National Crime Our story
National Crime Stats was founded on a simple but important observation: when a family loses a loved one, the last thing they should face is a fight over the estate. But when something is not right — when a will appears to have been changed under pressure, when assets go missing, when an executor will not account — families need clear, decisive legal help that cuts through the confusion.
We built this practice from the ground up to serve clients in precisely those circumstances. Our focus is narrow by design. We do not draft wills, we do not do conveyancing, and we do not run general commercial litigation. We handle estate and probate disputes — challenging wills, defending wills, pursuing executor misconduct, protecting vulnerable older people from financial abuse, and recovering assets that have been wrongfully taken.
That focus means that when you speak with us, you are getting the benefit of experience that has been concentrated — not diluted — across hundreds of estate dispute matters.
Why this niche
Succession law is one of the few areas where deeply personal family dynamics intersect with complex legal doctrine. A contested will is not just about money — it is about loyalty, expectation, fairness, and sometimes betrayal. The law draws on concepts of undue influence, testamentary capacity, the doctrine of suspicious circumstances, and the proper administration of estates. These doctrines have developed over centuries of case law, and they require careful application to the facts of each case.
We chose this niche because it matters. The outcome of an estate dispute can determine whether a vulnerable person's true wishes are honoured, whether an executor is held to account for misconduct, or whether an older person who was financially abused sees justice. These are not abstract legal problems — they affect real people, often at the hardest time of their lives. We also chose it because it demands rigour. Estate litigation requires meticulous evidence gathering, a thorough understanding of medical and financial records, skill in cross-examination, and the judgment to know when to negotiate and when to push to trial.
Our approach
Every matter begins with listening. We need to understand not just the legal issue, but the family context, the timeline, and what outcome would genuinely resolve the problem for you. We then provide an honest assessment — including where the strengths and weaknesses lie, what the likely costs will be, and what a realistic timeframe looks like.
We are not a high-volume practice. We take on a limited number of matters so that each client receives the attention their case deserves. We prefer to resolve disputes through negotiation where that is possible and appropriate — but we prepare every matter as though it will go to a contested hearing, because that preparation is what gives our clients leverage and confidence.
We are also conscious that estate disputes are stressful and often emotionally charged. We aim to be a steady, professional presence — someone who can explain the law clearly, keep you informed at each stage, and guide you through the process without adding to the burden you are already carrying.
Who we act for
We act for a range of clients across NSW and Queensland. Our clients include:
Beneficiaries
People who believe a will does not reflect the true wishes of the deceased — whether due to undue influence, lack of capacity, fraud, or suspicious circumstances. Also beneficiaries whose inheritance is at risk because of executor delay, non-disclosure, or misconduct.
Executors
Executors who are administering an estate and facing a challenge to the will, or who are themselves being accused of misconduct and need to defend their conduct. We also advise executors proactively on compliance with their duties to avoid disputes before they arise.
Family Members & Supporters
Adult children, siblings, carers, and other concerned persons who have identified red flags — a vulnerable elderly relative being pressured about their will, a sudden change in an estate plan that makes no sense, or assets going missing during an attorney's management.
Professionals & Referrers
Accountants, financial advisers, aged care workers, social workers, and medical practitioners who identify financial abuse, suspicious will changes, or executor misconduct in the course of their work and need to refer their client to a specialist estate litigation practice.
Parties to Family Provision Claims
Eligible applicants seeking adequate provision from an estate under Chapter 3 of the Succession Act 2006 (NSW) or Part 4 of the Succession Act 1981 (QLD), and executors or beneficiaries defending estates against such claims.
Vulnerable Older Persons
Elderly people who are experiencing — or at risk of — financial abuse, coercive will changes, misuse of an enduring power of attorney, or exploitation by carers, family members, or new acquaintances. We work with support services to ensure both legal and practical protection.
Our values
Focus
We do one thing — estate and probate disputes in NSW and Queensland. That focus is our greatest strength. It means deeper knowledge, sharper judgment, and better outcomes for our clients than a general practice can offer.
Honesty
We give clear, direct advice — even when it is not what you want to hear. We will tell you if your case is strong, if it is marginal, or if the costs are likely to outweigh the benefit. You deserve to make informed decisions based on candid assessment, not wishful thinking.
Care
Estate disputes are among the most personal legal matters a person can face. We treat every client with respect, patience, and genuine concern for their wellbeing — not just their legal position. We understand that behind every file is a family, a loss, and often a great deal of distress.
Tenacity
When a matter requires litigation, we are prepared to see it through. We build cases methodically, marshal evidence carefully, and advocate firmly. We do not back away from difficult or complex disputes, and we do not recommend settlement simply because it is easier.
What sets us apart
Dual-State Capability
We advise on both NSW and Queensland succession law. Many estate disputes cross state lines — the deceased owned property in both states, or beneficiaries live in different jurisdictions. We handle these matters without needing to refer you to separate lawyers in each state.
Urgent-Response Capability
Some estate problems cannot wait. If assets are being moved, a will is about to be submitted for probate under suspicious circumstances, or an elderly person is in immediate danger of financial exploitation, we can act within days — not weeks — to secure protective orders.
Evidence-First Approach
We do not form opinions without evidence, and we do not advise you to take action without first understanding what the available evidence can prove. Our approach is methodical: gather, assess, advise, act. This discipline protects our clients from costly mistakes.
Cost Transparency
We discuss costs openly and early. We explain how legal costs work in estate disputes, when costs may be recoverable from the estate or from the other party, and what funding options may be available. There are no surprises, no hidden charges, no bills you did not expect.
Meet our team
Our lawyers are experienced estate and probate dispute specialists, admitted in NSW and Queensland.
Principal Solicitor
LLB (Hons), Accredited Specialist
15+ years in estate and probate litigation across NSW and Queensland.
Senior Associate
LLB, GDLP
Extensive experience in executor removal, family provision, and probate fraud.
Associate
LLB, BA
Specialist in evidence preparation and legal research for complex estate disputes.
Practice Manager
Client Services & Administration
First point of contact — ensures urgent matters are triaged and escalated promptly.
Qualifications and credentials
Our lawyers hold current practising certificates in New South Wales and Queensland. We are admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW, the Supreme Court of Queensland, and the High Court of Australia. Our practice is insured under a professional indemnity insurance policy compliant with the requirements of the Legal Profession Uniform Law (NSW) and the Legal Profession Act 2007 (QLD). Our liability is limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
We maintain memberships with relevant professional bodies and undertake continuing professional development focused on succession law, estate litigation, and elder financial abuse — ensuring our knowledge stays current with developments in case law, legislation, and court procedure in both states.
Speak with a specialist estate disputes lawyer
If you are facing an estate or probate dispute — or if you are unsure whether you have grounds to act — we can provide a confidential assessment of your situation. Every enquiry is handled by a lawyer who understands this area of law. There is no obligation, and your enquiry is treated with complete confidentiality.