Business and Commercial Law
Gain a comprehensive legal perspective into business practice and the commercial world and be informed of the application of law on the structure and transactions of your business which is critical to business longevity and success.
We provide a range of services that are suitable for a number of industries, such as small and medium-sized businesses, retail, listed and unlisted organisations, franchising, and real estate agencies.
Starting, Purchasing & Selling a Business
Choosing a business structure that best meets your needs is one of the most important things to evaluate when starting your own venture. We will provide you with the legal acumen to select the best business structure for you and provide you with the understanding of the legal risks that the law imposes in your business.
Any business venture carries risk, therefore making sure risk-reduction tactics are effectively applied is essential to safeguarding both your personal and business assets.
Our services can assist with the set up the right structure, getting the licenses and approvals you need, and drafting and advising you on entering into business agreements.
Purchasing an existing company carries a number of other considerations that must be taken into account, such as the viability of the business and the costs involved in the transaction. As with starting a business, one of the most important considerations is whether the business is operating under the most suitable structure.
We can guide you through this process to be able to leverage opportunities, with business decision-making and planning that is informed, confident and agile.
We are dedicated to understanding the clients business objectives so that we can swiftly offer creative yet economical solutions.
When entering a commercial agreement, it is best to be informed of the possible risks. Our guidance ensures you are aware of the laws, regulatory structure, and policies in place to minimise those risks.
We are able to prepare and advise on, but not limited to, the following types of agreements:
- General Business and Commercial Agreements, Contracts and Deeds
- Loan Agreements
- Business Purchase/Sale Agreements
- Franchise Agreements
- Licence Agreements
- Joint Venture and Partnership Agreements
- Shareholders and Unitholders Agreements
- Sale of Shares and Units Agreements
- Deeds of Settlement
- Terms and Conditions of Trade
- Employment Agreements
With our careful agreement writing and review services, you can safeguard your interests. We recognise the significance of clear, legally sound and beneficial commercial agreements.
We can assist with the setup of Companies and the establishment of Trusts. Regarding companies, we are able to offer the following services:
- Change of Company Address
- Changes to Office Holders
- Change of Company Name
- Change of Company Status
- Share Allotment
- Share Transfer
- Share Buy Back
- Share Split
- Share Traunch
- Upgrade of Company Constitution
- Members Voluntary Liquidation
- Division 7A Loan Agreement
- Company Deregistration
- ASIC Form 6010
- Company Reinstatement
We are able to prepare the following specialised Trusts:
- Discretionary Trusts
- Fixed or Non-Fixed Unit Trusts
- Family Trusts
- Property Investment Trusts
- Hybrid Trusts
- Special Purpose Trusts
- Charitable Trusts
- SMSF (Superannuation Trusts); and
- Bare Trusts
We will analyse your unique circumstance and evaluate the correct type of Trust needed by you.
We understand that Trust Deeds may also need maintenance from time to time. Additionally, we can modify Trust documents to satisfy your unique needs and adhere to legal requirements. You may need to keep up with legislative changes, vest the Trust or perhaps you wish to make modifications such as a change the trustee, appointor or may need to add/remove beneficiaries. Whatever the reason is, we are also able to assist you with the variation of your Trust Deed to suit your specific requirements.
Estate Law
We diligently craft wills that are tailored to your unique needs, in order to protect your assets and ensure the continuing well-being of your family in accordance with your wishes.
Our services ensure appropriate arrangements are in place for your asset, business and company interests that are handed down through generations. We carefully assess and consider the tax implications on the transfer or sale of your estate assets under your will.
A testamentary trust is a will that includes a trust that becomes active and existent following the death of the person who created it. Testamentary trusts and are designed to safeguard an estate’s assets because they are owned by the trust and no one person is the legal or beneficial owner of any of them. These trusts are recommended for those who have built up a substantial asset base and there is a need to preserve assets for children or grandchildren and safeguard assets from claims made by third parties. They also offer flexibility with regard to the distribution of income and capital.
We can ensure that Powers of Attorney and Appointments of Enduring Guardians are in place so that your legal, financial, and medical affairs are dealt with appropriately in the instance of you become ill, disabled or incapacitated.
Gain peace of mind knowing your wishes are in trusted hands.
