Joel Siepmann – Partner

Joel was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of South Australia in August 2012 having graduated from Flinders University with a Bachelor of Laws and Legal Practice.  Joel joined Donlan Lawyers in October 2012 and has progressed to Partner of the firm in October 2023.

Joel specialises in Estate Planning and Deceased Estate Administration and is a member of the international Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). In all matters, Joel focusses on providing clear and understandable advice to clients. 

From simple to complicated wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Advance Care Directives, to family trusts and self-managed superannuation funds, Joel takes a thorough approach with estate planning in order to fully understand and help to achieve each client’s objectives.  

Joel assists executors and administrators of estates with their legal duties involved in estate administration from obtaining Probate or Letters of Administration through to the final distribution of the estate.  His experience extends to administration of estates with international crossovers and assets or beneficiaries in multiple jurisdictions and different legal systems. Joel also advises clients in disputed estate matters and strives to achieve the best outcome for them in a timely and cost-effective manner.  

From a young age Joel developed an interest in wills and estates law from his grandparents Malcolm and Marian Modra, who had over 40 years’ experience in that area of law.  Joel worked closely with Malcolm and Marian Modra at Donlan Lawyers and he continues to provide legal services by home appointment, just as the Modra’s did.  

Joel is well regarded for his service to clients and often receives referrals from accountants, financial planners and other law firms.  He has experience in assisting a range of clients including private clients, trustee companies and other organisations.

Joel enjoys spending time with his family and has two daughters.  In the community, Joel has presented to various groups and organisations on the importance of wills, power of attorney, advanced care directives, probate and related issues.  He has also designed and facilitated workshops on Probate issues for Adelaide University Law students as part of their Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice (GDLP).  Joel has also previously served for three years as a legal advisor on the board of Cystic Fibrosis South Australia.