Lisa Schutz Barrister and Solicitor

09/06/2026

05/06/2026

Have you recently lost a loved one?

One of the first documents many families rely upon is the Death Certificate. However, it is important to carefully check all details recorded on the certificate and ensure they are complete and accurate.

I often see situations where information has been recorded incorrectly or where important details have been omitted. This can include names, dates, marital status, previous relationships, and details of children.

While a mistake may seem minor at the time, incorrect information can create difficulties later when dealing with estates, superannuation, family provision claims, genealogy records, or proving family relationships.

If you are arranging a Death Certificate, take the time to review all information carefully before it is finalised. It is much easier to correct errors early than to try and fix them months or years later.

If you have lost a loved one and need assistance with Probate, Letters of Administration, or estate matters, I am happy to help.

16/04/2026

Does a Will Need to Be Read?

This is one of the most common questions people ask me.

In South Australia, a Will is generally not formally “read” after someone passes away, despite what is often shown in movies. There is usually no requirement for the family to gather while the Will is read aloud.

# # # While You Are Alive

No one is legally entitled to see your Will while you are alive.

If you feel comfortable, it can be very helpful to speak with your loved ones about your wishes and the reasons you have structured your Will the way you have. Clear communication during your lifetime can often prevent confusion or conflict later.

Your Will should be kept in a safe and secure place, and your executor should know where it is located.

# # # After You Have Died

From 1 January 2025, certain people are entitled to inspect or receive a copy of a Will in South Australia, including:

• A person named in the Will
• A person named as a beneficiary in an earlier Will
• A surviving spouse, partner, child or stepchild
• Any former spouse or partner
• Parents or guardians
• A person entitled to share in the estate if there were no Will
• A parent or guardian of an eligible child
• A person managing the estate under a guardianship or administration order immediately before death

The person holding the Will (often the executor or another authorised person) must allow eligible persons to inspect or copy it. This may also extend to revoked Wills, copies, parts of a Will, or documents said to be a Will.

If you are unsure whether you are entitled to see a Will, need help locating one, or want guidance about estate matters in South Australia, please contact me directly. I would be happy to assist.

13/04/2026

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15/03/2026

“Free” wills can sometimes become very expensive.

I regularly see estates where a poorly drafted or generic will creates confusion, disputes between family members, or costly legal issues that could have easily been avoided with proper advice.

A will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever sign. Having it prepared by an experienced legal practitioner helps ensure your wishes are clear and your estate is protected.

I offer professional will appointments, including home and aged-care visits, making the process simple and convenient.

Sometimes a small investment now can save your estate significant cost later.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1ATPaJeqtS/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Twelve years before her death, Margaret Greaves used the NSW government’s free will service, bequeathing all assets to her son, Tony. It was a decision that would cost him nearly $60,000.

15/03/2026

A Will can address many important issues, including who will make decisions about your final resting place and how those decisions are to be carried out.

Recent cases in South Australia have seen family members taking legal action against one another over who has the authority to decide these matters. Situations like this can cause unnecessary stress and conflict at an already difficult time.

Making a Will is an important step in ensuring your wishes are clearly documented and reducing the risk of disputes.

Make your appointment today.

https://7news.com.au/news/kaleb-raymond-brunsdon-perth-tradies-death-in-car-crash-sparks-bitter-court-fight-between-parents-c-21906832?fbclid=IwdGRjcAQjOk1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe7-vIQhgbj79NC5L2PRuXtEkfwaa5rffVuKX1RVwBMfKLeIjBagqXS14KQro_aem_BELAYo29r_zGwxBQKKW9mw

The tragic death of a young tradie in a horror crash on Mitchell Freeway has led to a bitter court battle between his divorced parents over his funeral, ashes and estate.

24/02/2026

Have you ever looked closely at the BSB of your bank account?

It might seem like a minor detail, but it can have serious consequences after you die.

If you live in South Australia but your bank accounts are held with a bank branch registered interstate (based on the BSB), your estate may not be administered in South Australia at all. In some cases, your executor may be required to apply for probate in another State, or apply for a reseal of probate.

That can mean:
• additional legal steps
• higher legal and court costs
• delays in administering the estate
• unnecessary stress for your executor and family

Many people assume probate automatically happens where they live. That isn’t always the case. Financial institutions, asset locations, and how accounts are structured can all affect where probate must be granted.

This is exactly why a Will check is so important.

A proper Will review isn’t just about who gets what. It’s about identifying practical issues—like where your assets are held—and planning ahead to minimise cost, delay, and complexity for the people you leave behind.

A simple conversation now can save your family significant time, money, and frustration later.

📌 Estate planning is about more than documents. It’s about foresight.

19/02/2026

With recent media attention on Collingwood Football Club and the backlash over requesting members consider leaving bequests, it’s a timely reminder that decisions about your estate should always be made carefully, independently, and with proper advice.

Leaving a gift to a charity can be a meaningful way to create a legacy — but it should be done on your terms.

Having a lawyer draft your will matters, particularly where charitable gifts are involved. A lawyer can:
• ensure the gift reflects your true intentions
• protect you from undue influence or pressure
• draft clear, legally effective clauses to avoid disputes
• balance charitable wishes with family obligations

A well-drafted will isn’t just about distributing assets — it’s about protecting your autonomy and ensuring your legacy is honoured exactly as you intend.

Charitable giving should be a considered choice, not a reaction to a letter, a campaign, or a moment of pressure.

Your will. Your values. Your decision.

29/01/2026

Staples & Wills — important reminder ⚠️

Never remove a staple from a Will.
Removing a staple can be interpreted as tampering, even if your intentions are innocent.
• If you made the Will and a staple has been removed → redraw the Will.
• If you are the executor → do nothing and keep a clear record of the condition of the Will.

There is no good reason to tamper with a Will.
When in doubt, leave it exactly as you found it and seek legal advice.

05/01/2026

Losing a loved one over the holiday period can be especially difficult. If you have recently experienced a loss and have been appointed as an executor, you may be unsure where to start. We offer a free, no-obligation chat to help you understand your role and the next steps. Please feel free to get in touch.