GRA Blogs

A labyrinth case, involving legal proceedings spanning a decade, has finally made its way through four courts. The ultimate judgement delivered by the Supreme Court is probably one of the most ground breaking decisions in respect of trusts and relationship property that this country has..

It is a common misconception that you have to live with someone for three years or more, and they have to make a direct contribution to the assets acquired during the relationship, before they're entitled to bring a relationship property claim. Possibly this mistaken belief..

When it comes to giving, they say it's the thought that counts. Unfortunately, not many people apply this truism when it comes to gifting to the family trust.  I expect lots of New Zealanders will, in the next little while, rush in where angels fear..

One of our clients recently asked me if they should be renting or striving to buy a home. They weren't too sure if buying a house was such a smart way of increasing their wealth given the recent state of the property market and the way..

Recently I had a conversation with one of my friends who told me she was constantly fighting with her nearest and dearest over money. They just didn't seem to be able to agree on what they should do financially. She felt they should clean up some..

One night last week, in a city away from my home, I found myself at a bit of a loose end. Not a personality to skulk around, I used the time to see a movie I wanted to enjoy. 'Money Never Sleeps' was my choice. Not..

I'M TELLING ALL! After plenty of anxious moments and sleepless nights, I've done it. Yes, I have written a book. "Family Trusts 101" has finally been born. Trusts are never easy creatures to understand but I think this book should help all New Zealanders comprehend the..

In the last couple of weeks I've been honoured to be able to speak at a couple of events, attended exclusively by women. These events focused on issues relevant to women such as maintaining a "work-life balance".  I of course spoke about the issue of..

Recessions bring about all sorts of changes. For example, in the legal world  people stop purchasing houses, so lawyers often run out of conveyancing work. Conversely, money starts to get tight so people start to sue each other. This of course means extra litigation work..