Merger and Acquisition Rates have Fallen to Pre-Pandemic Levels – is this a Result of Surging Bankruptcy Rates?

Merger and Acquisition Rates have Fallen to Pre-Pandemic Levels – is this a Result of Surging Bankruptcy Rates? The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently released alarming statistics regarding the number of Australian companies who have collapsed. From 1 July 2023 to 31 March 2024, 7,742 companies entered external administration, which is a 36.2% increase on the previous corresponding nine month period. Companies within the construction, accommodation and food services industries account for approximately 43 percent of that total. ASIC expected the number of companies entering external administration to exceed 10,000 by the end of the 2023/24 financial year, a level not seen since the 2012/13 financial year. That said, it is important to note there has be overall growth in company registrations during the last financial year. The failure rate as a proportion of registered businesses is actually lower than the 2012-2013 peak, however, what factors other than increased company registrations have led to the increase in businesses becoming insolvent? Corresponding with an increased business failure rate is a 31 percent decrease in merger and acquisition deal volume (M&A). The overall value of M&A deals dropped from 1022 in 2022 (worth $118.2 billion) to 708 in 2023 (worth $68.2 billion), which is the lowest number of transactions recorded in the last decade.[1] Are the high levels of failing companies having a detrimental impact on M&A transactions? If not, what other factors are influencing the M&A market post Covid? Does the current market present a good opportunity for investors and business owners? One theory is that higher business failure rates are in fact boosting M&A activity, potentially due to a number of factors such as generational change and compliance requirements in addition to the current cost of living financial pressures. What is an M&A? An M&A is a transaction involving one or more companies which allow businesses to increase performance by increasing or decreasing scale or scope, and diversifying risks across a range of activities. M&A’s are important for the efficient functioning of the economy and can range in value. For example, the largest deal conducted in Australia in 2023 was the acquisition of Newcrest Mining Limited by Newmont Mining Corporation for a staggering $26.1 billion, while 38 percent of total M&As are valued at up to $10 million. When analysed separately, a merger and an acquisition are functionally similar, however, have some differences. Essentially, a merger involves two companies combining into a single new company, while an acquisition will see a larger company take over the interests of a smaller company, with no new entity being created. Regulatory Factors Influencing M&A Levels The Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) (Act) plays a role in many M&A transactions, as section 50 of the Act prohibits any merger that would have the effect, or be likely to have the effect, of substantially lessening competition in a market. Even though legislation governs mergers, 3 out of 4 mergers go unchecked by the regulator of the Act, the Australian Competition [...]

kateflett2024-07-29T12:39:06+10:00July 29th, 2024|Commercial & Corporate|

The Importance of Wills for Young Adults

THE IMPORTANCE OF WILLS FOR YOUNG ADULTS Few young adults consider the necessity consider estate planning. Preparing a will is necessary as unexpected events can leave families dealing with many avoidable legal headaches. Without a will, your assets, including savings, superannuation, and even digital assets like cryptocurrency, are left in uncertainty. Q: What are the consequences of dying without a will? A: Dying intestate, or without a will, means that the distribution of your assets will be determined by state legislation. This often leads to a more complicated and lengthy process, as the state will follow a predefined hierarchy to allocate your assets, which may not align with your personal wishes. This process can be complex and time-consuming, leaving your loved ones to navigate legal hurdles during an already difficult time. Q: How does superannuation and life insurance factor into estate planning? Many young adults are unaware that superannuation and life insurance do not automatically form part of their estate. To ensure these assets are distributed according to your wishes, you need to make a binding death benefit nomination with your super fund. This nomination directs the fund to pay your benefits to your chosen beneficiaries and must be renewed every three years to remain valid. Q: What should young adults consider about digital assets? If you possess any digital assets, such as cryptocurrency, these require specific attention in a will due to their unique nature and the way they can be accessed. Many people may not be aware that without knowing where the digital currency is stored or having access details, these assets can be lost forever. Therefore, it is essential to provide clear instructions to the executor on how to access these digital assets. This includes information such as wallet keys, account details, and any necessary passwords to ensure that these assets are not forgotten or rendered inaccessible. Conclusion Even if you are young and healthy, having a will is a crucial part of planning for your future. It ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and spares your loved ones from unnecessary legal complications. By taking the following steps now, you provide peace of mind for both yourself and your family: Estate Planning: Have a Will prepared with the assistance of a legal professional to ensure that your wishes will be followed. Nominate Beneficiaries: Complete binding nominations for your superannuation and life insurance. Protect Digital Assets: Document access details for digital assets like cryptocurrency. Review and Update: Regularly update your will and nominations to reflect any life changes. Author Adam Hussain.

