Legal Professionals were told of the practical obligations imposed on them by the passing of The Legal Profession Act 2007 at a breakfast seminar in September.

Hosted by The University of Queensland Law Graduates Association at Customs House, the seminar was presented by a panel of speakers representing the two branches of the profession and the governing body.

Mr Liam Kelly S.C. on behalf of the Bar Association of Queensland and Mr Peter Eardley on behalf of the Queensland Law Society discussed some of the implications of the new Act for Law Firms and Barristers. These included improving billing and administrative practices and the need for detailed disclosure statements and cost agreements.

Queensland’s Legal Services Commissioner, Mr John Briton, explained the role of the Legal Services Commission under the Act in dealing with complaints about the conduct of solicitors, barristers and law practices employees.

The Commission deals with many such disputes using informal methods such as mediation. These disputes are normally disagreements and misunderstandings between the client and lawyer, but occasionally lead to findings of misconduct on the part of the lawyer.

The Act provides for the regulation of legal practice in Queensland in the interests of administration of justice, and for the protection of consumers of the services of the legal profession and the public generally. It also facilitates the regulation of legal practice on a national basis across State borders.

Law firms in Queensland have until 1 January 2008 to comply with the new professional costs requirements and until 31 March 2008 to comply with the new trust account obligations.