All QLS News Headlines

24 May 2013 – Government legal officers and practising certificates

Do you think you are a government legal officer? Do you need a practising certificate?

21 May 2013 – QLS Annual Ball 2013 – image gallery

Check out the photos from the QLS Annual Ball - you may see someone you know!

21 May 2013 – Law Week promotes law's strength

Queensland Law Society was involved in a number of events in Law Week 2013, held 13-19 May. These events presented current issues to stakeholders and the public, promoted the profession’s important role to the community, and celebrated our professional pride with our members.

16 May 2013 – We are hiring! Instructional Designer and Trainer

Experienced instructional designer and trainer required to design, develop and deliver training and assessment materials, and provide support and feedback to students. Apply online now!

15 May 2013 – Media release: QLS unearths Brisbane’s dark side

Queensland Law Society will expose the sinister, sordid and surprising criminal history of Brisbane’s iconic landmarks at a free presentation at the Law Week Open Day 2013 on 18 May at the Brisbane Courts Precinct.

10 May 2013 – Make a difference on the Free Legal Advice Panel

As a result of the resignation of Brian Bartley (of Bartley Cohen) as a member of the Free Legal Advice Panel, we now invite Queensland Law Society members to apply to be appointed to the Free Legal Advice Panel.

9 May 2013 – Media release: Government comes round on YJ conferencing

Queensland Law Society (QLS) today welcomed the government’s proposed introduction of a community reparation model, similar to the court-ordered youth justice conferencing previously in place. Read full media release online.

7 May 2013 – We are hiring! Helpdesk Officer

Reporting to the Information Systems Team Leader, you’ll be responsible for ensuring the delivery of information system services to QLS staff and first level support for QLS members interacting with QLS through our website.

1 May 2013 – QLS proposes move from stat body

We’re seeking member feedback on a planned change to our corporate structure. Currently a statutory body, we propose to shift structures to a company limited by guarantee.

30 April 2013 – May edition of Proctor available online now for members!

Wellbeing and resilience are a key concern for all lawyers. This month’s Proctor supports the QLS love law, live life campaign with articles that highlight practical steps for practitioners and firms to improve their wellbeing, the particular problems in this area for early career lawyers, and the importance of psychosocial risk management. Access online

24 April 2013 – Media release: JP (Quals) could compound dispute unease

Queensland Law Society is concerned about the decision to trial Justices of the Peace (Qualified) to preside with legally experienced Justices of the Peace over certain QCAT matters. Read full media release online.

24 April 2013 – Brave new webinar world

Next month, Queensland Law Society will launch a new webinar service as part of our professional development (PD) offering.

17 April 2013 – We are hiring: Membership and Marketing Manager

Responsible for developing and implementing targeted marketing and engagement strategies to ensure retention, growth of membership and revenue targets are met through the uptake of our products and services. Read full details online!

16 April 2013 – Media release: Unexplained wealth law a mystery

Queensland Law Society said today they were mystified at why proposed unexplained wealth legislation was introduced when similar legislation already exists. President Annette Bradfield said that the Criminal Proceeds Confiscation Act 2002 already enabled judges to penalise people convicted of major crime and drug offences in this manner. Read full media release online.

3 April 2013 – We are hiring! Position: Advertising Executive

A diverse role offering you the opportunity to build on your account management skills and to enhance our ability to reach new and existing advertising clients. Read full position details

25 March 2013 – Will precedents guide volume 4 - on sale now!

Do you have an interest in wills and estates? QLS, with the greatly appreciated assistance of McCullough Robertson’s Tim Whitney, have updated the Will precedents guide.

25 March 2013 – Latest release of 'Legal guide for primary producers' available now!

Latest release of 'Legal guide for primary producers' is available online for member now!

20 March 2013 – Media release: QLS counsels a considered approach to CJ’s proposed changes

Queensland Law Society (QLS) said today that changing the balance in the criminal justice system required careful consideration and consultation, in light of the issues raised by Chief Justice Paul de Jersey on Friday 15 March. Read full media release.

12 March 2013 – Media release: Global Rein exposes challenges

Queensland Law Society and Women Lawyers Association of Queensland are hosting a breakfast with iconic entrepreneur Thérèse Rein presenting on Challenges for a Global Leader. Read full media release

12 March 2013 – Media release: Drug laws high on ambiguity

Queensland Law Society said today proposed amendments to Queensland’s drug laws were ambiguous in a number of important aspects, exposing lawful activity to potential criminal sanctions. Read full media release

12 March 2013 – Media release: Resourceful Symposium attracts the best minds

The legal profession’s thought leaders in mining, energy and resources law will present on current issues for this major economic pillar at Queensland Law Society’s Symposium on 15-16 March. Read full media release

