BOB has been estranged from his eldest son, following a physical altercation which occurred on Christmas Day, 20 years ago. When Bob decides to make a new Will, he consults a solicitor regarding his son’s rights to claim inheritance. He is informed that despite the lengthy estrangement, his son can still make a claim against […]
On the couch with Jasminda
DEAR Jasminda, Every time I look at the news there is a new tragedy unfolding or a new source of conflict. It’s actually getting to me. I feel that I’m in a constant state of worry wondering what will happen next. Do you have any ideas on how I can address this? Leonie B. Dear […]
Team
Legal Hypothetical: Superannuation payment traps
WENDY makes enquiries with her superannuation fund regarding the payment of her funds in the event that she unexpectedly passes away. Wendy is advised that because she is not in a relationship and has no children, that she should execute a non-binding death benefit nomination. She also has the option of making a binding nomination […]
‘On the couch’ with Jasminda
DEAR Jasminda, My new girlfriend chats incessantly as soon as she wakes. I prefer to ease into the day. How can I get our morning routines in sync? Karl B. Dear Karl, I’m with you on this one. My husband’s mouth seems to wake up before the rest of him. From the moment his eyelids […]
Going Up
Letter to the Editor: Liberal Party branch ‘fractured’
DEAR News Of The Area, I REFER to an article published in your edition of Friday, 5 September, titled ‘New era’ for Liberal Party Branch’. While the piece reads as a straightforward press release, it omits the context behind these changes. The first question that arises from the “significant changing of the guard at the […]
Legal Hypothetical: Judge examines DIY Will
Harry makes a Will, using a home-made Will kit, leaving his Smith Street property to his daughter, Wendy. The Will makes no reference to Harry’s other assets. Wendy had been living with Harry and assisting with his care. A few years later, Harry obtains a reverse mortgage, due to financial pressures. The mortgage is registered […]
‘On the couch’ with Jasminda
DEAR Jasminda, HOW do I get my kids to pick up after themselves? It seems so simple, and yet we follow a continual pattern of them being told to pick up, falling back into bad habits, me getting annoyed and doing it for them, and returning to the beginning again. It’s driving me crazy. Gabrielle […]
