by Erika Hanrahan | Aug 4, 2026 | Insights, News, Uncategorized
AML/CTF Reforms Have Commenced — Here’s What You Need to Know If you have engaged a lawyer, accountant, or conveyancer in Australia before, you will likely already be familiar with providing identification as part of standard practice, such as a driver’s...
by Sarah Lamb | Jul 29, 2026 | Client focus, Cost of a Will, Estate Planning, Insights, Personal, Wills
In short: if you die without a will in NSW (known as dying “intestate”), your estate is divided by a fixed legal formula under the Succession Act 2006 — which may not reflect your wishes. A will lets you decide who inherits, who raises your children, and...
by Sarah Lamb | Jul 22, 2026 | Client focus, Cost of a Will, Estate Planning, Insights, Personal, Wills
In short: we charge a fixed fee for a straightforward will, while a will with a testamentary trust or more complex family, business or superannuation needs costs more. At Southern Waters Legal, we quote your fixed fee upfront at your initial consultation — before any...
by Erika Hanrahan | Jun 4, 2026 | Business Law, Capital Gains Tax, Estate Planning, Insights
The Crackdown on Discretionary Trusts The 2026-27 Federal Budget has dropped. Buried beneath the headline economic figures are some of the most significant changes to trust and estate taxation in recent years. If your Will includes a Testamentary Trust, or your family...
by Erika Hanrahan | May 6, 2026 | Business Law, Capital Gains Tax, Insights, News
Paid-up capital on shares in Australia is commonly misunderstood, particularly during share sales, capital raises, and company restructures. Many business owners and investors incorrectly assume that paid-up capital reflects the current value of shares or the price...
by Erika Hanrahan | Mar 23, 2026 | Insights, Probate
Managing an estate, whether you are administering, disputing, or awaiting distribution, can take considerable time. During this period, financial pressure often increases. If you are: An executor managing estate expenses A beneficiary waiting for your inheritance...