12 March 2013 – QLS position vacant: Advertising Executive

This is a diverse role offering you the opportunity to build on your account management skills and to enhance our ability to reach new and existing advertising clients. In addition to the role’s primary advertising function, you will also be given the opportunity to work closely with the Sponsorship Manager on a range of diverse sponsorship and events activities. Read full position details

4 March 2013 – March Proctor now available online for members now!

Highlights of the March edition of Proctor include a lead story on the new national econveyancing system and former High Court Chief Justice Sir Gerard Brennan discussing the application of the rule of law in everyday practice. Research shows that switching to part-time work may not be the career-killer we previously thought, and you can see how our members sprang into action to help their community in battered Bundaberg. Mediators will find a report which goes to the “edges of orthodoxy” in mediation of particular interest. Access online

25 February 2013 – QLS media release: LAWASIA moves headquarters

International law association LAWASIA will move offices from Queensland to New South Wales later this year, after almost a decade being hosted by the Queensland Law Society. Read full story online.

18 February 2013 – Latest QLS submissions

The latest QLS submissions to Parliamentary Inquiries are available for access online.

13 February 2013 – Media release: Lawyers and working in the Asian Century

Queensland Law Society is providing a forum for sharing knowledge about key legal developments and reflecting on changes in the profession that the Asian century can bring. President Annette Bradfield said QLS Symposium 2013, the Society’s signature annual conference, would examine the legal profession’s regional ambitions and potential. Read full story online

13 February 2013 – Publication of QLS’ police referral list: version 3 available online now!

The QLS police referral list for criminal law matters is now in use in police stations across Queensland. Members of the Society can access an updated version 3 of the list and the nomination form online.

13 February 2013 – Update on transitional issue in lodging development applications

Recent amendments to the Sustainable Planning Act which took effect immediately on the date of assent (22 November 2012) have created a transitional risk for clients and solicitors lodging development applications. Read full story

11 February 2013 – Media release: Government change to benefit thousands

Queensland Law Society today congratulated the state government on its review of legislation that could have a positive impact on thousands of property-related businesses and consumers. Read full media release

1 February 2013 – February edition of Proctor now available for members!

This edition includes: new Alternative Dispute Resolution column, and feature articles How to stop lawyers leaving law firms, and Residential tenancies 101 – the basis for every lawyer. Find out more about the new QLS president Annette Bradfield in her first President’s report A year for all lawyers. Access Proctor online

29 January 2013 – New guidance note from our Ethics Centre

The Ethics Centre has published a new guidance note for members whose law practices are affected by recent flooding and extreme weather conditions - access online!

11 January 2013 – Welcome to our new President

We warmly welcome Annette Bradfield as Queensland Law Society’s 2013, and 60th, President. Annette is a partner of Fox Bradfield Lawyers practising primarily in property and commercial law.

11 January 2013 – Symposium 2013 special offer for past attendees!

Did you attend Symposium 2010, 2011 or 2012? If so, register before 8 February 2013 to receive the special past delegate rate of $900. To secure this rate, please complete this exclusive offer registration form and send with accompanying payment prior to 8 February 2013.

7 January 2013 – We are hiring! Senior Trust Account Investigator

You will work with a team of professionals to undertake trust account investigations within law practices to assess a firm’s compliance with the legislative requirements in the Legal Profession Act 2007 - apply online now!

6 January 2013 – Admission sittings for January 2013

The next admission ceremony is on 29 January 2013, access details on the collection dates of application documents.

20 December 2012 – QLS Christmas closing times

Queensland Law Society is closed from 4pm Friday 21 December 2012 and will reopen 8:30am Wednesday 2 January 2013. Have a safe and enjoyable Christmas from all of us at QLS and we will see you again in the New Year!

20 December 2012 – Christmas closing period for the Supreme Court Library

The Supreme Court Library will be closed from 5pm Friday 21 December 2012 – reopening from Monday 7 January 2013.

12 December 2012 – Media release: Welcome relief for families in dispute

Queensland Law Society today welcomed the announcement of Queensland judicial appointments to the Family Court of Australia as a means of hopefully speeding up delayed judgments. Read full media release

11 December 2012 – Law Foundation-Queensland 2011-12 annual report

Law Foundation-Queensland 2011-12 annual report and financial statements available online now!

6 December 2012 – Transitional issue in lodging development applications

The recent amendments to the Sustainable Planning Act which took effect immediately on the date of assent (22 November 2012) have created a transitional risk for clients and solicitors lodging development applications. Read full story

5 December 2012 – QLS media release: Weakness in “tough on crime” approach

Queensland Law Society said today there were a number of weaknesses in the government’s “tough on crime” approach, highlighted by new criminal wealth and assets legislation. Read full media release

4 December 2012 – December edition of Proctor available online now!

Key stories include: “Arrivederci Oz – Italian sisters v the Hague Convention”, and “Signatures in a digital world – So far so good, but big risks await the unwary”. Available now to download for QLS members

28 November 2012 – Media release: Property law gets some modern love

Queensland Law Society today congratulated the government on introducing legislation for econveyancing, bringing a centuries-old process into the modern world. Read full media release.

