News
Who Can Ask the Court for More? Eligibility to make a Family Provision Claim in NSW
When a family member or dependent believes they have not been properly provided for in a deceased person’s Will, they may start legal action. In New South Wales, the first step is to determine if they are an ‘eligible person’ and understand their family provision...
What is Due Diligence When Buying Property?
Buying a home is likely one of the largest financial transactions you will make. When you find the ‘right’ property, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. However, before signing a contract, it is essential to conduct due diligence when buying property. Due...
Defending a Family Provision Claim: Guidance for NSW Executors
As an executor, you carry the important and often complex responsibility of carrying out the wishes set out in a deceased person’s Will. If you are defending a Family Provision Claim in NSW, this role becomes even more challenging. A claim arises when someone argues...
When is Probate not Required in New South Wales?
When someone dies, they may leave a Will appointing one or more executors to manage their affairs. The executor’s duties typically include: making funeral arrangements identifying, collecting and valuing the deceased’s assets notifying account providers and government...
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Property
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make. While it's an exciting time, the legal side of the process, known as conveyancing, can be complex and full of potential pitfalls. A simple mistake can lead to costly delays or even a...
Beyond the Basic Will: When You Need a More Complex Estate Plan
A Will is one of the most important documents you will ever sign. For many Australians, a simple Will, leaving everything outright to a spouse or dividing it equally among the children does the job adequately. It provides clarity and avoids the uncertainty of dying...
Severing a Joint Tenancy: What You Need to Know
A joint tenancy is a common way for two or more people to own property together in Australia, particularly for married couples or domestic partners. However, life changes and sometimes what made sense at the start no longer does. This can lead to a situation where one...
Buying Property Off the Plan
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...
5 Estate Planning Tasks You Can Do Today
Estate planning is about taking control of your future and looking after yourself and your loved ones. It’s about protecting what you have, and planning for the inevitable, and the unforeseen. Many people put it off, thinking...
Understanding Consumer Guarantees under Australian Consumer Law
Among other protections, the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) establishes a national framework of consumer guarantees that businesses cannot contract out of. Generally, businesses must guarantee products and services for sale, hire, or lease where the cost is less than...