Best Trusts Lawyers in Australia

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J. King & Associates
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1999
25 people in their team
English
About Us Jamie King2019 to presentMember of the Law Institute Commercial Litigation Advisory Committee.2002Graduated as Master of Commercial Law from the University of Melbourne.1999Commenced the legal firm J King & Associates.1998Accredited by Law Institute of Victoria as a Commercial...
Eales & Mackenzie Melbourne
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1882
50 people in their team
English
OverviewExpertise and experience sets Eales & Mackenzie apart as a trusted and professional legal firm in Melbourne. We serve businesses and individuals throughout Australia and overseas with our main areas of practice including: *Commercial and Property Law *Commercial Litigation *Wills and...
McInnes Wilson Lawyers
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 1975
200 people in their team
English
ABOUT MCINNES WILSON LAWYERS  For over 45 years, McInnes Wilson Lawyers has been dedicated to providing quality advice that protects the interests of their clients.The services they provide are aimed at managing cost, minimising time and maintaining your protection. By taking a...
Stokes Legal
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1988
10 people in their team
English
About Stokes LegalFounded by David and Angela Stokes, Stokes Legal has been providing effective legal solutions, advice and court representation to the South Australian community since 1988.In July 2021, Stokes Legal was acquired by Andersons Solicitors, bringing together two trusted and recognised...
Patrick Liptak
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 2001
2 people in their team
English
Patrick LiptakPrincipal LawyerPatrick has been in practice since 1997.He has a comprehensive background in all aspects of the law.His litigation expertise is extensive appearing on behalf of individuals and sporting organisations.Patrick provides quality legal advice with a view to resolving...
Bennett & Philp
Brisbane, Australia

Founded in 1984
70 people in their team
English
Who we areBennett & Philp are lawyers who understand the real world. We offer practical legal solutions across every stage of life and business and with multi-disciplinary experts across five practice areas - Business Advisory, Intellectual Property, Disputes...
Nigams Legal
Perth, Australia

Founded in 2011
3 people in their team
English
Nigams Legal are dedicated to obtaining the best results for youNigams Legal is comprised of a team of professional lawyers who provide a range of expert legal services to clients through Western Australia. With more than 55 years of combined experience in the profession, we have built up a...

Founded in 1973
100 people in their team
English
Ryan Murdoch Oโ€™Regan is a general law practice which is organised into teams of highly specialised experts in each of our areas of law. We understand your problems and are dedicated to achieving the best results and value for money for whatever type of matter you need assistance with....
Elamine Lawyers
Preston, Australia

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
English
About usExceptional track record in dealing with top tier, mid tier and suburban level commercial and boutique firms, we haven't missed a beat. Thankfully we have been able to digest complex and robust legal conundrums in property & trust laws, commercial law and family law. Having worked for...
Butler McIntyre & Butler
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 1824
10 people in their team
English
WelcomeButler McIntyre & Butler is a medium sized independent Tasmanian legal firm. Its offices in Hobart are situated in the centre of the city close to the Commonwealth Law Courts and the Supreme Court of Tasmania. In Hobart, the name Butler McIntyre & Butler has been synonymous with high...
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About Trusts Law in Australia:

Trusts are a common legal structure in Australia used for a variety of purposes, such as asset protection, estate planning, and tax minimization. A trust involves the legal transfer of property or assets to a trustee, who manages them for the benefit of one or more beneficiaries. Trusts can be discretionary trusts, unit trusts, hybrid trusts, or testamentary trusts, each with its own set of rules and regulations. Trusts law in Australia is governed by both common law and legislation, such as the Trustee Act 1925 and the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

There are several situations where you may require legal assistance with trusts in Australia, such as creating a trust deed, setting up a trust structure, understanding your rights and obligations as a trustee or beneficiary, resolving disputes within a trust, or seeking advice on tax implications of a trust arrangement. A lawyer specializing in trusts law can provide valuable guidance and ensure that your interests are protected.

Local Laws Overview:

In Australia, trusts are subject to a range of laws at both the state and federal levels. Some key aspects of local laws that are particularly relevant to trusts include trustee duties and responsibilities, tax implications of trust distributions, the validity and enforceability of trust deeds, and the rules governing the removal or replacement of trustees. It's essential to understand these laws to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal issues.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is a trust deed?

A trust deed is a legal document that establishes the terms and conditions of a trust, including the rights and obligations of the trustee, beneficiaries, and settlor, as well as the rules for administering the trust.

2. Who can be a trustee of a trust?

Any individual or company can be a trustee of a trust, as long as they are legally competent and not disqualified under the law.

3. What are trustee duties and responsibilities?

Trustees have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the beneficiaries, manage the trust property prudently, keep accurate records, and comply with the terms of the trust deed.

4. How are trust distributions taxed in Australia?

Trust distributions are subject to tax at the beneficiary's marginal tax rate, with potential franking credits for certain types of income. The trustee is responsible for reporting and paying tax on behalf of the trust.

5. How can I change the terms of a trust deed?

Changing a trust deed typically requires the consent of all the trustees and beneficiaries, as well as compliance with any relevant legal requirements set out in the trust deed or legislation.

6. Can a trust be challenged in court?

A trust can be challenged in court on various grounds, such as fraud, undue influence, mistake, or lack of capacity, but the process can be complex and may require legal assistance.

7. What is a testamentary trust?

A testamentary trust is a trust established in a will that comes into effect upon the death of the testator, often used for estate planning purposes to protect assets and provide for beneficiaries.

8. How can I protect my assets through a trust?

Setting up a trust can help protect your assets from creditors, legal claims, and inheritance disputes, but it's essential to seek legal advice to ensure the trust structure is legally sound.

9. What is a charitable trust?

A charitable trust is a trust set up for charitable purposes, such as supporting a specific cause or organization, and may qualify for tax benefits under Australian law.

10. How can I dissolve a trust?

Dissolving a trust requires the consent of all the trustees and beneficiaries, as well as compliance with any legal requirements set out in the trust deed or relevant legislation. It's advisable to seek legal advice to navigate this process effectively.

Additional Resources:

For more information on trusts law in Australia, you can consult the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), or seek guidance from a reputable law firm specializing in trusts and estate planning.

Next Steps:

If you require legal assistance with trusts in Australia, consider contacting a trusts lawyer or solicitor who can provide tailored advice and guidance based on your specific circumstances. Be prepared to provide relevant documents, such as the trust deed, financial records, and any relevant correspondence, to help the lawyer assess your situation effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia 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 Trusts, 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 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.