There are no initial upfront costs. You can come for your initial consultation and discuss your case with a member of our team free of charge. From there we will be able to determine the scope of the work and provide you with the best and fairest price for the services. Call us today (02 8065 8988) to learn more about your cost expectations.

Having the right lawyers on your team vital. We pride ourselves in our ability to empower, guide and prepare our clients for the challenges ahead. Reduce your stress and focus on the important things in your life, with us by your side. Call us today (02 8065 8988) to speak to one of our lawyers.

Payment is simple. We accept cash, credit cards, and eftpos. Payment plans are available on a case by case basis and will need to be approved. Call us today (02 8065 8988) to learn more about your payment options.

Our strength has always been in serving our local communities and this often meant helping our clients navigate the legal process in a language they are not fluent in. At GEA Lawyers we have a multicultural team of expert lawyers that can speak to you in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Call us today (02 8065 8988) to let us know your language preferences so that our team can best serve you in the language you prefer.

Please visit our office located in Chatswood. Our address is: Suite 201 / 7 Railway St, Chatswood NSW 2067 For further information, kindly contact us at 02 8065 8988. We appreciate your interest and look forward to assisting you.

Common issues in Australian property law include matters related to property transactions, ownership disputes, boundary disputes, easements, and compliance with zoning regulations. Buyers may face challenges with property titles, encumbrances, and navigating the complexities of the conveyancing process. Landlords and tenants often deal with lease agreements, rent disputes, and property maintenance issues. Understanding property rights, obligations, and compliance with local regulations is crucial for a smooth property experience in Australia. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

It is advisable to engage a lawyer early in the property buying process in Australia. Legal assistance can be valuable during the initial stages of contract review, ensuring terms are favorable. Lawyers can help navigate complex legal documents, conduct due diligence on the property, and provide advice on potential issues. Early involvement allows for timely resolution of legal matters, contributing to a smoother and legally sound property transaction. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

It is recommended to contact a lawyer early in the process when planning to sell an Australian property. Legal guidance is crucial for reviewing and drafting contracts, understanding obligations, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws. Lawyers can assist in addressing potential issues, facilitating a transparent and legally sound property sale. Early legal involvement contributes to a streamlined selling process and minimizes the risk of legal complications. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Overseas individuals may be exempt from FIRB (Foreign Investment Review Board) application fees in certain circumstances, such as: The property developer has obtained an FIRB exemption certificate for the purchased new property. Inheritance of the property. Court-ordered acquisition of the property. Property granted through a divorce agreement. Purchasing residential property with an Australian citizen spouse on temporary visas like spouse, work, or student visas. Joint purchase of a residential property with an Australian permanent resident on a temporary visa. For detailed eligibility criteria, individuals are advised to refer to the government's official website or consult with legal professionals at GEA Lawyers. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

This question requires consideration of several scenarios: Transfer of Investment Property: If spouses transfer an investment property between themselves, the stamp duty is required, similar to a transfer between unrelated individuals. It is calculated based on the valuation provided by an independent valuer. Transfer of Primary Residence: For the primary residence, if one spouse owns the property and the other wishes to add their name to the title, no stamp duty is incurred during the name addition. If both spouses jointly own the primary residence and one party is to be removed from the title, the stamp duty calculation follows the method applied to the transfer of investment properties between spouses. Separation or Divorce: In cases of separation or divorce, when handling the property as part of the asset division agreement, stamp duty is not required. It is essential to consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with specific regulations and to receive accurate advice tailored to individual circumstances. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

