It’s a common question we receive from new enquiries:

“We already have wills — we just need to update them.”

On the surface, this sounds simple. Perhaps an executor has changed, a beneficiary needs to be added, or circumstances have shifted since the wills were prepared.

However, estate planning is rarely as straightforward as making a small amendment to an existing document — particularly when that document was prepared by another law firm.

At Nurture Law, we take a holistic approach to estate planning. This means that rather than simply editing an existing will, we undertake a full review of your circumstances and prepare a new estate plan that reflects your current situation and objectives.

Estate Planning Is More Than Just a Will

A will does not operate in isolation. It interacts with many other aspects of your life and financial affairs, including:

• Your family structure
• Your assets and how they are owned
• Superannuation and death benefit nominations
• Trusts and business structures
• Tax considerations
• Potential family provision claims
• Asset protection concerns
• Your wishes for guardianship and incapacity planning

When a will is prepared, it is drafted with these broader considerations in mind. Changing one clause in isolation can unintentionally affect how the entire document operates.

For this reason, a simple “update” can sometimes create unintended consequences.

Why We Don’t Amend Another Lawyer’s Documents

Each law firm uses its own precedents, drafting style and legal structure when preparing wills.

At Nurture Law, we use carefully developed estate planning precedents that reflect current best practice in this area of law. These documents have been refined over many years to ensure they are robust, clear, and effective in practice.

When we provide legal advice, we must be confident that the documents reflect our advice and meet our professional standards.

Because of this, we do not amend wills drafted by another firm or provide advice based solely on another lawyer’s documents. Instead, we prepare a new will tailored to your circumstances.

This ensures we can stand behind the documents we prepare and that your estate plan works as intended.

A Fresh Review Can Be Valuable

Many people are surprised to discover that their circumstances have changed significantly since their last wills were prepared.

Over time, changes may occur such as:

• Marriage, separation or blended families
• New children or grandchildren
• Changes in asset ownership
• Business interests
• Changes in tax laws
• Evolving family dynamics

A fresh review of your estate plan ensures these changes are properly addressed.

What If You Only Want a Small Change?

If you simply wish to make a minor amendment to your existing will, the most efficient option may be to return to the solicitor who originally prepared the document. They will be familiar with the structure and drafting of your will and may be able to assist with an amendment.

However, if you would like a comprehensive review of your estate plan and the preparation of new documents tailored to your current circumstances, our team would be delighted to assist.

Estate Planning Done Properly

Estate planning is one of the most important legal processes you will undertake. Done properly, it can protect your loved ones, minimise conflict, and ensure your wishes are carried out.

Taking the time to review and prepare a well-structured estate plan can provide significant peace of mind.

If you would like to discuss your estate planning needs, please contact the Nurture Law team.