If you are entering into an employment contract do you know what should be included? If you are an employer and using an old contract, should it be reviewed first? It is clear contracts should be individually structured to meet the needs of those involved and in reality, both employer and employee should seek legal…
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 your estate. Most typical will be ensuring that…
Separating parents must arrange for the future care, welfare and development of their children. These arrangements may be formalised in parenting orders which are endorsed by the Court. Where the parties are unable to agree, the Court will impose orders. In all cases, the arrangements must be in the best interests of the children. Parenting…
If you have looked at booking holiday accommodation recently chances are you have come across Airbnb or maybe you know someone who rents out their spare room and is always talking about the extra money they are making. But what is Airbnb exactly, how does it work and what are the potential pitfalls and legal…
Most people buy a home with a combination of their savings, proceeds from the sale of an existing home and a loan from a bank. Securing finance to purchase a property involves a number of steps and expenses. Below is an explanation of a typical mortgage. However, care should be taken to read and understand…
Body art such as tattooing and piercing has enjoyed popularity over recent years. However, if you are thinking ink, you should perhaps think twice before spending your next week’s pay on a tattoo. It is possible that your new look may put your present or future job at risk. But in today’s society, is it…
Right now in Victoria there are new incentives being offered for First Home Buyers to get into the property market or to simply help them get into their very own home and out of the rent trap. These grants and schemes present a great opportunity to secure bonuses, start with lower than normal deposits and…
If you know someone who is being sentenced in Court and they ask you for a character reference do you know what to do? The purpose of a character reference for a person who has pleaded guilty to a criminal or traffic matter is to being to the Courts attention details of good character about…
Many couples separate on good terms, which is great. The breakdown of a relationship can be difficult, however putting differences aside to move forward can be beneficial, particularly where children are concerned. Ex-partners who remain on good terms may choose to make informal arrangements regarding the division of their property. However, the failure to legally…
Social services organisations in Australia have predicted an increase in the incidence of family violence amidst the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, with the impact of job loss, financial stress and social isolation putting enormous strain on many. Family violence has always been a critical issue, but may become even more challenging in circumstances where directions are…