If your loved one had a valid will, a Grant of Probate is required. Property cannot be distributed until you are granted probate. You will need to follow a different process if there was no valid will or if there were no executors named or able to act. This is known as applying for Letters of Administration. It is necessary to apply to the Court for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.
Managing the assets and responsibilities of the deceased can be an emotionally taxing and difficult process. We are available to assist you through the process.
Taxation Law
We are dedicated to ensuring that you are meeting your taxation requirements according to regulation and to advise you on the best way to legally minimise your tax obligations in accordance with the law.
The Australian taxation system covers a wide range of situations that applies to individuals and businesses. As a result, there are many reasons why you may need taxation law advice. We can provide advice on the following taxes:
- Income Tax
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Land Tax
- Payroll tax
- Fringe Benefit Tax
- Capital Gains Tax
- Stamp Duty
You may have the right to disagree with a decision made by the Australian Taxation Office and State Revenue. With our help, you can make sense of your legal stance in relation to a decision made by the Australian Taxation Office and State Revenue authorities.
We assist with:
- Private rulings
- Provide letters of advice about your tax position that you can reasonably rely on
- Preparing objections
- Applying to the Commissioner or the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) for a review or appeal against a decision on an objection under Part IVC of the TAA
- Federal Court proceedings
If the Australian Taxation Office has issued you with a letter concerning a review or audit of tax returns or business activity statements, you must respond. Having a competent, transparent and responsive solicitor that can manage the problem on your behalf and defend you against the ATO can result in you minimising your tax implications. We can guide you through the entire process.
We provide the following services:
- Dealing with the Commissioner on your behalf
- Advice relating to your taxation obligations to enable you to avoid a review or audit of your tax affairs altogether
- Managing the minimisation of the taxation implications from a review or audit
- Assistance with negotiating your tax debt
- The possibility of reducing your tax debt by facilitating the remission of interest and penalties.
- Assistance with keeping you from facing prosecution
Property Law
We provide conveyancing and a variety of property law services. Our dedicated legal services provide assistance in the sale and purchase of residential and non-residential property, all non-residential leases including commercial, industrial and retail leases, licensing of real property, in addition to providing general commercial and retail leasing advice.
For most people, purchasing a property is an exciting moment and a big decision. Regardless of whether you are purchasing a commercial endeavour, an investment property, or your future family home, our committed property law service can provide you with all of the knowledge and assistance that is needed for a seamless transaction.
Mistakes in property transactions can result in losing large sums of money if you are not guided by a property law professional. Our conveyancing service analyses every case individually leaving no room for mistakes or loss.
We will take the time to walk you through all the information you require, including information from contacting the council and other sources, GST and land tax, stamp duty, risk (and how to reduce it), title, and restrictions like easements and caveats.
All of the essential terms about the sale of your property, such as the property’s specifications, the parties involved, the asking price, and any unique circumstances like a provision needing a building inspection or subject to financing, are contained in the Contract of Sale.
To eliminate any possibility of problems with your sale, we will make sure all pertinent information is included in the Contract of Sale. We will also negotiate on your behalf with the buyer to safeguard your interests as the seller and will ensure you are kept informed during the process.
A lease is an agreement that gives the tenant exclusive rights to occupy a premis that belongs to the landlord. Commercial and retail leases, in contrast to residential leases, are tailored to each individual circumstance and involve more than just renting out a building space. If mistakes are made, your business could suffer consequences.
We are able to assist with:
- Drafting and offering advice on new leasing agreements
- Lease negotiations and disputes
- Drafting and reviewing sub-lease agreements
- Breaches of lease and lease disputes
- Rent advice
Retail leases are governed by the Retail Leases Act. Before you sign a retail lease, you should be aware that both parties are subject to certain requirements under the Retail Leases Act. If you have any question about these requirements, including your rights and obligations under the legislation, please get in touch.
Criminal Law
Need Urgent Legal Help?
If you’ve been arrested, charged, or served with a Court Attendance Notice (CAN), or need to defend a traffic matter, time is critical. Call our office today to arrange a free initial consultation and let us protect your rights from the very start. We are accessible after hours for urgent matters.
