Blog

  • Getting the Will Right: He Left the Farm, But What About the Water?

    23 OCTOBER 2026 , WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING

    When preparing a will, it is easy to focus on the obvious assets and overlook the details. A recent NSW Supreme Court case shows how one small omission created a major problem for a farming family. Read more

  • Fidan Shevket named Finalist for 2026 Inside Family Law Awards

    21 OCTOBER 2026 , FAMILY LAW & DE FACTO RELATIONSHIPS

    Fidan Shevket of Fox & Staniland Lawyers has been nominated as a finalist for the Education and Knowledge Leadership category in the 2026 Inside Family Law Awards. Read more

  • Which Court Does Your Dispute Belong In?

    09 OCTOBER 2026 , LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

    One of the most common questions we hear from clients considering legal action is usually a simple one: “Which court do I go to?” It is a more important question than it might first appear. Filing in the wrong court can mean wasted time, unnecessary legal costs, and in some cases having to start the process over entirely. Understanding how the New South Wales court system is structured is the first step to resolving any civil dispute efficiently. Read more

  • Can You Give Up Your Right to Make a Family Provision Claim?

    24 SEPTEMBER 2026 , CONTESTING A WILL , ESTATE DISPUTES , PROBATE & DECEASED ESTATES

    Family members sometimes want to avoid future disputes about a person’s estate. One way of doing this is by signing a deed where a person agrees not to make a family provision claim in the future. In New South Wales, signing an agreement is not enough. Read more

  • When Do Privacy Regulations Apply to Small Businesses?

    26 AUGUST 2026 , COMMERCIAL & BUSINESS LAW

    Many small businesses assume privacy laws only apply to larger organisations. In Australia, that is not always the case. Under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), businesses with annual turnover of $3 million or less are generally exempt from the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). However, important exceptions apply. Read more

  • Why You Should Start Planning Your Business Succession Early

    13 JULY 2026 , COMMERCIAL & BUSINESS LAW

    For many business owners, their business is their most valuable asset. Yet succession planning is often delayed until retirement is approaching or unexpected circumstances force important decisions. Planning your business succession early gives you greater control over the future of your business, helps protect its value, and ensures a smoother transition when the time comes. Read more

  • Don't Tell AI Your Legal Secrets

    25 JUNE 2026 , LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

    Many people now use AI chatbots to answer legal questions. It is quick, easy and often free. But there is a serious risk. A recent United States court case, United States v Heppner, shows that what you tell an AI chatbot may not be private. Read more

  • What Happens to Your SMSF When a Member Loses Capacity?

    11 MAY 2026 , WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING , PROBATE & DECEASED ESTATES , ESTATE DISPUTES

    A self-managed super fund (SMSF) gives members control over their retirement savings, but many trustees overlook what happens if a member loses mental capacity due to illness, injury or dementia. Because SMSF members are generally required to also act as trustees (or directors of the corporate trustee), incapacity can create serious legal and compliance issues if proper planning is not in place. Read more

  • The Differences between Retail and Commercial Leases

    27 MARCH 2026 , COMMERCIAL & BUSINESS LAW

    When entering into a leasing arrangement in New South Wales, it’s essential for both landlords and tenants to understand whether the agreement is classified as a retail lease or a commercial lease. While both involve the occupation of premises for business purposes, they are governed by different legal frameworks and carry distinct rights and obligations. Read more

  • Why Dispute Resolution Clauses Matter in Contracts

    12 MARCH 2026 , LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION , COMMERCIAL & BUSINESS LAW

    A dispute resolution clause is one of the most important—but most overlooked—provisions in any contract. It outlines how disagreements will be handled and can significantly impact cost, speed, and business relationships. Including a clear, well-drafted clause helps protect both parties and prevents minor issues from becoming major conflicts. Read more