LAW TALK
We believe in making law simple and accessible and want to share clear, practical information across the legal issues that matter most.
Law Talk is where we share insights, updates, and practical tips across all areas of law we practise. Whether you’re navigating a family matter, planning your estate, or looking for guidance on property or commercial issues, our blog is here to keep you informed – without the legal jargon.
School Holidays & Family Law: Who gets the kids?
With school holidays coming up, it can be a difficult time for separated families to agree upon and juggle arrangements in relation to their children and what time they will spend with each parent. Unfortunately for...
Off-the-plan property: Recent changes in the law
There's good news for investors nervous about purchasing property 'off-the-plan'. Recent changes to NSW property laws will make it harder for unscrupulous developers to back out of off-the-plan contracts for...
The legal side to Christmas gifting: What you need to know
Christmas is that wonderful time of the year when we shower our loved ones in gifts to celebrate the festive season. While it’s a joyous time for both those who are giving and receiving its important to forward think...
How to get a Divorce: 4 Steps to a fresh start
People often talk about going through a 'messy divorce', when in fact, obtaining a divorce is the easiest part of separation. Are you considering getting a divorce and wondering what the process will be like? Married...
Business Partnerships: Minimising the risks & maximimising the rewards
Starting a business can be hard, particularly when doing it yourself. Going into business with a partner can minimise the difficulties, particularly when the partners have complimentary skill sets. But what is the best...
Buying Property In Your SMSF
Australians are known to love property as an investment vehicle. Generally this has been achieved by borrowing from a bank to purchase property before paying it off over time. Since 2007 self managed superannuation...
The Curse of the DIY Will
“Homemade Wills are a curse” - This was the opening remark in a recent judgment of an Australian Will dispute case... At Southern Waters Legal we agree! Unfortunately we see first hand the expensive mess left behind...
Haven’t been paid for goods or services you’ve provided? What steps to take
Debt disputes arise in both personal and business relationships and can cause a great deal of stress. Here are some simple steps you can take to recover your money: 1. Check the details The first step is to review all...
Tax Time: 5 Quick tax tips
The end of the financial year is upon us and it is a good time to consider these 5 handy tax tips... 1. Superannuation Do you have any employees whom you are paying superannuation? Superannuation is not tax deductible...
Child Support: Get the system to work with you – not against you!
Following separation, you may be entitled to child support, you may have to pay child support or otherwise come to your own tailored arrangement, whereby you share costs of the children. People are often confused by...
6 Superannuation Tips for Contractors & the Self-Employed
1. Look after your future self Superannuation is a way to save for your retirement. When you are a Contractor or Self-Employed, Superannuation is essentially your own obligation. There is no employer squirrelling away...
Helping Your Children Buy Property – Risk Versus Reward
We’ve all heard the statistics about children living with their parents into their thirties, but while crippling house prices may be to blame, some parents are taking a more pro-active approach and shuffling their...
6 Tips to Avoid a Messy Divorce
Divorce and the associated financial and parenting issues can be one of the most emotionally draining and financially crippling experiences that a person can endure. Conversely the process can be handled with dignity...