Lord Commercial Lawyers

13/03/2025

Launching an Online Business in 2025? These Key Legal Provisions Are Non-Negotiable.

In our latest article, we explore the critical legal provisions every online business must have in place to ensure compliance, protect assets, and build trust with customers.

We cover key aspects such as privacy policies, website terms and conditions, intellectual property protection, and cybersecurity measures.

Learn how implementing these legal safeguards can help you operate confidently, avoid potential disputes, and secure the future of your online business.

Need further advice? Contact our team at (03) 9600 0162 or email us at [email protected]

Launching an online business? Learn 6 absolutely essential elements you should address first. We look at the legal aspects of setting up businesses online

09/01/2025

Guarantees vs Indemnities: What You Need to Know

Ever been asked to sign a guarantee or indemnity? Before agreeing, it's important to know what you’re signing up for.

- A guarantee means you’re responsible if someone else doesn’t pay their debt. Your liability kicks in only if they default.

- An indemnity is a direct promise to cover someone’s losses — you could be required to pay even if the other person hasn’t failed to meet their obligations.

Key difference? A guarantee is a backup obligation, while an indemnity is a first-in-line responsibility.

Understanding these distinctions is essential before signing any agreement that includes these clauses.

Our guide breaks down the key features and risks associated with guarantees and indemnities, helping you make informed decisions.

Need further advice? Contact our team at (03) 9600 0162 or email us at [email protected]

What are the differences between indemnities and guarantees? Some of the differences include liabilities and discharge from liability as well as how the guarantee or indemnity is referenced.

19/12/2024

As the year draws to a close, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support. It has been a privilege to work with you, and we are grateful for the confidence you place in us.

We hope this holiday season offers you a chance to relax, reflect, and enjoy meaningful time with loved ones

This year, we are delighted to dedicate our Christmas donation to Arts Project Australia.

Arts Project Australia supports artists with intellectual disabilities through their studio and gallery, promoting new work and advocating for their inclusion in contemporary art. If you would also like to make a Christmas donation to Arts Project Australia, click on the link below.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Yours Sincerely,

All of us at Lord Commercial Lawyers

https://www.artsproject.org.au/

05/12/2024

Navigating the complexities of commercial subleases requires careful planning and legal insight.

Whether you're a tenant looking to sublease part of your premises or a subtenant entering into a new arrangement, understanding the key concepts is crucial.

Did you know that a sublease doesn’t relieve the tenant of their obligations under the head lease? The tenant remains responsible for rent payments and other lease conditions, even with a subtenant in place.

Key considerations include obtaining the landlord's consent, aligning sublease terms with the head lease, and ensuring compliance with the Retail Leases Act if applicable.

Missing critical details can lead to significant risks, such as the subtenant losing their rights if the head lease is terminated.

Protect your interests and avoid costly pitfalls.

For expert legal advice and definitions on subleases, contact our leasing team at (03) 9600 0162 or email us today at [email protected].

https://www.lordlaw.com.au/commercial-subleases/

What is a Commercial Sublease? A commercial sublease is exists when a tenant leases all or part of the premises it is leasing to a third party. A sublease is different to a transfer of lease or assignment of lease, because the tenant remains bound by its lease with the landlord and must continue to....

22/11/2024

Being a creditor of a company in liquidation can be a challenging experience, but understanding your rights is key to recovering outstanding debts. From submitting a formal proof of debt to ensuring you meet strict deadlines, each step is critical to protecting your interests.

Did you know that missing a deadline or failing to provide the necessary documentation could result in your debt claim being rejected? To strengthen your position, make sure you submit all relevant information and follow the legal requirements carefully.

Maximize your chances of a successful claim and protect your financial rights. For expert advice on navigating the liquidation process, contact our insolvency team at (03) 9600 0162 or email us today.

It can be a stressful and complex period being a creditor of a company in liquidation. However, there are some key steps you should take to enforce your rights, and to make a claim on outstanding payments. There may be some differences regarding your rights and responsibilities depending on whether....

15/11/2024

Intellectual property (IP) includes your unique ideas, creations, and innovations, from art and writing to trademarks and patents. Protecting your IP is crucial to prevent others from profiting off your hard work and to maintain the uniqueness of your brand.

