April 17, 2020 In Bramwell Bate News By Adam Harris

Insolvency Law Relief Driven by COVID-19

The Government has announced temporary changes to the Companies Act 1993 to assist businesses facing financial stress and insolvency during the COVID-19 pandemic. The temporary changes include: Providing the directors of companies facing significant liquidity problems due to COVID-19 a ‘safe harbour’ from insolvency duties under the Companies Act. Enabling businesses affected by COVID-19 to place existing debts into hibernation until they can start trading normally again. Allowing the use of electronic signatures where necessary due to restrictions caused by...

April 15, 2020 In Bramwell Bate News By Bate Hallett

Separation: How to get by in times of uncertainty

Relationships can be tested at the best of times. But having to co-exist in a “bubble” with potentially a great deal of stress and uncertainty, and limited options for time out, can place a huge pressure on many relationships. And with such a significant change in the economic climate, you may be wondering where you stand should you decide to end a relationship. The Property (Relationships) Act 1976 sets out how property is to be divided at the end of a relationship. It...

April 9, 2020 In Bramwell Bate News By Adam Harris

Impact of COVID-19 on Commercial leases

The COVID-19 Level 4 lockdown has presented us all with a very unusual set of circumstances and has seen us receive countless questions from both landlords and tenants in relation to their rights and obligations under their lease arrangements. Not surprisingly, the majority relate to rent abatement. The most common form of lease used is the Auckland District Law Society 6th Edition Deed of Lease (the “ADLS Lease”). This version underwent a major revision in 2012 after the Canterbury earthquakes when...