Commercial Law
Sale & Purchase of Businesses
If you are buying or selling a business, you need the right advice.
We offer advice on the process of buying or selling a business, prepare the sale and purchase agreement or inspect agreements to make sure that all your bases are covered so you can concentrate on making your business a success or on whatever your next project may be.
If you are purchasing we will take time to understand what is important to your business. As well as offering advice on the purchase we offer continuing legal advice that suits you and your business. We will offer advice about which ownership structure is best for you and work with other professionals to ensure the best solutions.
If you are selling a business we will ensure that the transaction goes smoothly and that you are protected as far as possible from any future claims that may arise from your previous obligations while owner of the business.
Leases
Entering into a lease creates a relationship that may continue for a number of years. It does not matter whether you are the Tenant or the Landlord it is important that you receive advice about the lease so that you know your rights and responsibilities under the lease.
If you are a Landlord we can draft a lease for your property or if you are looking to enter into a lease we can provide advice on leases presented to you as Tenant by your Landlord.
Debt Recovery
We offer a range of debt recovery services. From sending a letter of demand through to making applications to the District Court or High Court we can assist you in this process.
For smaller claims we can also provide advice on the Disputes Tribunal and its' processes. While we can prepare the documents and provide advice on the Disputes Tribunal the rules do not allow lawyers to attend the hearing as representatives.
If you need advice on the best way to collect a debt contact us and we will advise you on the best solution for you.
Family Law
Relationship Property
When a relationship ends you must divide the assets and debts of the relationship between you and your former partner. Once a relationship reaches three years (or possibly shorter in special circumstances) the division of assets is governed by the Property Relationships Act. Under this Act unless both parties receive independent legal advice and their signatures are witnessed by the independent Solicitors the agreement will not be legally binding. We will provide you with advice on your rights on separation and if necessary prepare a Separation and Relationship Property Agreement.
Contracting out of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976
If you are entering into a relationship and want to not have the division of your assets decided by the Property Relationships Act you can contract out of the Act. This is commonly known as a prenuptial agreement and if one party has significantly more assets than the other party can be an essential tool to protect those assets in the unfortunate situation of a relationship ending.
Equine Law
Amanda Vosper is heavily involved in the local equine community. This knowledge of the industry allows her to offer legal advice specific to this area. Whether it is a sale, purchase, lease or another issue that you are having, Amanda can assist in making sure that every detail is covered.
Contact Amanda for assistance.
Employment Law
An Employment Agreement that is tailored for you and your business is vital from the outset of the employment relationship. Setting out the rights and responsibilities of both the employee and employer reduces the risk of conflict in the future and the breakdown of the employment relationship.
Failure to have a written employment agreement can result in a fine of up to $10,000.00 from the Department of Labour.
Handling the dismissal or the restructuring of employees can be a potential minefield for employers. According to an analysis of the Employment Relations Authority decisions last year employers lost 69% of personal grievance claims brought against them after restructuring because of inadequate process and procedures. Allow us to provide you with advice when restructuring or when looking to terminate staff's employment and avoid these costly and time consuming mistakes.
We can also assist employees who consider that they have suffered a personal grievance to pursue any claim.
Residential Conveyancing
The sale or purchase of a home or investment property is a major life decision and the right advice is crucial. It is important that you get professional advice on the Agreement for Sale and Purchase before entering into any binding agreement:
We offer a full range of residential conveyancing services. We can assist you in the following areas:
- Advice on Agreements for Sale and Purchase
- Sale
- Purchase
- Refinance
- Sub-divisions
- Unit titles
- Any other property matters
Wills, Trusts and Estates
Wills
A Will outlines your instructions for once you have passed away. It is important to plan now so your affairs are in order. Having your instructions recorded clearly will reduce the possibility of disputes among your survivors as well as ensuring that your loved ones are provided for in the manner in which you desire. It is always important to make sure that your Will is up to date and reflects your current position in life.
It is imperative that your Will is drafted by a professional to ensure that it meets all statutory requirements and implements your wishes in the way in which you intended. We can advise you on how to arrange your affairs and draft a Will to suit your particular circumstances. Call us today if you do not have a Will or to update your current Will.
Trusts
A Trust offers a way to protect your assets and offers a range of other benefits. Among other things a Trust can protect your assets for the next generation or from a possible Relationship Property claim.
We offer a wide range of asset planning solutions. If you would like more advice about Trusts or would like to talk to a professional about whether a Trust is right for you please contact our offices.