Michaela Schmidt

Michaela's journey to the legal profession began with a distinguished tenure in the Defence Force, providing her with a unique perspective and a disciplined approach to legal challenges. Growing up in Queensland, Michaela has developed a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape and client needs in the region. Since joining JMA Legal in 2012, Michaela has established herself as a pivotal figure within the firm's commercial team. Her extensive expertise encompasses a broad range of areas, including wills and estate planning, where she adeptly handles simple wills, power of attorney matters, guardianship appointments, and complex testamentary trusts. Michaela is also proficient in succession planning, dealing expertly with intricate business structures, discretionary trusts, superannuation, and property transfers. Her capabilities extend into commercial probate matters, where she manages the intricacies involved with skill and precision. Michaela excels in drafting partnership agreements, shareholder agreements, and unit holder agreements, ensuring seamless and compliant business operations. Furthermore, her proficiency in preparing trust and superannuation deeds is complemented by her adeptness in advising on Revenue NSW duty, tax exemptions, and providing rulings on these critical issues. Her insight into capital gains tax matters, with a focus on small business exemptions, adds further depth to her practice. Michaela's expertise is particularly valued in structuring businesses and orchestrating business succession solutions, where her attention to detail and strategic foresight ensure robust and beneficial outcomes for clients. Her involvement in personal estate planning, especially concerning testamentary trusts, as well as her guidance in powers of attorney and guardianship appointments, underscores her commitment to comprehensive client care. Michaela is known for managing the commercial nuances of complex probate matters with finesse, providing mentorship and support to junior lawyers navigating challenging property issues. Her rising involvement with self-managed superannuation funds reflects her dynamic approach to evolving legal landscapes. Working closely with Jim Main, Michaela plays a key role in devising and implementing sophisticated succession strategies for both rural and urban business environments, showcasing her dedication to delivering customised and effective solutions for all clients.