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Clare Sunderland
Senior Lawyer at Johnstone & Reimer Lawyers
Professional Background
Clare Sunderland is an esteemed Accredited Wills & Estates Specialist recognized by the Law Institute of Victoria, where she passionately dedicates her career to delivering personalized legal solutions to her clients. With a keen focus on estate planning and deceased estates, Clare has positioned herself as a trusted legal advisor among clients, financial planners, accountants, and other professionals. She believes in creating a seamless and efficient legal experience that yields great outcomes for her clients, all while keeping the process timely and cost-effective.
In her law practice, Clare exhibits a broad range of expertise in crucial areas such as wills and estates. She adeptly prepares Wills that are inclusive of testamentary trusts, protective trusts, and special disability trusts—ensuring that her clients’ desires for asset distribution are honored effectively. Additionally, Clare is proficient in drafting Powers of Attorney that encompass financial, personal, and medical directives, empowering her clients to make informed decisions for themselves and their loved ones.
Her comprehension of complex legal documents extends to the preparation, review, amendment, and vesting of trust deeds and superannuation fund deeds. By ensuring that these documents are precisely crafted, Clare assists clients in securing their financial futures and adhering to legal requirements. Clare's meticulous attention to detail shines when handling binding death benefit nominations, ensuring clients' estates are managed in accordance with their wishes.
Moreover, Clare's practice also encompasses estate planning for family discretionary trusts and businesses, showcasing her versatility and depth of knowledge in the field.
Clare also excels in her work relating to deceased estates. She assists clients with grants of probate and administration, including managing contested grants efficiently. This expertise allows her to navigate the sometimes challenging landscape of estate and trust disputes which may arise posthumously. Clare skillfully handles testator’s family maintenance (Part IV) claims, representing both claimants and executors, exemplifying her commitment to fairness and thoroughness in stating the legal rights of her clients.
Clare’s legal acumen further extends to handling VCAT applications, addressing critical issues such as Guardianship, Administration, and Co-owned Property disputes with confidence and proficiency.
Beyond her direct client interactions, Clare is committed to sharing her extensive knowledge and experience in the field of estate planning and deceased estates by presenting at seminars. These presentations allow her to impart valuable insights and advocate for best practices to both professionals and the general public.
Education and Achievements
Clare Sunderland earned her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) with Honors from Deakin University, a foundation that has reinforced her proficient legal knowledge and equipped her with the necessary skills to navigate complex aspects of the legal system. Her educational background has proven indispensable as she translates legal theory into successful outcomes for her clients.
At Deakin University, Clare developed a strong understanding of various legal disciplines, culminating in her specialization in wills and estates. The rigorous training she received during her degree, coupled with her diligence and commitment, has enabled her to make significant contributions within her legal practice.
Organizations
Clare Sunderland holds a prominent position as a Senior Lawyer at Johnstone & Reimer Lawyers, where she continues to offer tailored legal solutions and protect her clients’ interests in estate planning and deceased estates. Formerly, she served as a Senior Lawyer at Aughtersons Solicitors, further honing her legal skills and expanding her experience in estate law. Earlier in her career, she was actively engaged in various roles including positions as a Lawyer at Tucker Partners, Lachlan Partners Legal, and Collins House Legal. Her diverse professional experiences allow Clare to draw from a wealth of knowledge, adding to her resilience in the ever-evolving legal landscape. Notably, her journey began as a Law Clerk at Collins House Legal, where she cultivated her foundational skills in the legal field.
Achievements
- Accredited Wills & Estates Specialist by the Law Institute of Victoria
- Comprehensive experience in estate planning and deceased estates
- Proven capabilities in estate and trust litigation
- Active educator on estate planning topics through seminars
