Best Corporate Governance Lawyers in Sydney

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Owen Hodge Lawyers
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1951
55 people in their team
English
Owen Hodge Lawyers is a top tier law firm that Sydney residents rely on. We commenced providing legal services to the St George and Sutherland communities in 1951. Since then our firm has grown considerably, developing a reputation for quality legal services, value for money and a strong...
Harris Gomez Group
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1997
50 people in their team
About UsHGG opened its doors in 1997 as a legal and commercial firm.  In 2001, we took the step to expand our practice to the international market with the establishment of our office in Santiago, Chile. This international expansion meant we could provide an essential bridge for Australian...
Themis Partner
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2017
30 people in their team
English
Chinese
Themis Partner is a full-service law firm with a strong presence across Southeast Asia. Our team is known for delivering comprehensive legal services to businesses of all sizes, with a focus on providing practical and innovative legal solutions. With extensive experience in sectors like corporate...
Maatouks Law Group
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2000
20 people in their team
Arabic
Russian
English
Sydney’s Most Experienced LawyersIf you are looking for an experienced team of lawyers, there is no looking past Maatouks Law Group. Having been in the legal industry for almost 30 years, Peter has the experience that people in Sydney and the surrounding areas need in order to sort out a range of...
Anb Lawyer
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2007
25 people in their team
English
ABOUTSPECIALIST ADVICE YOU CAN RELY UPON.ANB Lawyers is a Sydney based boutique law firm practicing in a range of areas including property, commercial and corporations law and dispute resolution.The firm’s principal, Nabil Ajaje, is an Accredited Specialist in Business Law and is an experienced...
Austin Haworth & Lexon Legal
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1994
200 people in their team
English
About us30 Years of Expertise in Australian and Chinese Law History showcases expertise. Established in 1994, the largest Chinese Law Firm based in Australia. We pride ourselves on being able to provide top-quality service for clients who require assistance in navigating the legal systems of...

Founded in 2002
100 people in their team
English
LexGlobal is a full service law firm in Kabul, Afghanistan and Sydney & Brisbane Australia. LexGlobal Partners is a leading corporate and commercial law firm and offers a team of professional lawyers with cross-border expertise and multi-jurisdictional capabilities to provide clients with...
ClarkeKann
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1965
79 people in their team
English
Founded on a culture of authenticity, ClarkeKann commits people and know how to help our clients make the right decisions and grow in what can be a challenging business environment.Clever thinking, flexibility and a passion for practical business minded solutions inform every aspect of our...
Shore Lawyers
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2014
25 people in their team
English
Shore Lawyers is recognised as one of the best law firms in Sydney with offices in North Sydney and Sydney CBD. Our team of highly experienced legal professionals specialises in Litigation, Commercial and Corporate Law, Property, Wills and Estates, Family, Employment and Criminal Law. We are...
Rockliffs
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1970
10 people in their team
English
OUR STORYThe firm has been established since the early 1970’s and the former Managing Partner, Stephen Rockliff, has been associated with the firm since then. Stephen Rockliff has had vast experience in most areas of law over the course of his legal career spanning more than 4 decades. Stephen...
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About Corporate Governance Law in Sydney, Australia

Corporate governance refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes by which companies are directed and controlled. In Sydney, Australia, corporate governance law encompasses the legal requirements and standards that ensure companies operate transparently, ethically, and in compliance with the law. These laws are designed to protect investors, employees, and other stakeholders, and to promote trust in the Australian business environment. Sydney, as Australia's leading financial center, is home to a significant number of corporations and is subject to both federal corporate regulations and local governance practices.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are many situations where seeking legal advice in corporate governance is crucial. You may need a lawyer if you are:

  • Establishing a new company and need guidance on compliance with corporate governance laws
  • Serving as a company director and want to understand your legal duties and liabilities
  • Responding to allegations of breaches of directors' duties or conflicts of interest
  • Managing shareholder disputes or issues relating to voting rights
  • Designing and implementing internal governance frameworks and policies
  • Dealing with regulatory investigations or enforcement actions by bodies like ASIC
  • Ensuring compliance with stock market listing rules, if your entity is listed on the ASX
  • Updating constitutions, shareholder agreements, or by-laws in response to legislative changes

A corporate governance lawyer can offer valuable advice to help you navigate these complex issues and mitigate risks for your company and its directors.

