LAWYERS TOOWOOMBA & BRISBANE

In honour of the Queensland Outdoor Adventure Expo happening in Toowoomba this weekend. Here is what you need to know if your modified 4WD gets a defect notice: ⛰️ It is not a fine; it is an instruction to repair your vehicle to make it safe to drive. ⛰️ Your vehicle could be deemed too dangerous to drive away from the location, and you may need to organise a tow truck. ⛰️ You may need to pay the Department of Transport a fee to inspect the vehicle for the notice to be cleared. We hope you have an adventurous and fine-free weekend! 📸 @qldoutdoorexpo #MacDonaldLaw

“When purchasing a property, your conveyancer should review the contract before you sign anything. They will then break down any red flags in the contract, so you can make an informed decision about whether to renegotiate the contract terms or proceed.” - @ashleigh.wegner_conveyancer #MacDonaldLaw

Our phone lines are open 24/7, so no matter the time of day, we are here for you 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Today we are celebrating our Director @jag_macdonald_solicitor’s birthday. Your drive and passion inspires us! 🎂 We hope you have the best day. #MacDonaldLaw

“Setting up your estate for when you pass can be an emotional task, and during this process, it can be easy to forget about assets or even family members. Sitting down with the MacDonald Law Wills & Estates team effectively ensures that every base is covered when planning how your affairs are to be handled. Having peace of mind that your family is looked after when you pass is second to none, and we would be honoured to help you through this process.” - @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor, Director MacDonald Law #MacDonaldLaw

Prenups aren’t just for the rich, famous and American. 🇺🇸 Ellie, our Family Law guru, explains three reasons why you may get a prenuptial agreement or Binding Financial Agreement (BFA). 1. Avoid court proceedings - The financial and emotional toll can be higher when resolving disputes via the legal system after a separation. 2. Greater control - Gives each party more control over their assets rather than leaving it to the court system. 3. Peace of Mind - Negotiating at a time of harmony in the relationship gives greater peace of mind. #MacDonaldLaw

And your best is enough. 💜 Whether you’re paving the way in a new exciting venture, navigating a tricky family matter or just in a new season of life; we’re cheering you on! #MacDonaldLaw

We’d love to introduce you to a new face you’ll see in the MacDonald Law office. ⠀ ⠀ Teagan has joined our Criminal & Civil Litigation team and we love the energy and expertise she brings to the office. ⠀ ⠀ We can’t wait for you to meet her. 💜⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

@ashleigh.wegner_conveyancer, our incredible conveyancer, has returned from maternity leave. We hope you had the best time welcoming the new addition to your family; we are so glad to have you back! Welcome back Ash 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

In recent years, traffic light cameras have been updated with artificial intelligence software to detect mobile phone usage by the driver or failure to wear a seatbelt by either driver or front passenger. 📲 The camera detects these behaviours and flags the footage for review for confirmation before a fine is issued. This has sparked an ongoing debate around privacy, but we want to hear what you think! AI in traffic light cameras, privacy breach or a necessary step? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️ #MacDonaldLaw

Whether it’s research help, planning a holiday or writing this caption (😉), ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence platforms are now becoming a household staple. This technology has revolutionised access to information however, leaving your estate planning to a bot is a risk we would not recommend you take. 🤖 Check out how ChatGPT measures up as @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor puts it to the test in writing a will. #MacDonaldLaw

“Working in Criminal Law, it is often assumed that our cases are all violent offences. However, you may need a criminal lawyer for lesser crimes, such as public nuisance charges and speeding fines. No matter what you’re facing, big or small, we are here to help” - Ryan, Criminal & Family and Domestic Violence Lawyer. #MacDonaldLaw

