What Happens if You Separate Without Legal Advice? Without legal advice, you risk making costly mistakes, unfair agreements, or leaving yourself unprotected. Many people assume separation can be managed privately. However, property settlements, parenting arrangements, and financial agreements are legally binding matters. If not handled correctly, you could face:
At Butler McDermott Lawyers, we know family law matters are both deeply personal and high-stakes. To give you an insight into our team, we spoke with Mikaelah, our family law solicitor, about her background, experience, and approach to supporting clients. From Local Classroom to the Courtroom Mikaelah completed her law
Table of Contents The Impact of Highway Upgrades Understanding the Department of Transport and Main Roads Project & Land Resumption in Queensland The Queensland Land Resumption Process: A Step-by-Step Guide Your Rights and Compensation Entitlements: More Than Just Market Value Why Choose Butler McDermott Lawyers: Your Trusted Advocates in Land
Until now, Queensland buyers have operated under a traditional “buyer beware” model. Sellers needed only to provide basic information, and buyers typically performed title, planning, and compliance checks after signing a contract. From 1 August 2025, that shifts. Sellers must now deliver a fully completed Form 2 Seller Disclosure Statement, along
Industrial accidents can happen in an instant, but their consequences can last a lifetime. If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident in Queensland, understanding your legal rights is crucial for securing the compensation and support you deserve. At Butler McDermott Lawyers, we’ve helped countless Sunshine Coast residents and Queenslanders
Being injured in a motor vehicle accident can be one of life’s most challenging experiences. Beyond the immediate physical pain and emotional trauma, you’re likely facing medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about your future. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, truck collision, motorcycle crash, or any other
What is disclosure in a Queensland civil case? Disclosure is the legal process where you provide the other party with all documents in your possession or control that are directly relevant to the issues in dispute. It ensures both sides have access to key information and prevents surprises at trial.
Personal injury law is a demanding and highly specialised area of legal practice, requiring not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of the human impact of injury and loss. At Butler McDermott Lawyers, Cheney plays a key role within our Personal Injuries Department, assisting clients through what is
Considering buying a business on the Sunshine Coast? Here’s why it pays to have an experienced solicitor in your corner – before you sign anything. The Right Business Can Be a Smart Investment. The Wrong Contract Can Be a Costly Mistake. There’s a lot to be excited about when buying
Divorce marks a significant life transition, often accompanied by emotional and legal complexities. This guide aims to provide a clear and comprehensive roadmap to the divorce process in Queensland, outlining each essential aspect to help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence. While property settlement and parenting arrangements are
Losing a loved one is hard enough. But when the contents of their Will feel unfair or unexpected, that grief can quickly turn into confusion, resentment or distress. Whether you’ve been left out of a Will, received less than you were promised, or suspect something is amiss, you may have
Butler McDermott Lawyers proudly supports the healthcare professionals of the Sunshine Coast. As part of our ongoing commitment to the local community, we are offering free, confidential legal advice to healthcare workers. Consultations are available at Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Nambour General Hospital and Gympie Hospital. Our senior lawyers are
If your property lies along the proposed route of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative Stage 4, you may be facing the stressful reality of compulsory land acquisition. Whether you’ve received a Notice of Intention to Resume or anticipate one soon, it’s normal to feel uncertain, anxious, and even overwhelmed.
Miranda is a dynamic legal professional whose passion for Commercial and Property law drives her to deliver exceptional, client-focused solutions. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to crafting tailored legal strategies, she excels at transforming complex legal challenges into opportunities for success. Whether refining a contract clause
When facing criminal charges, the strength of the evidence presented can determine the outcome of a trial. Understanding how evidence is assessed, presented, and challenged is crucial for both defendants and legal professionals. In this blog, we explore the role of evidence in criminal cases and how it influences defence
Litigation is a legal process that can feel overwhelming for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you are considering taking legal action or are already involved in a dispute, understanding how litigation works can help you make informed decisions. At Butler McDermott Lawyers, a trusted law firm on the Sunshine Coast,
At Butler McDermott Lawyers, we uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to client success. A pivotal member of our esteemed team, Kimberley Sutton is a highly respected Sunshine Coast conveyancer whose extensive experience and unwavering dedication have made her an invaluable asset. A Career Defined by Expertise Kim’s
In the realm of intellectual property, navigating agreements with illustrators is crucial for authors seeking to bring their creative works to life. This case study delves into the challenges faced by a client—an author—at Butler McDermott Lawyers, as they sought to secure rights to illustrations essential for publishing their books.
