Insights into how to contest a will, and how to write one that will stand up to scrutiny, will be shared at an event at the Woodvale Library on November 10.  

The library’s adult and senior services officer and event organiser Margaret Brooker said the event aims to provide a diverse range of topics for the community’s information and enjoyment.

“It will be important to people who are contesting a will, or who are looking to contest one. People who are preparing a will or changing one may also find this important.”

Cariad Legal is the law firm providing an expert to present at the event.

Western Australia’s Department of Justice’ website said a will is “one of the most important documents for you and your family” and passing away without one “could mean that your estate may be divided by pre-determined formulas”.

Allianz Insurance also said a will is one of the most important documents an individual can possess, but “almost one in two Australians do not have a valid will”.

The insurance company website also described wills as complex topics, as they can become invalid over certain circumstances and be challenged by other people, making it important to understand how wills work.

Legal Director of Cariad Legal and event lecturer Catherine Lynch highlighted the benefit of the Woodvale Library program, saying there are a lot of urban legends in this part of the law and that the event aimed to set the record straight for people.

She said the event could deepen people’s understanding as the presentation will focus on distinguishing and defining the terminology.

Ms Lynch also said that passing away without a will “could get quite complex”.

She recounted a professional experience in which a gentleman passed away and left nothing for his daughter. However, this daughter successfully challenged his will and inherited some things.

Curtin Law lecturer Bec Flint said: “Events like these are always good for people to get to know their rights and gain general knowledge.

“An important part of these events is about getting the word out to the general public. Hopefully the people who attend will tell their friends and families about it.”

Ms Flint has been to a few similar events and said they have been useful. However, she emphasised that they only gave general advice, and it was best to see a lawyer for specific information.

For the Woodvale event on November 10, bookings must be made in advance and the entry fee for the event is $3, which should be in exact change due to precautions against COVID-19.