Legal Aid provides free advice for young Queenslanders

Children and young people were today reminded of the free legal advice and information service offered to under-18s by Legal Aid Queensland, as Law Week (12 to 19 May) celebrations continued across the state.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said dealing with legal issues could be a daunting experience at any age, but particularly for younger Queenslanders caught up in criminal proceedings, family breakdowns and civil disputes.

“This week’s celebrations are all about opening the doors to the law and making it more accessible to those less familiar with the workings of our justice system,” Mr Shine said.

“Legal Aid Queensland does that throughout the year and has specialist youth teams that provide information, advice and, in certain circumstances, representation for young people under 18 years.”

“Last year, Legal Aid Queensland provided free advice to more than 1400 young people on a wide range of legal issues, including some that were extremely serious and needed immediate attention.”

“Most issues relate to problems at home, school or with the police, as well as consumer matters such as mobile phone contracts and buying items they can’t really afford.”

“Youth Legal Aid deals with criminal matters and the Youth Advocate assists with issues such as discrimination and suspension or exclusion from school.”

Mr Shine said Law Week was a great opportunity for young people to find out more about their rights and the services available to them by joining the online discussion forum being hosted by Legal Aid Queensland on the Get Involved website at www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au.

“The forum will remain open until the end of the month and gives participants a chance to exchange views and have their questions answered by experts,” he said.

“Hopefully it will help young people avoid some of the more obvious legal pitfalls they may encounter, but we also want to let them know they can always talk to a solicitor at Legal Aid Queensland and get fast, relevant, confidential advice.”

15 May 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400 or 0418 197 350 kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au