QLS Proctor – Legal news and views for Queensland lawyers

News

From the bench to the pulpit for retiring Judge Lapthorn

Family Court Judge Kevin Lapthorn was officially farewelled from the courtroom on Thursday, to continue his studies to become an ordained minister in the Anglican Church.

31 August 2026

Criminal lawyer promoted to Senior Associate

Career Moves

Emily McCarthy new Executive Director as PLT provider enters next chapter

Admissions

Long journey completed at admission sitting with supporters on hand

Events

Wine, cheese, CPD points on menu at Stanthorpe

Downs and South West Queensland Law Association’s fourth annual Law Conference was held among the grape vines at the Queensland College of Wine and Tourism.

QLS Diverse Abilities Network: Remembering Oliver Collins

Case notes

Barrister’s sexual harassment of junior solicitor found to be unsatisfactory conduct

Missing Wills

Missing Wills – September 2026

Notifications of missing wills for September 2026 are now available.

Explainer, In practice

What Queensland means when it calls a bill an ‘omnibus bill’

The term is used to describe a single bill that packages multiple, often unrelated changes into one piece of legislation.

Career Moves

Justin O’Callaghan named as Partner in Hamilton Locke construction team

Justin O'Callaghan has been a trusted advisor on significant projects across Australia.

Perspectives

Making yourself useful at a firm that isn’t AI ready yet

The reality is that most legal teams are only at the beginning of their technology journey.

Career Moves

HopgoodGanim boosts tech investment with CIO appointed to leadership team

'Technology is now inseparable from the delivery of legal services.'

Career Moves

Gold Coast firm promotes two including Associate Director

Dakota Hallett is now Associate Director and Madison Reinhardt has been promoted to Associate.

Perspectives

Traumatic brain injuries need timely and appropriate treatment, rehabilitation

Brain Injury Awareness Week reminds us that while every brain injury is different, no one should face the journey alone.

Case notes

Parties dispute access time spent with 16-year-old pet dog

The parties also agreed to property orders to the effect that they each keep the property in their respective possession, but they could not agree to orders regarding a 16-year-old dog, “C”.