Did you know registering a business name doesn't give you exclusive ownership? To secure rights to your name, logo, or slogan, you need to register a trade mark. From patents to NDAs, understanding the laws around IP is essential for safeguarding your assets.

Ensure your ideas are protected and your interests secured. For expert advice on intellectual property, contact Lord Commercial Lawyers at [email protected] or call (03) 9600 0162.

https://www.lordlaw.com.au/how-can-i-protect-my-intellectual-property/

How can I protect my intellectual property? There are steps which our IP Lawyers will assist you with, to safeguard what's yours. Call today.

08/11/2024

Understanding your obligations in a loan agreement is essential before borrowing money. A loan agreement outlines key responsibilities, including the purpose of the loan, repayment terms, interest, and any collateral requirements. Failing to comply can lead to serious consequences, including repossession of assets.

Ensure you fully understand your responsibilities as a borrower to avoid costly defaults and penalties. Keep reading to learn more about the common obligations borrowers must fulfil and the potential risks of non-compliance.

For expert advice on loan agreements, contact Lord Commercial Lawyers at [email protected] or call (03) 9600 0162.

If you have borrowed money, or intend to so, it is crucial that you understand what your obligations are under the loan agreement. A loan agreement is a document that outlines key information about the loan, including who the lender is, and who the money is being lent to (‘borrower’). Furthermor...

01/11/2024

Understanding the auction process and the essential preparations needed beforehand is vital for anyone looking to buy property at an auction.

Our latest article provides a detailed guide on what to do before auction day to protect your interests and bid confidently.

We cover essential steps such as contract reviews, property inspections, financing, and bidding strategies—all to ensure you’re fully informed and ready when the hammer falls. We also discuss the importance of knowing your budget, having a bidding plan, and understanding the legal commitments of being the highest bidder.

Learn more about how to approach property auctions with confidence by clicking below.

Buying a property can often be an intimidating process, especially at auction where you are competing with other buyers and there is no cooling off period. Many properties are sold at auction, particularly in a rising market, so it is important for buyers to understand the processes involved so they...

18/10/2024

Understanding unfair dismissal claims and the high-income threshold is crucial for both employers and employees.

Our latest article delves into factors the Fair Work Commission considers when determining unfair dismissal and outlines the high-income threshold's impact on eligibility and compensation. We also explore alternative legal avenues for high-income earners who may not be eligible to file a claim under the usual provisions.

Learn more about your rights and options when it comes to unfair dismissal and compensation limits by clicking below.

What is Unfair Dismissal? Lord Commercial Lawyers - In Australia, it is illegal to dismiss an employee without reasonable cause.

04/10/2024

A shareholder agreement is vital to ensuring the smooth management of your company.

Our latest article explains why having a shareholder agreement in place is essential for defining shareholder rights, resolving disputes, and protecting investments. We cover key aspects such as share transfers, voting rights, and dispute resolution.

Learn how a well-drafted shareholder agreement can safeguard your business and minimise potential conflicts among shareholders.

https://www.lordlaw.com.au/do-i-need-a-shareholders-agreement/

27/09/2024

Social media has blurred the lines between personal and professional lives, making it essential for employees to be cautious about what they post online.

Our latest article explores the risks employees face when making comments about their employers on social media and how it can lead to disciplinary action or even termination. We discuss the impact of social media policies, privacy expectations, and real-world cases where employees found themselves in trouble.

Learn how to navigate social media responsibly and protect both your job and your employer's reputation.

We live in an age characterised by a rise in the use of social media – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, snapchat and the like. With that rise has come a large increase in the number of cases involving employees making comments about their employers “online” – to some extent there is n...

20/09/2024

Registering a business name is a key step for new business owners, but does it offer exclusive rights to the name? Many are confused between business names, trade marks, and domain names.

While a business name is necessary to legally operate, it doesn’t prevent others from using it.

For full protection, consider registering a trade mark, which grants exclusive ownership and enforceable rights.

Keep reading to learn more about protecting your business name and the importance of trade mark registration.

For expert advice on business names and trade mark registration, contact Lord Commercial Lawyers at [email protected] or call (03) 9600 0162.

For many first time business owners, there is often confusion when it comes to exactly what type of protection a business name can provide. There is even more confusion when this gets mixed up with trading names, domain names or trade marks. So, what exactly is a business name? And will having a bus...