Areas of practice
Andrew Walter offers advice in the areas detailed below. But what Andrew’s clients value him for is his ability to quickly identify which area of the law is involved, and offer pragmatic legal advice in response.
Trusts
Andrew will start by finding out about your circumstances and what you see as the benefits associated with having a trust. He’ll explore alternative solutions - along with trusts.
Once you’re satisfied that a trust is appropriate, Andrew will discuss the details of the type of trust, who the trustees should be, the potential beneficiaries and the process for transferring assets to the trust. The creation and execution of the trust is then a straightforward matter.
Conveyancing
Andrew’s clients have learnt the benefits of talking to him before committing themselves to a contract of any sort. Initial checks that Andrew can carry out for you on a proposed property are quick and simple and add very little to the cost of the associated legal work - but they can prevent nasty surprises.
After an agreement is reached between vendor and purchaser, Andrew will set out and discuss the whole process through to settlement or completion. He’ll tailor his advice and the process for any specific requests you have, modifying it for your personal circumstances.
Andrew’s experience and availability means he can assist you with any hiccups that can occur during the process.
At settlement (usually slightly before) Andrew will provide full financial records relating to your settlement, including the provision of fees, which will have been discussed with you at the outset of the work.
Wills
Andrew will work with you to gain a better understanding of your (and your family’s) situation, including what assets and liabilities you have. Andrew will use this information, together with your wishes and intentions for what you’d like to happen to your property, to prepare your will. As part of the process, he’ll explain various alternatives and options.
ESTATES
The legal process for the administration of an estate is usually simple and straightforward – but it can be an emotional time for clients. Andrew has extensive experience with estates. He always approaches the process with a great deal of compassion and empathy.
RELATIONSHIP PROPERTY
Andrew will start by gathering information about you, your family and the dynamics of your current situation, along with information regarding the ‘property’. He’ll talk you through the general principles of relationship property and let you know if more detailed information is required.
Andrew will explain the different processes available to the partners, emphasising the benefit of reaching your own solution if at all possible.
It’s important Andrew maintains his role as a lawyer, not a counsellor, in what may be an emotionally charged time, but he always approaches these cases with empathy and compassion.
Andrew will offer you the best legal advice for your situation – even if it’s not what you want to hear. Ultimately however, Andrew will provide on-going support for whatever you choose to do.