Wirringa Baiya

Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women's Legal Centre

Call us on 1800 686 587 or (02) 9569 3847

Our Service is Free and Confidential


	Lawyers

	What is a Lawyer? A lawyer is somebody who knows about the law When should I speak to a lawyer? You should speak to a lawyer: if you have a question about your legal rights (Lawyers are happy to answer questions. Wirringa Baiya has a free number you can call just to ask questions) if you think you have a legal problem if you have to go to court before you answer any questions from the Gunjies if you are in an unsafe situation and you want to know how the law can protect you. Types of Lawyers The word lawyer is used for solicitors and barristers. They have studied law and have a special certificate that says they can 'practise' as a solicitor or barrister. A Solicitor is a lawyer that most people deal with. A solicitor can: Answer questions about the law Give legal advice and information Get documents ready for you in court Appear for you in court A barrister is a lawyer who is an expert in court work and different areas of law (they are the ones that sometimes wear the funny wigs and long black gowns). You would get a barrister if you have a matter that was very serious or very complicated. Dealing with a lawyer A lawyer should: use plain language and use examples to explain things to you give you time to ask any questions answer any questions you have be polite and respect you and your culture explain what they can and cannot do for you explain what needs to happen next keep you up to date on what has happened NOT do anything, or say anything to another person, about your matter unless you agree. You should: NOT be afraid to tell your story or your problem NOT tell lies ask questions if you do not understand something listen to what your lawyer says be polite feel comfortable with your lawyer. Where can I find a lawyer? Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women's Legal Centre (WBAWLC) WBAWLC is a community organisation run by Aboriginal women for Aboriginal women and children under the age of 18. They give free legal advice on most things other than criminal law. (02) 9569 3847 or freecall: 1800 686 587 Community Legal Centres (CLC's) CLCs are community organisations which offer free legal advice and information. Some CLCs are based in your local area and others are state-wide. Most CLCs can give advice about many different types of legal problems and usually have a free number to call. Aboriginal Legal Services (ALS's) Aboriginal Legal Services offer free legal services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders only. ALS's have offices around the state and mostly focus on criminal law. Sydney ALS can be contacted on 02 9318 2122 Legal Aid Commission of NSW The Legal Aid Commission is a government organisation which offers legal assistance for many different types of legal problems. They have a freecall number for people under 18 which you can ring for some information and advice 1800 101 810. Disclaimer: The information contained on this Fact Sheet is only meant as a guide and cannot replace legal advice. If you have a legal problem you should speak to a lawyer for some legal advice. Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women's Legal Centre excludes liability for any loss suffered by any person which results from the use or reliance upon the information contained on this Fact Sheet.