Understanding easements in your property contract
Identifying and understanding easements in a property transaction is an important part of the conveyancing process. Vendors are required to disclose all easements affecting the land they propose to sell in a property contract, and buyers should ensure they are aware of the impact an easement will have on the land they are about the […]
What happens when parenting orders are ignored?
Separating parents must arrange for the future care, welfare and development of their children. These arrangements may be formalised in parenting orders which are endorsed by the Court. Where the parties are unable to agree, the Court will impose orders. In all cases, the arrangements must be in the best interests of the children. Parenting […]
Income protection and TPD disputes – how the AFCA and your lawyer can help
If you are dealing with a major illness or injury and have had to stop working on a temporary or permanent basis, you may need to claim on your income protection or total and permanent disability (TPD) insurance. If dealing with your insurer is creating additional stress for you and your family, or you have […]
Business Structures: Partnerships – the pros and cons
When commencing a business venture, it is necessary to consider the most appropriate type of business structure to put in place. In Australia, there are 4 common business structures – sole trader, partnership, trust and company. Different business structures have different benefits and disadvantages. This article looks at partnerships – how to set one up […]
Protecting business interests in family law proceedings
Family law issues can be disruptive to a business entity, with the potential to adversely affect its activities, cashflow, and financial viability. Problems can stem from a relationship breakdown between domestic co-owners, or the divorce or separation of a third-party business partner or shareholder. Protecting a business from potential loss and disruption in the wake […]
Interview questions you can’t ask
An employer’s potential liability for workplace discrimination arises before the first interview and exists whether or not a decision is made to hire a person. A job interview is integral to the recruitment process and provides an opportunity for the employer to ask questions, check credentials and determine a prospective employee’s suitability for a position. […]
Why your company needs a Shareholder Agreement
Starting a business requires careful planning and consideration. A failure to allow for unforeseen events or for ways to resolve future disagreements could put your new venture at considerable risk. The repercussions of failing to plan are clearly illustrated in a case in the Federal Court between co-owners of the popular Grill’d fast food empire. […]
What a Will Kit doesn’t do
There are various ‘Will Kits’ available on-line – most are cheap or ‘free’ and all you need to do is download them and fill in the blanks. Many websites boast that you can prepare your Will ‘without spending hundreds of dollars on legal fees’. Simple, right? Not really. Generating an on-line Will may seem easy, […]
Domestic violence and peace & good behaviour orders
Relationship difficulties and breakdowns are a sad reality of modern life. Difficulties can arise in any relationship – with your spouse or partner, your ex, adult children, at work, even between flatmates. In today’s high pressure, fast-paced world, relationship difficulties or breakdowns can sometimes involve actual or threatened violence. At times of stress or when […]
Farm succession planning – striking a balance
The diversity of a family farming enterprise amidst the dynamics of the family unit can raise challenging and complex issues. The topic of succession planning is often highly emotive. The respective contributions from individuals to the farming enterprise are likely to have varied over the years and not all family members’ motivations run parallel. It […]