Dear clients and friends of Foulsham & Geddes
We are taking the current situation seriously and expect further disruption to everyday life in the coming weeks and months. Like many others, we take the view that social distancing will have the overall effect of reducing the impact of the disease which will ultimately save lives.
Where possible, F&G staff are working from home and minimising face to face contact with clients. Luckily, we have already put systems in place to minimise the impact on the delivery of legal services to our clients. We are contactable during business hours on the phone and email. However, if there are delays or disruption, we ask that you please be patient with us.
There is much uncertainty at the moment. Planning is the best thing you can do at this time.
Putting in place an enduring power of attorney and enduring guardianship documents will ensure that others can legally manage your affairs if you are unable to for any reason. You should also ensure you have a will and that it is up to date.
Businesses and individuals should plan for how they are going to cope with a downturn. Rest assured, everyone is in the same boat and the worst thing we could do now is to put our heads in the sand. On the other hand, we should not be hasty in our decision making. There are many options available.
You should also be aware that the ATO has said that they are willing to support taxpayers at this time. As well as stimulus being provided by the Government, the ATO has published material relevant to businesses/taxpayers facing difficulties due to downturn: https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Dealing-with-disasters/In-detail/Specific-disasters/COVID-19/?default
We are here to support our clients. If you have any concerns about your individual or business legal situation we are happy to discuss those with you over the phone.
Above all, please be safe and consider the recommendations of those qualified to give opinions about such matters as the situation develops.
All the best,
Jacob Carswell-Doherty
Principal – Foulsham & Geddes
02 9232 8033