About Isabella
Bell is a Senior Associate in our Wills & Estates Team.
She can assist you with all aspects of succession law, from estate planning through to deceased estate administration, but her main focus is contentious wills and estates.
In furtherance of her passion for all things succession, Bell completed her second Masters of Laws, majoring in wills and estates.
Bell’s ongoing commitment to excellence in client service and technical skill, has seen her recognised by clients and peers – with the prestigious Doyle’s Guide awarding her ‘Rising Star’ in the Wills, Estates & Succession Planning Law category for consecutive years in 2024 and 2025.
Bell has significant experience with matters in the Magistrates, District, Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and appeals to the High Court, (both in Queensland and New South Wales), which has led to extensive involvement in court hearings, procedure, trials, appeals, and alternative dispute resolution.
Bell has acted in a wide range of contested succession law matters including:
- Family provision applications (disappointed beneficiary claims)
- Challenges to the validity of wills (testamentary capacity; undue influence; knowledge and approval)
- Power of Attorney Disputes
- Superannuation and death benefit claims (including appeals to AFCA)
- Appointment and removal of executors and trustees
In addition to her succession law focus, Bell has completed a Masters in Applied Law, majoring in Family Law. Having previously practiced in family law, this gives Bell a unique advantage in approaching matters where succession and family law overlap.
Bell approaches any dispute with a view to reaching a pragmatic resolution by negotiation or mediation. However, Bell recognises that this is not always possible, and in those circumstances, she is a fierce advocate who will strive to protect your rights and entitlements.
Clients appreciate her sensitive approach to highly stressful estate/family related matters, which focuses on open communication and straightforward advice.
Practice Areas
- Contested Wills & Estates
- Court Work and Litigation
- Power of attorney disputes
- Trust disputes
- Superannuation and life insurance disputes
- Deceased estate administration
- Probate and letters of administration
- Wills & Powers of Attorney
- Estate planning and asset protection strategies
- Family law (parenting matters, property settlements and child support disputes)
- Domestic Violence
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Laws (Bond University)
- Bachelor of Business (Bond University)
- Graduate Diploma of Professional Legal Training (College of Law)
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland
- Admitted to the High Court of Australia
- Masters of Laws (Applied Law) Majoring in Family Law (College of Law)
Memberships
- Queensland Law Society
- Queensland Association of Collaborative Practitioners
- Family Law Section – Law Council of Australia
- Family Law Practitioners Association
- Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce
