FuturePlanning

As life moved forward, Luke’s family grew. He now had two children, including Mildred, whom he had adopted. It became important to Luke that both Mildred and his other daughter, Isabelle, were treated equally in his estate planning, so he contacted his lawyer.

Luke updated his will to reflect the new addition to his family. He ensured that his adopted child would be provided for on the same terms as his biological child, leaving no room for uncertainty. At the same time, Luke recognised that several antique items he had inherited from his late mother held special meaning for Sally and should ultimately pass to her. His will therefore specifically gifts those items to his daughter, Isabelle.

Luke appointed his brother and sister as executors and trustees, giving them responsibility for administering the estate. He also provided that the remainder of his estate be held on trust and shared equally between his two children when they reach the age of 18.

Luke also took practical steps to ensure his affairs were in order. He kept a copy of his will, his insurance policies, and a list of his bank accounts together in a secure drawer and made sure his brother and sister knew exactly where to find these important documents if anything were to happen to him. He also ensured they were aware that the original will is held securely at the Edmonds Judd office.

With everything clearly documented and the right people appointed, Luke now has peace of mind knowing his children will be looked after and his wishes will be carried out.

Georgia Willard


Retirement villages are becoming a popular option for New Zealanders planning their retirement, but it is not the same as buying a house. Most villages provide an Occupation Right Agreement (ORA), which gives you the right to live there and use the facilities rather than legal ownership. Here are a few common misconceptions that can catch people out.

  1. “Weekly fees cover all my costs”
    Weekly fees usually cover village services (gardening, security, communal facilities), but residents often still pay for utilities, care services, or extra support.
  2. “All the money will go back to my family when I die”
    Your entry payment will likely not be returned straight away when you leave or pass away. In reality, it depends on the terms of the ORA and can often require the unit to be re-licensed to a new resident. Most villages will also deduct what’s often called a deferred management fee which can be up to 20–30% of the original entry price
  3. “All Contracts Are the Same”
    Not all retirement villages play by the same rules. Fees, exit conditions, and benefits vary, and small differences can have a big impact.

Moving into a retirement village is a big decision, both legally and financially. If you are considering this step, it is important to seek advice from your lawyer, so you fully understand what it means for you and your family.

 

Georgia Willard


A few years into Steve’s retirement, things started to change.

 

Steve was not quite himself anymore. He became forgetful, sometimes confused, and would occasionally lose track of where he was or what he had planned for the day. At first his children, Luke and Sally thought it might just be part of getting older. But over time, it became clear that it was something more serious. Steve was beginning to lose mental capacity.

 

It was a difficult time. Watching the strong and capable father they had always relied on start to struggle was heartbreaking. But one thing made a huge difference. Steve had prepared for this.

 

Years earlier, with the help of Edmonds Judd, Steve had put in place Enduring Powers of Attorney. He had taken the time to meet with a lawyer, talk through his options, and sign the documents while he was still well and able to make decisions for himself. He had appointed both types of attorney. One for property, which would allow his children to manage his finances and property. And one for personal care and welfare, where he had named Sally as his first attorney to make decisions about his health and daily care.

 

When Steve’s condition worsened, Luke and Sally were able to step in without any delays or uncertainty. Luke handled the financial side, making sure bills were paid and everything stayed in order. Sally worked closely with Steve’s doctor and made the final call on his treatment when he was no longer able to do so himself.

 

There was no need to go through the courts. There were no arguments about what should happen or who should decide. Steve had made his choices clear, and they could simply carry them out.

Because of the advice and support he received from Edmonds Judd, Steve’s family had the tools they needed to care for him with clarity and compassion. His wishes were protected, and his children could focus on what mattered most.

 

It was not just legal paperwork. It was peace of mind. And it made all the difference when Steve and his family needed it most.

Georgia Willard