An Introduction to AFCA – the new ‘one stop shop’ for dispute resolution in the financial services industry

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An Introduction to AFCA – the new ‘one stop shop’ for dispute resolution in the financial services industry

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) is the new external dispute resolution scheme for the financial services industry. It replaces three previous schemes, namely the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), Credit and Investments Ombudsman and Superannuation Complaints Tribunal.

This article will provide a high level overview of the new AFCA scheme, highlighting some of the important differences from its predecessor schemes, particularly FOS.

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Understanding Personal Guarantees: What you should know before signing

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Understanding Personal Guarantees: What you should know before signing

It is not uncommon for us to be approached by potential clients concerned about their financial position, after signing a personal guarantee.  However, what is particularly concerning is that most of these individuals did not (and continue not to) have a proper understanding of the nature and effect of that guarantee at the time of signing it.

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Drafting Your Will - Why it is Better to Have a Lawyer

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Drafting Your Will - Why it is Better to Have a Lawyer

Having a will which deals with the distribution of your estate is the simplest and most effective way to avoid costly legal disputes, yet many people do not have one of their own. Perhaps this is due to the fact that thinking about wills is not a pleasant thing to do, or perhaps it is a case of simple laziness. Regardless of the reason, it is important to understand why having a valid will in place is so important.

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