Parke Lawyers
A curated legal knowledge centre from the lawyers at Parke Lawyers — authored, reviewed and maintained in plain English. Browse by practice area or search the full library.
Pinned reading
What probate is, when it's required, and the practical steps executors must take to obtain a grant of probate in the Supreme Court of Victoria.
An overview of an executor's legal duties, common pitfalls, and how to administer a deceased estate properly under Victorian law.
How testamentary trusts work, when they're useful, and the asset-protection and tax-planning benefits they can offer your beneficiaries.
Why business owners need an estate plan, how different structures pass on, and the agreements and insurances that keep a business running after death.
A clear explanation of why every adult in Victoria should have a valid Will, what happens without one, and how to make sure your wishes are properly recorded.
A practical guide to enduring powers of attorney and medical treatment decision makers under Victorian law — and what happens if you don't have one.
By practice area
Wills, testamentary trusts and planning for the future.
Grants of probate, executor duties and estate administration.
Family provision claims, will disputes and estate litigation.
Enduring powers of attorney and medical treatment decisions.
Divorce, property, parenting and intervention orders.
Business structures, succession, contracts and risk.
Ownership transition, succession planning and family business continuity.
Buying, selling and leasing property in Victoria.
Workplace investigations, awards and employer obligations.
Court proceedings, mediation and dispute resolution.
Traffic offences and summary criminal matters.
Retirement village contracts, exits and disputes.
Recent additions
Learn the difference between mutual wills and mirror wills, how they work, and whether they are suitable for couples and blended families.
Learn when Letters of Administration are required, who can apply, how the Supreme Court process works and how estates are administered in Victoria.
When the Supreme Court of Victoria will recognise an informal document — including a text message, email or computer file — as a valid will under the Wills Act 1997 (Vic).
How wills, testamentary trusts, life interests and superannuation nominations can help blended families balance the interests of a new spouse and children from earlier relationships.
How private companies, partnerships, trusts and professional practices are treated in Australian family law property settlements — valuation, goodwill, disclosure and protecting a business during separation.
What intestacy means in Victoria, who administers an estate without a Will, how Letters of Administration work, and the statutory rules that decide who inherits.