Embarking on a journey through the intricacies of the legal realm demands a blend of excellence, dedication, and profound understanding of the law. Callum, a cornerstone at Butler McDermott Lawyers, embodies these virtues, bringing a wealth of experience and a dedication to client advocacy. Background and Expertise Callum’s legal acumen
At Butler McDermott Lawyers, we recognise that our responsibilities extend beyond providing expert legal services. As a firm deeply embedded in the Sunshine Coast, we are committed to making a tangible difference within the community. We actively engage with local initiatives and organisations, reflecting our dedication to supporting the social,
In the realm of property law, few situations are as fraught with complexity and stress for property owners as the process of statutory resumption. In a case concerning the resumption of a retail shop in Mooloolaba, it stands as a poignant example of how adept legal guidance can mitigate the
Managing the administration of a high-value estate can be challenging, especially when compounded by strained family relationships and intricate asset portfolios. In this case, the executor—a son of the deceased—faced significant obstacles due to interpersonal conflicts and the responsibility of managing substantial assets. The Challenge The executor was entrusted
Navigating the waters of criminal law demands a sharp mind, a passion for justice, and a dynamic presence in the courtroom. Tom embodies all of these qualities, bringing his experience for the legal system to Butler McDermott Lawyers as a specialist in criminal law. Academic Rigour and Legal Excellence Tom’s
Going through a separation is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences in life. Amid the emotional turmoil, it’s crucial to address the practical aspect of dividing shared assets, known as property settlements. This blog aims to provide a guide on navigating property settlements, offering clarity and support for
When it comes to securing your business’s future, understanding the intricacies of trust advice and business structuring is paramount. At Butler McDermott Lawyers, we specialise in offering comprehensive solutions tailored to asset protection, succession planning, and tax minimisation. But what exactly sets our approach apart in this complex field? Tailored
Selling a business is an intricate and transformative process—one that signals a major shift for owners and operators. At Butler McDermott Lawyers, we understand the complexities and the gravitas of a business sale. Our extensive experience makes us well-equipped to facilitate a variety of transactions, from asset sales to share
The Challenge In a heart-wrenching scenario, a family sought the expertise of Butler McDermott Lawyers following a distressing incident involving their 3-year-old daughter. While attending a gymnasium, due to insufficient safety precautions and negligence from the establishment, the young girl suffered serious brain injuries. The legal complexities were magnified given
When facing the daunting prospect of compulsory land acquisition, also known as land resumption, property owners and small businesses face numerous challenges and uncertainties. Butler McDermott Lawyers, with their extensive expertise in handling a wide range of resumption cases, offers crucial insights and guidance for those navigating through this complex
At Butler McDermott Lawyers, Brent King is recognised for his profound understanding of litigation and his commitment to achieving meaningful outcomes for his clients. With a solid foundation in law obtained from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane, Brent has honed his expertise in navigating the complexities of the
Overview Jamie-Lee Hunt at Butler McDermott Lawyers, adeptly managed a complicated estate litigation case revolving around the challenge of a Will based on the assertion that the deceased lacked testamentary capacity at the time it was executed. This highly sensitive matter required a delicate balance of legal acumen and strategic
Background In a challenging dispute that entailed a blend of family dynamics and financial agreements, the skills of Brent King and Callum Neal from Butler McDermott Lawyers were put to the test. The case, rooted in civil litigation, revolved around a dispute involving a verbal loan agreement between family members,
If you are a property owner within the proposed area for the Borumba Pumped Hydro Transmission Line Connection, you may have recently received correspondence from the Queensland Electricity Transmission Corporation Limited (Powerlink), indicating that your land may fall within the final construction corridor. Understanding what this means for you and
When navigating the complexities of a compensation claim, the choice of legal representation becomes a cornerstone decision. Amongst the plethora of options, Butler McDermott Lawyers distinguishes itself with a commitment to justice, individualised advice, and in-depth legal expertise. Opting for Butler McDermott Lawyers over larger, corporate-focused law firms brings a
For over three and a half decades, George Cowan has been a steadfast advocate in the field of personal injury and accident compensation law, dedicating his career to representing “the battlers and little guys” against formidable insurance companies. His journey in law began with a unique path, combining external studies
Butler McDermott Lawyers prioritise both excellent client service and the health and
wellbeing of their employees.
In light of this commitment, we would like to inform you that our offices hours will be permanently changing from 1 July 2024 as follows:
Al Upton, a Solicitor and Director at Butler McDermott Lawyers, has been shaping the landscape of legal practice on the Sunshine Coast since he embarked on his legal journey at the University of Southern Queensland in 2012. Over the course of his studies through 2016, Al cultivated a deep-rooted passion
When the will of a loved one is read, it’s not always met with understanding and acceptance. In some cases, the distribution of the estate may appear unfair, inadequate, or not reflective of the deceased’s wishes or promises made during their lifetime. This is where the process of contesting a
In the nuanced world of the legal profession, where intricate laws intersect with deep human emotions, it is esteemed professionals like Jamie Lee Hunt who truly make a mark. Since joining Butler McDermott Lawyers in 2019, Jamie has distinguished herself as a leader in the Wills and Estates section, bringing
Receiving a compulsory acquisition notice can be a shock. Act quickly to preserve your right to object to the proposal to resume your land and talk to land resumption specialists Butler McDermott Lawyers.
Not happy with how much compensation you are being offered for the compulsory acquisition of your land? Your lawyer can help you maximise your compensation.
Accounts Manager
Consultant
Peter has been practising as a Nambour Solicitor since 1977 and joined Butler McDermott Lawyers the same year.
With over 40 years practicing as a Sunshine Coast lawyer, Peter has extensive knowledge of various facets of law.
He has practised in all areas of litigation and has special interests in:
Peter has specialised knowledge of and experience with resumption matters as a result of the Traveston Dam project, road corridors, Main Roads and water pipeline. He is renowned for his professional approach and is an experienced and determined advocate.
Solicitor/Director
Solicitor/Director
After arriving at Butler McDermott Lawyers in 2016, Al quickly progressed to running our Wills and Estates section and has successfully litigated disputes in the Supreme and District Courts of Queensland in the early stages of his career.
In the years that followed Al has now moved to assist our clients with commercial and property matters having achieved positive outcomes in that area as well as general litigation. Al’s experience has him uniquely placed to provide quality advice in the areas of property, commercial, wills and estates and general litigation.
Al is involved in giving back to the community, sitting on the board for the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and Sundale Community Foundation. He otherwise became a director of Butler McDermott Lawyers in November 2021.
