Legal Guides
& Checklists
Practical information to help you prepare for your legal matter — all free, no sign-up required.
First Appointment Checklist
What to bring to your first consultation with us.
- ✓Photo ID (drivers licence or passport)
- ✓Relevant documents (contracts, letters, court notices)
- ✓A list of your questions
- ✓Details of any deadlines you are aware of
- ✓Contact details for other parties involved
Buying a Property — Checklist
What to do and consider before buying property in NSW.
- ✓Engage a solicitor before signing anything
- ✓Get building and pest inspection reports
- ✓Review the Section 10.7 planning certificate
- ✓Arrange finance pre-approval before exchange
- ✓Get a strata search done for apartments
- ✓Calculate all costs including stamp duty and legal fees
- ✓Arrange home insurance from exchange date
Will Preparation Checklist
Information to gather before making or updating your Will.
- ✓List all assets: property, bank accounts, superannuation
- ✓List all debts: mortgage, loans, credit cards
- ✓Decide who will be your executor(s)
- ✓Decide who will inherit and in what proportions
- ✓Consider who will care for minor children
- ✓Check your superannuation beneficiary nominations
Separation Checklist
Practical steps to take when a relationship ends.
- ✓Record the date of separation in writing
- ✓Open individual bank accounts
- ✓Update superannuation beneficiary nominations
- ✓Do not make major financial decisions without advice
- ✓Obtain copies of key financial documents
- ✓Seek legal advice before signing any agreement
- ✓Note the time limits for property settlement
Buying a Business — Due Diligence
Key documents to obtain before committing to a business purchase.
- ✓Three years of financial statements and tax returns
- ✓Current lease documents
- ✓Full list of all assets included in the sale
- ✓Employee details and current entitlements
- ✓Supplier and customer contracts
- ✓Licences, permits, and registrations
- ✓PPSR search for security interests
Visa Refusal — What to Do
Steps to take immediately after a visa refusal.
- ✓Read the refusal letter carefully — note the grounds
- ✓Note the AAT appeal deadline (usually 21 days onshore)
- ✓Contact an immigration lawyer immediately
- ✓Gather supporting documents relevant to the refusal
- ✓Consider whether to appeal, seek ministerial intervention, or reapply
- ✓Do not let the appeal deadline pass without taking action
Disclaimer: These checklists are for general guidance only and do not constitute legal advice. Please contact us for advice specific to your circumstances. Your first consultation is always free.
Want more detailed legal guides?
Our blog contains 10 in-depth articles on conveyancing, Wills, family law, business, traffic law, and immigration — written by our own solicitors.
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