De-mystifying Trusts & Trust Planning
30 Years of Global Trust Practical Expertise
The Use and Evolution of Trusts and Foundations is a Special Interest.
Historical Evolution Of Trusts
There are a wide variety of trusts with many common names but the essence of the trust lies in the principles of equity which were developed in the Courts of Chancery. This was a court set up separately from the existing court system by the King.
The court would listen to claims based on fairness or what was equitable. These maxims gradually became to be known as the principles of equity and the concept of a trust was established in England.
Why Successful Clients Use Goldman Law?
Award-Winning Lawyers Dedicated to Your Success
Our Past Achievements Reflect Our Commitment
We are grateful that we have a record of success with our clients. We have won many or have successfully settled cases and appeals in complex cases in areas such as intellectual property, patents, licensing, commercial leases, family law, international tax, contractual and commercial disputes, class actions, medical negligence, surgical techniques, regulatory bodies and in criminal law.
OUR Local LEADERSHIP TEAM
Servicing The Greater Sydney Region
Jaswinder (Jas) Sekhon
Senior Lawyer & Principal
Australia | London | Dubai
For over 30 years, Jaswinder (Jas) Sekhon has been a leader in international law, delivering outstanding results for private clients and corporations through unwavering dedication, discretion, and excellence. His career escalated when at 27, he was seconded from Sydney to London, gaining invaluable experience in cross-border tax planning for high-net-worth individuals and corporations. This formative experience laid the foundation for Goldman Law, a firm that reflects Jas’s vision of delivering bespoke legal services tailored to the unique needs of clients, prioritizing individuality over wealth or connections.
Jas has an impressive litigation record, excelling in medico-legal matters, patents, and class actions, and is widely respected for achieving exceptional outcomes in high-stakes cases.
His expertise extends across global tax planning, finance, commercialization, cross-border transactions, trusts, estate planning, commercial litigation, and family law. Beyond practice, Jas has co-authored the seminal tax book, Barrett’s Principles of Income Tax and edited or co-authored numerous other international publications on taxation and wealth management.
Jas holds two undergraduate law degrees from the University of New South Wales and a Master of Laws from Sydney University. He is admitted as a solicitor in Australia, England & Wales, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, and New Zealand. Additionally, he has served as a Legal Consultant in the UAE, further solidifying his global influence.
Jas’s career highlights include leading structured finance banking experience with the commercialization of blockbuster films (The Matrix and The Lord of the Rings) and Merck’s world leading drug, Gardasil, as well as co-founding the EU airline start-up Cobalt Air.
Kerry Turner
Senior Manager
Client Liaison & Operations
With over 15 years of experience in client relations and operations, Kerry Turner is the cornerstone of our firm’s coordination and client management. Beyond her vital local role, she serves as a key liaison for our London and Dubai offices, ensuring seamless communication and consistent service delivery across jurisdictions.
As the first point of contact for clients, Kerry exemplifies professionalism, practical insight, and genuine care. She handles inquiries with compassion and directs client needs to our senior lawyers, prioritizing tailored, effective solutions. Her steadfast commitment to understanding and addressing client needs has set the “gold standard” for client service within our firm, transforming how our legal team operates to better serve our diverse clientele.
Kerry’s empathetic nature shines particularly in her interactions with elderly or distressed clients requiring special care. Drawing on her extensive background in human resources, international experience, and the hospitality industry, she brings a unique, human-centric perspective that elevates the standard of our client management. Despite not holding a legal qualification, her ability to connect with clients on a deeply personal level fosters trust and ensures every client feels valued and respected.
In addition to managing client relationships, Kerry fosters seamless collaboration across our legal team, promoting efficiency and unity in daily operations. Her personalized approach ensures that every client’s legal experience is not only stress-free but also positive and productive.
Through her integrity, dedication, and pursuit of excellence, Kerry has become an indispensable leader at the firm. Her compassionate and tireless approach truly embodies the “Goldman Lawyers standard,” inspiring both colleagues and clients alike.