Our new MacDonald Law office space has been two years in the making! It has been a crazy ride, and we are so excited that we are on the home stretch. We are honoured that @thefieldguidetoowoomba wrote about our renovation process; head to the link in our bio to check it out. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Navigating school holidays after separation is difficult, so Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor has outlined some tips to help your family during this time: 🎓 Set a budget: Activities can be expensive, but setting a budget will help avoid feelings of competition with your co-parent. 🎓 Set a plan: Consistency and structure for kids are essential. So make a plan with your co-parent and stick to it. 🎓 Don’t dwell on the past: Try not to compare these holidays with the ones before the separation. Change can be positive, so it’s essential to make the most of the time you have now. We wish you the best time with your children these school holidays. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Sophia will likely be among the first smiling faces you see when visiting our Toowoomba office. Whether it’s handling your enquiries, bookings or paperwork, she helps our team run like a well-oiled machine! Thanks for all you do, Sophia 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor shares six key communication tips for building a healthy team environment: 🌟Resolve conflict quickly. 🌟Encourage encouragement. 🌟Promote bottom-up communication. 🌟Strive for transparency. 🌟Schedule one-on-one meetings. 🌟Provide consistent feedback. Fostering healthy relationships is the key to an effective workplace environment. Here at MacDonald Law, it’s a team effort, and we would be nothing without the people we work with 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

We’re not saying you must wear sunnies, forest green and blazers to work at MacDonald Law, but it sure does help. 🤷 #MacDonaldLaw

Buying a business without talking to MacDonald Law first 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩 If you have big dreams of owning a business, do your homework before diving in too deep. If you have any questions, reach out to us on 0746389433. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

“In this line of work, we are often faced with confronting circumstances. When working on a tough case, I find it beneficial to keep communication open with the rest of the team. They understand what I am going through and can give insight and advice on how to get through it. I also find value in taking extra time for myself during these cases.” - Keely, Administrative Assistant to the Criminal and Civil Litigation teams. #MacDonaldLaw

Here are four things our wonderful Administration and Accounts Coordinator, Rebekah, does to help support her loved ones that are going through a tough time: ⠀ ⠀ 💜 Drop them a home-cooked meal. ⠀ 💜 Offer to help run errands, such as assisting with school drop off or doing a grocery run. ⠀ 💜 Listen with the intent of understanding rather than giving advice. ⠀ 💜 Keep checking in. ⠀ 💜 Encourage them to seek help if necessary. ⠀ ⠀ If you or a loved one is struggling, know we are here to help.⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor breaks down the difference between separation & divorce: "Separation involves ending a couple's shared life, initiated by one party, with no legal obligations. Divorce is the official termination of a marriage, requiring a minimum 12-month separation period without the intention of reconciliation." If you have any questions about the separation process, we are here to help. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

If you live in Toowoomba and house feathery friends on your property, you may have to meet a minimum enclosure requirement. Here is your quick reference guide: 🐓 Enclosure is cleaned once a week. 🐓 It is located at the back of any residence on the premises. 🐓 At least 10m away from a residence or adjoining premises. 🐓 At least 10m away from a place used for manufacturing, preparing or storing food other than a domestic kitchen. 🐓 At least 2m away from side or rear premises boundaries. It’s important to keep your chickens safe, sound and their enclosure up to scratch! 🏡 For more information head to the Toowoomba Regional Council website. #MacDonaldLaw

In honour of the annual @racqofficial Motorfest 2023 happening this weekend in Brisbane, here are three little-known traffic offences to remember as you are out and about. 👀 🚙 It is an offence to turn your indicator off too early when exiting a roundabout. 🚙 You can be fined for unnecessarily revving your engine. 🚙 Failing to stop for a yellow light is a finable offence. We hope you have a safe and fine-free weekend! 📸@zy418r #MacDonaldLaw

Ellie, our Senior Associate, is here to give you some tips on how to look after your emotional health when going through a separation. 💜 Make choices that give you control over your life. 💜 Ask for help from your family, friends or a doctor. 💜 Contact services for support and advice. Every separation is different, and everyone deals with it differently. If you are going through a separation and need help, please reach out; we would be honoured to assist. #MacDonaldLaw

Hot coffee was made for cold mornings like this. ❄️☕️ 📸@bantercoffeekitchen #MacDonaldLaw

The satisfaction of entering a new financial year knowing your life admin is up-to-date = unmatched. 🤌 #MacDonaldLaw

