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.
Wills & Estates – Live Webinar
Our Special Counsel and Accredited Specialist, Adeline Schiralli, is presenting a one-hour webinar for the College of Law on the essentials of Wills and Estates Practice. Date & Time: 12 November 2025, 1.00pm –...
Adeline Schiralli Presents for UNSW Edge
Our Special Counsel and Accredited Specialist, Adeline Schiralli, is presenting a webinar for UNSW Edge on Retirement Village Contracts in NSW. This session will provide an overview of Retirement Village Law in NSW and...
Protect Your Matter: Social Media and Family Law
Social media has become part of daily life, but in family law proceedings, it can be more damaging than people realise. At Southern Waters Legal, we frequently see how posts, photos, and comments on platforms like...
Insights and Perspectives: Intergenerational Wealth
Wednesday, 17 September 2025 | 5:15 pm – 6:30 pm Shaw and Partners, Sydney Boardroom Southern Waters Legal is proud to have our Managing Director, Simon Bennett, presenting at a boardroom dinner hosted by Shaw and...
Women Supporting Women
This year’s Women Supporting Women event, held on 26 June was an incredible success. Thanks to the generosity and support of our wonderful community, we raised an amazing $104,500 for The Family Co. These vital funds...
Co-Parenting During the Easter Holidays
Are you co-parenting during the easter school holidays? The school holidays can be an exciting time for kids, but for separated parents, they can also bring added stress. Here are our top 6 tips to help make the Easter...
What Is Estate Planning in NSW? Key Components You Need to Know
Estate planning in NSW is more than just creating a Will — it’s about ensuring your assets, finances, and personal wishes are managed according to your instructions, both during your lifetime and after you pass away. A...
What is Financial Disclosure in a Separation and why is it so important?
What is Financial Disclosure in a Separation and why is it so important? When parties separate and there is a pool of property to divide one of the first questions you will be asked is to provide financial disclosure....
Will an Independent Children’s Lawyer be appointed for my children in my parenting proceedings?
An ICL (Independent Children’s Lawyer) can be appointed in parenting matters in which proceedings have been commenced in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. An ICL is a court-appointed, legally aided...
Building Resilience in Our Children After Separation Through Positive Communication
Navigating life as a separated or single parent brings its own set of challenges, which may leave you feeling exhausted and low in emotional resilience. Juggling and separating your feelings about your ex-partner with...
How do I obtain a Passport for my Child after Separation?
I’m Separated… Do I need to ask for Consent to travel overseas with my Child? And how do I obtain a Passport? Many parents wish to travel with their child (or children). Travel is one of life’s greatest...
Changing Your Child’s Surname After Separation: What You Need to Know
We frequently see situations where two parents end their relationship, and the parent who has reverted to their maiden name, or never actually took their partner’s surname to begin with, wants to know whether they can...
Understanding how Capital Gains Tax applies to Inherited Jewellery
When inheriting jewellery, you might be surprised to learn it can be subject to Capital Gains Tax (CGT), just like other valuable items such as artwork, coins, and antiques. Here’s how CGT can apply to inherited...
Domestic Abuse and Coercive Control: an alert for Solicitors, Guardians and Carers
The law in NSW has evolved to improve a person’s autonomy and defend their decision-making rights. As a cognitive responsive law firm, Southern Waters Legal is at the forefront of responding to these changes,...
How do I protect a gift or early inheritance I give to my children?
Early inheritances and gifts towards adult children are increasingly common as the generational wealth gap widens over time. Can such inheritances and gifts be protected in the event of a separation? We are often...
Who keeps the pet after a breakup?
Historically, furry friends were given little consideration with respect to formalising a settlement following the separation of a couple. They were generally classified as property and if they were included in a...
Is My Ex A Narcissist?
As family lawyers, we are often told by our new incoming clients that their ex-partner is a “true narcissist” or that their psychologist has warned them that the examples they have been provided as to their...
Navigating the Complexities of Child Support and Tax Compliance: What You Need to Know
The child support system in Australia plays a crucial role in ensuring that financial responsibilities are met between separated parents. However, recent revelations highlight significant issues within this system,...
Navigating the Mediation Process Part 2: What to Expect in a Mediation
Once you attend mediation, the mediator helps the parties to identify the key issues that need resolution. In parenting matters, this may include living arrangements, schooling, and visitation schedules. In property...
Navigating Privacy & Safety: How to Navigate Shared Digital Devices
Going through a separation or leaving a partner can be a challenging and emotionally taxing time. And in today's digital age, ensuring your privacy and safety on your Apple devices is paramount. If you're finding...