Zeinab Elzein
General Counsel
Senior Lawyer
With over a decade of legal experience, Zeinab Elzein (“Zee”) is a highly regarded General Counsel and senior lawyer specializing in family and commercial law.
She has extensive expertise in Australian family law, including complex international matters, and is known for her meticulous approach, unwavering dedication, and deep compassion.
Zee’s commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes has earned her a reputation as a trusted advocate who provides unparalleled support to her clients during challenging times.
While family law is her primary focus, Zee’s background in commercial law sets her apart. Her expertise spans commercial dealings, civil litigation, property law, debt recovery, and even some criminal law matters. Zee has extensive courtroom experience, appearing in the Federal Courts, the Supreme Court of NSW, the NSW Court of Appeal, and the Local and District Courts of NSW.
Zee’s commercial law experience is particularly valuable in family law property settlements, where she excels in uncovering hidden or undisclosed assets.
Her sharp investigative skills have repeatedly delivered successful outcomes. Additionally, her criminal law background has been critical in contested parenting matters involving clients with criminal records or Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs).
While Zee is an experienced litigator, she prioritizes negotiated settlements, believing they often serve her clients’ best interests by reducing conflict.
Outside of work, Zee describes herself as a fearless competitor who enjoys boxing and running—reflecting her drive, determination, and commitment to excellence in every area of her life.
Mathew Nott
General Counsel
Senior Lawyer
Mathew joined Goldman Lawyers in 2020 as an experienced solicitor, bringing with him years of high-level legal expertise and exceptional communication skills that benefit both clients and colleagues alike. Since his admission to the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2017, Mathew has dedicated his career to providing outstanding legal representation across a broad range of practice areas.
His primary focus lies in criminal and commercial law, as well as estates and trusts, where he works tirelessly to deliver the best possible outcomes for his clients. Mathew’s expertise also extends to property law, medical disputes, family law, and other critical areas, demonstrating his adaptability and depth of knowledge. His ability to think critically and communicate effectively ensures his clients are always informed and empowered throughout the legal process, no matter the complexity of their case.
Before pursuing law, Mathew enjoyed a diverse professional career as a journalist and editor, honing his communication and analytical skills. He also spent over a decade as a senior public health executive in New South Wales and Queensland, experiences that have enriched his perspective and enhanced his ability to connect with clients on a human level.
Mathew holds a Diploma of Law (LPAB), a Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Journalism), and a Certificate of Business Skills from the College of Law Sydney. His varied background and academic achievements underscore his commitment to excellence.
As General Counsel at Goldman Lawyers, Mathew’s unique combination of skills, life experience, and legal expertise positions him as a standard-bearer for client advocacy and legal excellence. His pragmatic and well-rounded approach makes him an invaluable asset to the firm and its clients.
Our General Counsel
Tax, Commercial, Trusts & Complex International Matters
David Russell KC
David Russell KC
Outer Temple Chambers
(Dubai and London)
Testamentary Trusts
What are They?
Many People Use Testamentary Trusts as Part of Their Succession & Wealth Planning.
A testamentary trust is a discretionary trust established under a Will. The testamentary trust does not come into operation until your death.
Instead of assets passing directly to an individual, they pass to the trustee of the testamentary trust.
The most underrated use of trusts is in our view are will trusts or testamentary trusts. Doing a simple will does not make sense with the amount of intergenerational wealth transfer. It is easy to establish a testamentary trust as part of your will & wealth plan. Ask us how?
Typical Clients in Trust &
Wealth Law Matters Include...
Discretionary Trusts-Assets, Wealth or Tax Planning?
Over the last 30 years, successive Governments and the taxation office have moved against the use of trusts for income splitting.
Therefore, you have extraordinary and complex rules that prevent say professionals or those with personal exertion income, using discretionary trusts. The use of discretionary trusts is to move assets away from an individual who may be in a high-risk occupation or subject to litigation threats, to a trustee.
Our clients to use them to hold assets for asset protection purposes. The trust is established to benefit their children in the future and as a wealth protection and wealth accumulation tool. Professions such as architects, engineers, doctors, lawyers use of discretionary trusts for this purpose.