Director, @jag_macdonald_solicitor, here to remind you that failure to withhold or pay PAYG withholding can lead to penalties for your business during EOFY. This includes: 💸 Withhold from payments made to employees, directors, office holders or other individuals in various capacities. 💸 Withhold from payments to enterprises that do not quote an Australian business number (ABN) for a supply. 💸 Pay for amounts withheld, alienated personal services payments, and non-cash benefits. We hope your EOFY is as stress-free as possible! #MacDonaldLaw

Exposed brick and herringbone tile, wooden flooring and VJ panelling. These are a few of our favourite things! 🎶 Our new MacDonald Law Toowoomba HQ is starting to take shape; we are so excited for you all to see it. #MacDonaldLaw

Hi all - Chloe, Family Law Legal Assistant, here! Popping onto your feed with tips for communicating with your children when you are going through a separation: 💜 Keep it simple; your child doesn’t need all the details. 💜 Take your time with hard questions. 💜 Talk about feelings, both theirs and yours. 💜 Suggest someone else to talk to. There is no “one size fits all” when navigating a separation. If you need support, we are here to help. #MacDonaldLaw

If you have been appointed an executor of a will, you can turn down the responsibility if you feel that it’s the right thing to do. We understand that grief is not linear and that carrying out the duties of a deceased loved one can be a daunting and emotional task. To understand more about renouncing the duty of an executor, call 07 4638 9433, Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor would be honoured to help. #MacDonaldLaw

We asked @jag_macdonald_solicitor what his recommendation would be if you are requested to be seen by the police regarding a criminal matter. “You have a right to silence. We recommend that you exercise this right during any questioning until you have spoken to a lawyer. You should request to speak with a lawyer immediately. Our office is available 24/7 to answer any calls should you need us.” #MacDonaldLaw

Views from the new Toowoomba office. 😍⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor breaks down what parenting coordination is and how it can benefit you and your family. There are no two co-parenting situations that are the same, and we are here to support you through yours 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

In Queensland, expressing interest in adoption is the first formal step with the government in adopting a child. This form helps determine your eligibility to move forward in the adoption process. If eligible, your profile stays active on the expression of interest register for two years before needing to be renewed. You then may be selected from this register to have your suitability assessed for potential adoption. Applying for adoption is an exciting time, and we are here to help you understand and execute the process. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Hi all! @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor here to remind you all that if you’re purchasing a home; it’s essential to understand the contract before signing. Unfortunately, in some instances, you may not be able to cancel a contract, or there can be significant costs associated with it if there are issues down the road. We always recommend getting a Conveyancer involved before signing anything to ensure you are fully aware of what you are signing. Purchasing a home is such an exciting time, and we want to ensure you are supported and protected. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Have you ever wondered what happens if you find yourself in the watch house? Ryan, recommends that you immediately make arrangements to speak with a criminal lawyer. To do this, you can ask the Sergeant to allow you to make a call to a lawyer of your choice. Alternatively, you can call a friend or family member who can advise them where you are and ask them to reach a solicitor for you. Our phone lines are open 24/7, so if you need us, we are here. 07 4638 9433 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Estate planning is easy to put off. We understand how overwhelming it can be to think about what would happen in the event of your passing. Our Brisbane team are available for in-person appointments to help make the process as easy as possible; we are here for you 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Life admin tasks to stop avoiding: 👀 Eye checkup 📥 Cleaning up your email inbox ❄️ Getting your AC serviced 📃 Updating your will With help updating your will, book an appointment with either our Toowoomba or Brisbane team through our website. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Our Senior Associate, Ellie, outlines the benefits of mediation over court proceedings for resolving family disputes. 💜Less time-consuming and expensive. 💜Allows the parties to maintain control over the outcome. 💜It’s a tailored approach to the needs of both parties whilst remaining within the bounds of the law. 💜 Encourages a peaceful resolution to maintain ongoing positive relationships. Separation isn’t always straightforward, and we understand that. For more information regarding mediation, book an appointment via our website. #MacDonaldLaw

A reminder that looking after yourself doesn’t mean you are being unproductive. This weekend, make sure you take some time for yourself; some of our favourite ways to recharge are:⠀ ⠀ 💜 A stroll through this view at New Farm Park.⠀ 💜 Drinking a cuppa and sitting in the sun.⠀ 💜 Catching up with loved ones over a warm meal.⠀ ⠀ 📸: @my_brisbane_views⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw

