Professional Standards Scheme

Improving standards. Reducing risk.

The Law Society of New South Wales Professional Standards Scheme

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 selected amounts provided they meet the Scheme’s requirements.

The Law Society of New South Wales Professional Standards Scheme (the Scheme) commenced on 22 November 2018.

There are some important changes to both the benefits under this current Scheme and its operation.

For the first time, an Incorporated Legal Practice (ILP) may apply for participation in or exemption from  the Scheme (provided the ILP entity is eligible). 

Mutual recognition of the Scheme has also been approved.

The current Scheme, as approved by the Professional Standards Councils and in accordance with the relevant professional standards legislation, requires 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 Application Portal

All private law practices with members must:

  1. Register Scheme participation; OR
  2. Apply for an exemption

2021-2022 Scheme Year

  • The 2021-22 Scheme Year begins 22 November 2021 and ends 21 November 2022.
  • Applications may be completed via the online Scheme portal online 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 Forms
If you are unable to submit your application via the portal, you may request a hard copy form from our Scheme Team. Please be aware that processing of hard copy applications will be delayed due to COVID-19 onsite staffing restrictions.

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.

Professional Standards Council


Legislation