New domestic violence legal service for the Gold Coast

Gold Coast families dealing with painful domestic violence court matters will have access to a new, free legal assistance service as part of Queensland’s commitment to tackling violence at home.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Jarrod Bleijie today welcomed the establishment of a new Southport Domestic Violence Duty Lawyer service, operated by Legal Aid Queensland.

“The Government made a commitment to Queensland families that we would make this state the safest place to raise a family which is why we recently set up the Domestic Violence Special Taskforce, which is being led by former Governor General Quentin Bryce,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Domestic violence matters can be extremely stressful, painful and complex and this free new service will help victims, as well as people who are responding to a domestic violence order application, navigate their way through the processes as well as identify other possible avenues for support and assistance.

“Families are our number one priority and we want to take the strongest lead possible in reducing and preventing domestic and family violence and ensuring that there is timely and appropriate support for victims.

“I congratulate Legal Aid Queensland for its proactive approach to tackling such a devastating and complex issue.”

Legal Aid Queensland CEO Anthony Reilly said domestic violence had a devastating effect on families, children and communities.

“The duty lawyers provide free legal information and advice, help clients to fill out forms and documents needed for that day in court, discuss the clients’ eligibility for ongoing support from legal aid in the domestic violence matter and other related legal problems, and provide referrals to appropriate support services,” Mr Reilly said.

“In limited circumstances, the duty lawyer may also appear in court on the client’s behalf for their domestic violence matter.”

“This new duty lawyer service is an example of Legal Aid Queensland’s commitment to partnering with private law firms and community support services to ensure people can access free legal help quickly to help address and resolve their legal issues.”

The Southport Domestic Violence Duty Lawyer Service is available from 10am each Monday and Tuesday at the Southport Magistrates Court. The service is delivered by private law firms in the region on Legal Aid Queensland’s behalf.

All Queenslanders can get free legal information and advice from Legal Aid Queensland by calling 1300 65 11 88 (local call cost if you are calling from a landline in Australia) from anywhere in the state.

[ENDS] 19 November 2014

Media Contact: Ashley McDermid 0412 731 355 or Jaime Wells 0409 624 139