Poor Ed, going through three copyright infringement lawsuits is no joke. Most recently, a jury found that Ed did not infringe the copyright of Marvin Gayes' song "Let's Get It On" Our take away? There is complexity in creativity. However, the law does protect the true creative process, even in Australia. This type of suit is becoming more popular. If you’re in the creative industry and want to protect your creative ideas, book in to see @jag_macdonald_solicitor, our Director. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Happy Friday from our Toowoomba team. 💜 We are so grateful to have a team across Toowoomba and Brisbane that are dedicated to helping others. Thank you for all that you do! #MacDonaldLaw

“I was involved with suing an organisation that had unjustly terminated the employment of a disabled First Nations person. I assisted my client in achieving an outcome that enabled them to continue to support their family until they could obtain new employment financially. It’s cases like these, where I’m able to make a tangible difference in my client’s life, that I find the most fulfilling.” - @jagmacdonaldsolicitor, Director of MacDonald Law, reflects on a recent case #MacDonaldLaw

Here’s a sneaky progress picture of our the downstairs section of our new office being built. 🔨 We can’t wait to have you in our new space, for now though you can find us upstairs at 436 Ruthven Street. See you soon 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Estate planning can be a confronting and complex process; that’s why our team try to make the process as simple as possible. Alex, Wills and Estates Solicitor, outlines the three steps we take to help develop your personalised estate plan: 1. Our estate planning lawyers take steps to understand your particular family and financial circumstances. 2. We will prepare drafts of the documents that you have requested and provide legal advice specifically for your situation. 3. We will then attend with you to execute the finalised documents you have approved. #MacDonaldLaw

Supporting the next generation of young people in the law industry is a fundamental part of MacDonald Law’s values. You may have seen Sophia, a new face around the MacDonald Law Toowoomba office. We love what she brings to the team and can’t wait for you to meet her! #MacDonaldLaw

Lest we forget 🌹 #MacDonaldLaw

Director, @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor breaks down the benefits of parenting coordination… Parenting coordination is a process to help parents discuss the ongoing parenting arrangements that arise and resolve day-to-day disputes without continually returning to Federal Circuit and Family Court. It can help avoid the emotional and financial costs of returning to the family law courts. To book a parenting coordination appointment with Sarah-Jane, visit our website. #MacDonaldLaw

Finding a healthy balance of trust in a co-parenting relationship can be difficult. We understand the challenges that come with life after separation and are here to support you no matter what stage you’re at. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

We have moved! 🚛⠀ ⠀ You can now find our team upstairs at 436 Ruthven Street Toowoomba City (just a short walk from our old office). Our downstairs space is still under construction, but we can't wait to show it to you shortly! ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ Watch this space 🔨⠀

This weekend you’ll find us taking some time out and exploring the walking tracks around Toowoomba. One of our favourites is the walk at Picnic Point! What’s your weekend reset routine? Drop it in the comments below. 📸 @toowoombaregion #MacDonaldLaw

When was the last time you updated your will? ⠀ ⠀ Alex, Wills and Estates Solicitor, is here to remind you that your will should be updated every 2-3 years or as your personal or financial situation changes. ⠀ ⠀ Updating your will may be an easy thing to put off but our team know how to make the process as smooth as possible. ⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

Directors @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor & @jag_macdonald_solicitor are reviewing the plans for our new client-facing space. We can’t wait to show you soon! #MacDonaldLaw

It’s Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor’s birthday today! We are thankful for the strong and hardworking person that she is. ⠀ ⠀ Thanks for being born! Have a great birthday. ⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

You may have seen our sign sitting out the front of 430 Ruthven Street; we can’t wait to show you our new building soon. 🔨 In the meantime, you can pop up to see our team in their new upstairs office space by taking the stairs to the right of the radio rental building. See you soon! #MacDonaldLaw

What are your plans for international “Be Kind to your Lawyers Day”? On a completely unrelated note, our favourite chocolates are roses. 😉 #MacDonaldLaw