Local Laws Overview

Corporate governance in Sydney is primarily regulated by federal law, most notably the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth). Enforcement and oversight are managed by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and, for listed companies, the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

  • Directors' Duties: Directors must act in good faith, in the best interests of the company, and with due care and diligence. Breaches can lead to civil penalties, criminal charges, and personal liability.
  • Continuous Disclosure: Listed companies have strict obligations to keep the market informed of price-sensitive information.
  • Shareholder Rights: Shareholders are entitled to vote on key company matters and access company information. Disputes between shareholders are subject to detailed regulation.
  • Risk Management and Compliance: Companies must implement policies to identify and manage risks, ensure legal compliance, and prevent misconduct like fraud or bribery.
  • Remuneration Guidelines: Executive and director pay is subject to disclosure and, in some cases, shareholder approval.

Local businesses also need to be mindful of any additional obligations under New South Wales (NSW) state law, particularly when it comes to workplace health and safety, and employment practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is corporate governance and why is it important for my company?

Corporate governance is a system that directs how a company is controlled and operated. It establishes the legal and ethical framework that protects the interests of all stakeholders and supports sustainable business practices.

Who is responsible for corporate governance in a company?

The board of directors is primarily responsible for setting and overseeing corporate governance. Senior management and the company secretary also play important roles.

What are the main laws regulating corporate governance in Sydney?

The key law is the Corporations Act 2001. Companies may also need to comply with the ASX Listing Rules and guidelines from ASIC.

What are directors' duties under Australian law?

Directors must act in good faith, in the company's interests, with care and diligence, avoid conflicts of interest, and avoid using their position for personal gain.

Can a director be personally liable for decisions made by the board?

Yes. Directors may be personally liable for breaching their duties or for decisions leading to insolvent trading or other legal violations.

What should I do if my company is facing a shareholder dispute?

Seek legal advice promptly. An experienced lawyer can help negotiate a resolution and ensure compliance with laws and the company's constitution.

How do Australian authorities enforce corporate governance standards?

ASIC enforces most corporate governance laws through investigations, penalties, bans, or court proceedings. The ASX monitors listed entities for compliance with listing rules.

Are there specific corporate governance requirements for listed companies?

Yes. Listed companies must comply with additional disclosure and governance obligations outlined in the ASX Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations.

How often should a company review its governance policies?

Regular reviews are best practice. Many companies conduct annual governance reviews or after major legal or business changes.

What are the penalties for non-compliance with corporate governance laws?

Penalties can include fines, criminal prosecution, director disqualification, and civil liability for damages suffered by shareholders or others.

Additional Resources

If you need more information about corporate governance in Sydney, these resources may be helpful:

  • Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) - Regulator for company and financial services law
  • Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) - Issues guidance for publicly listed companies
  • Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) - Offers governance training and resources
  • Business.gov.au - Government business advice and regulatory guidance
  • NSW Fair Trading - Provides information about business and consumer laws in NSW

Next Steps

If you believe you require legal assistance in corporate governance in Sydney:

  • Identify your main areas of concern or questions regarding corporate governance in your company
  • Collect all relevant documents, such as your company constitution, board minutes, and any communications about the issue
  • Contact a qualified corporate lawyer or law firm with experience in corporate governance matters
  • Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation and obtain tailored legal advice
  • Consider ongoing legal support or compliance audits to manage risks and ensure you remain compliant with evolving laws

Taking these steps can help ensure your business is protected, compliant, and well-governed in the competitive Sydney market.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Sydney through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Corporate Governance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Sydney, Australia - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.