kateflett2024-07-15T13:41:22+10:00July 15th, 2024|Wills & Estates|

Insights into the Powers of Attorneys: Types, Responsibilities and Processes

Insights into the Powers of Attorneys: Types, Responsibilities and Processes A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that grants authority to another person (the attorney) to act on behalf of the principal in a range of matters. The principal is the person who grants the power and can specify the scope of authority granted in the POA. The attorney’s role is to make decisions and take actions according to the wishes and best interest of the principal. This can include actions such as managing bank accounts, signing documents, accessing, and managing investments, making legal decisions, and more depending on the terms outlined in the POA document. Types of Power of Attorneys In Queensland, there are two main types of POA: General Power of Attorney (GPOA) and Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA). A GPOA grants someone the authority to act on behalf of the principal for a specified timeframe. For example, if someone is travelling for a limited period of time, they may grant a GPOA to a trusted person for that time. The appointed attorney can manage bank accounts, sign contracts, access and manage investments, and make legal decisions outlined in the document. A GPOA ceases to be valid upon reaching its specified expiration date as indicated in the initial agreement. Additionally, the principal retains the right to revoke the GPOA while still of sound mind and capable of making decisions. An EPOA, on the other hand, is used to grant someone the authority to act on behalf of the principal in financial and legal matters, even if the principal becomes incapacitated due to illness or injury. Unlike a GPOA, an EPOA remains effective and essential for long-term planning and the continuous management of the principals’ affairs during periods of incapacity, such as age-related conditions or unforeseen health issues. Responsibilities Attorneys appointed under a POA carry significant responsibilities. They must act in the best interests of the principal, maintain accurate records of all transactions and decisions made on behalf of the principal. Additionally, attorneys must avoid any conflicts of interest and prioritise the principal's needs first. Limitations on powers granted may include specific instructions regarding financial transactions, property management, or healthcare decisions. These limitations ensure that the attorney’s authority aligns with the principal's intentions. Unfortunately, some individuals may abuse their POA position by misusing funds, making unauthorised decisions, or neglecting their responsibilities. This can result in financial harm, legal issues, and emotional distress for the principal and their beneficiaries. It’s crucial to choose a trustworthy and responsible attorney and regularly monitor their actions to prevent such abuse. Granting a POA involves several key steps: Firstly, the principal must carefully select someone they trust to act as their attorney. Your attorney should be reliable, responsible, and capable of making decisions on the principals’ behalf. Then, the scope of authority that is required must be determined. This could include financial matters such as managing bank accounts, paying bills and handling investments as well as specific conditions and limitations that [...]