Our office is closed over the long weekend but our phone lines are still open. If you need us, we are here. Have a safe long weekend 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Unfortunately, major holidays such as Easter can see a rise in family stress, alcohol consumption and domestic violence incidents. If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact 1800RESPECT for 24-hour Domestic Violence Support. We hope you have a safe & happy holiday period. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Easter holiday mode: activated 🐰 #MacDonaldLaw

Hey! Just popping on your feed to remind you that double demerits aren’t just active over holiday periods. If you’re a second time offender in Queensland double demerits automatically apply. We hope you have a safe & fine-free Easter weekend! 🐰 - @jag_macdonald_solicitor, Director #MacDonaldLaw

A big Happy Birthday to Ryan, our Domestic Violence and Criminal Lawyer, today! We appreciate having your fun, hard-working spirit in the office and hope you have a fantastic day. #MacDonaldLaw

Golden hour in Brisbane has got to be one of our favourite things. 📸 @britinbrisbane #MacDonaldLaw

“Listening to Dolly Parton on repeat and drinking copious amounts of tea, helps keep me positive when working on a tough case! Knowing that you are putting in the hard work to help another person, usually a vulnerable person, is very rewarding and puts everything into perspective.” - Alex, our Wills and Estates Solicitor #MacDonaldLaw

Selling your house is an exciting time, but if you have never done it before, knowing what costs to expect can be challenging! Here are some costs to keep in mind before listing your house: 🏡 Real estate agent commission. 🏡 Marketing and advertising. 🏡 Discharge of mortgage. 🏡 Conveyancing fees. 🏡 Moving costs. 🏡 Capital gains tax (investment properties only). 🏡 Stamp duty (when purchasing a new property). 🏡 Preparing your home for sale. 🏡 Home staging. 📸 @statikillusion #MacDonaldLaw

Our Family & Domestic Violence Associate, Ellie, wants to update you on the changes to entitlements for family & domestic violence leave. From February 1st 2023, employees of non-small businesses can access ten business days of leave every 12 months. This is an increase of 5 business days. The same increase will happen for employees of small businesses as of August 1st this year. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consider reaching out through 1800 RESPECT 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Property settlement doesn’t have to be an overwhelming or complicated process, our team are experienced and able to walk with you every step of the way. Call 0746389433 to chat with a member of our team. 📞 #MacDonaldLaw

Here is director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor, with your daily reminder to stop and take a moment for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes to have a coffee and mentally prepare for the day! 📍 @sweettalkcoffee #MacDonaldLaw

What do you think Ryan said that’s got Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor shocked and Ellie giggling? 🤭 He cheated in the teams last UNO game. 🤭 He is taking SJ’s position in their netball team. 🤭 He has been sneaking Alfred treats. Comment below! #MacDonaldLaw

Arranging your wishes in case an urgent health condition arises is a confronting yet important task. Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor shares why you may need an advance health directive: 1. Give direction about your future health care. 2. It makes your wishes known and gives health professionals guidance about the treatment you want. 3. To appoint someone you trust (an attorney) to make decisions about your health care on your behalf. If you have any questions or wish to set up your advance health directive our team are always here to help. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

We are excited to see you face to face in our Brisbane office! You can now book in-person appointments with one of our family, criminal and wills & estate lawyers. We can’t wait to see you soon. Call 0731142222 or visit our website to book. #MacDonaldLaw

Dividing property when going through a separation can be tricky. Ellie, Family Law Associate, outlines the different assets that may be included in a property settlement: • Real estate, including the family home. • Money is held as cash or in bank accounts. • Investments. • Insurance policies. • Inheritances. • Shares. • Superannuation. • Assets including cars, furniture or jewellery. • Debts including mortgages, loans, credit cards and personal obligations. Navigating separation can be a difficult time, are we are here to help. 💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Today we celebrate all the incredible women we work with (both pictured and not) who are constantly working to make a difference in the lives of others. Their strength and resilience to handle anything thrown in their direction is inspiring. Happy International Women's Day!💜 #MacDonaldLaw

Feel like you have the luck of the Irish? 🍀 We are celebrating St. Patricks Day with our friends at the @irishclubhotel by giving away 2x $100 vouchers, to the Irish to 2 lucky winners. 🍻 Tag a friend in the comments below to enter the draw to win. ⬇️ Winner to be announced on the 17th of March. #MacDonaldLaw

