Legal help when
it matters most.

Do I have to go to court?

In most criminal matters you are required to attend court in person. We will attend with you, speak on your behalf, and ensure you are never left to face the process alone.

What if I cannot afford a lawyer?

We will discuss our fees and payment options openly with you. Legal Aid NSW may be available depending on your income and the seriousness of the charge — we can advise on eligibility.

Will I get a criminal record?

Not necessarily. Depending on the charge and your circumstances, there are options such as section 10 dismissals or conditional release orders that avoid a conviction being recorded. We will always aim for the best possible outcome for your record.

Do I have to go to court for a property settlement?

Not necessarily. Most matters are resolved by agreement, through negotiation or mediation. We will always try to reach a fair resolution without the cost and stress of court proceedings.

What happens to my children during separation?

Arrangements for children can be informal, set out in a parenting plan, or formalised by consent orders. We help you reach arrangements that prioritise your children's safety and wellbeing.

Is there a time limit on property settlement?

Yes. For de facto couples, you generally have two years from the date of separation to apply. For married couples, one year from the date of divorce. We recommend seeking advice promptly.

What is an Enduring Power of Attorney?

It is a legal document that lets you appoint someone you trust to manage your finances and legal affairs if you become unable to do so yourself. It must be made while you still have capacity — it cannot be put in place after capacity is lost.

My parent has dementia. What can I do?

If no Power of Attorney is in place, we can apply to NCAT for a financial management order and guardianship order, so that a suitable person is appointed to manage their affairs and wellbeing.

I think my sibling is misusing mum's money. What can I do?

NCAT has the power to revoke an attorney's appointment and investigate misuse of funds. In serious cases, criminal charges may also be appropriate. We can advise you on the right course of action.

What happens if I die without a Will?

Your estate is distributed according to NSW's intestacy rules, which may not reflect your wishes and can create real hardship for people you intended to provide for — including a de facto partner or stepchildren.

Can I change my Will?

Yes, at any time while you have legal capacity. We recommend reviewing your Will after marriage, divorce, separation, the birth of children, or any significant change in your financial situation.

What is a testamentary trust and do I need one?

A testamentary trust is a trust created by your Will that holds and manages assets for beneficiaries rather than giving them the money outright. It is particularly useful for minor children, people with disabilities, or situations where a beneficiary may be financially vulnerable or facing relationship breakdown.

Can I challenge a Will if I was left out?

Eligible persons — including spouses, children, former spouses and certain dependants — can make a family provision claim under Chapter 3 of the Succession Act 2006 (NSW). The court considers your needs, your relationship with the deceased, and the size of the estate. Time limits apply so seek advice promptly.

Can a Will be challenged if the person lacked capacity?

Yes. A Will is only valid if the person had testamentary capacity when they made it — meaning they understood the nature of the Will, the extent of their estate, and the claims of people who might expect to benefit. If capacity is in doubt, the Will may be challenged in the Supreme Court.

What if assets were transferred out of the estate before death?

Under the notional estate provisions of the Succession Act 2006 (NSW), a court can designate certain property transferred before death as part of the notional estate for the purpose of a family provision claim. We can advise whether this applies in your situation.

Do I need a lawyer to set up a company or trust?

Technically no — but the documents that govern your structure have long-term legal and financial consequences. A poorly drafted trust deed or shareholders agreement can create serious problems when things change or relationships break down. Getting it right at the start is far less expensive than fixing it later.

What is the difference between what you do and what my accountant does?

We draft the legal documents — the trust deed, constitution or agreement — that give the structure legal effect. Your accountant advises on the tax and financial implications of the structure, lodges documents with ASIC and the ATO, and handles ongoing compliance. Both roles are essential and we work together with your accountant throughout the process.

Can you help if I already have a structure and need to change it?

Yes. Restructuring existing entities — varying a trust deed, changing trustees, amending a company constitution, or reorganising a group structure — is a significant part of what we do. We assess whether the change constitutes a restructure or simply an administrative step, and draft the appropriate documents accordingly.