On 25 June 2013, Russell Leneham, Accredited Specialist in Succession Law (Wills & Estates), appeared in the District Court at Brisbane on behalf of a client to oppose an application by the other party to dismiss our client’s court action. The following is Mr Leneham’s description of the hearing.
“Quinn & Scattini Lawyers had been representing our client for only 4 weeks (from late May 2013), but this District Court case was filed in court in 2005. The other party submitted to the court today that the action should be dismissed because no formal step had been taken in the action for more than 7 years. At first blush, that appears to be a pretty good argument. But the broader background of the case needs to be considered. There are actually two related court actions going at the same time, relating to the same contested will.
One of the cases is proceeding in the Supreme Court in Townsville. There were also delays of many years in that case before Q&S became involved in May 2013. In that case, our client argues that her father’s will is not valid because he lacked capacity to make a will. On 4 June 2013 the Supreme Court gave directions for the progress of that case.
The other case is the one in the District Court at Brisbane, where our client is claiming further provision from her father’s estate on the basis that his will (the one that our client says is not valid) does not make adequate provision for our client.”
Mr Leneham said “It makes sense to me, and it seems to accord with the legislation, that the further provision claim cannot go ahead – it has to sit on the sidelines – until the Supreme Court has determined whether or not the will is valid”.
The District Court judge agreed, making an order today that the District Court claim for further provision is stayed until the Supreme Court case has been finalised.
Mr Leneham said “This is a good result for our client, who is up against the resources of a large trustee company that is acting as administrator of the estate. We can now focus our efforts on the Supreme Court case, and keep the other case as a backup position for our client in case the Supreme Court declares the will to be valid”.
How We Can Help
Quinn & Scattini Lawyers’ Director, Russell Leneham, is a lawyer over 30 years experience practising law in Queensland. Russell is an Accredited Specialist in Wills & Estates and a Registered Trust & Estate Practitioner with the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners. Russell and his expert Wills & Estates Team can assist with all your estate needs, including estate planning, estate management, and estate disputes.
Contact Us
Get the best representation. Contact Quinn & Scattini Lawyers on 1800 999 529, email mail@qslaw.com.au or submit an enquiry below.
We are available to meet with you at any of our local offices (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Beenleigh, Cleveland and Jimboomba) or by telephone or video-conference.
This article is for your information and interest only. It is not intended to be comprehensive, and it does not constitute and must not be relied on as legal advice. You must seek specific advice tailored to your circumstances.
