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New directory makes migration lawyers more searchable
Victorian migration lawyers will now be more easily found by potential clients with a new directory created by the state’s premier legal body.
Naomi Neilson
The directory can be used by clients needing legal expertise about their migration into Australia and by other lawyers wanting to draw on additional assistance in their own client’s cases. With this new way of identifying lawyers, clients will be able to access visa options and pathways to permanent residency and citizenship anytime.
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Law Institute of Victoria (LIV) president Tania Wolff said the publication of the directory – which now lists over 130 lawyers – followed the end of dual regulation for migration lawyers. Moving forward, migration lawyers are able to offer services independently of the regulation framework guiding migration agents.
“This allows people seeking immigration assistance a clearer choice between lawyers and migration agents,” said Ms Wolff.
She added that lawyers must demonstrate qualifications, fitness to practice and professional standards to retain their annual practising certificate. Lawyers are also covered by professional indemnity insurance and fidelity funds to protect clients.
To be eligible to appear in the directory, migration lawyers must be a member of LIV, hold a current legal practising certificate and not be subjected to any disciplinary actions by the Victorian Legal Services Board or a similar body in other states.
