 Why We Verify Your Identity
Verification of Identity (VOI) helps ensure that the person giving instructions or signing documents is genuinely who they say they are. This reduces the risk of identity theft and property fraud and helps protect you, your assets, and the integrity of your matter. In Queensland, lawyers are required to take “reasonable steps” to verify a client’s identity, particularly in property transactions and matters involving registry documents. VOI is a common and accepted way of meeting these obligations. VOI itself does not confirm your authority to act (for example, as an attorney or company director). Additional checks may be required. New Requirements8/7/2026  You may notice that we're asking for a little more information than we have in the past.
From 1 July 2026, Australian law requires law firms to verify the identity of clients and, in some cases, collect additional information before providing certain legal services. These new requirements are part of Australia's efforts to combat money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious financial crime.  Recent Federal Government announcements suggest testamentary trusts will be exempt from the proposed 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts. For families using testamentary trusts as part of their estate planning, this is welcome news.
 If you have been injured in a public or private space, you may be entitled to claim compensation from the owner or occupier. They have a duty of care to ensure that foreseeable risks to your safety are identified and addressed.
Most public liability claims are paid by insurers, as businesses and property owners typically hold public liability insurance. Compensation in these cases is assessed similarly to road accident and work injury claims. As every situation is unique, tailored legal advice is essential. Contact us here for more information.  As lawyers, we tend to see things after they’ve gone wrong. Consider this a little nudge to do some housekeeping now—before it becomes a much bigger problem later.
Let me give you two real world examples from just the past year: 1. The Case of the Wrong Building A client was diligently paying insurance on their property… except it wasn’t their property. Due to an administrative mix up, the policy covered the building next door. If disaster had struck, they would have been left without insurance on their building. 2. Residential Insurance, Commercial Reality  Healthcare providers owe patients a duty of care. When that care falls below an acceptable standard and causes harm, a medical negligence claim may arise.
Common Examples Include:
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