Historically, trusts have been an extremely popular asset
planning tool in New Zealand. With no register of trusts, the
exact number of trusts is unknown, however, conservative estimates
are that there are between 300,000 and 500,000 trusts in New
Zealand. The changes proposed by the Trusts Bill will
therefore impact the lives of many New Zealanders.
By Emma Foster - 22 Jan 2019
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New Zealanders have always had a love affair with the
water. We go to the beach and we have our own backyard pools -
either permanent or temporary. Now that summer is just around the
corner, it's a perfect time to ensure that your swimming pool
complies with the rules.
By Pierce Bedogni - 18 Oct 2018
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If you find yourself charged with a criminal offence,
whether it's minor or serious, don't under estimate the importance
of getting good legal advice. It might be the difference between
whether you are convicted of the charge or not.
By Fiona McGeorge - 11 Oct 2018
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Have you ever been promised something would be left to you
in a will, but it never eventuated? If you worked or gave services
to someone who promised to reward you in their will, but they
didn't, the Law Reform (Testamentary Promises) Act may allow you to
claim against the promisor's estate.
By Andrew Steele - 8 Oct 2018
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According to research by Perpetual Guardian last year,
four in ten New Zealanders don't have a Will. It seems the problem
is not unique to New Zealand. Consider: Aretha Franklin, Prince,
Amy Winehouse, who all died in recent times without a Will. Even if
you're not famous, it is our view that it is vital that you have a
Will.
By Samuel Ames - 20 Sep 2018
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Occasionally the relationship between parties to a
building contract turns sour. In some cases the parties will be
able to get things back on track so that the project can be brought
to completion. However, in other cases there is an irreparable
breakdown in trust and one or both parties want to part ways. The
owner may not want the builder around anymore and/or the builder
may not want to continue racking up cost on credit with little
prospect of being paid. So how does a party terminate the building
contract and what risks does a party face if they get it
wrong?
By Meika McHardy - 13 Sep 2018
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Under a new bill introduced into Parliament, victims of domestic
violence will be entitled to up to 10 days' paid leave. We foresee
some issues regarding proof for employers when this bill comes into
effect next year.
By Kiren Narayanan - 26 Jul 2018
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New Zealand has one of the highest rates of Family Trusts
per capita in the world. But a lot of these Trusts are not being
managed correctly which then impacts on the protection a Trust can
provide, particularly in the event of a relationship break
down/separation.
By Fiona McGeorge - 12 Jul 2018
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From 1 July this year, we may be required to undertake due
diligence in order to comply with our obligations under the
Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act
(AML/CFT). The information required
(if any) will differ depending on the nature of your work and
your type of entity. We will need this information
prior to carrying out your instructions.
By Kay Keam - 21 Jun 2018
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If you are the father of a child, you may think that you
automatically have a say in your child's upbringing (such as
schooling, religion, where they live etc) however that may not be
the case. Legally you only get a say in your child's life if you
are their legal guardian.
By Surendra Bennett - 14 Jun 2018
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