disputes and family provision claims. Knowledge of the legal framework that may affect estate planning. Facilitating family conferences to ensure open and transparent discussions around wealth and business succession to manage expectations and avoid conflict. Collaborating with your other trusted advisors such as your accountants or financial planners to ensure all aspects of your estate plan have been considered. Draft Binding Financial Agreements to protect assets in the event of separation or divorce. Assist in negotiations towards settlement of family law parenting and financial disputes following a relationship breakdown, or representation in legal proceedings as necessary. How we can help As family structures and relationships diversify, so too can the complexities that surround estate planning, and family law. Russell Kennedy are the experts in both estate planning and family law and we play a pivotal role in supporting and empowering families of all shapes and sizes to preserve and protect legacies for future generations. If you have any questions or concerns about your individual circumstances and how we can help, reach out to Succession Lawyer Taryn Ellerington from our Wills and Estates Team or Principal Simone Green in Family Law. If you would like to keep up to date with Alerts, Insights and upcoming events, you can subscribe to our mailing list here.