Hybrid Trusts
Combining Discretionary &
Fixed Trusts
We have drafted a number of hybrid trusts whereby we take advantage of fixed entitlements to say for example, a residential home to take advantage of tax exemptions.
The trust also has discretionary beneficiaries as well as units which entitle a fixed interest.
We draft bespoke trusts to suit particular client needs so as to avoid the pitfalls of a discretionary trust and yet have the benefits of the ability to stream income to low tax beneficiaries.
Suited to [geo_city_n] property assets, considerations such as home exemptions, stamp duty and land tax make this area a minefield.
Considerations such as the CGT home exemptions, stamp duty and land tax make this area a minefield that is suited to hybrid trusts.
Offshore Wealth Protection Trusts and Offshore Foundations
Whilst trusts are a creature of equity, civil law jurisdictions typically use foundations. However there is no restriction on a foundation and all trust being used in say jurisdiction such as Dubai. An offshore foundation can also establish a discretionary trust or any other type of trust.
These more complex structures but ultimately provide for the ultimate flexibility and sometimes influence over assets, inheritances, and investments without having any beneficial control over the funds.
These substructures typically suit high net worth individuals and generally are located robust jurisdictions as part of a family office structure.
We Expose Global Trust Planning!
30 years Practical Experience With Trusts & Foundations
In reading the table below, please note that many jurisdictions in the United States offer revocable trusts. The trust you have when you don’t have a trust. Some of these features are not recognised in other countries but are fantastic to use within that jurisdiction.
We have not listed foundations which are civil law (European) creatures and are based on a charter with no particular beneficial owner. This is important when we look at control and beneficial ownership in terms of taxation and asset protection.
Experience & Trust
With deep local and international expertise for over 30 years.
Growing and protecting successful individuals, family offices and business.
Experience & trust built through sheer hard work
Trusts & Wealth FAQ's
Compiled With Over 10Years of Data From Real Client Questions
How Affordable are Goldman Law? Discover our competitive pricing tailored for your unique family law needs.
Goldman Law: Where expertise meets affordability and efficiency. Don’t just choose any lawyer; choose the best for your family’s needs.
🔍 Affordability Beyond Just Hourly Rates
Goldman Lawyers boasts top-tier family law services. While our senior lawyers’ rates fall between $500-$750 per hour (excluding GST), it’s the total cost and outcomes that truly matter. It’s not just about hourly rates; it’s our unique approach and strategy that can make the difference between a $50,000 or $100,000 bill in contested cases.
🎓 Decade-Strong Expertise
Our senior lawyers come with a minimum of 10 years in family law, tackling everything from intricate legal disputes to complex financial dilemmas and domestic violence cases. With us, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re securing an expert.
💼 Efficiency is Our Middle Name
We’re swamped, in a good way! Our senior lawyers are always on the move, ensuring your case is handled swiftly and effectively. No dragging, no “milking” – just pure dedication to your case.
🚀 Tech-Savvy Legal Minds? Absolutely!
💰 Flexible Payment Plans Just For You
From deferred fees and instalment plans to flat rates and litigation finance, we’ve got you covered. (Note: No win, no fee isn’t applicable for family law.)
🛍️ Price Match Plus Benefits? Challenge Accepted!
I am Still Very Concerned About Legal Costs? Any Alternatives? Your solution to skyrocketing legal costs! Explore our Guided Self-Help option.
Goldman Law’s Guided Self-Help: Your Solution to Skyrocketing Legal Costs!
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If you’re a self-starter and comfortable working solo, our Guided Self-Help is tailored for you. Goldman Law is revolutionizing the way Aussies handle family law and other matters, offering a service that’s online, personal, and in tune with modern Australian life.
🛠️ Your Step-by-Step Guide to Massive Savings:
- Free Initial Chat: Let’s evaluate if Guided Self-Help is the right fit for your case.
