Hilton Hartley Lawyers

Hilton Hartley Lawyers We practice in the areas of conveyancing, family, criminal, Wills & Estate and civil/commercial.

Lost your licence? You may still be able to drive under certain circumstances.In Queensland, there are two main options ...
21/11/2025

Lost your licence? You may still be able to drive under certain circumstances.

In Queensland, there are two main options that may allow you to continue driving after a suspension or disqualification. These are a Special Hardship Order and a Restricted (Work) Licence.

Special Hardship Orders apply when your licence is suspended by Transport and Main Roads, usually for:
• Accumulating too many demerit points
• A high-speed offence that is 40 km/h or more over the limit

To qualify, you must show that losing your licence would cause extreme hardship, such as losing your job or being unable to meet essential family responsibilities.

Restricted (Work) Licences are different. These may be available to some people convicted of drink driving for a low-range reading, provided:
• You held an open licence at the time of the offence
• You were not driving for work purposes when charged
• You have not had any drink or drug driving convictions in the past five years

A Work Licence allows you to drive only for work-related purposes and under strict conditions set by the Court.

Understanding the difference between these two options is important, as eligibility depends on how and why your licence was lost.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we assist clients with both Work Licence and Special Hardship Order applications to ensure they have the best possible chance of staying on the road legally.

What is a Granny Flat Agreement and why do people get one?A Granny Flat Agreement is a formal arrangement that allows a ...
20/11/2025

What is a Granny Flat Agreement and why do people get one?

A Granny Flat Agreement is a formal arrangement that allows a parent or family member to live on another family member’s property. It may involve building a separate dwelling or modifying an existing home, often with a financial contribution made in exchange for the right to live there for life.

These agreements are becoming increasingly popular as families find ways to stay connected and provide support while maintaining independence and financial security.

It is important that Granny Flat Agreements are properly documented. Without a clear written agreement, there can be significant risks if relationships change or the property is sold.

A well-prepared agreement sets out everyone’s rights and responsibilities, including living arrangements, contributions, and what happens if circumstances change.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we prepare tailored Granny Flat Agreements that protect both the practical and personal interests of everyone involved.

Why do banks require guarantors to obtain independent legal advice?When you agree to act as a guarantor, you are accepti...
18/11/2025

Why do banks require guarantors to obtain independent legal advice?

When you agree to act as a guarantor, you are accepting legal responsibility for someone else’s loan if they cannot repay it. Because of the financial risk involved, lenders require guarantors to obtain independent legal advice before signing the documents.

This process protects both the guarantor and the lender. It ensures the guarantor understands:
• The full extent of their financial obligations
• The circumstances in which they could become liable for the debt
• The impact on their personal assets and credit history

A lawyer’s certificate of advice confirms that these risks have been explained in plain language, helping prevent disputes later.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we provide clear and thorough advice on guarantor documents so you can sign with confidence, fully understanding your rights and responsibilities.

17/11/2025

We know it’s not always easy to see a lawyer during normal office hours, especially if you’re working or juggling family commitments.

To make it easier, Hilton Hartley Lawyers will be offering extended opening hours on the following dates:

a) Saturday, 13 December 2025 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
b) Thursday, 18 December 2025 – open until 7:30pm
c) Saturday, 17 January 2025 – 8:00am to 12:00pm
d) Thursday, 29 January 2025 – open until 7:30pm

If you’ve been putting off getting legal advice about family law, conveyancing, wills and estates or general legal matters, this is a good chance to come in without needing to take time off work.

To book, send us a message here or contact our office and we’ll confirm a time that suits you.

Buying and selling at the same time? Here’s what to include in your contract.Many homeowners sell their current property...
13/11/2025

Buying and selling at the same time? Here’s what to include in your contract.

Many homeowners sell their current property and buy a new one on the same day. While this is common, it can be stressful if the timing or contract terms are not properly managed.

When entering into a contract, it’s important to consider clauses that protect you, such as:
• Subject to contemporaneous settlement – ensuring both sales settle on the same day.
• Subject to the sale of your current property – allowing you time to sell before committing to purchase.
• Finance and building and pest conditions – to protect you from unexpected issues or funding delays.

Having these clauses included and properly drafted can help you avoid costly complications and ensure a smooth transition between properties.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we assist clients who are buying and selling simultaneously, ensuring both contracts align and settlements proceed without stress.

When should you update your Will?Your Will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever sign, but it shoul...
12/11/2025

When should you update your Will?