We provide strategic, confidential, and results-focused advice and representation in all criminal matters, including:
– Assault and violence offences
– Drug possession and supply charges
– Property offences (theft, break and enter, malicious damage)
– Sexual offences
– Firearms and weapons offences
– Bail applications and variations
– AVOs (Apprehended Violence Orders)
– Traffic and driving offences (see below for details)
Traffic offences can carry serious penalties, including fines, licence disqualification, criminal convictions, or even imprisonment. We have significant experience defending clients charged with:
– Drink driving (low, mid, and high-range PCA)
– Drug driving
– Driving while suspended or disqualified
– Speeding offences, including excessive or dangerous speed
– Negligent, reckless, or dangerous driving
– Failure to stop or assist after an accident
We assist with pleas in mitigation, defending the charge, or applying for a Section 10 (no conviction), and advise on preserving your licence and minimising the impact on your livelihood.
Court Procedure – What to Expect
1. Your First Court Appearance (Mention):
We’ll appear with you or on your behalf to enter a plea, seek adjournments, or make preliminary applications such as for a brief of evidence or diversion. We explain everything in plain language before and after court.
2. Pleading Guilty or Not Guilty:
Pleading Guilty:
If you accept responsibility, we guide you through the process of entering a guilty plea and prepare submissions to minimise penalties. This may include character references, evidence of rehabilitation, and applications for non-conviction outcomes such as a Conditional Release Order or Section 10 dismissal.
Pleading Not Guilty:
If you deny the offence or dispute the facts, we will formally enter a not guilty plea. The court will order a Brief of Evidence, which we carefully review to advise you on the strength of the case. We prepare for hearing, negotiate with police or prosecution where appropriate, and present your defence in court.
3. Brief Service Orders:
If you plead not guilty, we request that the court order the prosecution to serve a Brief of Evidence by a set date (usually within 4–6 weeks). At the same time, we ask for an adjournment to a later date to allow time to review the evidence and prepare your case. The matter will then return to court for a further mention.
4. Bail Applications:
If you’re in custody, we act urgently to apply for bail, including in show cause matters. We prepare strong submissions and propose workable bail conditions to give you the best chance of release.
5. Hearings, Sentencing & Trials:
We appear at your hearing to contest the charges or seek leniency at sentencing. For serious offences, we brief experienced barristers and work closely with them to build a strong case for your defence
Bail Applications – We Act Fast
Whether you’ve just been charged or are already in custody, we can apply for bail on your behalf. We prepare and present persuasive arguments, including:
– Why detention is not justified (“show cause”)
– How any bail concerns can be addressed (e.g., curfews, reporting conditions, sureties)
– What conditions are appropriate to secure your release
We also handle Supreme Court bail applications if you’ve been refused bail in the Local Court.
Family Law
Supporting You Through Life’s Biggest Changes
At Sydney City Legal Practice, we understand that family law matters are deeply personal and often emotionally challenging. Whether you’re navigating separation, divorce, parenting arrangements, or domestic violence issues, you deserve clear advice and strong representation.
We offer practical, compassionate guidance to help you make informed decisions and protect what matters most, including your family, your future, and your peace of mind. Our goal is to help you navigate the legal system with clarity and confidence, even during the most challenging times.
- Divorce applications
- Legal separation advice
- Property settlements
- Spousal maintenance
Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage and can only take place once a couple has been living separately for over 12 months. There are many factors to consider when applying for divorce, including proof of separation, the length of the marriage, and arrangements for children. The development of no-fault divorce in Australia was intended to reduce conflict, however the emotional impact on the parties remains significant. At Sydney City Legal Practice, we strive to help people through this process with clear guidance, practical solutions, and compassionate support.
- Property division under the Family Law Act
- Superannuation splitting
- Complex asset structures
Sorting out property and financial matters after separation is crucial for your future security. We help you identify, value, and fairly divide assets, superannuation, and debts. Whether your financial situation is straightforward or involves complex structures, we’ll help negotiate practical settlements or represent you in court proceedings to protect your financial interests.
- Property and financial settlements
- Rights and entitlements under the Family Law Act
- Parenting arrangements
- Binding Financial Agreements for de facto partners
De facto couples have many of the same rights and responsibilities as married couples under Australian family law. Whether you’re separating or planning ahead, we can help with property settlements, financial agreements, and parenting matters for de facto relationships. Our focus is to protect your legal rights and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
- Prenuptial agreements
- Cohabitation agreements
- Post-separation financial agreements
Binding Financial Agreements (often known as “prenups” or “cohabitation agreements”) allow couples to record how their finances and property will be managed in the event of separation. These agreements can provide certainty and reduce disputes if relationships end. We can draft or review BFAs to ensure they comply with legal requirements and protect your interests.
