Why Abbey Widdison is helping families tackle one of life’s most important conversations
IT’S one of the most important documents you’ll ever sign, yet thousands of Australians keep putting it off.
For Logan-based lawyer Abbey Widdison, helping people move estate planning from the bottom of the to-do list to the top has become one of the most rewarding parts of her career.
As an Associate with Kate Redman & Associates, Abbey spends her days helping families across South East Queensland navigate wills, estate planning, estate administration and estate litigation.
Rather than requiring people to visit a traditional law office, the firm’s mobile legal service allows Abbey and the team to travel directly to clients, whether that be at home, work or another convenient location.
“It’s not a pleasant or comfortable thing for most people to think about,” Abbey said.
“Estate planning means considering what happens after you’re gone and what happens to the people you leave behind. By meeting people where they feel comfortable, it helps make the process a little less intimidating.”
Abbey’s passion for estate law grew from her earlier work in litigation and dispute resolution, where she witnessed firsthand the emotional toll estate disputes can have on families.
“I saw what happens when families are fighting after a loved one has passed away,” she said.
“That really motivated me to move into estate planning because I wanted to help people avoid those situations where possible and give them peace of mind about the future.”
While many people assume they have decades before they need to organise their affairs, Abbey said life can change unexpectedly.
“Young people absolutely should be thinking about estate planning,” she said.
“As you start accumulating assets, it’s important to think about where you want those assets to go. If you don’t make those decisions yourself, Queensland’s intestacy laws will make them for you.”
Despite the legal complexity of her work, Abbey said the most rewarding moments are often the simplest.
“Knowing you’ve helped someone feel secure about the future and protected their family is a wonderful feeling,” she said.
“I hope people leave with a sense of security.
I hope they feel confident their families will be protected and that their wishes will be honoured. That’s what we’re here to help achieve.
