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Accredited Family Law Specialists
Below is a selection of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to Family Law Accreditation.
How does a solicitor qualify for accreditation status?
To become accredited as a Family Law Specialist, a solicitor has to demonstrate a high standard of ability and experience in Family Law.
Does an Accredited Family Law Specialist Need to Pass an Exam?
Yes. One of the requirements for accreditation is that the solicitor must pass a written examination which tests his or her knowledge of Family Law.
The examination covers:
- Divorce procedures;
- Property settlement;
- Jurisdiction of the court;
- Costs;
- Child welfare matters,
- Court practice and procedure;
- Residence and contract;
- Child support and spousal maintenance;
- Taxation; and
- Defacto relationships
Some knowledge of pensions, Social Security and Legal Aid requirements are also covered.
How much experience does an accredited Family Law Specialist need to have before qualifying for accreditation?
At least five years with more than 25% of his or her practice specialising in Family Law.
Is an accredited Family Law Specialist recognised by other solicitors?
Yes. To become accredited, the requirements include references from other solicitors or barristers. These references must confirm the ability and experience of the application for accreditation. Other solicitors often refer Family Law clients to accredited Family Law Specialists in the knowledge that difficult or complex cases will be competently handled.
Is an accredited Family Law Specialist required to keep up-to-date with developments in the law?
Yes. An accredited Family Law Specialist must prove each year that he or she has continued to keep up-to-date with developments in the law and maintain the required high level of involvement in the jurisdiction.
How can I tell whether a solicitor is an accredited Family Law Specialist?
Only those solicitors who have the requisite experience, have passed the exam and kept up-to-date with developments in the law may describe themselves as accredited Family Law Specialists. The certifcates that are obtained through accreditation confirm that a solicitor is currently qualified as a Family Law Specialist.
View a list of current Family Law Specialists.
Click here to view the National Mutual Recognition Policy.
Click here to view the approved schedule of events for the 2011-2012 year.
If you wish to submit a seminar for Committee approval please download this form and send it with supporting documentation to:
Joanna Bryant
Accreditation Committee Secretary
Email: jbryant@lawsocietywa.asn.au
If you have any further questions about the specialist accreditation scheme, please ask your solicitors or contact:
Joanna Bryant
Accreditation Committee Secretary
Phone: (08) 9324 8660
Email: jbryant@lawsocietywa.asn.au
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