Think powers of attorney are only something you need to worry about when you’re older? Think again.

In this episode, Big Law, Director, Sylvia Lopez breaks down some of the biggest myths surrounding powers of attorney in Queensland — including the common assumption that your spouse or children can simply step in and make decisions for you if something happens.

Sylvia explains the difference between a general power of attorney and an enduring power of attorney, when each applies, what happens if you lose capacity, and why choosing the right person to act on your behalf matters.

You’ll also learn what can happen when someone loses capacity without an enduring power of attorney in place, and why planning ahead can give you greater control over who makes important financial, personal and health decisions on your behalf.

If you’ve been putting off thinking about a power of attorney because you’re “too young” or assume your family will sort everything out, this episode is worth a listen.

This episode discusses Queensland law and is general information only. It should not be taken as legal advice.

Produced by Practice Proof

Buying an apartment or townhouse can look pretty straightforward: you find the property, agree on a price, and get ready to move in. But when you buy into a body corporate, you're not just buying your own four walls — you're also buying a share of everything that comes with the scheme. That can mean levies, maintenance, insurance, building defects, disputes, and in some cases, some very expensive surprises.

In this episode of the Big Law Podcast, Sylvia Lopez, Director at Big Law, discusses key things buyers should be across before purchasing into a body corporate.

 Sylvia unpacks:

• What to look for before you sign
• How to spot a body corporate that could cost you money down the track
• How much protection a body corporate certificate actually gives buyers
• What buyers need to know before purchasing a unit, townhouse, or apartment

This episode is for anyone considering a unit purchase, and shows why doing your homework before you sign can make all the difference.

Questions or need help?
Reach out to www.biglaw.com.au

Produced by Practice Proof

For many families, the assumption is simple: if you die, everything you own will naturally pass to your husband, wife, or partner. But when there's no valid will, what feels logical and what the law actually provides can be two very different things. The consequences can be particularly significant when a family home, children, superannuation, or a blended family are involved.

In this episode of the Big Law Podcast, Sylvia Lopez discusses what really happens when someone dies without a will in Queensland. Topics covered include:

• Dying without a will in Queensland (intestacy)
• How an estate is divided between spouse and children
• Family home ownership and how it affects inheritance
• Superannuation and why it's treated separately
• De facto relationships, stepchildren, and blended families

Sylvia also explores the practical steps people can take to make sure their wishes — and the people they care about — are properly provided for.

Questions or need help?
 Reach out to www.biglaw.com.au

Produced by Practice Proof

Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and ensure your wishes are carried out. Yet many people still believe a handwritten will or an inexpensive will kit is good enough. In this episode of the Big Law Podcast, we unpack why that assumption can create uncertainty, unnecessary costs, and serious legal complications for the people left behind.

Joining the conversation is Sylvia Lopez, Director at Big Law, who explains what Queensland law requires for a will to be formally valid and where do-it-yourself wills commonly fall short. Together we explore how informal wills are dealt with by the courts, the burden placed on families trying to prove a deceased person's intentions, and the particular risks involved with blended families, business assets, guardianship arrangements, and unclear drafting. Sylvia also explains why regularly reviewing your will—particularly after a major life event—is essential, and why relying on your family to simply know what you want may not be enough.

Whether you already have a will, have used an online template or a do-it-yourself will from a local post office, or are considering preparing one for the first time, this episode offers practical insights that could help you avoid uncertainty, protect your estate, and give your family greater peace of mind.

Questions or need help?
Reach out to www.biglaw.com.au

Produced by Practice Proof

Buying property is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will ever make, yet many buyers still believe that if the selling agent says everything is fine, there's nothing to worry about. In this episode of the Big Law podcast, we unpack why that's one of the most common and costly misconceptions in property transactions.

Joining the conversation is Sylvia Lopez, Director at Big Law who explains the legal realities behind what selling agents can and can't tell buyers. Together, we explore the limits of cooling-off periods, the hidden risks in finance clauses, why first-home buyers are particularly vulnerable, and the simple step that could save buyers thousands of dollars before they sign a contract.

Whether you're buying your first home, investing, or simply want to better understand the legal side of property transactions, this episode offers practical insights that could help you avoid expensive mistakes and make more informed decisions.

Questions or need help? 

Reach out to www.biglaw.com.au

Produced by Practice Proof

Produced by Practice Proof