Law Handbook Now Available Free Online
Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls has launched a free version of an online legal handbook designed to help Victorians understand and exercise their legal rights.
Mr Hulls said the free online version of the Fitzroy Legal Services Law Handbook would ensure all Victorians had access to quality legal information and services via the Internet.
“The Law Handbook explains the law in plain English to empower individuals, particularly those who are disadvantaged, to make informed decisions about their affairs without resorting to lawyers in the first instance,” Mr Hulls said.
“The goal is to provide better legal outcomes for the community by increasing the public’s awareness and understanding of the legal system.”
The online Law Handbook is a fully searchable online legal information resource, with a comprehensive legal index and links to relevant organisations, legal cases and legislation.
It covers more than 24 areas of law, including family law, debts and bankruptcy, tenancy and neighbour disputes, consumer issues, employment disputes, discrimination, immigration and insurance disputes.
Mr Hulls said the Law Handbook had been available online since 2007 by purchasing a subscription or via computers at local, school and university libraries.
“Anyone with access to the Internet can now use the Law Handbook for free,” he said.
“Equipped with basic legal knowledge, Victorians can be more confident in seeking legal advice, protecting their legal rights, and resolving issues through legal channels.”
The Law Handbook has been produced annually by the Fitzroy Legal Service since the first edition was published in 1977. Every year, more than 70 legal experts volunteer their time to ensure its accuracy and usability.
The online handbook is available at www.lawhandbook.org.au.