Wills and Intestacy in Australia and New Zealand

The book "Wills and Intestacy in Australia and New Zealand" by Ian James Hardingham, Harold Arthur John Ford, and Marcia Ann Neave is a comprehensive legal text that explores the laws and regulations surrounding wills and intestacy in both Australia and New Zealand. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Wills: The book delves into the creation, execution, and interpretation of wills, including the formalities required for a valid will, the types of wills (e.g., holographic, mutual, joint), and the rights of beneficiaries.
2. Intestacy: It examines the rules governing the distribution of an estate when a person dies without a valid will, including the order of distribution and the rights of various classes of beneficiaries.
3. Miscellaneous Matters: The third part of the book covers various related topics such as the administration of estates, probate, and the role of executors and administrators.

Plot Summary

The book is structured into three main parts:

1. Part I: Wills

   • This section discusses the creation and execution of wills, including the formal requirements, types of wills, and the rights of beneficiaries.
   • It also covers the process of proving a will in court and the potential challenges that may arise during this process.

2. Part II: Intestacy

   • This part focuses on the rules governing the distribution of an estate when a person dies without a valid will.
   • It outlines the order of distribution, including the rights of spouses, children, and other relatives, as well as the role of the Public Trustee in certain jurisdictions.

3. Part III: Miscellaneous Matters

   • This section covers various related topics such as the administration of estates, including the role of executors and administrators.
   • It also discusses probate, the process of obtaining a grant of probate or letters of administration, and the responsibilities associated with these roles.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews of the book are not readily available in the provided sources, the book's comprehensive nature and its inclusion in academic and legal collections suggest that it is a respected and authoritative text in the field of Australian and New Zealand estate law.

Editions and Publication

The book was first published in 1983 and has since been revised and updated. The second edition, which is the most commonly referenced version, was published in 1989 by the Law Book Co. in Sydney.

Target Audience

The book is primarily aimed at tertiary students and legal professionals seeking a detailed understanding of the laws governing wills and intestacy in Australia and New Zealand. It includes bibliographical references and an index to facilitate further research.

Availability

The book is available through various academic and legal databases, including AustLII and Berkeley Law. Copies can also be requested through library services, such as Copies Direct, under fair dealing provisions.