REINFORCING THE ROLE OF SOLICITORS IN OUR COMMUNITY (continued)

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I POLICY AND REPRESENTATION

We aim to harness the collective knowledge of our members so that we can speak with the authority of the whole NSW legal profession when it comes to advocating improvements to the law and access to justice. In 2011/2012 we made more than 140 policy submissions to government. Over the next year, key issues we will be involved in include:

• Reforms to compulsory third party motor vehicle insurance

• The establishment of a consolidated NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal

• Reforms to planning, strata and community title laws • Revisions to the standard forms for power of attorney • The development of a national e-conveyancing system • The implementation of a National Legal Profession. www.lawsociety.com.au/advocacy

Law Society Pro Bono Scheme

The Law Society Pro Bono Scheme coordinates referrals to registered law firms. Pro Bono work is provided on a free or substantially reduced fee basis (a means and merit test is applied) to people who are unable to pay for legal help and have been refused Legal Aid.

T 02 9926 0364 www.lawsociety.com.au/probono

National Law Week

Held in May each year, Law Week aims to promote a greater understanding of the law as well as raise awareness in the community about how to access legal services and advice. More than 120 community-based events are held across NSW, including major legal expos, open court days and free legal seminars.

Members can get involved through regional law societies or by participating in events such as the Law Week Expos and the PILCH Walk for Justice.

T 02 9926 0253 www.lawweek.com.au

Will Awareness Day

Will Awareness Day is aimed at educating the public about the importance of having a properly drafted and up- to-date will. The Law Society, together with the regional law societies, co-ordinates more than 100 free community information sessions around the state. Will Awareness Day will take place in the second half of 2013.

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SERVICES GUIDE 2013

The Law Society of New South Wales

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