It is an unfortunate fact that bankruptcy, divorce and litigation are becoming more common in our society and they are having a damaging effect on business, investment and family assets. With careful planning it is possible to minimise the damage that can be done.

Those people who wish to pass assets to their children, families and loved ones (whether during their life or under the terms of a Will) want the assets to remain secure with the intended recipients and not be lost to outsiders. By using the right means and structures, this objective is achievable.

Effective estate planning may help alleviate other concerns, including minimising the effects of capital gains tax, income tax, the tax treatment of minors (i.e. people aged less than 18), treatment of gifts or bequests to an exempt charity taxation and events such as the bankruptcy or the divorce of a beneficiary.

The effect of divorce can be drastic for younger or future generations. Many people are comfortable with the idea that their spouse may remarry after their death, but how many would be comfortable with the idea that this “new spouse” may get half of your children’s inheritance if their spouse and the “new spouse” get divorced? We can help secure peace of mind by providing professional advice to help resolve these issues.