The timeline for stamp duty payment varies across Australian states, with specific regulations for overseas buyers. For detailed information, consult with GEA Lawyers' specialized attorneys. Below is an explanation based on New South Wales (NSW). In NSW, stamp duty for property purchases must be paid within three months after the exchange of the purchase contract. If settlement occurs within this period, stamp duty is paid at settlement. If settlement happens more than three months after the contract exchange, payment must be made within three months, or late fees, typically calculated at around a 12% annual interest rate on the owed amount, may apply. For off-the-plan purchases, local owner-occupiers have a 15-month payment window, starting from the contract exchange. If settlement occurs within this period, payment is due at settlement. If settlement occurs after 15 months, payment must be made within the initial 15 months to avoid late fees. Overseas and local investment property buyers still need to pay stamp duty within three months of signing the off-the-plan contract. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Taking New South Wales as an example, for residential land products purchased by foreign individuals on or after July 1, 2017, additional stamp duty of approximately 8% is applicable, in addition to the standard stamp duty, totaling around 12% of the property value. Note that for "House & Land" contracts, covering both land and building, only the stamp duty for the land portion and the 8% additional tax need to be paid, totaling approximately 12%. It's crucial to be aware that the stamp duty surcharge for overseas individuals also applies to those who, on the day of purchase, haven't resided in Australia for 200 days as Australian PR holders or haven't completed 200 days for New Zealand 444 visa holders. Determining your status as an overseas individual depends on your specific visa category, and for detailed information, consult with GEA Lawyers' specialized solicitors. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, stamp duty is applicable when transferring property between parents and children, with the exception of inheritance. Whether the transfer is done without consideration (no monetary exchange, no sale contract) or with consideration, an independent valuer must provide a valuation report. Stamp duty should be paid based on the market value of the property as stated in the valuation report before the transfer can be completed. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Click the link below to learn more about property law: Property Law

Commercial law, also known as business law, governs the legal aspects of commercial and business transactions. It covers a wide range of topics, including contracts, sales, corporate governance, and commercial paper. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Contracts are fundamental in commercial law as they establish legal relationships between parties. They outline the rights and obligations of each party, providing a framework for conducting business transactions. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Disputes between businesses can be resolved through negotiation, alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation or arbitration, or by taking legal action through the court system. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, and trademarks. Commercial law protects and regulates the use of IP, ensuring that creators are granted exclusive rights to their creations. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Commercial law includes provisions for consumer protection, ensuring fair business practices, accurate advertising, and the provision of goods and services that meet certain quality standards. Breaches can lead to legal action and penalties. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate governance involves the systems and processes by which companies are directed and controlled. It is crucial for ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within corporations, protecting the interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Mergers and acquisitions are subject to regulatory scrutiny to prevent anticompetitive behavior. Commercial law provides a framework for obtaining approvals, ensuring fair competition, and protecting the interests of shareholders. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Starting a business involves legal considerations such as choosing the right business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation), registering the business, and complying with licensing and regulatory requirements. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Commercial law adapts to technological advancements and addresses e-commerce by regulating online contracts, electronic signatures, data protection, and consumer rights in online transactions. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Click the link below to learn more about commercial law: Commercial Law

It's advisable to consult a family lawyer when facing legal issues related to marriage, divorce, child custody, property settlement, or any family disputes. Early consultation can provide valuable guidance on your rights and legal options. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Child custody arrangements are determined based on the child's best interests. The court considers factors such as the child's age, health, and relationships with parents. Shared custody is often encouraged to ensure the child's ongoing relationship with both parents. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

To file for divorce, you must be separated for at least 12 months. You can then apply for a divorce online or by paper. If there are children involved, the court may inquire about parenting arrangements. Divorce doesn't automatically settle property matters; this may require a separate legal process. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

The court aims for a fair and equitable division of property, considering factors like financial contributions, non-financial contributions, future needs, and the welfare of any children. This may involve selling assets, transferring property, or making financial adjustments. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, parenting orders can be changed if there is a significant change in circumstances. This might include a parent relocating, a child's needs changing, or a parent's capacity to care for the child being affected. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Spousal maintenance is determined based on factors like financial need, the paying spouse's capacity to pay, and the standard of living established during the marriage. It aims to assist the financially weaker spouse post-divorce. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Succession law, also known as estate or inheritance law, deals with the distribution of a person's assets, known as the estate, upon their death. It includes matters related to wills, probate, and intestacy. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

A will is a legal document that outlines how a person's assets should be distributed after their death. It allows individuals to specify beneficiaries, appoint executors, and provide for other important matters, such as guardianship of minor children. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

