You can certainly keep the contents of your Will confidential.
You are under no obligation to disclose the contents of your Will to anyone; even your beneficiaries or family or friends.
If you are experiencing pressure from someone close to you to make a Will that is not in accordance with your wishes, you can indicate that to your solicitor during your initial appointment. We can assist you to keep the contents of your Will confidential from other people.
Clients often ask if their children or a support person can join them in the initial Will appointment to assist with basic information. This is generally okay, but we will also ask your child or support person to leave the room before we obtain instructions from you detailing how you would like your estate distributed.
When you are alone with the solicitor, you should raise the issue of being forced or coerced into making a Will with the solicitor. If the solicitor has cause for concern, they may ask you if you are being coerced or forced to make a Will when your support person is not present.
If you are being coerced to create/amend your Will, the solicitor should discuss possible solutions with you. This might include you keeping your original Will or creating a new Will with your intended wishes in a way which is hidden from the support person.
If you have created a Will, our firm will not release information regarding your Will, copies of your Will or details of your Will unless you have died and the executors require it for probate, or we have your express permission in writing.
If you would like to make a Will or have other questions about estate planning, please call and make an appointment to discuss your needs (03)57224681.
MORGAN COUZENS LEGAL
For more information about Wills, see our other blogs below!
Victorian Legal Aid:
https://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/administration-estate