A criminal lawyer does more than defend you in court. Director @jag_macdonald_solicitor explains the different reasons that you may need a criminal lawyer: ⠀ ⠀ • To ensure your rights are protected.⠀ • To help you understand the process. ⠀ • Explain the offence you are being charged with and what needs to be proven for a conviction. ⠀ • Explain the prospects of your case. ⠀ • Provide legal advice.⠀ • Represent and advocate for you in court. ⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

Here’s a sneaky updated behind the scenes of our new office being built! 🔨 We have been moving in piece by piece and are so excited to have all of our team and clients in our new space shortly. #MacDonaldLaw

We know that growing your family isn’t always easy, and it’s essential to be on the same page with your partner when making decisions for the future. If you’re struggling to start the conversation with your partner around adoption, Ellie, our Family Law Solicitor, has outlined four questions to help you take the first steps. 👶 Are we financially and emotionally stable enough to provide for a child’s needs? 👶 Are we willing to be flexible? 👶 Are we prepared to handle the challenges that come with adoption? 👶 Do we agree on the type of adoption we want to pursue? #MacDonaldLaw

Did you know that the maximum penalty for a first-time drink driving offence is $2012 if your blood alcohol concentration is just over the legal limit? That’s just over 13 weeks of groceries for an average Australian household. This a reminder that thinking ahead and preparing a safe way home is crucial before heading out for a night of celebration. - @jag_macdonald_solicitor, Criminal Solicitor and Director. #MacDonaldLaw

Co-parenting isn’t linear and can be a rollercoaster, and we want you to know that you are not alone. #MacDonaldLaw

Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor breaks down the legalities around disputing a divorce order in Queensland. Q: What are the grounds for divorce? A: The only legal ground for divorce is the ‘irretrievable breakdown of marriage’. Q: Can a spouse refuse a divorce? A: You don’t have to agree to the divorce or sign anything; however, if one party wants a divorce and you have been separated for over a year, the Court will grant the request. We understand that separation can be a sensitive and confusing time. If you have any questions regarding this process, our team is here to help. #MacDonaldLaw

Did you know that people with disabilities are 1.8 times more likely to be victims of domestic violence? Other vulnerable groups include the elderly, children & Indigenous people. Ryan and our Domestic Violence team want you to know that you are not alone if you or someone you know are experiencing domestic violence. Please consider reaching out. 💜1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 #MacDonaldLaw

WA Potato lovers, beware. Comment a 🍟 if you knew about this strange law! #MacDonaldLaw

Friday’s made better with this view from our Brisbane office 😍 #MacDonaldLaw

Director @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor shares about what’s legal and what’s not regarding surrogacy in Queensland. ⠀ ⠀ You can: ⠀ 🍼 Enter into a non-commercial surrogacy arrangement. ⠀ 🍼 Pay or reimburse surrogacy costs. ⠀ ⠀ You can’t:⠀ 🍼 Enter into a commercial surrogacy arrangement. ⠀ 🍼 Advertise a surrogacy arrangement. ⠀ 🍼 Receive any fees for arranging a surrogacy. ⠀ ⠀ If you need help walking through the surrogacy process, book an appointment with one of our family lawyers. ⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

You may have seen Ellie, our new Senior Associate, in our recent video. She has over a decade of practical experience and is passionate about seeing clients regain confidence and freedom when they finalise their family law matters and find closure. We are so excited to have her a part of our team! #MacDonaldLaw

Are you thinking of getting married? Believe it or not, there is a criteria that you need to meet to tie the knot in Australia. To enter into a legal marriage: 💍 You cannot already be married. 💍 You must be at least 18 years of age. 💍 You must freely consent. 💍 You cannot marry family members. 💍 You must provide the appropriate documentation. *You are not required to be an Australian citizen or resident to get married in Australia. #MacDonaldLaw

Get to know our incredible new Senior Associate, Ellie. We are so excited to have her join our Family & Domestic Violence Law team based out of our Brisbane office. #MacDonaldLaw