kateflett2024-06-06T12:43:30+10:00June 6th, 2024|Wills & Estates|

Australian Solicitor Reprimanded for Advising Client to “Ignore” Hearing Date

Australian Solicitor Reprimanded for Advising Client to “Ignore” Hearing Date Lawyers Weekly Reports, that in a recent Western Australia case, a Family Lawyer was publicly reprimanded by the Western Australian State Administrative Tribunal (‘WASAT’) for intentionally delaying divorce proceedings and advising his client to disregard the hearing. The Solicitor was accused of deliberately seeking to delay the divorce proceedings. Lawyers Weekly reported that in the course of acting for this Family Law client, the Solicitor did the following: assured a Registrar that he would file an Affidavit from the client and failed to do so; did not file a Notice of Acting despite being aware that the client had informed the Registrar that he would do so; and advised the client to ‘ignore’ the hearing date failed to appear at the next hearing date for the proceedings. This conduct by the Solicitor was considered by WASAT to amount to professional misconduct within the meaning of section 403 of Legal Profession Act 2008 (WA) (‘the Act’). The finding of professional misconduct was compounded by additional criticisms. The Solicitor was faulted for transferring the client's case to another firm without adequately informing the client or respecting her autonomy in choosing her own legal representation. The client also alleged that she was unaware of the Divorce Order made in August 2018, indicating a breakdown in communication and transparency. In response to these findings, WASAT imposed a public reprimand, a substantial fine of $18,000, and mandated the Solicitor to cover the Legal Services and Complaints Committee's (LSCC) costs totalling $6,000. This serves not only as punitive action but also a stark reminder of the professional obligations and ethical standards that Solicitors are expected to uphold. Under the Legal Profession Uniform Law Australian Solicitors' Conduct Rules 2015 (WA) (‘Solicitors' Conduct Rules’) Solicitors have an ethical duty to act in the best interest of a client and deliver legal services competently, diligently and promptly. A Solicitor also has a paramount duty to the court and the administration of justice. A breach of these rules can constitute unsatisfactory professional conduct or professional misconduct, subjecting solicitors to disciplinary measures by regulatory authorities. Professional misconduct is defined within the Act to mean unsatisfactory professional conduct involving a substantial or consistent failure to reach or maintain a reasonable standard of competence and diligence. Professional misconduct is therefore a more severe finding under the Act than mere unsatisfactory professional conduct and attracts higher penalties for Solicitors. The Solicitor's failure to fulfill fundamental duties, such as filing necessary documents and appearing in court, not only compromised the client's interests but also hindered the judicial process. Such lapses were deemed inconsistent with maintaining a reasonable standard of competence and diligence, constituting professional misconduct. In essence, the case underscores the critical role played by the Solicitor Conduct Rules and disciplinary bodies in safeguarding clients' interests and upholding the integrity of the legal profession and the justice system. These mechanisms serve as essential safety nets, ensuring accountability and maintaining public trust in legal practitioners. [...]

kateflett2024-05-27T09:03:04+10:00May 23rd, 2024|Family Law|

Understanding the Family Law Amendment Act 2023: Key Changes Effective May 6, 2024

Understanding the Family Law Amendment Act 2023: Key Changes Effective May 6, 2024 The landscape of Family Law in Australia has undergone significant reform with the commencement of the Family Law Amendment Act 2023 on May 6, 2024. These changes, aimed at ensuring the best interests of Children and promoting efficiency in family law proceedings, bring about several crucial amendments that both legal practitioners and families need to be aware of. Transition from 'Equal Shared Parental Responsibility' to 'Joint Decision Making' One of the most notable changes is the repeal of the of presumption of equal shared parental responsibility. Equal shared parental responsibility requires that parents make joint decisions in relation to major long-term issues (such as education, religious and cultural upbringing, health, name and significant changes to living arrangements). Previously under Act there was a presumption that parents equally shared Parental Responsibility, unless the presumption is rebutted (repealed s 61DA Family Law Act (Cth) 1975). Under the amendments, the Court can no longer presume that equal shared parental responsibility is in the best interests the Child. Instead, whether equal shared parental responsibility applies, is decided according to the Child’s best interest. Parenting Orders may still deal with the allocation of responsibility for making decisions about major long term issues in relation to the Child (section 64B(3)). The amendments clarify that that if a 'joint decision making' order is made, it requires the parties to consult and make a genuine effort to agree as to long term decisions, however, there is no requirement that the decision be made jointly (s 61DAA). Under the new section 61CA, parents are now generally encouraged to consult each other about major long‑term issues in relation to the Child and in doing so are required to have regard to the best interests of the Child as the paramount consideration. Introduction of "Best Interests" Framework The Amendment Act introduces a revamped "best interests" framework which provides that when determining the parenting arrangement in the best interest of the Child, the Court now considers the following factors: Promoting the safety of the Child and all caregivers, including protection from family violence, abuse, neglect, or other harm. views expressed by the Child. developmental, psychological, emotional, and cultural needs of the Child. capacity of each caregiver to meet the Child's developmental, psychological, emotional, and cultural needs. the benefit to the Child of maintaining relationships with parents and other significant individuals, provided it is safe to do so. Taking into consideration any other relevant circumstances specific to the Child's situation. The amended framework removes the previous primary and additional consideration’s structure, which gave paramountcy to the Children benefiting from a meaningful relationship with their parents and being protected from harm. In the amended framework, the concept of a "meaningful relationship" no longer holds prominence, while a broader emphasis on the "promotion of safety" takes precedence over the need to protect the Child from physical or psychological harm. These amendments are intended to offer a more flexible approach tailored to [...]

