Hills Solicitors

03/09/2026

A signed employment contract doesn’t automatically make it compliant.

Using the wrong Award, misclassifying an employee, relying on an ineffective salary set-off clause or using an outdated template can expose your business to underpayment claims and Fair Work penalties.

Our latest article covers seven common employment contract mistakes and the practical steps employers can take to reduce their risk.

Read the full article:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/insights/employment-contract-mistakes-fair-work-penalties/

The employment contract mistakes that expose NSW employers to Fair Work penalties, from Award misclassification to unenforceable restraints. Protect your Maitland business.

30/08/2026

Supporting Our Community Beyond the Office 💛

Legal support can make a real difference when someone is facing cancer, particularly when financial pressures make accessing advice more difficult.

Hills Solicitors is proud to support the Cancer Council NSW’s Legal Referral Service, providing free legal assistance to eligible people affected by cancer.

By contributing our time and expertise, we can help people understand their legal options and deal with important matters during an already challenging period.

We’re proud to play a small part in making legal support more accessible within our community.

27/08/2026

Buying your first home is a milestone worth celebrating, but it's also a process with plenty of legal steps along the way.

From reviewing the Contract for Sale to managing key deadlines and settlement, having the right legal advice can help make the experience smoother and give you confidence at every stage.

At Hills Solicitors, we guide first home buyers through the entire conveyancing process, helping you understand your obligations, avoid common pitfalls, and move into your new home with peace of mind.

Ready to take the next step? We're here to help.

Learn more about our First Home Buyer services:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/services/first-home-buyers/

First-home buyer in NSW? Hills Solicitors explain grants, stamp duty concessions and the First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme, and handle the conveyancing end-to-end across Maitland and the Hunter Valley.

23/08/2026

Signing a commercial lease is about more than securing a premises. It's committing your business to a legal agreement that can have long-term financial and operational impacts.

From rent review clauses and make-good obligations to maintenance responsibilities and lease renewal options, small details in a lease can become costly if they're overlooked.

Before you sign, it's worth understanding exactly what you're agreeing to.

Our latest blog outlines some of the most common commercial lease traps for tenants and what to look out for before committing.

Read more:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/insights/commercial-lease-traps-maitland-tenants/

The 10 most common and costly commercial lease traps, from personal guarantees to make-good clauses. What every Maitland business tenant should check before signing.

20/08/2026

Buying your first home is exciting, but it's also one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make.

Before you sign a contract, it's important to understand exactly what you're agreeing to. A contract review can help identify potential risks, explain your legal obligations, and give you confidence before moving forward.

At Hills Solicitors, we help first home buyers navigate the legal process from contract review through to settlement, making the journey as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

If you're getting ready to buy your first home, we're here to help every step of the way.

Learn more about our First Home Buyer services:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/services/first-home-buyers/

First-home buyer in NSW? Hills Solicitors explain grants, stamp duty concessions and the First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme, and handle the conveyancing end-to-end across Maitland and the Hunter Valley.

16/08/2026

Buying a business? Don't skip the due diligence.

A business might look like a great opportunity on the surface, but what's happening behind the scenes?

Before you commit, it's important to understand exactly what you're buying. Reviewing financial records, contracts, leases, employee obligations, intellectual property and potential legal risks can help you avoid costly surprises after settlement.

Taking the time to complete thorough due diligence gives you the information you need to make a confident, informed decision.

Read our latest blog to learn what due diligence involves when buying a business in NSW:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/insights/due-diligence-buying-a-business-nsw/

13/08/2026

FAQ: How often will you update me on my case?

One of the biggest concerns people have during a legal matter is not knowing what's happening next.

At Hills Solicitors, we believe clear communication is just as important as quality legal advice. We'll keep you informed with regular updates as your matter progresses, explain each stage of the process in plain English, and let you know if any important decisions need to be made.

If you ever have questions or concerns, you don't have to wait for the next update. Our team is always here to provide the information and guidance you need.

If you're looking for a legal team that values communication as much as results, get in touch with Hills Solicitors today.

📞 (02) 4933 5111
💬 0483 959 708
📧 [email protected]
🔗 https://hillssolicitors.com.au

09/08/2026

You've spent years building your business. Have you spent time planning what happens when you step away?

Whether you're planning to retire, sell the business, or pass it on to family or key employees, a well-structured succession plan can help protect everything you've worked so hard to create.

Without the right legal planning, transitions can become costly, stressful and uncertain. A clear succession plan gives you greater control over who takes over, how the transfer happens, and helps safeguard your business, your family and your legacy.

If you're thinking about the future of your business, now is the time to start the conversation.

Learn more about Business Succession Planning:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/services/business-succession-planning/

05/08/2026

There's always something worth discovering in Maitland.

If you're looking for something to do over the coming months, make time to visit Upriver Downriver at Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

Running from 11 July to 11 October 2026, this major exhibition celebrates the incredible creativity of the Hunter Region, bringing together artists whose work has been inspired by the communities, landscapes and waterways that connect us all.

From the Upper Hunter through Maitland and down to the Port of Newcastle, it's a wonderful opportunity to experience the stories, perspectives and talent that make our region so special.

We're proud to call Maitland home and love seeing our local arts community continue to thrive.

📍 Maitland Regional Art Gallery
🗓️ 11 July – 11 October 2026

02/08/2026

Losing a loved one is never easy. Navigating the legal responsibilities that follow shouldn't add to the burden.

Thank you, Robert, for your kind words.

"Hills Solicitors and more importantly Dave and Cassie assisted both myself and my brother through dealing with the estate of my late father in a professional and caring manner." – Robert F.

Administering an estate can be complex, with legal obligations, paperwork and important decisions to manage during an already difficult time. Our team is committed to providing clear advice, practical support and compassionate guidance every step of the way.

If you need assistance with Probate or Estate Administration, we're here to help.

Get in touch https://hillssolicitors.com.au/