Wills, Inheritances and Protecting the Family Fortune
Worried about the kids blowing your life’s work?
Your Liability and When It Ends
How long will you be liable for the debts of a company after you resign as a Director?
Can you contract out of misleading or deceptive conduct?
Do you own a company that contracts with customers or enters into terms and conditions with customers? A recent Supreme Court of Appeal decision found that a party cannot contract out of liability for misleading or deceptive conduct under Australian Consumer Law. The Victoria Supreme Court of Appeal confirmed that a party cannot contract our of…
Why should you never ignore a Family Provision Act Claim? When a court order comes knocking.
A recent Supreme Court of WA judgment found a defendant was in contempt of court for ignoring orders in relation to a Family Provision Act 1972 (WA) (FPA) claim. In The Public Trustee as administrator of the Estate of Jean Mary O’Sullivan v O’Sullivan [2025] WASC 108, the court found that the defendant, Mr O’Sullivan,…
What is Included in the Asset Pool? Family Trusts and Family Breakdowns
Family Trusts and Family Breakdowns – Understanding Asset Pool Inclusion Family trusts can significantly impact asset division during family breakdowns, such as divorce or separation. Understanding how family trusts are treated in these situations is crucial for individuals navigating such challenging circumstances. Role of Family Trusts Family trusts are legal arrangements that hold assets on…
A Post Office Will – What Could Go Wrong?
Post office wills are notorious amongst estate practitioners for being rife with issues. They do not provide for all different possible circumstances. Without receiving advice from an experienced estate planning practitioner, you are likely to miss key factors regarding your circumstances that require specific considerations and plans put in place and recorded correctly in your…
What Does a Defacto Relationship Mean For Your Finances?
Defacto Relationships – Understanding the Financial Implications In the realm of relationships, the legal status of “de facto” often raises questions about financial rights and responsibilities. Understanding what constitutes a de facto relationship and its implications on finances is crucial for individuals navigating this dynamic aspect of modern partnerships. Defining De Facto Relationships A de…
What is Divorce?
Compassionate Guidance Through Divorce and Separation At Ahern Sierakowski, we understand that divorce or separation is a challenging and emotional journey. During this difficult time, having the right support and guidance can make a significant difference. Understanding the Legal Definition Divorce is a legal process that formally dissolves a marriage, bringing an end to the…
What Does Divorce Mean For You As A Business Owner?
Protecting Your Business Assets For business owners, navigating divorce can introduce complex challenges that extend beyond personal matters to include the protection of valuable business assets. Whether you’re a sole proprietor, partner, or part of a closely held corporation, safeguarding your business interests during divorce proceedings requires careful planning and strategic considerations. Understanding Business Assets…
Is Mediation the Right Option For You?
Our family law system emphasizes empowering separated families to reach their own agreements on caring for their children without the need for court intervention. In Australia, it is mandatory for separated parents to attempt Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) before seeking parenting orders from a family law court. Mediation and arbitration offer efficient alternatives to lengthy…