26 November 2012 – Media release: 20 years of shame of 17 year olds in prison

The recent story on Hack about 17 year olds in prison highlighted the sorry state of affairs that has hung over the Queensland criminal justice system for 20 years. Read full media release

22 November 2012 – Media release: Concerns over proposed synthetic drug classification

Queensland Law Society said there could be unintended consequences with proposed changes to the classification of ‘synthetic drugs’. Read full media release

19 November 2012 – We are delighted to present our inaugural President’s Medal

Celebrating ‘Leadership in Law’ among the state’s practitioners, this very special award will recognise: commitment; contribution; and outstanding performance in the Queensland legal profession.

16 November 2012 – Childrens law – new online resources

QLS provides resources on children’s law issues for practitioners. Children’s law affects practice areas such as family, criminal and international law and access to justice issues. Access new resources online.

16 November 2012 – The Hon Justice Margaret McMurdo AC - Lawyers duties: A view from the judiciary

The President of the Court of Appeal, the Honourable Justice Margaret McMurdo AC has kindly permitted publication of her address to the 5th Annual North Queensland Symposium delivered on 9 November 2012. Access online.

16 November 2012 – Position vacant – Graduate Policy Solicitor

Join the QLS team! We’re currently recruiting for a Graduate Policy Solicitor to work with our proactive Advocacy team – find out more!

14 November 2012 – Agnes McWhinney Award Winner 2012

The winner of this award was Kelly Roggenkamp, solicitor at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service. To view photos of the night, please visit our Facebook page.

14 November 2012 – 2012 Woman Lawyer of the Year Awards

The Women Lawyers Association of Queensland (WLAQ) in conjunction with the Queensland Law Society recently presented the 2012 Woman Lawyer of the Year Awards and the prestigious Agnes McWhinney Award at their annual Awards Dinner

5 November 2012 – Media release: Child protection inquiry raises questions for QLS

Published today, Queensland Law Society’s submission to the Child Protection Commission of Inquiry raised the issues of children’s legal needs while in care.

Read full media release

31 October 2012 – November edition of Proctor available online now for members!

Interesting articles in this month's Proctor including: Toughen up - The key changes in Queensland criminal law; Budget bites on duties - Important changes to transfer and landholder duties; The surrogate's progress - A question of state law, or children's best interest. Download now!

30 October 2012 – Difference between the ASCR 2012 and Solicitors Rule 2007

A step in understanding the new Rules is to compare them to the former Rules. For details on the difference between the ASCR rule and Solicitor Rule 2007, please download the comparison table.

29 October 2012 – QLS speeds up delayed judgments process

We’ve reduced QLS processing time for delayed judgments inquiries. Newly-developed electronic forms will enable QLS practitioners to easily submit requests for us to chase up judgments.

24 October 2012 – Children’s Law paper – a voice for the vulnerable

Today, we launched our Children’s Law policy position’s paper that provides the platform on which we stand on a range of legal issues affecting children and young people.

24 October 2012 – Melbourne Cup "A Spring Affair"

Queensland Law Society in collaboration with Chartered Secretaries of Australia invites you to attend Melbourne Cup day in style at 'A Spring Affair'.

19 October 2012 – Notice of Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Queensland Law Society will be held on Thursday 15 November at 5:30pm.

19 October 2012 – Yearly account of accomplishments

Our 2011/12 annual report is now available and includes operational highlights, insightful statistics on the legal profession and a wrap-up of member events and services – you might even see yourself in these pages!

16 October 2012 – Equity, diversity & flexibility

The section on ‘Equity, diversity & flexibility’ within our website has been updated to include information on issues such as work-life balance, lawyers working in regional areas, cultural diversity and gender equity. Check out the great resources online!

9 October 2012 – Retention of Lawyers in the Regions: Queensland

Lawyers are encouraged to participate in the Queensland survey on retention of lawyers in the regions, available online!

5 October 2012 – 2012 Agnes McWhinney Award - call for nominations!

Queensland Law Society (QLS) is now calling for nominations for the Agnes McWhinney Award, which acknowledges outstanding professional or community contribution by a woman lawyer who has practised as a solicitor. Access award details.

3 October 2012 – Media release: Queensland Law Society urges AG to reconsider on NLPR

Queensland Law Society today urged the Queensland Attorney-General to reconsider his decision not to move ahead with the National Legal Profession Reform.

1 October 2012 – October edition of Proctor available online now for members!

Read about the practical implications of the new 'family violence' and 'abuse' definitions!

19 September 2012 – Media release: Judicial appointments welcome

Queensland Law Society today welcomed the announcement of judicial appointments to the Supreme Court and Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC).

17 September 2012 – President's video - September 2012

QLS President Dr John de Groot video update - September edition available online now  for QLS members!

