Relationship property division – how times have changed
When the Property (Relationships) Act was introduced in 2001 it was heralded by some as the start of a new era in family law.… Read More
You act for the bank as well?
Clients coming to New Zealand from the United Kingdom and Australia are often surprised that New Zealand lawyers can (and customarily do) act for both the client who is purchasing land and buildings and the Bank or other lending institution which is advancing the funding for the purchase.… Read More
Creditors beware!
In the current recessionary environment there are many business struggling to stay afloat.… Read More
Onerous protection: the new unit titles rules
The Unit Titles Regulations 2011, while designed to protect members of the public, it imposes considerable obligations on persons involved.… Read More
Are you mentally capable of signing a will?
How do you tell if someone is mentally capable of signing a will? What does the law say?… Read More
Could you be the victim of a scam?
Given how prevalent and tricky some scams are, we should all be wary. Anyone can be targeted, and don’t assume that you will not be sucked in.… Read More
Can a family trust help me protect my property in the event of a relationship breakdown?
Whether a trust will provide you with protection in this situation will depend largely on timing. A trust is an ideal structure to protect assets acquired before or in the early stages of a relationship.… Read More
Trusts – getting the administration right
If you have a family trust, it is very important that it is run and administered properly. This means not treating the trust’s assets as if they still belong to you, but recognising that ownership of those assets is held by the trustees for the benefit of the trust’s beneficiaries.… Read More
How not to evict a tenant…
The rules that apply when you evict a tenant are tricky. If you get it wrong it can cost you dearly, as this landlord found out.… Read More
Becoming a company director – pause for thought
It is fundamental for anyone asked to accept an appointment as a director that they understand the duties, responsibilities, risks and liabilities involved.… Read More
Debt collecting 101: register a security interest over goods you sell on credit
When selling goods and services on credit you are taking on a huge risk and it is important to do everything you can to get paid.… Read More
Have you been “interrupted”?
The recent Christchurch earthquakes have thrown the spotlight on insurance and many business owners have been caught short with inadequate business interruption insurance.… Read More