kateflett2024-05-27T09:03:44+10:00May 23rd, 2024|Family Law|

The Perils of Artificial Intelligence and Estate Disputes

The Perils of Artificial Intelligence and Estate Disputes In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as both a tool for innovation and a source of ethical dilemmas. One such dilemma that has recently come to light is the unauthorised use of voices through AI, raising concerns about privacy, consent, and the protection of individuals' rights. In Australia, where the debate over AI ethics is gaining traction, it's crucial to address these issues head-on to safeguard against potential abuses and ensure accountability in the digital world. The unauthorised use of voices in AI applications presents a multifaceted challenge with far-reaching implications. Whether it's replicating a celebrity's voice for commercial purposes or synthesising the voice of an acquaintance without their consent, such actions raise serious ethical questions about the boundaries of technology and the rights of individuals. At the heart of this issue is the concept of consent. Every individual has the right to control how their voice is used and disseminated, and this right should be respected in the digital world as much as it is in the physical world. Unauthorised use of voices through AI not only violates individuals' privacy but also undermines their autonomy and agency over their own identity. Recently, American Estate lawyers for the late comedian, George Carlin, successfully won a court case between the estate of George Carlin and the makers of a podcast who used generative artificial intelligence to impersonate the late stand-up comic’s voice and style for an unauthorised special. This case marks what’s believed to be the first resolution to a lawsuit over the misappropriation of a celebrity’s voice or likeness using AI tools. It comes as Hollywood is sounding the alarm over utilisation of the tech to exploit the personal brands of actors, musicians, and comics, among others, without consent or compensation. Prominent Australians such as Gina Rinehart, Dr. Karl, Andrew Forrest, and Margot Robbie have also raised concerns over unauthorised alterations of their voices and images through AI, alongside the illicit use of their likenesses in the promotion of goods or fraudulent schemes. In Australia, a Will must be in writing to be valid, so anything a person says verbally cannot be enforced as a legal Will. However, the recorded video or audio wishes of a Will maker have been accepted by the Courts to clarify the wishes of a deceased person. Accordingly, it is foreseeable that we may start seeing disputes arise where a disappointed beneficiary were to produce a recording of the deceased that purportedly altered terms of the Will in favour of that beneficiary, which was actually produced by AI using the deceased’s likeness. So, in this day and age, it is important for the executor or administrator of a deceased estate to seek legal advice if they believe that AI-based subterfuge pertaining to a Will is afoot. Steve Hodgson, senior associate, and the Estates Team at Salerno Law have assisted many individuals and couples understand their options and plan their estates per [...]

kateflett2024-05-09T15:35:43+10:00May 9th, 2024|Artificial Intelligence, Wills & Estates|

Securing Tomorrow: Understanding Estate and Non-Estate Assets and the role of Nominations

Securing Tomorrow: Understanding Estate and Non-Estate Assets and the role of Nominations. Estate planning plays a pivotal role in guaranteeing the orderly distribution of assets according to your wishes following your death, thereby safeguarding the financial well-being of your loved ones. It entails planning a comprehensive strategy for the administration of your estate’s assets, properties, and investments. It is essential to prioritise understanding the diverse components comprising an estate and methods to guarantee that its state of administration is clear. Understanding Estate and Non-Estate Assets Estate assets are assets including real property, investments, personal belongings, and other tangible assets. The distribution of estate assets is overseen by the executor. Conversely, non-estate assets are those that are not automatically governed by a Will and do not form part of the deceased individual’s estate upon their death. This can include superannuation funds and life insurance proceeds held outside of the estate. Non-estate assets include superannuation, life insurance payouts and assets held in trust. The distribution of non-estate assets requires specific arrangements made by the individual prior to their death, as they may not be covered by terms of the Will. Superannuation and life insurance are often crucial components of estate planning and act as significant sources of financial support for loved ones. Nominations In estate planning, nominations involve choosing who will receive your assets or take on specific roles after your death or become unable to make decisions. This includes naming beneficiaries for your financial accounts and insurance policies, as well as appointing executors, guardians for minor children, or trustees to manage assets for beneficiaries. A binding nomination legally obligates the trustee of a superannuation fund or insurance policy to distribute assets according to the specified beneficiaries outlined by the nominator. You can also elect a non-binding nomination which can strip you of your decision-making authority, leaving you with limited control over important matters. This can lead to potential repercussions and outcomes that may not align with your preferences or best interests. Given the importance of Superannuation and Life Insurance in securing financial support for your loved ones, it's crucial to address these matters properly. Setting up clear legal arrangements helps protect these assets and ensures your beneficiaries are taken care of. Importance of Professional Guidance Navigating estate planning can be especially challenging, particularly when it comes to nominations and distributing assets, therefore it is important to obtain appropriate advice. Salerno Law excels at guiding clients through this complex area of Wills and Estates. Our team comprehend the intricacies of Wills and Estates and offers tailored and accurate guidance that aligns with each individual's circumstances. Author: Liam Denniston & Steven Hodgson