14 September 2012 – Media release: The vulnerable vetoed in court cuts

Queensland Law Society today expressed disappointment that the state government has decided to cut three courts critical to diverting vulnerable people from prison.

13 September 2012 – Media release: Reporting Bureau closure a concern for confidentiality

Queensland Law Society today expressed its concern regarding the government’s announcement that production of court proceedings records will be outsourced to the private sector.

12 September 2012 – State budget 2012-13 highlights

Yesterday's State budget delivered both savings and cost increases across the legal industry. Access the highlights online.

7 September 2012 – QLS Vacancy: Manager - Learning & Professional Development

Join our team as Manager, Learning & Professional Development and lead the strategic development and delivery of learning and professional solutions for the Queensland legal profession.

29 August 2012 – Media release: Gag clauses concerning

Queensland Law Society said today an attempt by the government to gag those who receive 50 percent or more of their funding from speaking out about legislation was extremely concerning.

29 August 2012 – September issue of Proctor available online now for members!

September issue of Proctor available online now for members! Cover story: Using today's technology in Queensland courts.

23 August 2012 – Introducing Queensland Law Society venue facilities

Queensland Law Society offers a professional conference venue and a range of meeting rooms which are conveniently located in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD at Law Society House, Level 2, 179 Ann Street, Brisbane.

23 August 2012 – Media release: Society welcomes permanent guardian system appointments

Queensland Law Society today welcomed the government’s permanent appointments of an Adult Guardian and Public Advocate.

22 August 2012 – More mandatory sentencing

Police Minister Jack Dempsey this morning announced the passage of the Criminal Law Amendment Bill 2012 through parliament last night.

17 August 2012 – Offender Levy commences on Tuesday, 21 August 2012

The Queensland Government has introduced a levy to be applied to any adult offender sentenced from Tuesday, 21 August 2012, which will be enforced by the State Penalties Enforcement Registry.

14 August 2012 – QLS police referral list and nomination form

QLS police referral list and nomination form available online now!

14 August 2012 – QLS office closure - Wednesday 15 August

Queensland Law Society will be closed on Wednesday 15 August 2012 for the Royal Queensland Show holiday and will reopen on Thursday 16 August 2012 at 8:30am.

13 August 2012 – Media release: Government leaves rent in Tenants’ Union funding

Queensland Law Society (QLS) said today the government’s decision to reduce the funding of the Tenants' Union of Queensland will likely put more pressure on struggling community legal centres (CLCs).

10 August 2012 – Postion vacant: Ethics Solicitor

Excellent opportunity for a generalist who is passionate about giving back to the legal profession through the provision of ethical guidance.

3 August 2012 – Supreme and District Court Tours

Due to popular demand, there will be another tour of the new Supreme and District Court on Friday 17 August 2012. Book early to avoid disappointment!

30 July 2012 – Media release: Offender penalty costs to hit taxpayers’ pockets

Queensland Law Society today criticised a government proposal to introduce an offender levy.

17 July 2012 – Media release: Queensland Law Society names the government’s shame

Media release: Queensland Law Society names the government’s shame

16 July 2012 – Welcome to your new website!

It’s a big move away from the old website, and a definite change for the better. Our new Queensland Law Society (QLS) website has an updated look-and-feel, refreshed content and clearer navigation.

25 June 2012 – 2011/12 Advocacy Annual highlights another stellar year

Queensland Law Society is proud to present the second annual QLS Advocacy Annual, providing a synopsis of the most important advocacy issues undertaken by the Society from May 2011 to April 2012.

20 June 2012 – Transfer duty change to help solicitors, clients

The Queensland Government has reinstated transfer duty concessions for non-first home buyers, encouraging property purchases, use of solicitor services and saving potential clients thousands of dollars.

4 June 2012 – Making our website work for you

Project Connect is upgrading a number of our business systems. For members, the most important upgrade will be the new QLS website.

24 May 2012 – Office of Fair Trading business name registrations and practitioner guidance

QLS would like to remind practitioners that 4pm 25 May 2012 is the deadline to submit applications in person at the Office of Fair Trading for: New business name applications, changes to existing business name applications, requests for certificates or requests for extracts.

30 April 2012 – 3-in-1 enewsletter launched

On Thursday 26 April, Queensland Law Society launched our new-look QLS Update. Our signature enewsletter now incorporates PD News and Legislation Update to provide a streamlined and engaging publication that is easier to navigate and read.

13 April 2012 – Geoffrey Robertson QC presentation

Here is an excerpt of Geoffrey Robertson's presentation at Symposium as broadcast on the Big Ideas segment on ABC’s Radio National.

3 April 2012 – Australian Solicitors Conduct Rules 2012

The QLS Ethics Centre advises that on 1 June 2012 the Australian Solicitors Conduct Rules (ASCR) commence. The ASCR will replace the Solicitors Rule 2007. The rules are designed to be the first set of uniform professional conduct rules for Australia. Queensland is the second State to notify the commencement.

