Queensland Law Society Media Release

Week to Emphasise Role of Law in Society

Everybody at some time and for different reasons needs help. People don’t have to face problems alone when a solicitor is only a phone call away. The Queensland Law Society is set to remind the community that the legal system is there to serve the public, when Law Week commences tomorrow.

Law Week is celebrated nationally and aims to raise community understanding and appreciation of the law and our legal system. An open day at the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday, 10 May 2008 will officially launch Law Week across Queensland and other activities will involve both lawyers and the community.

With the theme ‘Linking You and the Law’ for Queensland for Law Week this year, Queensland Law Society President Megan Mahon said it was a good opportunity for Queenslanders to be aware of the legal services available to them, and the invaluable assistance provided by solicitors.

“The legal profession is always working to ensure people have access to justice services and we’re here to help to safeguard individual rights,” Mrs Mahon said.

Celebrating its 80^th year of incorporation, the Queensland Law Society seeks to emphasise the role solicitors’ play in the community, from helping people buy and sell property, defend them in court, write their wills ad provide a wide range of advice.

“Solicitors are approachable, they come from all cultural backgrounds, are youthful and mature and, importantly, they know the law that affect all of us, we are also actively involved in the community through volunteer work, by supporting sporting and community groups,” Mrs Mahon said.

Since the Queensland Law Society was founded 80 years ago, the legal profession has grown from 350 practicing solicitors to some 7500 across Queensland. The Queensland Law Society makes submissions on new legislation and laws affecting everybody to government and other agencies, and is proactive in its community involvement, offering a service specifically for schools and community education.

“While the responsibilities of the QLS have evolved over the years, the belief in and support of a unified profession has remained constant. The solicitors today proudly maintain our tradition and ethics and are the people to call when faced with family issues, workplace relations, the sale or purchase of a home, contractual obligations or issues of justice.”

“You don’t need to handle these situations on your own,” Mrs Mahon said.

A full list of activities being hosted during Law Week, including those by the Queensland Law Society, can be found on the Department of Justice and Attorney-General website: www.justice.qld.gov.au.