Private Client Dispute Resolution

 
We understand that disputes involving trusts and relationship breakdowns between business owners are highly stressful for our clients.

They have the potential to disrupt profitable businesses and harm relationships between family members.

Accordingly, our team takes a proactive approach to providing clients with high-quality, timely advice in relation to these disputes. We pride ourselves on communicating clearly and empathetically, with a view to demystifying the dispute process during this stressful time.

We are unashamedly commercial in our approach to disputes. Where the prospects of a settlement exist, we can readily deploy our resources to negotiate an effective resolution to a dispute, including by means of a demerger, transfer or settlement deed. When required, we also use the expertise of our Taxation practice group to ensure the resolution is tax-effective.

However, disputes can’t always be resolved by negotiation. While a dispute is unresolved, we are determined advocates for our client’s interests.

We can assist with shareholder disputes, corporate governance disputes, joint venture and partnership disputes, contested Wills, allegations of breach of trust, requests for information by beneficiaries and applications to remove trustees, and constructive and resulting trust claims.

Key contacts

Tom is a private client dispute expert with extensive experience in acting for private and public corporations and trustees.

McLane specialises in estate, Will and trust disputes, complex estate administration and elder abuse.

Joel specialises in estate litigation and disputes related to inheritance, family trusts, SMSFs and probate.

Related thinking

Private Clients| 04 Mar 2024

US citizenship or assets? Don’t risk excess estate tax on your death

We delve into how being a US citizen affects taxes, cover transfer tax considerations for both US and non-US citizens and provide practical tips for reducing tax liabilities.

Private Clients| 23 Feb 2024

How to obtain executor commission?

Executors’ commission involves an executor of a Will obtaining remuneration for the administration of a deceased’s estate.

Private Clients| 09 Feb 2024

Trusts: to vary or not to vary

We outline the key issues if you’re considering varying or amending a trust deed, and provide some practical examples.

Private Clients| 25 Jan 2024

The Pickering Family Trusts: no variation power… no options?

We examine the recent landmark decision in Re The Pickering Family Trusts, which highlights alternatives for trusts lacking variation powers, showcasing the court's use of Trustee Act powers.