Obligations under commercial contracts during COVID-19
There are certain contractual and legal rights available to parties who are managing the impact of COVID-19. These legal principles include “force majeure” and “frustration” and may be applicable to consumers and businesses across NSW. As there has been an official declaration of a worldwide pandemic, we anticipate many of these rights will be triggered […]
Can I execute a document electronically during COVID-19?
With a large proportion of the population working from home under COVID-19 restrictions, many people will be unable to physically print, sign and scan documents. While the law in Australia provides most documents can be signed by electronic signature, the authority on electronic execution of deeds is still unclear. However, businesses may be compelled to […]
What is happening with our legal system during COVID-19?
The Courts and Tribunals are changing their processes in response to COVID-19. This is a particularly difficult task as our legal system, a common law system, remains essential to protect our rights, maintain the rule of law, improve social order and of course, resolve disputes. The Courts and Tribunals are implementing specific measures to protect […]
Happy Anniversary! Cheney Suthers new Partners celebrate their 1st year
We are thrilled to announce that one year has passed since Dannielle Ford, Alice Byrnes and Kirsty Evans took ownership of Cheney Suthers, and what a year it has been! The last 12 months have been busy to say the least, and business growth has continued steadily since April 2019. The new team started off […]
New changes for Landlords and Tenants: Updates to Residential Tenancies Law
Last week, changes were made to the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 & Residential Tenancies Regulation 2019. The changes aim to improve tenants’ renting experience while ensuring landlords can effectively manage their properties. Some of the amendments include reducing disputes over repairs and maintenance, increasing protection and certainty for tenants, and clarifying the rights and obligations […]
COVID-19 Legal Update 30 March 2020
The Australian Government has recently implemented changes to legislation in response to COVID-19 and to help the economy withstand and recover from the economic impact of Coronavirus. While the new restrictions affect our day-to-day lives, the available relief attempts to alleviate strain caused to businesses and individuals. New social distancing laws On Sunday 29 March, Prime […]
COVID-19: Implications for Employers
As COVID-19 continues to expand across Australia, businesses must comply with national and state directions to implement control measures and minimise the spread. We have received a spike of employment and safety questions from our clients including whether leave and flexible work policies are adequate, what is the best protocol for employees during this time, […]
How does COVID-19 impact you as an employee
Many of our clients may be facing changes to their regular working arrangements surrounding COVID-19, so we have compiled some helpful information about your employment rights and responsibilities while navigating these uncertain times. Quarantine As of 15 March 2020, if you have been overseas, you are required to undertake 14 days quarantine before returning to […]
Why Estate Planning is “Essential”
As a firm, we are mindful of how we can help you during these uncertain times. We have implemented protocols so that we are able to continue to work and serve our clients, especially where estate planning is concerned. We caution clients to proactively prepare for the worst, and often that preparation comes too late. […]
The COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures) Bill 2020
On Tuesday night, the NSW Government passed the COVID-19 Legislation Amendment (Emergency Measures) Bill 2020 which aims to combat the spread of COVID-19 and boost community safety. Attorney General Mark Speakman stated the Government is acting swiftly to ensure the State is as prepared as possible to respond to the COVID-19 threat and that these […]