When a person dies without a valid will, their estate is distributed according to the laws of intestacy. The distribution is typically based on a predetermined legal formula, and it may not align with the deceased person's wishes. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

In certain circumstances, interested parties, such as family members or dependents, may challenge the validity of a will or make a family provision claim if they believe they were not adequately provided for in the will. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Probate is the legal process of proving the validity of a will and obtaining court approval to administer the estate. It is generally required when the deceased person owned significant assets, particularly real estate. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

The duration of the probate process varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the estate, potential disputes, and court processing times. It can take several months to over a year to complete. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

While it is possible to write a simple will without legal assistance, seeking professional advice is recommended, especially for more complex estates. Legal guidance ensures that the will is valid, reducing the risk of disputes. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

In Australia, laws vary between states and territories, but generally, you cannot entirely disinherit a spouse or dependent children. They are entitled to challenge the will if they believe they were not adequately provided for. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, a will can be contested after probate is granted, particularly if new evidence or information comes to light. Contesting a will after probate involves legal proceedings, and the court will consider various factors. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

An executor is appointed in a will to carry out the deceased person's wishes and administer the estate. Their responsibilities include applying for probate, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Various visas are available, catering to different purposes like work, study, family reunification, and skilled migration. Eligibility criteria vary based on the type of visa. Common categories include skilled migration, family reunion, student visas, and humanitarian visas. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Australia employs a points-based system for skilled migration visas. Points are awarded based on factors like age, English proficiency, work experience, and education. Meeting a minimum points threshold is essential for consideration. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Processing times depend on the type of visa and various factors. It's advisable to check the Department of Home Affairs website for current processing time estimates. Some visas offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, many visa categories allow the inclusion of family members, such as spouses, dependent children, and sometimes parents. Each family member must meet specific criteria, and additional documentation may be required. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

A PR visa allows individuals to live and work in Australia indefinitely. It can be obtained through various pathways, including skilled migration, family reunion, and humanitarian programs. The eligibility criteria vary for each pathway. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, in many cases, you can appeal a visa refusal decision. The process involves lodging an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) within a specified timeframe. Legal assistance is recommended for a successful appeal. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

While a job offer is not always mandatory, having a nominated occupation on the skilled occupation list and meeting other criteria are essential. Some visas, like the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa, require a job offer. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, a student visa allows limited work rights for international students. However, there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work during term and semester breaks. Work conditions are specified in the visa grant. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Yes, some skilled migration visas have age limits. The age limit for certain visas is 45 years. However, the points awarded for age decrease after the age of 39. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

You should enter Australia on an appropriate visa for your intended purpose and length of stay. If you are intending to move to Australia and live there permanently, you should obtain an appropriate migration visa before you go. Please note: If you have a "no further stay" condition on your temporary visa, it may not be possible to apply for a further visa from within Australia. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Your partner must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen, in order to sponsor you. There are certain circumstances where your partner may not be able to sponsor you, for example, if he or she has sponsored another partner before in the last 5 years. You must either be married, engaged, in a registered relationship, or a de facto relationship. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Actual processing times vary due to a variety of individual circumstances and more complex cases can take longer. Therefore, it is recommended that you do not take any significant action, such as ceasing employment, selling property or purchasing flight tickets, before your visa application is finalised. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

To apply for a Partner visa as a de facto partner, you and your partner must show that you have been in a de facto partner relationship for the entire 12 months immediately prior to lodging your application and that this relationship is to the exclusion of all others. If either you or your sponsor are still married to another person at the time of lodgement of a de facto partner visa, you will need to provide evidence that your previous relationship is no longer ongoing. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

You may not be able to sponsor your partner if you have previously sponsored 2 other partners for migration to Australia, or have sponsored another partner within the last 5 years, or were sponsored as a partner yourself within the last 5 years.  You may still be permitted to sponsor your partner in compelling circumstances, for example, if your previous partner died or abandoned the relationship, and you have young children, or you have been with your current partner longer than two years, or you or your partner have dependent children. A decision on whether to waive the sponsorship limitations can only be made once an application has been lodged. It cannot be decided in advance of lodgement. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

