Parenting orders for non-parents – who can apply?
A parenting order is not only designed to apply to the parents or guardians of a child, non-parents can also apply for parenting orders to be able to spend time with or care for a child. The Family Law Act allows a grandparent or any other person concerned for the...
Making a digital estate plan and appointing a digital executor
Many people put off making a Will. Add the intricacies of technology and having to consider what happens to our digital life after we die, and it’s easy to understand how one might feel completely overwhelmed. However, as most of us continue to expand our online...
Considering the wishes of the children in parenting cases
Separating couples are generally required to make reasonable attempts to resolve disputes about the future living arrangements, care and responsibility of their children. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, dispute resolution is compulsory if agreement cannot...
Why your company needs a Shareholders 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...
Can your ex-de facto inherit under your Will?
Once upon a time you were happily living together with your de facto partner. Roses were bought, dinners were cooked, finances were shared and Wills were signed each leaving all of your assets to the other partner in the far away event of your tragic passing. Thoughts...
Moving in together? Are we now in a de facto relationship?
Just because a couple is living together it does not automatically mean that they are in a de facto relationship within the meaning of certain laws. There are many different factors to consider when assessing and determining whether two people are living in a de facto...
Financial Agreements as an estate planning tool
A Financial Agreement can be an effective tool for couples in managing their estate planning. Financial Agreements allow couples to pre-determine what they quantify as a fair distribution of their property and financial resources, in the event of a relationship...
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 for...
Foreign Divorces – are they legal in Australia?
In certain circumstances a divorce granted overseas, even of a marriage performed in Australia, can be recognised here. In this article our family lawyers will look at the factors that the Court will take into account before recognising a foreign divorce. Divorce in...
Joint Venture or Partnership? Understanding the difference
A joint venture involves two or more persons or entities joining together for a particular project. A partnership is described as a relationship which exists between people carrying on a business, with a common view of making a profit. It also includes incorporated...