Other Articles
Does bullying exist in your boardroom?
Boardrooms are often the place of heated debate over a range of matters affecting the operations of an organisation. Vigorous discussion that airs all possibilities can sometimes be beneficial (and necessary) when making critical decisions which will ultimately...
No more paper title deeds – what you need to know about e-conveyancing
Settlements used to require lawyers and banks to meet up to check and swap documents and bank cheques. The documents had to then be lodged with the Land Registry Office and government authorities had to be notified about the transaction. The recently introduced...
Business structures – Company overview
When commencing a business venture, it is necessary to consider the most appropriate type of business structure to put in place. Different business structures have different benefits and disadvantages. This article looks at companies - how to set one up and the pros...
The financial risk in giving personal guarantees in leases
If you are a director of a company entering a commercial or retail lease, a landlord will likely require you to give a personal guarantee for the company’s obligations under the lease. In such cases, directors should fully comprehend the extent of the guarantee they...
The process of obtaining Probate
Probate is a grant made by the Supreme Court of New South Wales that ‘proves’ the Will of a deceased person and vests title to the estate’s assets in the named executor/s. This is the official process that enables the executor to legally deal with the deceased’s...
Traps to avoid in Commercial Leases
Commercial leases form part of many business transactions and commercial property is a popular investment choice. Whether you are a tenant or landlord, there is much to consider when entering into a commercial lease. Some commercial leases are classified as ‘retail’...
Directors’ Responsibilities – a guide
A company is an entity incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the ‘Act’). The effect of incorporation gives the company a separate legal entity, distinct from its directors and shareholders. It can enter into contracts, sue and be sued in its individual...
Making a Will if capacity is in question
It is well known that a Will is a legal document which sets out how a person wants their assets to be distributed once they die. If you are over the age of 18 you can make a Will - provided you have capacity. In general terms a person will have the necessary capacity...
Estate planning for blended families
Most of us appreciate the importance of making a Will and having an estate plan that sets out how we would like to provide for our loved ones when we die. If, like many Australians, you belong to a blended family, there are additional considerations when planning your...
Starting a business – an overview of common business structures
There are 4 main types of business structures for doing business in Australia, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. A person can carry on business as a sole trader, partnership, trust and company. The choice of business structure is an important decision...