Lawcover presents Risk on Air is a series of podcasts focusing on issues, trends and developments in legal practice and how they can impact on your practice.
Reading the feed…
Do you have a file on your desk – or hidden in your task list – that keeps getting pushed aside? In this episode of Risk on Air, we look at why difficult matters end up in the “too hard basket”, the risks this can create, and simple habits to help practitioners regain control before minor delays become bigger issues. Transcript: Eat the Frog: Dealing with the Too Hard Basket
An area seeing a rise in claims, stamp duty advice is full of hidden traps. We break down concessions, exemptions and apparent misconceptions, how small missteps can lead to costly mistakes and what you can do to prevent problems arising in your practice. Transcript: Call of Stamp Duty Resources Duties Act 1997 (NSW) Real Property Act 1900 El Chami v Chief Commissioner of State Revenue [2025] NSWCATAD 266
It’s not always the law that trips lawyers up. It’s everything around it. This episode looks at the practical risks in commercial transactions, where small missteps can lead to big consequences, and how to avoid them in your practice. Transcript: Pressure Points in Commercial Practice Resources Commercial N Pty Limited v Huang & Ors [2024] NSWSC 23 Provident Capital Ltd v Papa [2013] NSWCA 36 ACN 115 918 959 Pty Ltd v Hoeys Lawyers Pty Ltd [2021] VSC 79 Gerrard Toltz Pty Ltd v City Garden Australia Pty Ltd (in liq) (No 2) [2024] NSWCA 232
What really counts as a claim? When does a concern become a notifiable circumstance, and what happens after you contact Lawcover? Through practical examples and straight‐talking guidance, we lift the lid on claims, unpack common misconceptions, and outline the steps you can take to manage issues early and with confidence. Transcript: Claims 101
Capacity issues extend well beyond wills. From property transactions to litigation and settlements, this episode examines where solicitors go wrong, what the courts expect, why capacity must be reassessed throughout a matter, and how to protect yourself. Transcript: Beyond Instructions: What to do when client capacity is uncertain Resources Ryan v Dalton; Estate of Ryan [2017] NSWSC 1007 Petrovski v Nasev; The Estate of Janakievska [2011] NSWSC 1275 Kerr and anor v Badran and anor Estate of Badran [2004] NSWSC 735 Zorbas v Sidiropoulous (No 2) [2009] NSWCA 197 Weller v NSW Legal Services Commi
As convenient communication apps become embedded in legal practice, new risk issues are emerging. This episode explores the hidden hazards behind everyday tools, from lost records to waived privilege, and shares practical strategies to help lawyers balance convenience with smart risk management. Transcript: What App: Smarter app use to reduce legal risk
We explore the realities of starting a new law practice from the ground up with key insights on risk management, compliance hurdles, business planning, and the importance of focus and support networks. Whether you’re contemplating the leap or are already on your journey, this podcast provides practical tips, lessons learned, and encouragement to help you “start smart” and ensure your new practice thrives well into the future. Transcript: Starting Smart: Launching Your Practice with Risk in Mind
Looking at claims against solicitor executors and solicitors who act for executors, we shine a spotlight on the hidden hazards lurking in estate administration. From overlooked assets to distribution errors, we examine real cautionary tales with practical risk management tips to help you steer clear of similar pitfalls. Transcript: From Will to Woe: Traps for Executors Resources Nemler-Aquilina v Mercader [2025] VSC 595 Bird v Bird [2013] NSWCA 262 Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 – s 302.195
Employment law can be a legal minefield where timeframes, jurisdictional twists, and client curveballs can trip up even the sharpest practitioners. We examine some of the challenges and risk areas unique to this area of practice and what solicitors can do to minimise their risk, sharing practical insights and tips to help you stay ahead. Transcript: Employment Law: Unique Risks and Practical Tips Resources Hollis v Vabu Pty Ltd – [2001] HCA 44 B. Rose v Telstra Corporation Limited – 1444/98 N Print Q9292 [1998] AIRC 1592
The statutory tort of serious invasion of privacy is here, and it’s reshaping the risk landscape for solicitors. From handling client information and advising on privacy matters to responding to data breaches and managing cyber security, we unpack the new tort and explore its implications for you and your practice, including the steps you can take to manage the risks. Transcript: The New Tort – Invasion of Privacy Resources Privacy Act 1988 – Federal Register of Legislation ABC v Lenah Game Meats Pty Ltd [2001] HCA 63 Australian Consolidated Press Ltd v Ettingshausen [1993] NSWCA 10
