Legal Services
Commercial Law
Practical legal support to help your business operate, grow, and thrive.
Overview
How We Can Help With Commercial
Getting the right professional advice is essential to effectively manage the daily operations of your business, and make sound decisions based on insightful and practical advice. Commercial law governs the rights and relations of businesses trading with the public and with each other, from startup structuring through contract negotiation to dispute resolution.
Whether you need a commercial lease reviewed, a business agreement drafted, or a debt recovered, our team delivers clear solutions that protect your business interests and support your growth.
What We Cover
Our Commercial Services
Buying & Selling a Business
Careful planning through contract negotiation, GST considerations, and due diligence review for both buyers and sellers.
Directors' Duties & Liability
Advice for company directors on acting honestly, avoiding conflicts of interest, and meeting the duty of care the law requires.
Commercial Contracts
Drafting and reviewing agreements that clearly capture each party's rights, responsibilities, warranties, and dispute resolution process.
Debt Recovery
Recovering unpaid debts through demand letters and, where needed, court proceedings, pursued at a cost that fits what's owed.
Dispute Resolution & Mediation
Cost-effective resolution strategies for commercial disputes, including neutral third-party mediation to reach a negotiated settlement.
Litigation Support
Representation in court proceedings when a commercial dispute cannot be resolved by agreement.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer to set up my business?
It depends on your structure and risk profile. Sole traders with simple arrangements may not need immediate legal support, but partnerships, companies, and businesses with multiple stakeholders benefit greatly from a properly drafted shareholder or partnership agreement from the outset.
What should I look out for in a commercial lease?
Key issues include the permitted use, rent review mechanisms, outgoings obligations, make-good provisions, and options to renew. Many tenants sign leases without legal review and later face costly disputes. We strongly recommend professional review before signing.
How does debt recovery work?
We begin with a formal letter of demand, which resolves many disputes without further action. If not, we can file proceedings in the Magistrates' Court (up to $100,000) or County Court. We advise on the most cost-effective path based on the amount owed and the debtor's situation.
What is a shareholder agreement and do I need one?
A shareholder agreement sets out the rights and obligations of shareholders in a company — including decision-making, profit distribution, and what happens if a shareholder wants to exit. Without one, disputes can be costly and destructive. We strongly recommend one for any company with more than one shareholder.
Can you help with employment disputes?
We provide general advice on employment law issues affecting small businesses, including termination, contractor arrangements, and workplace policies. For complex Fair Work matters, we can refer you to a specialist.
Legal Insights
Commercial Articles
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