Elder Law

E: lpolito@willisbowring.com.au
LLM (Applied Law) Wills & Estates.

Lou Polito was admitted as a Solicitor in 1978 and held a prominent position as a Partner at Willis & Bowring from 1997 until July 2023. Currently leading the Estate Planning Division of the firm, Lou brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His dedication to the field is underscored by extensive studies, culminating in the attainment of an LLM (Applied Law) in Wills & Estates.
 
In the intricate realm of Estate Planning, Lou orchestrates the development of comprehensive plans for the seamless transfer of assets in anticipation of death. A hallmark of a well-crafted plan is its flexibility, ensuring the preservation of assets for the intended beneficiaries. Lou’s guidance also extends to advising on the incorporation of testamentary trusts in wills where deemed appropriate.
 
Within the spectrum of Estate Planning, Lou emphasizes the importance of addressing key considerations, including Superannuation Nominations, Enduring Powers of Attorney, and Enduring Guardianships. These components collectively contribute to a robust and holistic approach to estate planning management.
 
Beyond his role in Estate Planning, Lou’s expertise aligns with Business Legal Services, further enhancing the comprehensive legal support offered by Willis & Bowring.
 
Lou Polito’s extensive experience, coupled with his commitment to staying at the forefront of legal knowledge, solidifies his position as a trusted leader in the field of Wills & Estates at our esteemed firm.

E: jcalleja@willisbowring.com.au
LLM (Applied Law) (Wills & Estates) (College of Law)
LLB (Hons), B.A. (Dist), GDLP

Jessica joined Willis & Bowring in November 2017, initially as a paralegal and was admitted to practice as a Solicitor by the NSW Supreme Court in March 2019.
 
Jessica holds a Masters of Laws (Applied Law), majoring in Wills and Estates, completed with the College of Law in 2022. She also graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction (Politics) from the University of Wollongong in 2018, and has completed a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.
 
For three consecutive years from 2023 to 2025, Jessica was named as a finalist in the Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards, in the category of Wills & Estates. This national award recognises young lawyers who have demonstrated outstanding skills and achievements, and commitment to advancing themselves and the profession, especially in relation to their chosen field.
 
Jessica regularly assists clients, alongside their financial advisers, to prepare tailored Estate Planning documents, including Testamentary Trust Wills, and reviewing superannuation and business structures for Estate Planning purposes. She also provides advice on applications for Probate and Letters of Administration and can assist with the administration of estates in a timely and efficient manner.
 
Jessica also assists clients and their families with transitioning to supported accommodation, through reviewing proposed agreements with aged care facilities.
 
Jessica prides herself on her attention to detail and approachable manner.
 
Outside of work, Jessica enjoys spending time with family and travelling. She also speaks Maltese.

E: bharris@willisbowring.com.au

Ben Harris was admitted as a solicitor in February 2004 and joined Willis & Bowring in 2018 having previously been a solicitor at PricewaterhouseCoopers as well as with several Sydney city based mid-tier law firms.

Ben is a partner of Willis & Bowring and manages the Property & Commercial division of the firm, having over 20 years’ experience practicing property and commercial law.

Ben has experience in all aspects of real estate transactions including acting and providing advice on issues relating to:
· the sale and purchase of commercial, retail and industrial property and the development of green field sites;
· commercial, retail and industrial lease transactions;
· the preparation and registration of subdivisions, easements and covenants;
· the preparation of by-laws for strata schemes;
· retirement village contracts and aged care agreements; and
· residential conveyancing.

Ben also has experience in:
· planning and development issues;
· the sale and purchase of businesses and companies;
· the preparation of, and providing advice on, general commercial agreements for businesses and companies;
· the preparation of, and providing advice on, loan and security documentation including the stamping and registration of securities; and
· due diligence investigations.

Ben acts for a range of clients including individuals, private companies and property developers, and has the skills and insight to tailor his advice to suit the needs of his particular clients.

Ben is well established in the Sutherland Shire and truly knows the area, having grown up in and now raising his family in the area.