Many of the firms are based in Orange and Forbes, and include: Blackwell Short Lawyers, LS Legal, Cheney Suthers Lawyers, Moore & Co Solicitors, Hughes & Co, NGT Lawyers, Kenny Spring Solicitors, Rebecca Scott Legal, Kneebone & Associates Solicitors, and Toby Tancred Solicitors. 

President of the Law Society of NSW Joanne van der Plaat commended the firms for stepping up in a time of crisis. 

“I’m awestruck but not surprised by the willingness of our members, who themselves may be flood-affected, to come to the aid of locals who need urgent legal help,” she said. 

“This offer of help follows our members’ pro bono efforts following the floods in Lismore earlier this year and in the wake of the catastrophic bushfires in late 2019.”

Central West Law Society president Dannielle Ford added that the devastation left by floods could also leave insurance, tenancy and finance problems that can evolve into serious and complex legal issues. 

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“Residents of flood-affected areas are still in survival mode, cleaning up and assessing what’s left of their homes and property. Legal problems may not emerge for weeks or even months after the disaster, but when they do, many lawyers are prepared to pitch in to help,” Ms Ford said. 

“I’m proud to stand alongside fellow lawyers to provide pro bono assistance to those impacted by the floods with insurance claims, negotiation for rent relief or abatement and negotiation of terms with lenders. These firms are providing a great example to others in the region and across NSW to engage in providing free legal help.”