Disputed Wills and Estates

Calculating Family Provision Act Claims

by Arnold Shields 13 April 2010

The basis for Succession Act and Family Provision Act claims is on the basis of needs or specifically in some legislation the costs of maintenance, education and advancement in life. It is necessary to arrive at a lump sum value in respect of those future needs, but how do you calculate a lump sum value?

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The Role of Forensic Accountants

by Arnold Shields 29 March 2010

The main role of forensic accountants is to assist the courts, solicitors and clients understand the complex financial and accounting issues and presenting that information in a manner that all users can understand. An important addition to that is that the opinions or results are supported by evidence that will hold up under cross examination or scrutiny. As forensic accountants, [...]

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Factors in Determining the Level of Future Maintainable Earnings

by Arnold Shields 27 January 2010

Valuations are dependent upon a number of subjective assumptions. One of the main assumptions involves the level of expected future profitability. It is common to see as a basis for future earnings the average of the previous three years. Whilst the average of the previous three years may be appropriate, the reasons for choosing that basis are often not given [...]

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Disputed Will – Case Study – Future Needs

by Arnold Shields 13 November 2009

How we calculated the future needs in a disputed estate by using superannuation and effective tax planning to provide a solution that enabled a quick settlement.

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