Elder Law

Practical legal guidance for older Australians and their families

Legal decisions in later life are deeply personal. They often involve your health, your home, your relationships, and your future independence.

We provide trusted legal guidance to older adults, carers, and family members as they navigate the practical and emotional challenges of ageing, from aged care agreements to protecting vulnerable individuals and preparing for unforeseen circumstances.

We help you and your family plan ahead while preserving autonomy and avoiding unnecessary stress or disagreements.

Elder law solicitor Coffs Harbour NSW seniors families

Planning ahead makes a difference

One of the best things you can do for yourself and your loved ones is to make proactive legal decisions and secure the right documents while you are still well.

We assist older adults:

  • Appoint a trusted Enduring Power of Attorney for financial decisions

  • Nominate an Enduring Guardian to make health and lifestyle choices if needed

  • Create a clear Advance Care Directive that reflects their medical wishes

  • Plan future aged care, including reviewing residential agreements and RADs

  • Review and update their will to reflect current wishes and capacity

  • Consider gifting, loans, or property transfers, while considering Centrelink and legal risks

  • Structure intergenerational wealth transfer to avoid disputes or unintended tax consequences

  • Protect assets when entering aged care or transitioning to supported living

Our role is to simplify these processes. We will explain the implications of each decision and ensure your documents meet all NSW legal requirements to protect your choices.

 elder law estate age care planning NSW regional

Helping families care for aging loved ones

If you are caring for a parent, spouse, or older relative, we help you understand your legal role and rights.

We assist families and carers with:

  • Understanding your role as an attorney, guardian, or decision-maker

  • Supporting a loved one to transition into aged care or downsize

  • Responding to signs of financial abuse, undue influence, or decline in capacity

  • Navigating family conflict over care arrangements, legal documents, or estates

  • Applying for guardianship or financial management orders and the review of existing appointments through NCAT (NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal)

  • Defending or contesting claims about capacity or decision-making authority

We will help you balance your legal responsibilities with what is best for your family, acting with compassion and discretion.

We work closely with accountants, aged care financial planners, and support coordinators to ensure all aspects of your decision-making are aligned and thoroughly considered.

elder law estate planning capacity NSW regional
 elder law estate age care planning NSW regional

Why choose TB Law?

Early planning puts you in control and ensures your wishes are honoured. If you are considering the next stage of life, we are here to help you find clarity.

  • Over 80 years supporting generations of local families in the Coffs Coast

  • Our Principal Solicitor, Manny Wood, is on the Elder Law Advisory Committee of the NSW Law Society. The committee consists of 10 other leaders in the field, including solicitors and barristers, hand-picked from across NSW.

  • Deep experience in estate planning, aged care, and elder law to tailor all documentation to your specific needs and circumstances.

  • Calm, compassionate legal support during sensitive life transitions

  • We prioritise your safety, dignity, and long-term wellbeing

  • Home, aged care, or hospital visits available when needed

  • Legal advice in plain English and fixed fees for many services

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Power of Attorney and an Enduring Guardian?

A Power of Attorney authorises someone to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf. An Enduring Guardian makes health and lifestyle decisions (e.g. medical treatment, accommodation) if you lose capacity.
We can help you appoint both, with guidance and safeguards.

When should I create an Enduring Power of Attorney?

Ideally, while you are still fully capable and independent. Once capacity is lost, your family may need to apply to NCAT to be appointed as a financial manager — a more complex and time-consuming process.

Can I still change my will or power of attorney as I get older?

Yes, as long as you have legal capacity. If there are concerns about memory, health, or pressure from others, seek advice early to protect your wishes.

What if there is a disagreement about my care or finances?

Family disputes can be addressed through legal mediation or tribunals like NCAT. We can advise on your rights and responsibilities and represent you if necessary.

Can I gift or transfer property to a family member now?

Yes, but it can have legal and Centrelink implications. We can explain the risks, help document your intentions, and ensure your choices do not create future issues for you or your family.

What is a RAD in aged care?

A Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is a lump-sum payment for a room in an aged care facility. It is fully refundable when the resident leaves or passes away, unless deductions are agreed. We can review aged care contracts and explain your options.

What legal issues should I consider when setting up a granny flat arrangement?

Granny flat arrangements often involve transferring money or property between family members. For example, a common arrangement is selling a home to fund a new dwelling on a child’s land. These setups can affect Centrelink entitlements, create future estate disputes, or leave older people vulnerable if the relationship breaks down. We can help you document the arrangement properly, protect your rights, and avoid unexpected financial or legal consequences.

Trusted by the Coffs Coast community

“Everything went smoothly with our sale due to their professionalism, dedication and expertise. I was very grateful and would recommend their service.”

D.M. Coffs Coast

“Valuable, clear and concise advice and guidance in preparing my Will, Power of Attorney and Enduring Guardian documentation.”

P.G. Northern NSW

“Helpful, thorough, prompt and responsive. Manny and the team gave a great sense of confidence throughout a stressful process.”

S.B. Coffs Harbour

PEXA Simple conveyancing settlements
Accredited Specialist in Wills & Estates Law
NSW Law Society Professional Standards Scheme
NSW Society of Notaries

Ready to take the next step?

Book a consultation at a time that suits you, or call us on (02) 6648 7487.

© 2026 TB Law - Ticli Blaxland Lawyers & Conveyancing - All rights reserved - Website by Organic Marketing - Privacy Policy

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information on this website is for general information purposes only.

Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation.
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.