Willis & Bowring
Elder Law
Elder law focuses on legal issues affecting older individuals, covering estate planning, long-term care, guardianship, healthcare decision-making, protection against elder abuse, social security, and retirement benefits. Elder law attorneys specialize in addressing the unique legal needs of seniors, ensuring their rights are protected and helping them navigate issues related to aging, healthcare, and financial well-being.
- Review of Retirement Village Contracts: Our team meticulously reviews retirement village contracts, ensuring clarity and fairness in your agreements.
- Review of Aged Care Agreements: We provide thorough reviews of aged care agreements, helping you make informed decisions about your care.
- Applications for Financial Management and Guardianship: When someone loses capacity, we assist in the process of applying for Financial Management and Guardianship Orders through the Guardianship Division of NCAT.
Transitions into retirement villages or aged care facilities can be complex and emotionally charged experiences. At Willis & Bowring, we understand the importance of these decisions and offer comprehensive support to ease the process for you and your loved ones.
Our seasoned staff brings a wealth of experience in reviewing retirement village contracts and aged care agreements, ensuring that your rights and interests are safeguarded. Additionally, we provide invaluable assistance in handling applications to the Guardianship Division of the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) for Financial Management and Guardianship Orders when capacity has been lost. Count on us for expert guidance and peace of mind during these critical life transitions.
With our years of experience and commitment to protecting your rights and well-being, you can trust Willis & Bowring to provide expert guidance and support during these important life transitions.
Elder Law Specialists
Jessica Calleja
Solicitor
Jessica Calleja
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.
In 2023, Jessica was named as a Finalist in the Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards, in the category of Wills & Estates. This award recognises young lawyers around Australia 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.
Joining Willis & Bowring in 2017, Jessica swiftly progressed from paralegal to a solicitor accredited by the NSW Supreme Court in 2019. Equipped with a Masters in Laws and a background in politics, she excels in creating tailored estate planning documents and assisting clients in estate administration and transitions to supported accommodation.
Lou Polito
Senior Solicitor
Lou Polito
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.
Lou Polito, a prominent figure at Willis & Bowring from 1997 to July 2023, spearheaded the Estate Planning Division, enhancing the sector with his deep-rooted knowledge encapsulated in an LLM (Applied Law) Wills & Estates. Lou, admitted as a Solicitor in 1978, champions meticulous estate planning, focusing on asset preservation for beneficiaries through well-strategized will structures, superannuation nominations, and enduring powers of attorney and guardianships.
Ita Cunningham
Solicitor
Ita Cunningham
E: icunningham@willisbowring.com.au
Ita joined Willis & Bowring in August 2024, bringing with her more than 25 years of legal experience across family law, property law, and wills and estates. She was admitted to practise in 2019 after completing a Bachelor of Laws and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice.
As a valued member of the Estates team, Ita assists clients with probate applications, complex and simple letters of administration, reseals of interstate and international grants, estate administration, estate planning, and contested estate litigation. Her extensive experience and practical understanding of the legal system allow her to provide clear, empathetic, and outcome-driven support.
Ita’s strong interest in alternative dispute resolution further complements her approach to achieving efficient and meaningful outcomes for clients. Known for her dedication and client-focused mindset, she works closely with families to ensure their legal goals are understood and met with integrity and care.
Professional Memberships:
Law Society of New South Wales
Women Lawyers Association of NSW
St George-Sutherland Law Society
Ita joined Willis & Bowring in 2024 with over 25 years of legal experience and was admitted as a solicitor in 2019. She specialises in wills and estates, including probate, estate planning, and contested matters. Known for her practical, client-focused approach, Ita also has a keen interest in alternative dispute resolution.
Elder Law Enquiry
Feel free to reach out to our dedicated staff for guidance on these civil matters. We’re here to assist you.
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