Death, property and prenups
If you have a prenup, you need to check that both your prenup and your will agree on what should happen to your property when you die. We take a closer look at how a recent case has impacted the rules.
Trusts
Trustees taking on liabilities of the trust
Trustees face personal liability for trust debts; it’s important to understand your rights and the risks if the trust’s assets are depleted, illustrated in this update about a key Australian court case.
Taxing the business income of charities
Inland Revenue is unlikely to pursue its controversial proposal to tax New Zealand charities’ business income, opting instead for increased scrutiny and better enforcement of existing laws.
Trustees signing unlimited bank guarantees?
Trustees should not sign an unlimited guarantee without first considering their duties to all the beneficiaries. We take a closer look at the risks and implications.
Enduring Power of Attorney
If your family member is losing capacity and has an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in place, you will be reassured that their attorney is working in your loved one’s best interests. Very occasionally, however, this isn’t the case. In this article, we look at how an EPA works and what can be done if you believe the attorney is not doing their job properly.
The office of executor: does it ever end?
Being an executor is a big responsibility, and it is not always over when you think it has been completed. If you are considering who to name as executor in your will, you should be aware that the role is very important and can last longer than expected.
Succession drama for Rupert Murdoch trust
The Murdoch case illustrates how important it is to get things right from the outset to protect the beneficiaries from someone trying to make unexpected changes later.
Gloriavale debanked!
For many years, Gloriavale has banked with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ). In July 2022, BNZ notified Gloriavale that it intended to end its contractual relationship and stop providing banking services.
Disinheriting your children: can it be done?
In New Zealand, if a will-maker entirely excludes some close family members from their will, those people will often have claims against the will-maker’s estate.
Contracting out agreements for relationships late in life
Contracting out agreements are particularly useful for couples entering into a de facto relationship, or marrying later in life, as both parties are more likely to come to the relationship with more complex financial affairs.