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.

Family provision applications are a significant part of estate disputes in Queensland, often arising when individuals believe they have been unfairly left out of a will or not adequately provided for. These disputes can be emotionally charged and legally complex, making it essential to understand the process, eligibility criteria, and potential outcomes under the Succession Act 1981 (Qld). 

When someone passes away, disputes about their estate can arise—especially if there are concerns about how their will was prepared or who stands to benefit. In Queensland, there are two main legal avenues for addressing these concerns: challenging a will and contesting a will. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to very different legal processes. 

When someone passes away, their estate must be managed and distributed according to either the instructions in their will or, if there is no will, the rules of intestacy. This responsibility falls to the executor (if there is a valid will) or the administrator (if the deceased did not leave a will).

When someone passes away, it can be overwhelming to figure out what needs to be done, especially when it comes to administering their estate. One of the first questions to ask is whether you need to apply for a grant of probate or letters of administration. This question arises most commonly when someone has been named as an executor or is the person with top priority under Rule 603 of the Uniform Civil Procedure Rules (QLD). 

When a loved one passes away, managing their estate can be a daunting and emotional process. One of the most critical steps in estate administration is understanding whether you need to apply for Probate or Letters of Administration. These are legal documents issued by the Supreme Court that grant authority to manage the deceased’s estate.

When a legal dispute arises, many people hesitate to involve a lawyer early—often due to concerns about cost or the belief that they can handle things on their own. However, the best time to engage a lawyer is at the very beginning of a dispute. Seeking early legal guidance can prevent critical mistakes, protect your bargaining position, and ultimately save you time and money.

Contracts are designed to protect both parties in a business or commercial arrangement, but when a disagreement arises, many people are unaware that their contract may already outline a required dispute resolution process. These dispute resolution clauses are becoming increasingly common in business contracts, construction agreements, and commercial transactions, requiring parties to follow specific steps before taking legal action.

When legal disputes arise, the traditional path often leads straight to court. However, litigation is time-consuming, expensive, and stressful, which is why Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods have become increasingly popular. ADR offers structured ways to resolve disputes outside of the courtroom, often resulting in faster, more cost-effective solutions while keeping matters private.

Legal issues can arise in many different areas of life, from business disputes and property conflicts to defamation claims and contract disagreements. Choosing the right lawyer for your situation is crucial, but many people struggle to identify which legal expert they need.

Family relationships can be complicated, and unfortunately, estrangement between parents and children is more common than many might expect. When a parent is estranged from a child, estate planning becomes more emotionally and legally complex. While some individuals may wish to leave nothing to an estranged child, doing so comes with significant risks, particularly in Queensland, where children have an unconditional right to contest a will if they believe they have been inadequately provided for.

When it comes to estate planning, one of the most common concerns parents express is protecting their children’s inheritance—not just from external risks, but also from their son-in-law or daughter-in-law. Many parents want to ensure that their wealth remains within their family and does not end up in the hands of a child’s spouse in the event of a divorce or separation.

Blended families are increasingly common, bringing unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. Unlike traditional estate plans where assets typically pass from spouse to spouse and then to children, blended families require more careful consideration to ensure that both the surviving spouse and children from previous relationships are provided for.

Estate planning is essential for all individuals, but when minor children are involved, it becomes even more critical. Parents must make informed decisions about their children’s future to ensure stability, financial security, and a seamless transition in the event of their passing. This article covers the key elements of estate planning for minor children, including appointing legal guardians, financial planning strategies, and additional measures to safeguard their well-being. 

As 2024 comes to a close, several key trends have emerged in estate planning and administration. These trends highlight the evolving legal landscape and reflect changing priorities among families and individuals seeking to secure their legacy. Below are some of the most prominent estate planning trends observed this year.