Your Will is one of the most important legal documents you will ever sign, but it should not be a “set and forget” document.

You should consider updating your Will when your circumstances change. This includes:
• Getting married or divorced
• Buying or selling property
• Having children or grandchildren
• Starting or selling a business
• A change in your financial situation or personal relationships

Updating your Will ensures your wishes are current and that your loved ones are protected.

If it has been several years since you reviewed your Will, now is a good time to make sure it still reflects your intentions.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we make updating your Will simple, efficient, and affordable.

Buying your first home? Here’s what to keep in mind.Purchasing property is one of the biggest financial decisions you wi...
10/11/2025

Buying your first home? Here’s what to keep in mind.

Purchasing property is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make, and understanding the legal process helps ensure everything runs smoothly.

Before signing a contract, it’s important to:
• Review the terms carefully and understand your rights as a buyer.
• Have our conveyancer review your draft contract for free before you sign.
• Ensure all conditions, such as finance approval or building and pest inspections, are clearly stated in the contract.

Having an experienced lawyer handle your conveyance helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures settlement goes ahead without unnecessary stress.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we act for buyers and sellers across Queensland, providing clear communication and practical guidance from start to finish.

Parenting plans and parenting orders – what’s the difference?When parents separate, it’s important to have clear arrange...
07/11/2025

Parenting plans and parenting orders – what’s the difference?

When parents separate, it’s important to have clear arrangements for children’s care, communication, and living arrangements.

A parenting plan is an informal written agreement between parents. It is flexible and based on mutual understanding, but it is not legally enforceable.

A parenting order, on the other hand, is made by the Court and is legally binding. It can be based on an agreement between parents (known as consent orders) or determined by a judge if parents cannot agree.

Understanding the difference helps parents make informed decisions about what best suits their family’s situation.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we help parents reach practical and child-focused arrangements that work.

07/11/2025

We will be open on Saturday, 15 November 2025 from 8:00am to 12:00pm.

We understand that many families and individuals have busy schedules during the week, so we have made ourselves available on this day to assist with Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Conveyancing, Family Law enquiries, and general appointments.

There are still appointment times available.

If you would like to secure a time, please contact our office on (07) 5610 8060 or send us a message and we will confirm your booking.

We look forward to assisting the Pimpama community.

Thinking of going guarantor or signing loan documents? Read this first.Whether you are helping a family member buy their...
05/11/2025

Thinking of going guarantor or signing loan documents? Read this first.

Whether you are helping a family member buy their first home or taking out a new loan yourself, it is vital that you understand the documents you are signing.

When you act as a guarantor, you are legally agreeing to be responsible for the loan if the borrower cannot pay. Many people do not realise the full financial and legal risks involved until it is too late.

Independent legal advice protects you by ensuring you fully understand your rights and obligations before signing. It is often a requirement of the lender and, more importantly, it is your chance to ask questions and receive clear advice tailored to your situation.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we provide practical and thorough advice on loan and guarantor documents, so you can sign with confidence.

Planning ahead is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your loved ones.A Will ensures your asset...
03/11/2025

Planning ahead is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your loved ones.

A Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
An Enduring Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make financial or personal decisions if you are unable to.
An Advance Health Directive records your medical treatment preferences to guide your doctors and family in the future.

Together, these documents form the foundation of a strong estate plan. They protect your interests, reduce uncertainty, and provide peace of mind knowing everything is clearly set out.

If it has been more than a few years since you reviewed your estate planning documents, now is the perfect time to ensure they still reflect your current wishes.

💔 When Love Changes Direction 💔Isn’t love wonderful when everything feels right? But when love fades, what’s left can be...
01/11/2025

💔 When Love Changes Direction 💔

Isn’t love wonderful when everything feels right? But when love fades, what’s left can be raw emotions, shared memories, and difficult decisions about property, finances, and children.

At Hilton Hartley Lawyers, we understand that when you come to see us, it may be one of the hardest days of your life. We’re here to listen, to guide, and to help you move forward — with empathy, professionalism, and clear advice.

Our focus is to help you:
✅ Resolve your parenting and property matters as quickly and fairly as possible
✅ Reduce stress and conflict wherever we can
✅ Start rebuilding and creating your new life with confidence

You don’t have to face it alone. 💬 Talk to us today for compassionate legal guidance and practical solutions to help you through.

Address

Shop 16, 102 Pimpama Jacobs Well Road
Pimpama, QLD
4209

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+61756108060

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