- Parenting arrangements
- Parenting plans and consent orders
- Recovery orders
- Relocation disputes
- Child support agreements and disputes
When families separate, determining arrangements for children is often the most significant and complex aspect of family law proceedings. We assist clients in negotiating and formalising parenting arrangements, whether through parenting plans, consent orders, or litigation where necessary. Our services include advising on relocation applications, recovery orders, and child support disputes. Our objective is to protect our clients’ parental rights and ensure that any arrangements are in the best interests of the children, as required under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth).
- Child support assessments
- Private child support agreements
- Disputes with the Child Support Agency
Child support helps ensure children are financially supported after parents separate. We can assist with understanding your obligations and rights, negotiating private child support agreements, or resolving disputes with the Child Support Agency. Our goal is to help you achieve fair and workable arrangements that support your children’s wellbeing.
- Advice on Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs)
- Safety planning
- Representation in ADVO proceedings
Experiencing family or domestic violence can be overwhelming and frightening. Legal protection is available, including Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs), to help keep you and your children safe. We provide confidential advice, assist with safety planning, and represent clients in court to ensure their legal rights and safety are protected.
Immigration Law
Guiding You Through Australia’s Complex Immigration System
At Sydney City Legal Practice, we understand that migrating to Australia or resolving visa issues can be a life-changing journey filled with legal complexity and uncertainty. Whether you are applying for a visa, facing cancellation or refusal, or seeking protection as a refugee, you deserve clear advice and strong advocacy.
We provide practical and compassionate guidance to help individuals and families navigate Australia’s immigration system and achieve the best possible outcome for their future. We can also assist with other visa types and unique situations. If you don’t see your visa listed here, please enquire with us.
- Partner visas (subclass 820/801, 309/100)
- Prospective marriage visa (subclass 300)
- Parent visas (subclasses 103, 804, 143, 173)
- Child visas (subclasses 101, 802)
- Dependent Child visa (subclass 445)
Navigating family visas requires thorough preparation and careful documentation. We assist couples and families to reunite in Australia, ensuring applications are lodged correctly and efficiently, including visas for dependent children under subclass 445.
- Employer-sponsored visas (subclass 482, 186, 494)
- Skilled independent visas (subclass 189)
- Skilled nominated visas (subclass 190)
- Regional visas (subclass 491)
- Business innovation and investment visas (subclass 188, 888)
Australia offers many pathways for skilled workers and business migrants. We can help you explore your options and guide you through the application process.
- Student visa (subclass 500)
- Visitor visas (subclass 600)
- Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)
- Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)
- Bridging visas (subclass 010, 020, 030)
Whether you are studying, visiting, on a working holiday, or in need of a temporary solution, we help you understand visa conditions and maintain lawful status in Australia.
- Visitor visa (subclass 600)
- Working Holiday visa (subclass 417)
- Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462)
Australia offers several visa options for those wishing to visit for tourism, family visits, or working holidays. We can advise on the most suitable visa for your circumstances, ensure your application is properly prepared, and help you understand any conditions that apply.
- Temporary partner visas (subclass 820 or 309)
- Permanent partner visas (subclass 801 or 100)
- Prospective marriage visa (subclass 300) in some cases, if family violence occurs after the relationship progresses to a partner visa stage
Australia’s migration law includes protections for people experiencing family violence. If you hold a temporary partner visa and your relationship has ended due to family violence, you may still be eligible for a permanent partner visa. We assist clients in preparing family violence claims, gathering evidence, and navigating this complex area of immigration law with sensitivity and care.
- Refugee and humanitarian visas (subclass 866, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204)
- Asylum claims
Australia’s protection visa process is complex and often emotionally challenging. We provide sensitive and thorough assistance for individuals fearing persecution, including those seeking visas under Australia’s humanitarian program.
- Australian citizenship by conferral
- Citizenship by descent
- Ministerial intervention requests
Becoming an Australian citizen is a significant milestone. We help clients understand eligibility, prepare applications, and address any legal complications that may arise.
- Appeals to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)
- Ministerial intervention requests
- Judicial review
If your visa has been refused or cancelled, you may still have options to remain in Australia. We can review your circumstances and advise you on the options that may be available.
