Massive surge in complaints against state’s lawyers

COMPLAINTS against lawyers have skyrocketed in Tasmania over the past two years.

COMPLAINTS against lawyers have skyrocketed in Tasmania over the past two years.

The Legal Profession Board of Tasmania received 120 complaints last financial year, up 140 per cent from 50 in 2015-16, according to their latest annual report.

The number of complaints in 2017-18 increased by 56 per cent from 77 in the previous year. There were 118 accusations at lawyers, 103 of whom hold local practising certificates.

Four complaints were also made against government lawyers.

Allegations relating to costs, incompetence, and rude, abusive or threatening behaviour made up half of all grievances.

Legal Profession Board of Tasmania chair Keyran Pitt QC said the increase in complaints placed greater pressure on the Board’s resources.

Law Society of Tasmania president Will Justo said it was pleasing there was no increase in the number of findings against lawyers despite the significant rise in complaints.

Three practitioners were found guilty of unsatisfactory professional conduct, the same as 2016-17. One lawyer was suspended and fined while another was reprimanded.