kateflett2024-04-02T15:16:36+10:00April 2nd, 2024|Wills & Estates|

Balancing Act: Safeguarding the Work-Life Harmony of Casual Employees in Australia

Balancing Act: Safeguarding the Work-Life Harmony of Casual Employees in Australia Introduction: The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Act 2023 (The Act) aligns with the overarching principles of the Fair Work framework in Australia, aiming to create an environment where every worker is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness. By addressing proper classification of employees, criminal wage theft and the right to disconnect, amongst other things, this comprehensive legislative initiative aims to address issues within the employment sector, fostering a more equitable and supportive environment for workers across the nation. The balances of changes will be introduced over the next ten months so not all amendments are currently active. Although The Act is currently waiting on royal assent, for the purpose of the article we will still refer to it as The Act. Key Features of The Act Amendments Classification of Employees; Wage Theft & Criminal Implications; Casual Conversion: Roles & Responsibilities; and The Right to Disconnect & Unfair Dismissal. Classification of Employees Identifying and properly classifying employees, including casual employees, is crucial for both employers and employees to ensure legal compliance and prevent potential criminal liability. Incorrectly classifying employees, intentionally or unintentionally, may result in wage theft accusations. This could lead to legal action, financial penalties, reputable damage, and criminal charges against the employer. This is especially the case if it is found that the misclassification was intentional. Wage Theft & Criminal Implications Increased Financial Penalties: The Act will introduce escalated financial penalties for businesses caught underpaying their workers. These penalties are designed to reflect the severity of the offence, acting as a powerful deterrent against unscrupulous practices. Individual Accountability: Acknowledging the role of individuals in positions of authority, the Act holds key personnel, such as directors and executives, personally accountable for wage theft offenses committed by their organisations. This individual accountability adds an extra layer of responsibility and discourages unethical practices. Enhanced Reporting and Pay Transparency Requirements: The Act mandates more detailed and frequent reporting on wage payments, fostering transparency and enabling early detection of wage theft. Businesses are now required to provide comprehensive pay information to their employees, ensuring that any discrepancies are identified promptly. Criminal Law and Penalties: Recognising the urgency of addressing wage theft, there has been a growing push to reform Australia’s industrial relations laws and hold employers accountable for their actions. If employers are reported and found guilty, they may face severe consequences such as receive a prison sentence of up to 10 years or a substantial fine, potentially reaching as high as $1.5 million, or both, as determined by the Court. For body corporate employers, the fines imposed by the Court could be even more substantial, potentially reaching as high as $7.8 million, surpassing the penalties levied on individuals. Casual Conversion: Roles & Responsibilities Casual Conversion: Casual conversion refers to the process by which casual employees can request to convert their employment status to permanent after meeting certain criteria. The Act now provides an alternative pathway to casual conversion, [...]

kateflett2024-02-22T12:35:25+10:00February 22nd, 2024|Employment & Industrial Relations|

