Transition into Aged Care
Entering an aged care facility can often be associated with a decline in physical health, loss of independence, loss of personal significant objects and belongings, and can result in relocation distress syndrome. With a myriad of aged care facilities to choose from (including some which have had a bad rap in recent times eg AVEO), it […]
Blended Families and Will Making
Common issues that arise when making a Will are: how to leave your estate to your spouse and prevent children or stepchildren from making a claim on your estate, and how to leave your estate (predominantly to your spouse); whilst ensuring your children benefit on the death of your spouse. It’s been years since the […]
When I Leave a Retirement Village or Aged Care Facility?
Transitioning into a retirement village or aged care facility can be (and often is) a very stressful and unnerving time in one’s life. There are numerous things to consider, and they often pile on top of what is already a hard decision. Unfortunately, what people don’t often contemplate when moving in, is what will happen […]
Timely Wills
With Christmas holidays just around the corner, now is the time to put in place (or review) your Will and estate planning documents. Ideally, your Will should be in place well before your holidays! Aside from beating the last minute rush, there are plenty of other good reasons – for example: are you traveling with […]
Elder Abuse
Australia’s population is aging and living longer. Age, mental health and medication of an older person can increase their vulnerability and reduce their capability for self-protection. This is fertile ground for abuse to occur. Elder abuse can be defined as: The mistreatment of an older person Is usually committed by someone the older person trusts; […]
Dividing Fences
A dividing fence (usually) defines the common boundary between neighbouring properties. Sometimes disagreements can arise about a dividing fence, or proposed dividing fence. For example, the fence may be in need of repair, or you (or your neighbour) simply want a new, higher fence constructed out of something entirely different to the original fence. The Dividing […]
Estate Planning & Pensioners Assets Test
Think about the value of your combined assets… Most likely you and your partner are under the threshold of the pensioner assets test, or at least if you are over the threshold; you still get a part pension inclusive of the “extras” such as discounted rego, pharmacy items etc. Pensioner discounts add up to some […]
What to do when debts are overdue
In small to medium business, cash flow is a major priority, and when invoices, debts and loans are not being paid, overdue debts can instigate a flow-on effect that can leave your business and reputation in the wind. What to do when a debt or loan becomes overdue depends mostly on how long overdue it […]
Do You Love Your Builder?
But more importantly, does your builder love you? The building industry has become a legalistic minefield in recent times. We constantly see the differing views of what the “builder / home owner” relationship should entail, and how to effectively convey this in your building contract, so that both parties are working together to build your […]
Elder Abuse and Power of Attorney
Have you (or someone you know) made a Power of Attorney (POA) and are now uncomfortable with it? Do you know of anyone who may be abusing (or being abused by) their power under a POA? In the recent case of Cohen NSWSC 336, the poorly drafted POA gave the Attorney unnecessarily wide powers to confer benefits […]