It's advisable to consult a criminal lawyer as soon as you become aware of being a suspect or if you've been charged with a crime. Early legal advice can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

If arrested, assert your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Refrain from answering questions without legal representation present. It's crucial to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement without self-incrimination. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

While you have the right to represent yourself, it's not recommended, especially in complex criminal cases. Criminal defense lawyers have the expertise to navigate legal processes, build effective defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Bail is determined based on factors like the severity of the alleged crime, the defendant's criminal history, ties to the community, and the likelihood of appearing in court. The court aims to set a bail amount that ensures the defendant's appearance while balancing community safety. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

A criminal defense lawyer represents individuals charged with crimes. Their role includes investigating the case, building a defense strategy, negotiating with prosecutors, and advocating for the defendant in court. They work to protect their client's rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

In some cases, charges can be dropped or reduced through negotiations with the prosecution. This may involve presenting evidence, challenging legal procedures, or reaching agreements that serve the interests of both parties. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate law, also known as company law, governs the formation, operation, and dissolution of corporations. It encompasses a wide range of legal issues related to the rights, duties, and conduct of businesses. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Forming a corporation involves filing the necessary documents with the appropriate government authorities, defining the corporate structure, adopting bylaws, and issuing shares. Compliance with local regulations is crucial. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Directors are responsible for overseeing the company's management and decision-making, while officers are responsible for the day-to-day operations. Both have fiduciary duties to act in the best interests of the corporation. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate governance refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. It ensures transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct within the corporation, benefiting shareholders and stakeholders. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate law sets out the legal framework for mergers and acquisitions, including approval processes, shareholder rights, and disclosure requirements. It aims to protect the interests of all parties involved. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Shareholder agreements are legal documents that outline the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of shareholders. They are crucial for preventing disputes, defining decision-making processes, and protecting shareholder interests. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate law increasingly incorporates principles of corporate social responsibility, encouraging companies to consider environmental, social, and ethical issues in their business practices. Compliance fosters sustainable and responsible business conduct. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate law outlines obligations such as providing a safe working environment, complying with employment laws, and ensuring fair labor practices. Companies must also adhere to anti-discrimination and workplace safety regulations. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Corporate law mandates accurate and transparent financial reporting. Companies must disclose relevant information to shareholders and the public, fostering trust and confidence in financial markets. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Shareholder rights are protected through voting on significant matters, receiving dividends, and having the right to inspect corporate records. Shareholders may also bring legal actions if their rights are violated. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Taxation law is a legal framework that governs the assessment and collection of taxes. It includes rules and regulations established by governments to determine the amount and manner in which individuals and businesses are taxed. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Taxation law covers various types of taxes, including income tax, corporate tax, sales tax (GST/VAT), property tax, capital gains tax, and customs duties. Each tax type has its own rules and regulations. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Income tax is calculated based on an individual's or business's taxable income. Tax rates may vary depending on income levels, and deductions and credits are applied to determine the final tax liability. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Tax avoidance involves legally minimizing tax liability by using available deductions and incentives. Tax evasion is the illegal act of deliberately not paying taxes owed, often through fraudulent means. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Common deductions for individuals include expenses related to education, healthcare, mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and business-related expenses. Deductions reduce taxable income. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Taxation law addresses international taxation through rules on transfer pricing, double taxation agreements, and determining the tax residency of individuals and businesses with cross-border activities. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

GST/VAT is a consumption tax imposed on the sale of goods and services. It is usually collected at each stage of the supply chain and is ultimately borne by the end consumer. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Taxation law influences the choice of business structures (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation) by affecting tax rates, liability, and available deductions. Each structure has different tax implications. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Taxation law plays a crucial role in estate planning by addressing issues such as inheritance tax, gift tax, and capital gains tax. Proper planning can help minimize tax liabilities for heirs. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.

Disputes with tax authorities can be resolved through administrative appeals, alternative dispute resolution methods, or, if necessary, through litigation in tax courts or other legal forums. Note: This information is not legal advice, and readers should seek formal legal consultation from GEA Lawyers for specific guidance.