Family trusts have been a popular tool for asset protection in New Zealand, particularly for safeguarding property against potential claims from relationships or creditors. However, with recent changes in trust law, many wonder whether their trust structure still offers adequate protection. At Core Legal in Wellington, our team addresses your top legal questions about family trusts, powers of attorney, sick leave entitlements, and legal aid options.

Q: Is My Family Trust Still an Effective Protection for My Property?

A: Yes, a family trust can still be a viable structure for protecting property from claims, but recent updates to New Zealand’s trust law mean it’s wise to have your trust deed reviewed. Legal reforms, including the Trusts Act 2019, have introduced clearer trustee duties, mandatory disclosure requirements, and enhanced accountability. While these changes aim to improve trust transparency, they may affect how your trust operates.

If your trust was set up years ago, especially for relationship property protection, it’s essential to ensure it’s up-to-date. We recommend consulting a legal expert who can review the terms and make sure your trust is structured to best serve your current needs.

Q: How Much Will It Cost to Add a Power of Attorney?

A: At Core Legal, we charge $350 per document to set up an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA). An EPA allows you to appoint someone to make decisions for you if you are unable to do so, either for property matters or for personal care and welfare. Appointing an attorney ensures that a trusted person can make critical decisions on your behalf in challenging situations. If you’d like assistance setting up an EPA or have questions about this process, our team is here to help.

Q: Are Part-Time Employees Entitled to 10 Days of Sick Leave?

A: Under the Holidays (Increasing Sick Leave) Amendment Act 2021, all employees in New Zealand, including part-timers, are now entitled to 10 days of sick leave annually. This includes employees working irregular or minimal hours if they meet specific criteria, such as six months of continuous employment or an average of 10 hours weekly over six months. While this change benefits employee wellbeing, it can impact operations, so it’s crucial to plan ahead.

For guidance on navigating this legislation, our employment law specialists can provide advice tailored to your situation.

Q: Does Core Legal Offer Legal Aid?

A: Yes, Core Legal offers legal aid, specifically for family law matters like child care, family violence cases, relationship property, and Oranga Tamariki issues. Legal aid is subject to income and asset testing, meaning applicants must meet eligibility requirements based on their income and number of dependents. Legal aid can offer essential support for those navigating complex family issues but may not be available for some services, such as non-court matters like drafting wills.

If you’re considering legal aid and want to explore your options, contact us. Our team will help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the process.

Core Legal – Your Trusted Legal Partner in Wellington

Whether you’re revisiting your family trust, need assistance with employment or family law matters, or have questions about power of attorney or legal aid, Core Legal Wellington is here to help. Our website also provides ongoing resources and updates on the latest legal changes, so you can stay informed about issues that impact you. For tailored legal advice and support, reach out to our team today.