New Coercive control laws and effect on Family Law matters
Recently, a new bill has passed in the state of New South Wales becoming the first state in Australia to create an offence of coercive and control. This new law involves certain patterns of behaviour to a current or former intimate partner with the intent to coerce and control which includes denying the victim their […]
03
Feb
How do I protect my child from being unlawfully removed from Australia and being placed on the Family Law Watchlist?
If you are concerned that your ex-partner may take your child overseas without your consent, then you may wish to place your child on the Family Law Watchlist to avoid the risk of abduction. The Family Law Watchlist (previously known as the Airport Watchlist) is a national program which operates at an international level and […]
06
Dec
Is there a time limit for commencement of a common assault charge?
When NSW Police receive a complaint or information about an offence, they will usually start their investigations. During their investigations police will decide on whether there is enough evidence to lay charges against an accused person. Police will also identify the time and type of the alleged offence. In NSW criminal offences are usually divided […]
29
Nov
What is Land Tax?
Land tax is an annual tax payable at the end of each calendar year on properties that are above the land tax threshold. It is calculated on the combined value of all properties owned by you. If the total value does not exceed the land tax threshold, no land tax is payable. The Valuer General […]
23
Nov
The Importance of Pest & Building Reports for Buyers
No one wants to buy a property with underlying issues. As appealing as a house may be, there may be pests, defects, or even harmful substances such as asbestos that may go unnoticed. It is our strong recommendation that a pest and building inspection be carried out by a licenced and insured inspector, prior to […]
14
Nov
Impact of divorce on wills
Did you know that your divorce can affect your will? In NSW, divorce will revoke the provisions of a will that provides for any assets distributed to your ex-partner. Further, if you have appointed your ex-partner as an executor or trustee in your will, this will also be revoked. The above will not apply if […]
10
Nov
Can I be fined if I use the self-drive feature on my electric vehicle?
The Self-drive feature is also known as driverless car or robo-car. Most electric vehicles have inbuilt visual display units where you can enter your destination and select the self-drive feature. The self-drive feature senses its environment and moves safely with little or no human input. It identifies navigation paths, obstacles, and signage. So, can I be fined? […]
27
Oct
I have been convicted of a drink driving offence and I have been told that I must participate in the Alcohol Interlock Program. What is that?
When a court finds you guilty of either a mid-range, high-range, or repeated or related drink driving offences there is now a mandatory scheme requiring the person to enter the Alcohol Interlock Program. Once your disqualification period ends, a condition of the court order is you are then required to obtain an interlock licence and […]
19
Aug
How riding an electric scooter down to the shops could cost you thousands.
The riding of private Electric Scooters or E-Scooters on a public street is currently illegal in New South Wales. They are legal in Victoria, the ACT, Northern Territory and Tasmania. However, from July 2022 an electric scooter scheme is being trialled in NSW at certain locations and is expected to last for 12 months but […]
19
Aug
What Invalidates a Will? Common Errors to Avoid When Preparing a Will
A will is your final act that ensures your assets are protected and distributed according to your wishes. No one wants to leave behind a will only to find out that it is invalid. Not only does this cause disputes and significant stress to your loved ones, but it may ultimately cost your estate thousands […]