News
Buying property off the plan – important considerations for purchasers
Buying ‘off the plan’ generally means purchasing a property that is not yet built. It might also involve buying a vacant lot in a planned subdivision. Unlike buying an existing property, a purchaser’s decision is based on plans and designs as opposed to a finished...
What to Expect at Your First Meeting with a Family Lawyer
Facing a family law issue can be an incredibly stressful and emotional time. Whether you are contemplating divorce, negotiating parenting arrangements, or trying to divide property, seeking legal advice is important to ensure you understand your position. Your first...
Dying intestate – the dangers of not making a Will
A valid Will determines how your estate is dealt with after you die. Your Will can appoint an appropriate family member, trusted friend, or professional to administer your estate (your executor), nominate guardians for young children, determine who will receive your...
Buying Residential Property – Understanding Cooling-Off Periods
In the whirlwind of excitement that often accompanies the purchase of a residential property, it is still essential for buyers to be cautious. In most Australian jurisdictions, the law makes provision for a cooling-off period to allow home buyers to evaluate a...
What Happens to a Family Business after a Couple Separates?
Divorce is almost always a difficult and disruptive life event. For couples who own a family business, the stakes are particularly high, as the fate of the business often becomes a central point of contention during divorce proceedings. In Australia, a family business...
How do I Protect my Estate from a Family Provision Claim?
Estate disputes are surprisingly common in Australia. Laws across different jurisdictions allow eligible individuals to challenge a deceased’s Will if they believe they have not been adequately provided for. In such cases, a successful claim might result in the terms...
Do I need a Conveyancer or Lawyer to buy a House?
A conveyancing transaction involves transferring the legal title (ownership) of real estate from one party to another. For most people, buying or selling property is one of the highest-valued transactions they will ever make, and the legal work is usually referred to...
Protecting Business Interests in Family Law Matters
Family law issues, such as divorce or separation, can be more than just personal battles; they can send shockwaves through a business, potentially impacting its operations, cash flow, and long-term viability. Disruption can stem from a relationship breakdown between...
The Process of Obtaining Probate
Probate is a grant made by the Supreme Court of New South Wales that ‘proves’ the validity of a Will of a deceased person. This is the official process that enables the executor named in the Will to deal with the deceased’s estate. As the legal personal representative...
Options to renew in commercial leases – don’t get caught out!
An option clause is a term in a commercial lease that allows a tenant to renew their lease at the end of the original lease period, if they meet certain conditions. Landlords are not obliged to offer a renewal option. However, it is often in the interests of both...