After the end of a significant relationship, it's completely natural to feel cautious when stepping into something new. Whether you’ve been through a divorce or the end of a de facto partnership, it’s wise to take steps to protect your assets, your children, and your intentions should something happen unexpectedly.

Separation is a significant life event that comes with many legal, emotional, and financial considerations, especially when it comes to your estate plan. Whether you’ve separated from a spouse after marriage or from a de facto partner, reviewing and updating your estate planning documents is critical to protecting your legacy and ensuring your wishes are honoured. 

n Queensland, de facto relationships have important legal consequences when it comes to estate planning and wills. While most people understand that spouses have rights to each other’s estate, fewer realise that de facto partners are treated similarly under the Succession Act 1981 (Qld) provided they meet certain legal criteria. 

When planning your future with a partner, estate planning might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it absolutely should be. One crucial legal fact many people are surprised to learn is that in Queensland, your Will is automatically revoked when you get married. That means if you already had a valid Will in place before your wedding day, it is no longer effective unless it specifically includes a clause made “in contemplation of marriage.”

When a loved one loses the ability to make personal or health-related decisions for themselves, it can be an overwhelming time for families. If there’s no valid Enduring Power of Attorney in place, you may need to consider applying for guardianship through the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). Understanding how this process works can help you make informed decisions during a difficult chapter of life.

An Advanced Health Directive (AHD) is a valuable legal document that forms part of comprehensive estate planning in Queensland. While it is often mentioned in the same conversation as an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA), the two serve different purposes. The AHD specifically addresses your preferences and directions regarding medical treatment and healthcare, particularly at the end of life. 

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) is a critical legal document that gives someone you trust the authority to make financial and personal decisions on your behalf. While it’s an essential part of a well-rounded estate plan, there are several common issues—both legal and practical—that principals and attorneys should consider before and during its use.

An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) is one of the most important legal documents you can put in place as part of your estate plan. In Queensland, an EPOA allows you to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf if you are no longer able to make those decisions yourself due to illness, accident, or incapacity. 

When planning your estate, it's essential to think not only about who will receive your assets but also about how those assets will be used and protected. One powerful estate planning tool often overlooked is the right to reside clause.

For many Australians, supporting a cause close to their heart doesn’t end in their lifetime. Leaving a gift to charity in your Will—also known as a charitable bequest—is a powerful way to extend your legacy and continue making a positive impact well into the future.

When it comes to estate planning, one of the most meaningful ways you can leave a legacy is by passing on treasured family heirlooms. Whether it’s a vintage watch, a piece of jewellery, or a beloved Royal Doulton tea set, these items often carry immense sentimental and historical value. But how do you ensure that these heirlooms are passed on in the way you intend?

For many people, pets are beloved family members and just like any important part of your life, they deserve to be part of your estate plan. One of the most common questions we receive from pet owners is: “Can I leave my pet to someone in my will?” The short answer is yes, but there are some important legal and personal considerations to keep in mind.

Securing a court judgment in your favour is a significant milestone in resolving a legal dispute. However, obtaining a judgment is not the end of the process—it's often just the beginning of the next phase: enforcement. Whether you've been awarded money through QCAT or a Queensland court, knowing what to do next is crucial to ensuring you can actually recover the amount owed to you.

QCAT, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, plays a significant role in resolving a broad range of disputes across the state. From minor debt claims and consumer disputes to guardianship decisions and tree disagreements between neighbours, QCAT is a unique and accessible forum for everyday Queenslanders to have their matters heard—without the formalities and costs of traditional court proceedings.

When people think about resolving a legal dispute, they often imagine standing before a judge in a courtroom. What they don’t always anticipate is just how expensive and time-consuming that process can be. This article outlines the key reasons why going to court can be costly. Whether you’re a plaintiff initiating proceedings or a defendant facing a claim, understanding the costs involved is essential for making informed decisions. 

Going to court is often seen as the final step in a legal dispute, but what many people don’t realise is that most matters can—and should—be resolved before litigation begins. The Queensland legal system encourages early resolution, and there are several practical steps you can take to avoid court entirely. 

If you're navigating a legal dispute in Queensland, understanding how the court system works is essential. Whether you're preparing to initiate a claim, responding to one, or simply exploring your options, this guide offers a clear overview of the court hierarchy, jurisdiction, and key processes for civil matters in Queensland.  This article focuses on civil claims in Queensland.

When planning your estate, one crucial element that business owners often overlook is what happens to their shareholding in a proprietary company after they pass away. Whether you run your own business or co-own one with others, understanding how your shares are dealt with in your estate plan is critical to protecting your business legacy and ensuring continuity for those you leave behind.

When it comes to estate planning, one of the most overlooked areas is how discretionary family trusts fit into your broader succession plan. Many people who have a family trust aren’t entirely sure how it works, what the trust deed says, or how control is passed on. This article explains what you need to know about trusts and your estate plan, especially if your trust is linked to your business.

Business succession planning is often overlooked when preparing a will or estate plan. Many business owners assume that their company or interests will automatically transfer to their loved ones without issue. However, the reality is more complex. What happens to your business when you die depends heavily on how the business is structured and what, if any, provisions you’ve made in your estate planning documents.