Requirements for Document Release

At Champion Contested Wills Lawyers, we follow specific guidelines when releasing held documents. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Ownership and Parties:
    • Documents are released only to the rightful owner or parties authorized by the owner.
    • If multiple parties are involved, all must request the document’s release.
    • Note: We won’t release a principal’s Will to an Attorney while the principal is alive (as per Queensland Law Society guidelines).
    • In NSW Attorneys requesting release of a principal’s documents must satisfy the conditions imposed under the Enduring Power of Attorney.
  2. Deceased Person’s Will:
    • An original Will of a deceased person is released to the estate’s executors.
    • Executors must provide the official death certificate.
    • If there are multiple executors, they must jointly request the Will.
  3. Identity Verification:
    • We require evidence of identity for relevant parties:
      • Owner(s), document collectors, and attorneys.
    • Valid driver’s licenses or passports are acceptable.
    • Other forms of identity are considered case-by-case.
    • Identity documents can be presented in person or scanned and emailed (no faxes).
  4. Authority and Acknowledgment:
    • The document owner can collect it or authorize another person or law firm.
    • Written authorities must be unambiguous.
    • An acknowledgment of receipt must be signed and returned.
  5. Delivery Options:
    • Documents can be collected in person during business hours (call ahead).
    • Couriers or authorized representatives can collect with proper written authority.
    • You can provide a prepaid self-addressed express post envelope for return.
    • We also offer Australia Post registered post delivery (fee applies).

Remember, any outstanding fees or expenses must be settled before document collection.