Why a city firm
A little distance helps
The Upper North Shore is a place of long-established families, leafy streets and deep community ties. Families have often lived in the same suburb for decades, their children attend schools a few streets apart, and the local professional community is closely connected. It is a wonderful place to raise a family, and a difficult place to separate quietly.
That is why many Upper North Shore clients choose a firm in the city. Our city office is far enough from home to offer genuine privacy, yet only a train ride away. We also meet by video, so you can take advice from your own study without anyone knowing you have spoken to a lawyer.
Matters we see
The questions Upper North Shore families bring to us
Long marriages and substantial asset pools
Many of our clients from Wahroonga, Pymble and Killara have been married for twenty years or more. Their property pools commonly include a large family home held for many years, superannuation built over long careers, share portfolios, and sometimes investment or holiday properties. In long marriages, contributions are often assessed as broadly equal overall, and the real debate is about future needs, the treatment of superannuation, and who keeps the family home. See property settlement and our guide to superannuation splitting.
One high earner, one career paused
Where one partner stepped back from a career to raise children, questions of spousal maintenance and adjustments for future needs are often central.
Teenagers and older children
Many separating Upper North Shore families have teenage children at independent schools. Parenting arrangements must respect older children's views, protect their schooling and deal fairly with school fees. See parenting and custody.
Estate planning for the next generation
Grandparents and parents often ask us how to protect family wealth for grandchildren if a child's own marriage fails. Testamentary trusts and carefully structured gifts and loans are the usual tools. See wills and estate planning.
Getting here
From the Upper North Shore to 185 Elizabeth Street
- Trains on the North Shore line from Wahroonga, Turramurra, Pymble, Gordon, Killara, Lindfield and Roseville to Wynyard or Town Hall, then a short walk or a City Circle connection to St James.
- Sydney Metro
Change at Chatswood for the Metro to Martin Place or Gadigal, each a short walk from our office. - From St Ives, buses connect to Gordon or Pymble stations, or you may prefer to drive.
- By car, the Pacific Highway and Harbour Bridge or Tunnel bring you into the city; commercial car parks are within a short walk and we will suggest one when we confirm your appointment.
Meeting options
Advice that fits around your life
A first consultation can be in person, by video or by phone. Many clients combine them: meeting in the city at important stages and by video in between. You can send an enquiry online at any time. We respond within one business day during business hours.