Articles
Checking Business Use is Allowed Before Entering a Lease
If you are considering starting or purchasing a business and entering into or taking over a retail or commercial lease of premises then it is imperative to check that the local Council permits the business use under zoning laws. Otherwise, you may end up incurring...
Property Purchase by Co-Owners
When purchasing a property with another person or others you must consider what kind of co-ownership arrangement you will have. The choice is between acquiring the property as joint tenants or tenants in common, each leading to different consequences. Joint tenants -...
What to Look for Before Signing a Residential Building Contract
Whether you are about to build a new home or renovate one, you will be presented with a contract by the builder for signing. It will normally be in the form of a standard building industry contract that is designed to favour the builder. It is essential you get legal...
What to do When a Neighbour’s Tree or Plant Affects Your Property
Sometimes, a neighbour's overhanging tree or spreading vine might be causing you problems, posing a risk of damage or injury or an overgrown hedge might be reducing light or a view. What can be done if the matter cannot first be resolved amicably with your neighbour?...
Can a Love Letter Ever Become a Legal Will?
Don't laugh! This very question was raised in the recent case of Lewis v Watson [2025] QSC 35. A formal will in NSW has the following requirements: * Testamentary intention i.e. the writer of the will (testator) intended the document to be their will. * ...