1: Meet Australia’s new High Court judges

Justice Simon Steward and Justice Jacqueline Gleeson will take their new, pre-eminent positions on the High Court of Australia bench but who are they and how can the court benefit from their qualifications and experiences in the profession? We take a look into these new appointments and examine how their history could shape the court’s future. 

2: Second person freed over Lawyer X scandal

A gangland figure, who had spent almost a decade behind bars, has become Victoria’s second person to be acquitted over the Lawyer X scandal after judges with the state’s Court of Appeal found his initial prosecution was a “substantial miscarriage of justice”.

3: SA Law Society clears up abortion bill confusion

While the South Australian government debates whether to decriminalise abortion with a new bill, misinformation has been quick to spread. To address the confusion and the protests, Law Society of South Australia president Tim White explains the bill.

4: Understanding imposter syndrome in law

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Even and especially for lawyers, there are times to tame that critical voice within you, writes Dr Rina Daluz. In this opinion piece, Dr Daluz explains what imposter syndrome means for lawyers and how to overcome these negative thoughts. 

5: Reform for sexual assault bill littered with ‘problematic provisions’

A bill that would prevent sexual assault victims from being named without their consent has been criticised for its “gag” effect and has ignited calls for further consideration. 

6: The ‘fork in the road moment’ will show the true strength of the profession

From bushfires through to a global pandemic, the legal profession has withstood many challenges over 2020 but it is this new “fork in the road” moment approaching the new year which could really make or break it. NSW Law Society’s Richard Harvey has high hopes that the profession can only improve from here on out.

7: The law and a culture of sexual harassment: How the professions’ leaders are addressing misconduct at all levels

The sensational revelations that a former justice sexually harassed female associates, young students and a past law society president may have been received with outrage, disappointment and shame but it was hardly surprising to a profession that has fielded allegations and fostered toxic cultures that existed long before the #MeToo movement. With a new spotlight, the profession has an opportunity to finally make lasting change.

8: From Kirby to Callinan: How liberal are our High Court justices?

A yet-to-be-published ranking has demonstrated how likely former and current justices would be influenced by their political leanings when it comes to making legal decisions.

9: Victorian legal services receive $1m funding boost

Legal services that provide assistance to women in regional Victoria and support those applying for disability support pensions were awarded funding from the Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner as part of its legal grants program.

10: Pets and their calming influence in law offices

Five years ago, Pamela Cominos made a hugely important hire for her firm: Honey, who serves as the firm’s chief happiness officer. Having pets in the workplace encourages healthier habits whilst in the office, Ms Cominos stressed, submitting that it forces owners to take a break and constitutes a valid excuse to get out of the office and go for a walk.