Attend the In Focus: Introduction to the Australian Solicitors' Conduct Rules 2012 on 10 May (also available via videoconference) to hear more about how the new Rules will apply in practice. Designed to introduce the new rules, an expert panel will explore proposed changes including paramount duty and other fundamental ethical duties, duty to effectively communicate with a client to permit the client to make informed choices, resolution of concurrent conflicts of duties, client documents and liens over essential documents.

27 March 2012 – Phone it in

Queensland Law Society is improving its call response service to help members, stakeholders and the public quickly receive accurate information. Currently, the Society has a two-person contact centre for members and non-members and there are two separate phone numbers for legal professionals and members of the public

22 March 2012 – Planned QLS website outage

Please note that due to building power maintenance works at Law Society House both the QLS and Lexon websites will be unavailable from 5pm Friday 23 March until mid-Sunday 25 March.

5 March 2012 – QLS Limitation of Liability Scheme: Survey

The Professional Standards Councils, who oversee schemes such as the QLS Limitation of Liability Scheme, are undertaking research on the impacts of Professional Standards legislation (which enabled the scheme). Please support their research by reading the below and completing the survey.

Access the information sheet.

21 February 2012 – Queensland legislation impacted by the Civil Partnerships Act

The Civil Partnerships Act 2011 (“the Act”) was passed by the Queensland Parliament in late 2011. The Act allows a couple, regardless of sex, to enter into a civil partnership, subject to eligibility criteria.

8 February 2012 – Planned QLS website outage

Due to building power maintenance works at Law Society House both the QLS and Lexon websites will be unavailable from 5pm Friday 10 February until late Sunday 12 February.

Emails sent to QLS during this time will queue and be delivered to recipients at the end of the outage. Lexon emails will be unaffected.

25 January 2012 – PPSR and Conveyancing Settlements

The Personal Property Securities Register (the Register) and the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth) (PPSA) will come into operation on 30 January 2012. The PPSA will apply to the release of security interests over personal property on and from that day. Land is not personal property under the PPSA and the PPSA does not apply to interests in fixtures.

2 December 2011 – New version of REIQ contracts to be released Monday 5 December 2011

The new versions of the standard REIQ House & Residential Land and Residential Lots in a Body Corporate contracts have now been approved for release on Monday 5 December 2011.

29 November 2011 – Society on front foot in State election lead-up

Queensland Law Society is on the front foot in the lead-up to the next election, sending 11 priority legal profession issues to the ALP and LNP.

25 November 2011 – Personal Property Securities Register commencement times announced

The Federal Attorney-General has issued a formal Determination and Explanatory Statement setting out the following times for the commencement of the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR).

15 November 2011 – Annual General Meeting of Queensland Law Society Inc.

A reminder that the QLS Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 16 November 2011, at Law Society House, 179 Ann Street, Brisbane, commencing at 5.30pm.

7 October 2011 – Queensland Law Society Council elections results

We are pleased to announce the results of the Queensland Law Society 2012-13 Council elections. Congratulations to all those who have been elected. It has been great to see the innovative ways our candidates engaged with the membership and embraced the new and different methods of getting their campaign messages across.

26 September 2011 – Make a difference in the profession and your community – join a QLS policy committee

Queensland Law Society members are invited to join one of our 2012 policy committees that provide specialised advice and advocate for members’ rights and interests.

12 September 2011 – Have your say and vote in the Council elections

Voting is now open in the Queensland Law Society 2011 Council elections and all members are encouraged to have their say at this crucial time in the profession’s history.

26 August 2011 – Changes to court fees and child protection legislation

From Monday 29 August, changes to the Child Protection Act 1999 will come in force with the introduction of the Child Protection and Other Acts Amendment Act 2010.

On 1 September 2011 the Uniform Civil Procedure (Fees) and Other Legislation Amendment Regulation (No. 1) 2011 will commence.

23 August 2011 – QLS 2011/12 strategic plan – a blueprint for member service

Queensland Law Society’s 2011/12 strategic plan has just been released, providing a blueprint for future member service.

12 August 2011 – Call for nominations for the Agnes McWhinney Award 2011

Queensland Law Society is now calling for nominations for the Agnes McWhinney Award, which acknowledges outstanding professional or community contribution by a woman lawyer who has practised as a solicitor.

10 August 2011 – New QLS Council elections site shaped to meet members’ needs

The QLS Council e-elections site is up and running, shaped to meet members’ needs with the latest election information and resources.

18 July 2011 – Queensland Government State election – let them hear your voice

Queensland Law Society is determined that the voice of legal practitioners is heard at the next State election.

5 July 2011 – Elder abuse concerns highlight a growing problem

This week Queensland Law Society released a critical report (PDF 2.6MB) on elder abuse following public consultation which highlighted a wide array of concerns with this growing problem.

