Buying property together? Understanding ownership options
Joint Tenants vs Tenants in Common So, you’ve found the dream home, or at least one you can afford, and you’re buying it with someone else. Whether it’s your partner,…
Environmental Law – an introduction
There has always been a tension between the way we interact with the world for our benefit and how we should interact with the world to avoid the detriment of…
When can an employer require an employee to take annual holidays?
In this post-COVID world, some employers may be finding that their employees’ annual holiday balances have crept up, and they may be asking themselves whether they can direct those employees…
Trusts Act Update – core documents
The Trusts Act that came into effect in January 2021 is the first major reform since 1956. New legislation has impacted trustees, beneficiaries, and legal practitioners, mainly for the better. The…
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 Outdated Wills that don’t meet…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. …