Archives for April 2024

Last month the Victims of Crime Commissioner (VOCC) release the report “Silenced and Sidelined“. The report documented that 1 in 4 victims would not report a crime again.

Concerned by this figure we conducted a survey of our recent clients and found that 1 in 10 expressed a reluctance to report a crime again. This is two and a half times better than the industry but even one person feeling uncomfortable reporting a crime is too many. We are committed to continuously improving our services to better support victims.

Every person who feels uncomfortable reporting a crime represents a profound failure in our justice system. At YourLawyer, we refuse to accept this status quo. Our dedicated team of lawyers focuses on VOCAT matters, ensuring that victims receive the support and advocacy they deserve.

At YourLawyer, we make a tangible difference in the lives of victims through our dedicated team of lawyers focussing on VOCAT matters. Our track record speaks volumes about the level of care and attention our clients receive.

YourLawyer is proud to announce a major milestone as we celebrate a decade of dedicated service in providing legal assistance to victims of crime. This occasion comes with great pride and gratitude for the opportunity to stand alongside victims on their journey towards justice and healing.

Since our inception, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to supporting those affected by violence, and our recent achievement of assisting our 7,500th applicant in January of this year is a testament to the impact of our work.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all those within the victims assistance network who have entrusted us with referrals. Your continued support has been invaluable in our mission to provide comprehensive legal support to those affected by violent crime.

As we reflect on the past ten years, we are humbled by the trust placed in us by victims and referrers alike. It has been an honour to play a role in advocating for the rights of victims and providing them with the guidance and support they need during their time of need.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to our mission of serving victims of crime with compassion, dedication, and integrity. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue making a difference in the lives of those affected by violence, and we look forward to the journey ahead.

If I could send a message back in time to myself, I would say, “Sam, tune into Radio Eastern 98.1 on Friday evenings. They play some exceptional 90s indie Aussie music”.

I wouldn’t know this piece of life changing information without the genuinely amazing experience I had travelling with Grant Hutchinson, to participate in the two community radio segments the firm has with the radio stations 98.1 and 99.1.

Every month, Hutchinson Legal and YourLawyer answer questions put to them by the listeners of community radio. I was given the opportunity to do some research on the topic of street photography. I then got to share my research on the air and participate in some broadcasted discussion about other legal matters.

It was a phenomenal time, where I was able to learn from a senior member of the law firm, do some legal research, and engage with law topics that interest the broader community. This completely unique experience is definitely a highlight of my time doing PLT placement with YourLawyer.

 

Sam Sharwood joined YourLawyer on a practical legal training (PLT) student placement in April 2024

At YourLawyer, we understand that legal representation extends far beyond courtroom battles and paperwork. It’s about advocating for individuals who have experienced trauma, guiding them towards justice, healing, and a brighter future. That’s why we’re proud to embrace trauma-informed practice as a cornerstone of our approach.

Trauma-informed practice isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a fundamental shift in perspective that acknowledges the prevalence and impact of trauma on individuals’ lives. Whether our clients are victims of crime seeking assistance under Victoria’s state-funded scheme, individuals navigating injury compensation claims, or people seeking to migrate to Australia, they often carry the weight of past experiences that can profoundly affect their well-being and ability to engage with the legal process.

So, what does trauma-informed practice mean for us at YourLawyer? It starts with our commitment to continuous learning and development. All our lawyers undergo externally provided industry-leading trauma awareness training. This equips us with the knowledge and skills to recognise the signs of trauma, respond with sensitivity and empathy, and create a safe and supportive environment for our clients.

But it doesn’t stop there. Trauma-informed practice is woven into every aspect of our interactions with clients. From the moment they contact us, they are met with understanding and respect. We meet them in the way that best meets their needs. We take the time to listen, validate their experiences, and empower them to make informed decisions about their legal journey.

This approach is especially crucial for victims of crime and injury compensation clients. These individuals have already endured immense hardship, and the legal process can often feel like a daunting and retraumatizing experience. By adopting a trauma-informed approach, we aim to mitigate further harm and ensure that our clients feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the process.

At YourLawyer our goal is to make a positive impact in the lives of our clients. By embracing trauma-informed practice, we’re not only providing better legal representation, but we’re also fostering healing, resilience, and hope. Together, we’re paving the way towards a brighter future for those we serve.

If you or someone you know is in need of legal assistance, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our trauma-informed approach and how we can support you on your journey to justice and healing.

We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone at YourLawyer! Since 2014, our dedicated team has provided unwavering support to victims of crime. By January 10, 2024, we proudly assisted over 7,500 individuals at the Victims of Crime Tribunal.

This achievement highlights our enduring commitment to justice and advocacy for those who have suffered unjustly. Each case represents a person’s journey towards a brighter future, and we are honoured to play a part in their pursuit of healing and progress.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients for entrusting us with their stories and allowing us to stand by their side throughout their legal journey. We also thank our hardworking team, whose dedication and compassion made this milestone possible.

As we celebrate this achievement, we are reminded of the importance of providing victims with hope and the opportunity for a better tomorrow. With each case, we strive to empower individuals to reclaim their lives and move forward with renewed strength and resilience.

Here’s to the countless stories of resilience and hope, and to many more milestones ahead!