Legal Articles & Insights

Do not rely on appearances alone

A property inspection can reveal its physical condition, but it does not by itself establish that the seller has the legal right to transfer the property or that the title is free from relevant claims or restrictions.

Checks to discuss with your lawyer

• Verify the identity and authority of the seller.
• Review the available title documents and relevant land records.
• Investigate any applicable encumbrances, disputes or restrictions.
• Confirm the property's location, boundaries and description.
• Check relevant consent, registration, tax and payment requirements.

The appropriate checks depend on the property, the documents available and the applicable state and federal laws.

Practical takeaway: Seek independent legal verification before making an irreversible payment or commitment.

Every family situation is different

Family disputes can involve marriage, children, financial responsibilities, property or other sensitive matters. The appropriate legal approach depends on the facts and the interests and rights of those involved.

Where appropriate and safe, constructive communication, negotiation or mediation may help parties explore possible solutions. Some matters, however, require formal legal proceedings or urgent protection.

Helpful first steps

• Keep relevant documents and records organised.
• Understand the issues that need to be resolved.
• Consider the interests and welfare of any children involved.
• Obtain confidential advice about your specific circumstances.

No one should feel obliged to participate in mediation or direct discussions where there are safety concerns, coercion or abuse.

Practical takeaway: Early, appropriate legal guidance can help you understand your options and responsibilities.

Start by preserving information

When a dispute arises, it is important to understand what happened, what was agreed and what outcome may be available. Relevant documents and communications can help a lawyer assess the circumstances.

Steps to consider

• Preserve relevant contracts, receipts, correspondence and records.
• Prepare a factual timeline of important events.
• Avoid destroying records or making threats.
• Review any notices, court papers or deadlines promptly.
• Ask a lawyer whether negotiation, mediation or litigation may be appropriate.

Legal deadlines and procedural requirements can be important. Do not delay obtaining advice where a formal notice or court document has been received.

Practical takeaway: A timely assessment can help you understand the risks, available options and next steps.

Plan for more than the launch

The structure selected for a business can affect decision-making, ownership, recordkeeping, regulatory obligations and how responsibilities are shared.

The right option depends on the nature and scale of the business, its owners, funding arrangements, risk exposure and future plans. Registration alone does not remove every legal or financial risk.

Questions worth considering

• Will the business have one owner or several?
• How will decisions and profits be shared?
• What records, filings and regulatory obligations will apply?
• How will disputes, changes in ownership or closure be handled?
• What professional advice is needed before registration?

In Nigeria, requirements can depend on the chosen structure and the activities the business intends to undertake.

Practical takeaway: Consider obtaining legal and accounting advice before selecting a structure or entering into commitments with business partners.

Legal advice is not only for court cases

Lawyers can assist with reviewing documents, explaining legal obligations, identifying risks, negotiating terms and helping clients understand available options.

Seeking advice before signing a significant agreement or completing a property transaction may help identify issues while there is still an opportunity to address them.

Consider getting advice when:

• You are asked to sign an important contract.
• You are buying, selling or transferring property.
• Your business faces a significant dispute or regulatory question.
• You receive a formal legal notice or court document.
• You need guidance on a family or personal legal matter.

Practical takeaway: You do not need to wait until a matter reaches court to ask a lawyer about your options.