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- Collaborate & Conquer: Instruct us via chat, video, and more. From drafting affidavits to handling divorces and mediation, we’ve got your back.
🎯 What’s the Buzz About Unbundled Legal Services?
Think of it as à la carte legal services. Instead of the all-in-one package, you pick and choose. You handle some tasks; we handle the rest. Whether it’s just legal advice, document drafting, or specific court representation, we’re flexible. It’s modern, efficient, and tailored to your needs.
Goldman Law’s Guided Self-Help: Empowering you to take charge, with a legal expert by your side. Say goodbye to traditional, costly legal services and hello to flexibility and savings!
What Can I Expect in the Free Strategy Session Consult? Dive deep into personalized legal strategies with our seasoned lawyers.
Goldman Law’s Free Strategy Session: Master the Art of Legal Warfare!
🔥 Harness the Power of ‘The Art of War’ in Your Legal Battle!
Sun Tzu said, “Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory.” At Goldman Law, we believe in crafting the perfect strategy for your case, inspired by the timeless wisdom of ‘The Art of War’.
🎯 Expect More than Just a Consultation
Strategic Mastery: Dive deep with a senior lawyer who understands the nuances of your case and crafts a battle plan tailored for victory.
Open Communication: The key to a winning strategy? Clear communication. We ensure you’re always in the loop, understanding every move.
The Right Approach: Every battle is unique. We analyse, strategize, and approach your case with precision, ensuring the best possible outcome.
💬 Talk is Cheap, Communication is Priceless!
What Makes Goldman Law the Preferred Choice for Clients? Learn why successful clients trust Goldman Law for our specialized expertise.
“Discover Why Discerning High-Net-Worth Clients Prefer Goldman Law 🌟
Unlock the Reasons Behind High Achievers Choosing Goldman Law for Their Legal Needs 🏆
At Goldman Law, we stand as the prime choice for affluent and accomplished clients. Our unparalleled proficiency in navigating intricate financial and familial issues has gained the unwavering trust of successful individuals. 💼
Our foundation rests upon innovation and a spirit of entrepreneurship, which translates into our legal services. A significant number of our senior attorneys boast a track record of managing diverse enterprises. This unique perspective enables us to comprehensively grasp the priorities of thriving clients – those who are resolute about triumph, regardless of the hurdles. 🚀
Our ethos revolves around a shared dedication between client and lawyer. We recognize that for clients to thrive, they require legal counterparts who mirror their ambitions. High-net-worth clients seek not just legal aid, but lawyers who resonate with their financial status. The same principle applies to determined clients; they deserve lawyers who match their zeal, and commercial clients necessitate legal minds well-versed in commerce. 💡
Our accumulated proficiencies span a wide array of intricate commercial and global subjects. This rich expertise empowers us to present an exhaustive range of solutions and strategies. When you choose Goldman Law, you’re selecting a partner equipped to lay every conceivable option on the table. 🌐
Can I Work With Any Senior Lawyer for My Family Law Case? Experience the freedom to choose from our roster of top-tier senior lawyers.
Unlock Your Choice: Handpick Your Ideal Senior Lawyer from Goldman Law’s Elite Team! 🎯
Empower Yourself with the Right Selection for Your Family Law Case!
Are you wondering if you can have a say in which senior lawyer represents you at Goldman Law? Absolutely! We take pride in offering you the freedom to curate your legal experience by selecting a senior lawyer from our roster of top-tier legal experts.
Every case is unique, and we understand the importance of a tailored approach. With our distinguished senior lawyers, you have the advantage of choosing the legal mind that resonates best with your specific family law case. 🌟
Whether you’re dealing with divorce, child custody, alimony, or any family law matter, we’ve got you covered with an array of seasoned specialists. Each lawyer brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success to the table.
Why settle for less when you can have the best-suited senior lawyer by your side? At Goldman Law, we believe in putting the power of choice in your hands. Your case deserves nothing but excellence, and we’re here to make it happen.
Reach out to us today and explore the freedom to choose. Your family law journey starts with the right senior lawyer – chosen by you, backed by us!”