Navigating Family Law Property Settlements: The Impact of Gambling Activities

Navigating Family Law Property Settlements: The Impact of Gambling Activities Introduction: Family law property settlements are intricate processes that involve the fair division of assets between separating parties. When one or both individuals have engaged in gambling activities during the course of their relationship, it introduces a layer of complexity to the settlement proceedings. This article explores the impact of gambling activities on family law property settlements and provides insights into how individuals can navigate these challenges. Financial Disclosure and Transparency: One of the obligations in Family Law property settlements is the requirement for full financial disclosure. According to Rule 6.06 of the Family Law Rules, parties must disclose all sources of earnings, including income from gambling. This includes detailed information about property disposals made in the period surrounding separation, ensuring transparency in the assessment of each party's financial position. Entertainment Vs Wastage- Legal Perspectives: Family law recognises that personal life activities, such as gambling, can be considered a form of entertainment. The case of De Angelis and De Angelis [1999] FamCA 1609 (FC) established that spending money on activities like gambling should not be criticised any more than spending on other forms of entertainment, such as sports. However, the impact of gambling on Family Law property settlements becomes significant when it gives rise to a wastage claim. Generally, financial losses incurred by parties or either of them in the course of a marriage whether such losses result from a joint or several liability, should be shared by them (although not necessarily equally). Wastage, as defined by the landmark case of Kowaliw & Kowaliw [1981] FamCA 70, occurs where: where one of the parties has embarked upon a course of conduct designed to reduce or minimise the effective value or worth of matrimonial assets, or where one of the parties has acted recklessly, negligently, or wantonly with matrimonial assets, the overall effect of which has reduced or minimised their value. For example, Alex and Susan separate after 10 years of marriage. Alex and Susan are a couple of reasonable means. They earn a combined income of $190,000 per year and own several investment properties: Over the course of the relationship Susan gambles and loses $100,000. Susan has to refinance the martial home to fund her gambling habit. This conduct is likely to give rise to a wastage claim. Susan gambles recreationally on the weekends. She will put $250 in the pokies or place a $100 bet on a horse and often buys a lottery ticket. Susan wins some and loses some, but she loves the excitement of playing. This conduct is unlikely to give rise to a successful wastage claim as it does not satisfy the threshold of recklessly, negligently, or wantonly conduct. Alex is a semi-professional poker player. Alex spends his weeknight playing poker at the local casinos and weekends travelling to poker games. Alex has a separate bank account for his poker ‘side hustle’. Alex’s is sure his winnings outweigh his losses. In fact, Alex calculates that [...]

kateflett2024-02-01T14:41:19+10:00February 1st, 2024|Family Law|

10 TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH DURING FAMILY LAW PROCEEDINGS

10 TIPS FOR LOOKING AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH DURING FAMILY LAW PROCEEDINGS It is well known that family law proceedings are incredibly stressful for all parties involved. Particularly for parties to parenting and/or property matters, court proceedings are emotionally draining and incredibly stressful. The legal complexities and personal dynamics involved in matters such as divorce, care arrangements for children, and property settlement can take a toll on your mental health. Taking proactive steps to care for your well-being during this process is crucial. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate family law proceedings while safeguarding your mental health. Establish a Support System: Surround yourself with a network of friends and family who can offer understanding, encouragement, and a listening ear. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals can help alleviate stress and provide a sense of connection. If you can, speak with someone who has gone through family law proceedings before and can empathise with your experience. Set Realistic Expectations: Family law proceedings can be unpredictable. Set realistic expectations for the process and outcomes, understanding that it may take time to reach a resolution. Ask your Family Lawyer to give you realistic advice of what to expect in terms of time frames and potential final outcomes. Be patient and focus on managing your expectations to reduce unnecessary stress. Don’t hesitate to ask you Family Lawyer questions if you are feeling unsure. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness: Prioritise self-care activities that promote physical and mental well-being. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and activities you enjoy. Taking care of your overall health can enhance your ability to cope with the challenges of family law proceedings. Incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your routine to manage stress and anxiety. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help you stay grounded and focused during emotionally charged situations. Stay Informed, but Avoid Overexposure: Stay informed about the legal aspects of your case but be mindful of not obsessing over every detail. Set designated times to review updates and respond to your Lawyer. Try to avoid constant exposure to legal matters to prevent unnecessary anxiety. Seek Professional Support: If you are struggling, consider consulting with a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counsellor, to provide emotional support and coping strategies. Even just a couple of sessions with a mental health professional may help institute effective coping strategies for the duration of your family law matter. Maintain Clear Communication: Open and clear communication is essential during family law proceedings. Establish appropriate and healthy communication channels with your Family Lawyer, ex-partner (if necessary), and any involved parties. This can help prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts. If you are still in contact with your ex-partner or their family members (for example for co-parenting or business purposes) your Family Lawyer may be able to assist you in establishing healthy communication. Reaching out to your Family Lawyer for assistance on if or how to respond can help prevent avoid emotionally charged [...]

kateflett2024-01-16T10:56:29+10:00January 16th, 2024|Family Law|

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