Professional Standards Scheme
Improving standards. Reducing risk.
The Law Society of New South Wales has continuously administered Schemes as an exclusive benefit for its Members in private practice since 1996.
These Schemes are specifically designed to promote professional standards, enhance consumer protection and to enable private practice members to limit their civil liability to an amount as set out in the Scheme Instrument, provided they meet the Scheme’s requirements.
The Law Society of New South Wales Professional Standards Scheme (Scheme) commenced 22 November 2024.
There are some important benefits under the Scheme and its operation.
An Incorporated Legal Practice (ILP) Member may register participation in, or apply for exemption from, the Scheme (provided the ILP entity is eligible).
Mutual recognition of the Scheme is also an important feature of the approved Scheme Instrument. For more information on Mutual recognition please click here.
The Scheme, as approved by the Professional Standards Councils and in accordance with the relevant professional standards legislation, requires Law Society Members in private practice to apply for exemption from the Scheme if they do not wish for the Scheme to apply to them.
If you have any queries regarding the Scheme, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Society Scheme Administration team by email scheme@lawsociety.com.au or on 02 9926 0189 for assistance.
Information on the Scheme
Online Scheme Portal
All private law practices with Solicitor Members must either:
- Apply to register their participation in the Scheme; OR
- Apply for an exemption from the Scheme
2024-2025 Scheme Year
- The 2024-25 Scheme Year begins 22 November 2024 and ends on 21 November 2025.
- Applications may be completed via the online Scheme portal.
Scheme applications
Credit Card Payments
In accordance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard the Law Society is unable to accept hard copy Scheme applications submitted by email that contain credit card holder details. If received, such applications will be treated as incomplete and immediately deleted to comply with the Law Society’s obligations under the Standard.
Hard Copy Applications
If you are unable to submit your application via the portal, you may request a hard copy application from our Scheme Team. Please be aware that processing of hard copy applications may be delayed.
We encourage you to use the Online Scheme Portal.
Please call 02 9926 0189 if you need our help in using the portal. We are very happy to walk you through the process.