29 June 2011 – Updated QLS Legal Services Award Guide

The Queensland Law Society's Legal Services Award Guide has been updated to include new minimum wages and meal allowances set by Fair Work Australia effective from 1 July 2011. There have also been changes to wages for traineeships incorporated into the Legal Services Award 2010 available on the Fair Work Australia website.

24 June 2011 – Business development and marketing guide available now

With the start of the new financial year, now is a great time for Queensland Law Society members to access the free Business development and marketing guide, containing great ideas for building your business.

9 June 2011 – Advocacy Annual launch!

Queensland Law Society is proud to launch the inaugural Queensland Law Society Advocacy Annual! The 2010/11 Advocacy Annual provides an overview of the most important issues tackled by the Society in the 2010 calendar year and the beginning of 2011 sorted by areas of legal practice. The briefs cover the issues’ backgrounds, actions conducted and outcomes achieved.

31 May 2011 – Queensland solicitors keep costs fair and just

Queensland Law Society stated today recent media regarding legal costs referred to an isolated incident and that, on the whole, solicitors kept costs fair and just.

24 May 2011 – Completing new BCCMA disclosure statements

Queensland Law Society has published a practice guidance document in response to queries about completing the new REIQ disclosure statements, in particular the new requirements in sections 206(2)(b) and 213(2)(a) of the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997 (BCCMA) which describes the extent to which the levies are based on contribution schedule lot entitlements and interest schedule lot entitlements. The document is useful for completing these disclosures.

12 May 2011 – Build your profile and your business - Contribute to Proctor

Build your personal professional profile and your organisation’s reputation – submissions for the July, August and September editions of Proctor are now welcome.

4 May 2011 – Get stuck into Law Week!

Looking for something different to do 16-22 May? There’s a cavalcade of fabulous activities on offer during Law Week for everyone to enjoy.

27 April 2011 – New trust account reviews to make record keeping easier

Queensland Law Society’s new trust account compliance reviews, starting 1 July 2011, will help law practices comply with their legislative record keeping requirements and ensure good trust account management practices.

15 April 2011 – Body Corporate and Community Management and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2010

The Body Corporate and Community Management and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2010 became law on 14 April 2011 after the changes received Royal Assent. Queensland Law Society has developed Body Corporate legislation information regarding major aspects of this legislative change.

12 April 2011 – Choice of charity in your hands

Queensland Law Society members have the chance to make an extraordinary difference to a special non-profit and help choose the Society’s Charity of Choice for 2011/12.

11 April 2011 – Brisbane Law Courts access cards now a permanent feature

Initiated by the Queensland Law Society and the Bar Association of Queensland, legal practitioner access cards are now a permanent feature of the Brisbane Law Courts Complex.

25 March 2011 – Equity and Diversity Award

Nominations are now open for the Queensland Law Society 2011 Equity and Diversity Award. The award aims to encourage all Queensland legal practices to promote staff diversity and accommodate lifestyle needs.

25 January 2011 – Legal Services Award – 2011 introductory guide out now!

Queensland Law Society has updated its Introductory Guide to the Legal Services Award.

17 January 2011 – Make a difference on the Free Legal Advice Panel

Applications are now open for Queensland Law Society members to make a difference and apply to join the Free Legal Advice Panel.

17 January 2011 – Prescribed account deposit calculation tool

A new Queensland Law Society calculation tool helps law practices calculate their Prescribed Account Deposit, due on or before 21 January each year.

30 November 2010 – New REIQ Contract Versions Now Available – Swimming Pool Legislation

The Queensland Government's new swimming pool safety compliance regime comes into effect on 1 December 2010. To assist with the transition, the fourth edition of the Residential Lots in a CTS contract and the eighth edition of the House and Residential Land contract for contracts formed on and from 1 December 2010 are now available. If you have any issues accessing the new contracts, please call QLS’ call centre on 3842 5888.

19 November 2010 – Client Relations Centre now at Legal Services Commission

On Friday 10 December 2010, responsibilities held by the Queensland Law Society’s Client Relations Centre will be transferred to the Legal Services Commission (LSC).

9 November 2010 – New swimming pool legislation information now available

Queensland Law Society has published valuable information regarding the new Pool Safety Certificate disclosure regime.

28 October 2010 – Family Law Regulations, Family Court form and fee changes

The Family Law Amendment Regulations 2010 (No.2) will take effect from 1 November 2010.

26 October 2010 – Review decisions of Q-Comp - new procedures

The Queensland Industrial Relations Commission (QIRC) has advised of procedures to take effect from 1 November 2010 when the QIRC assumes responsibility for appeals against review decisions of Q-Comp under the Civil and Criminal Jurisdiction Reform and Modernisation Amendment Act 2010.

26 October 2010 – New tax system for managed investment trusts

Queensland Law Society calls for comments on the new tax system for managed investment trust discussion paper.

