The Independent Review Office is aware of the substantial impact on a number of law firms resulting from the current floods across much of New South Wales.
We want to ensure we are supporting Approved Lawyers who are impacted by these events.
If, as a result of the impacts of the floods, an Approved Lawyer or law firm is experiencing financial hardship, IRO may be able approve early or interim payment of legal costs and disbursements. Approved Lawyers or law firms seeking payment of interim invoices due to financial hardship should contact the Director ILARS, Phil Jedlin, at philip.jedlin@iro.nsw.gov.au or by telephone on (02) 8281 6307. All requests for financial assistance by way of the interim invoicing will be considered as a priority and a response provided within seven days.
In addition, if as a result of flood impacts an Approved Lawyer is hampered in responding to IRO requests for information or has other issues related to an ILARS Grant, please contact the IRO team member managing the ILARS Grant – by telephone or email. Our team will work with you to provide the extra time or other flexibility you require.
And our Solutions Group remains available to assist persons injured in motor accidents or at work with complaints about the actions (or inaction) of insurers. The team can be contacted by telephone (139 476) or through our online complaints form.
If there are any other steps we can take to support Approved Lawyers or their practice at this time, please don’t hesitate to contact me (simon.cohen@iro.nsw.gov.au) or Phil Jedlin (phil.jedlin@iro.nsw.gov.au).
Simon Cohen
Independent Review Officer