12 Jul 2023

Pay rise for duty lawyers

From Morning Report, 7:57 am on 12 July 2023

The Legal Services Commissioner has announced a pay rise for duty lawyers.

The hourly rate will increase to $103 on weekdays, and $126 on weekends.

These lawyers are an integral part of the justice system and are available at courts to give free legal help to anyone who has been charged with an offence.

Liz Bulger, a Law Society committee member and a duty lawyer herself, is hoping it will encourage others to take on the role as centres around the country struggle to fill their rosters.

Bulger spoke to Charlotte Cook.