4 October 2010 – Agnes McWhinney Award goes to Judge Fleur Kingham

Judge Fleur Kingham was awarded the Queensland Law Society Agnes McWhinney Award for her contribution to access to justice.

1 October 2010 – PAMDA and BCCMA amendments commence today

Amendments to the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act 2000 and the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997 made by the Property Agents and Motor Dealers and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2010 commenced today, 1 October 2010.

21 September 2010 – PAMDA transitional arrangements

Queensland Law Society has developed an introduction to transitional arrangements for the Property Agents and Motor Dealers and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2010.

20 September 2010 – Pool safety reforms

Queensland Law Society ensures flexible post-settlement period is included in pool safety reforms passed on 15 September 2010.

20 September 2010 – Land Valuation Bill 2010 passed

The new Act changes the way land valuations are determined.

13 September 2010 – Go Red for Women Heart Health Challenge

Our charity of choice, the Heart Foundation, is conducting the 10-week Go Red for Women challenge.

9 September 2010 – Land Valuation Bill 2010 introduced into Parliament

The Land Valuation Bill 2010 has been introduced after the Government's close consultation with Queensland Law Society.

31 August 2010 – Financial aspects of civil jurisdiction reform - guidance released

Queensland Law Society has released guidance material that outlines the transition to the changes to the financial jurisdiction of the civil courts.

27 August 2010 – Start dates of stage one Moynihan reforms announced

The start dates of the staged introduction of the Moynihan reforms have been proclaimed - with some introduced from 1 September 2010.

26 August 2010 – Improved court access for solicitors

Queensland Law Society members can obtain a special access card for the Brisbane Law Courts complex.

25 August 2010 – Queensland Government confirms National Occupational Licensing System not to bring conveyancers to Queensland

Queensland Treasurer confirms the Queensland Government does not intend to license conveyancers.

18 August 2010 – Amendments to PAMDA and BCCM regarding residential property sale contracts passed

The Property Agents and Motor Dealers and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2010, which amends the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act 2000 and the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997, was passed in State Parliament last night.

17 August 2010 – Changes to residential property sale contracts

The Property Agents and Motor Dealers and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2010 currently before Parliament will commence on 1 October 2010.

13 August 2010 – Queensland Law Society responds to National Legal Profession Reform Draft Bill and Rules

Queensland Law Society has lodged its submission to the National Legal Profession Reform Taskforce in response to the draft Bill and Rules.

9 August 2010 – Civil and criminal reforms passed by Parliament

The Civil and Criminal Jurisdiction Reform and Modernisation Amendment Bill was passed by Parliament on 3 August 2010.

4 August 2010 – Integrity Act reform to help legal practitioners

Queensland Law Society has successfully lobbied Government for amendments to the Integrity Act 2009 to assist legal practitioners in dealing with government agencies.

5 July 2010 – Autonomous Sanctions Bill 2010

The Queensland Law Society recently made submissions to the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee regarding the Autonomous Sanctions Bill 2010, which proposes to implement sanctions that may have a practical impact on legal practitioners who engage in transactions that involve international entities.

1 July 2010 – Franchising Code updated and commencing 1 July 2010

Amendments to the Franchising Code announced by Minister Craig Emerson on 4 June 2010 come into force today.

29 June 2010 – Updates to standard REIQ House & Residential Land and Residential Lots in a Community Titles Scheme contracts

The REIQ and the Queensland Law Society have agreed to amendments to the standard REIQ House & Residential Land and Residential Lots in a Community Titles Scheme contracts.

21 June 2010 – Consultation on conduct rules for lawyers begins

Queenslanders are invited to comment on draft national conduct rules for lawyers during a two-month consultation period.

17 June 2010 – Elder abuse: How well does the law in Queensland cope?

A discussion paper has been launched about how the legal system can better protect older Queenslanders from abuse.

15 June 2010 – Workers' compensation reforms to commence 1 July

The Workers' Compensation and Rehabilitation and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2010 was passed by the Queensland Parliament on 9 June 2010 and will begin on 1 July.

25 May 2010 – Find out more about Legal Profession National Law

The draft national legal profession legislation has been released for public consultation until 13 August 2010.

25 May 2010 – National Legal Assistance and Access to Justice Campaign

The national Legal Aid Matters campaign aims to improve access to justice for all Australians.

30 April 2010 – Queensland Law Society scheme set to cap liability

The Professional Standards Council has approved a Queensland Law Society scheme that will protect members from uncapped damages claims.

29 April 2010 – WorkCover reforms reflect Society advocacy

WorkCover reforms announced by State Government are in line with Queensland Law Society recommendations.

27 April 2010 – Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing survey of legal practices extended

The closing date for the Australian Institute of Criminology’s anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing survey has been extended until 31 May.