“Most properties in Australia have an encumbrance on the title granting certain rights and interests to the Crown. In some circumstances, the Crown can take possession of land for governmental purposes. @jag_macdonald_solicitor and I recently assisted a couple whose property was being acquisitioned by the Crown. As a result of our negotiations, we reached an excellent resolution in the matter, which saw our clients significantly compensated. So much so, they have booked themselves a cruise to far north Queensland!” - Paige, Senior Legal Assistant to the Criminal and Civil Litigation Teams #MacDonaldLaw

Here’s a sneak peek of our new project. We are excited to see our new office space filled with our team & clients (once it has walls, of course). 🔨 #MacDonaldLaw

Next week, we farewell the wonderful @ashleigh.wegner_conveyancer as she begins her journey into motherhood. ⠀ ⠀ If you have met Ash, you would know her cheerful and energetic attitude is contagious. She is a valued part of our team, always going above and beyond for her clients, and she will be missed around the office. ⠀ ⠀ We are excited to see her embrace this new chapter and are already counting down the days until she returns. 🍼⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw⠀

When do I need to seek legal advice for my child support arrangements? Swipe to find out ➡️ #MacDonaldLaw

We love celebrating the next generation of women in law! Introducing Legal Assistant Chloe; she is currently studying a Bachelor of Law (Honours) and a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice. 🎓 Primarily located in our Brisbane office, Chloe is passionate about the law and is excited to help you and your family. #MacDonaldLaw

You may have heard the term ‘made bail’ in Hollywood movies, but what does it mean? 🤷‍♀️ For an individual that has been arrested, making bail means you are allowed to go free in relation to the crime you have committed. Other bail conditions may be imposed, and you must attend court on your next court date. - @jag_macdonald_solicitor #MacDonaldLaw

Strengthen your priorities, be present and enjoy the little things. Let’s make 2023 count. 💜

Why do you need a legal team when buying a home? Unfortunately, not all sellers have your best interest at heart. Having a conveyancer on your side will ensure that: 📑Legal documents such as the Contract of Sale and any special conditions you require are included. 🚩Inclusions and exclusions are checked and any unfair clauses in the contract flagged. 🏠Your rights are safeguarded and your property complies with council building regulations. #MacDonaldLaw

As children head back to school, it’s a good reminder that not every child has a safe home to sleep. If you are experiencing domestic violence and you have children, there are local resources to assist you in getting back on your feet following a relationship breakdown. For Toowoomba families: Protea Place, (07) 4613 1378 Base Services, (07) 4638 2399 #MacDonaldLaw

Here are Jaimey’s key takeaways to fostering a culture of collaboration in the workplace. 1. Discuss issues you are facing with the team 2. Be open to receiving feedback and new ideas 3. Aim to understand your team members' perspective #MacDonaldLaw

Have you heard the terms of a shareholders' agreement, custom constitutions and trust documents? 📑 If you have just started a business and you have no clue what we are on about, it might be a good idea to chat with a solicitor. Structuring business affairs well in the early stages ensures there is less room for complications down the track. 👍 - @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor, Director #MacDonaldLaw

Jag: Remembering that holidays are over, and so are double demerits. Ryan: Reminding Jag that in Queensland, double demerits apply for more than just Christmas and New Year's. Individuals who repeatedly commit specific offences will receive double demerit points for the second or subsequent offence if the later offence was committed within 12 months of an earlier offence. It's a good reminder to be road-safe all year round and brush up on your road rules knowledge. 🚗 #MacDonaldLaw

When you enlist MacDonald Law for assistance during separation, you are enlisting the help of a team that genuinely cares about the outcome. “I love to hear stories about our client’s children, their co-parenting relationship and where their life is now that the trauma of separation or family law proceedings is behind them. It is heartwarming to see that progression and to know that they have been able to move forward with their life.” - @sarahjanemacdonald.solicitor, Director #MacDonaldLaw

New Will, new me! ⠀ ⠀ January is the perfect time to reflect on the past year and evaluate your plans for the coming 12 months. ⠀ ⠀ If you want to sell, buy or invest in a property, it’s the perfect reason to update your Will. ⠀ ⠀ Let’s start this year with a bang (and up-to-date paperwork 🙌). ⠀ ⠀ 📸 @statikillusion⠀ ⠀ #MacDonaldLaw