What to do when a Trustee loses capacity: A guide for Family Trusts
A Trustee of my Family Trust has lost capacity – what do I do? Trustees are the people who own the trust assets and manage those assets for the benefit…
Changes to the Fair Trading Act 1986
The Fair Trading Amendment Act 2021 has recently extended and introduced new protections against unfair commercial practices which are important for many businesses to consider whether changes to their standard…
Retirement village occupation rights explained
If you have retired, the children have left home, and your home is slowly becoming more of a hindrance than a joy, it is a good time to explore “downsizing”…
The importance of a valid Will
A badly drafted Will can be problematic and lead to family disputes. To be considered valid, your Will must comply with the Wills Act 2007. Outdated Wills that don’t meet…
The tricky question of employee vs independent contractor
The question of whether someone is an employee, or a contractor, can have significant implications for both parties. This question has been hotly debated, and the Employment Relations Authority and…
Does your house insurance policy cover a total loss?
After the Christchurch earthquake many insurance companies changed their house insurance policies from “full replacement” cover to “sum insured” amounts. This meant that if your house was damaged or destroyed,…
Congratulations to Bonnie Pitchford
Congratulations to Bonnie Pitchford on her recent promotion to Senior Solicitor. Bonnie joined the firm in 2021 and has quickly established herself as an integral part of our property team. …
Reverse Mortgages Explained
Most homeowners and purchasers of property are familiar with the concept of a mortgage. Simply put, a mortgage is the way in which a bank / lender takes security for…
Sharp Tudhope’s newest lawyers
Congratulations to Meg Skilton and Kate Bennett who were admitted to the bar at the High Court in Tauranga on Friday 5th August. The admission ceremony is a culmination of…
Failing to comply with minimum employment standards costly for employer
A recent Employment Relations Authority (ERA) hearing has found that a Dunedin bakery owner failed to pay its three employees correct wages, sick leave and holiday pay. The workers employed…