20 April 2010 – Australian Consumer Law and the new Unfair Contract Terms Law

The Governor-General has provided Royal Assent to the Trade Practices Amendment (Australian Consumer Law) Act (No.1) 2010.

13 April 2010 – Mandatory standard terms document for subleases subject to the Land Act 1994 (Qld)

The Department of Environment and Resource Management now has a mandatory standard terms document for subleases subject to the Land Act 1994 (Qld).

7 April 2010 – National credit regime registration period begins

The National Consumer Credit Regulation Regime is set to commence operation from 1 July 2010.

7 April 2010 – Changes in juvenile justice come into force

The Juvenile Justice and Other Acts Amendment Act 2009 commenced on 29 March 2010.

30 March 2010 – Discussion of national reforms at the QLS Vincents’ Symposium

Chief Justice Paul de Jersey AC and Federal Attorney-General Robert McClelland MP discuss the need for comprehensive consultation and independence of the legal profession in the national legal profession reform process.

30 March 2010 – New QLS legal ethics website launched

The Australian Lawyers’ Ethics website aims to provide lawyers and the public with access to ethics information, tools and resources.

23 March 2010 – Civil liability changes

The Civil Liability and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2010 amends several aspects of common law damages and civil liability threshold amounts.

17 March 2010 – Personal injury advertising and referral arrangements

Law practices have until 31 March 2010 to ensure they comply with the new Legal Services Commission guidelines.

17 March 2010 – Anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing reform

The extension of anti-money laundering legislation to the legal profession is being reconsidered by the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department.

17 March 2010 – QLS liaises with OSR

The QLS has liaised with the Office of State Revenue to resolve the legal profession’s concerns.

17 March 2010 – Valuation of Land and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2010

The QLS has undertaken successful advocacy in relation to a Bill, which proposed a major change to land valuations.

9 February 2010 – Queenslanders risk losing right to trial by jury

Proposed reforms to the Queensland justice system could remove the right to a trial by jury, lead to miscarriages of justice and increase costs.

8 February 2010 – Legal Careers Expo to highlight diversity of profession

The State’s legal industry will be on show to more than 500 law graduates at the third consecutive Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo.

5 February 2010 – Chamber music in the Banco Court

Queensland’s own chamber orchestra, the Camerata of St John’s, will perform in the Banco Court on 5 March 2010.

2 February 2010 – Nominations open for domestic violence prevention awards

The Queensland Government’s 2010 Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards are now open for nominations.

18 January 2010 – Have your say at the ASIC regional stakeholder meetings

The ASIC regional stakeholder liaison meetings are your chance to raise issues of importance to you.

14 January 2010 – Congratulations to newly accredited specialists

The QLS congratulates those practitioners who completed the specialist accreditation assessment in 2009.

13 January 2010 – Change in Legal Aid Queensland criminal law funding guidelines

From 1 January 2010, the Legal Aid Queensland criminal law funding guidelines were amended.

5 January 2010 – QLS launches its 48th Annual Vincents' Symposium 2010 program

Discover how to navigate change affecting the legal profession when the Queensland Law Society presents the 48th Annual Vincents’ Symposium 2010 to be held 26-27 March at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

22 December 2009 – Queensland Law Society celebrates professional excellence

Queensland lawyers’ achievements and contributions within the profession and the broader community were celebrated at the recent Queensland Law Society’s annual President’s Christmas Cocktails and Awards ceremony.

30 November 2009 – 2010 Constitutional Law Conference and Dinner

A major conference on constitutional law will be held at the Art Gallery of New South Wales on Friday 19 February.

10 November 2009 – Transitional information for QCAT commencement December 1

What is happening with the launch of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal and how will it affect you?

6 November 2009 – LCA seeks national profession to benefit lawyers and consumers

The Law Council of Australia says that any new uniform system regulating the practice of law in Australia must be structured to preserve the independence of the legal profession and benefit legal services consumers.

6 November 2009 – Changes to building and construction law

Legal practitioners should note regulatory changes to building and construction law that will impact on the advice they give to consumers and contractors.

20 October 2009 – QLS sections and committees - seeking expressions of interest

Members wishing to join any of the QLS policy sections and committees are invited to submit expressions of interest for participation in 2010.

8 October 2009 – QLS Redesigned Website Goes Live

The new QLS website offers a clean look, better navigation and fresh content.

6 October 2009 – Victim Assist Qld – expressions of interest – referral database

Victims of crime have new rights under the "Victim Assist Queensland" scheme from December 1.

6 October 2009 – Brisbane City Council online rates inquiry tool

Having problems with inconsistent results from the Brisbane City Council online rates tool? We have some answers.

QLS Public Education Initiative

The "Solicitors. Your Experts in the Law" is a landmark marketing and public education campaign aimed at overcoming old-fashioned public perceptions about who solicitors are and what solicitors do.

Guidance note for members whose law practices are affected by recent flooding and extreme weather conditions