Hills Solicitors

24/09/2026

Maitland Riverlights returns to The Levee Central Maitland on 10 October, transforming the city into a vibrant global village. Visitors can explore more than 40 cultures through food, music, dance, language and live performances.

Collect a cultural passport, visit the Global Kitchen, Language Lounge and performance stages, then stay for the Finale Showpiece and community lantern flotilla along the riverbank.

It’s always a highlight on Maitland’s event calendar and a wonderful celebration of the diversity within our community.

Find out more:
https://www.maitlandriverlights.com.au/

20/09/2026

Reaching an agreement after separation is an important step, but putting it in writing may not be enough to protect you.

Consent Orders can formalise agreed parenting, property or financial arrangements, making them legally binding and enforceable. They can provide clarity for both parties and help reduce the risk of future disputes without the need for contested court proceedings.

Before applying, it is important to understand whether the proposed arrangements are appropriate and protect your interests.

Learn more about Consent Orders and how our family law team can assist:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/services/consent-orders/

Hills Solicitors draft and file consent orders for parenting and financial matters in NSW, securing court-binding agreements without litigation. Family law solicitors in Maitland since 1894.

17/09/2026

If you believe you’ve been unfairly dismissed, acting quickly is essential.

Employees generally have just 21 days from the date their dismissal takes effect to lodge an unfair dismissal application with the Fair Work Commission. Extensions are only granted in limited circumstances, so waiting can mean losing the opportunity to make a claim.

Our latest article explains the 21-day deadline, who may be eligible to apply and how compensation is assessed.

Read the full article:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/insights/unfair-dismissal-compensation-21-day-deadline/

If you’re unsure about your dismissal, seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Unfairly dismissed in NSW? Learn how the strict 21-day deadline works, whether you're eligible, and how much compensation you can realistically get. Hills Solicitors, Maitland.

13/09/2026

FAQ: What is the process for filing for divorce in NSW?

To apply for a divorce, you must generally have been separated for at least 12 months and one day. An application is then filed with the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

You can apply individually or jointly with your former spouse. If you make a sole application, the documents must be formally served on your former spouse. Additional requirements may apply if you have children under 18 or have been married for less than two years.

Our family law solicitors can explain the requirements, assist with preparing and filing your application, and guide you through each stage of the process.

Learn more:
https://hillssolicitors.com.au/services/separation-divorce/

Going through separation or divorce in NSW? Hills Solicitors guide you through applications to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and protect your interests. Maitland-based, established 1894.

10/09/2026

We’re lucky to live and work in a community that knows how to make the most of spring.

The Maitland Garden Ramble returns on 19 and 20 September, inviting visitors to explore a collection of beautiful local gardens while supporting worthwhile causes.

Presented by the Rotary Club of Maitland, the weekend will also feature Devonshire teas prepared by the Maitland CWA CWA a Maitland Garden Club plant stand. All proceeds will be donated to local charitable organisations, including Maitland HealthStays.

A great opportunity to enjoy Maitland in spring and support the community at the same time.

Find out more:
https://www.mymaitland.com.au/event/maitland-garden-ramble/

The Garden Ramble has beautiful properties whose owners have been preparing to inspire your green thumb.

06/09/2026

Buying your first home is a major milestone, and having the right guidance can make all the difference.

We’re pleased to share this feedback from first home buyers who worked with Daniel and Sarah throughout their conveyancing journey:

“We had an excellent experience as first home buyers with Hills Solicitors. Daniel was thorough, honest and an open book with any and all questions we had, making the whole process smooth and stress-free. Thank you also to Sarah for requesting and sending out our documents promptly. We would use Hills Solicitors for conveyancing again and highly recommend!”

Thank you for trusting our team with your first home purchase. We wish you all the best in your new home.

Get in touch to see how we can support you:

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

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.