Charmian is exceptionally passionate about assisting her clients with their estate planning including the drafting of wills, powers of attorney, appointments of enduring guardian. She has applied to the Supreme Court of NSW to obtain countless grants of probate and letters of administration, and routinely guides her clients through the estate administration process, in both contested and uncontested matters.

Charmian has experience in an incredibly vast array of estate related matters, with some of her recent matters including:

• Obtaining uncontested grants and reseals of probate.

• Obtaining letters of administration.

• Acting on behalf of the executors of a deceased estate to defend a family provision claim brought by a former de facto partner of the deceased.

• Providing advice and preparing a complex estate plan involving family trusts, business succession planning, and a myriad of corporate structures.

• Obtaining probate in circumstances involving foreign residents and complex taxation issues.

• Obtaining letters of administration in unusual circumstances such as those involving foreign residents, lost wills, informal wills.

• Applying to the Supreme Court of NSW for interim and special grants of probate and administration.

In helping her estate clients resolve their disputes, Charmian has expertise in many methods of dispute resolution including collaborative law, mediation, conciliation, and litigation. This means that she not only serves her clients with her deep knowledge of the law, but she also enjoys adding value with her strategic focus on appropriate management of legal matters to resolve disputes in the most quick and efficient manner.

Charmian has experience appearing in various jurisdictions including the NSW Civil & Administrative Tribunal, Local Court, District Court, Supreme Court, and the NSW Court of Appeal. Charmian has formerly practised an NMAS Accredited Mediator.

Prior to joining Thornton + King, Charmian ran the law practice known as Myall Coast Legal. 

Accreditations and Associations

• Advanced Diploma in Conveyancing

• Bachelor of Laws

• Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice

• Master of Laws (Dispute Resolution/Corporate & Commercial)

• Applied Master of Laws (Wills and Estates)

• Collaborative Lawyer (Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals)

• Member of the Law Society of New South Wales

• Member of the Law Society of New South Wales’ Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee

For personalised legal support from Charmian and her team, complete the form below to hear how Thornton + King can help you.