A new clinic established by Legal Aid NSW will put free, face-to-face legal advice about a wide range of issues – from family violence and parenting disputes to fines, traffic offences and other trouble with the law – at Cowra residents’ fingertips.
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Locals will be able to seek confidential advice about family law issues, including divorce, child support and making arrangements with an ex-partner about where children should live and whom they should spend time with. The new clinic will also provide an opportunity for anyone charged with a crime to seek quality legal advice early on.
“Legal problems can be daunting and it can be tempting to put off dealing with them. But getting the right advice early can make a big difference,” Legal Aid NSW Regional Outreach Clinic Program Manager Jenny Lovric said.
“You can sit down with an experienced and understanding lawyer who can talk you through your situation and help you understand your options – and this service is available free of charge to anyone who needs it.
“In particular, if you’ve been charged with a crime, it’s always a good idea to speak with a lawyer before you go to court for the first time. You can speak with a lawyer about what the charges mean and how to prepare your case.”
Ms Lovric said the service would complement an existing Legal Aid NSW advice service that provides advice about everyday legal issues.
Cowra Local Court Registrar Margaret Duff welcomed the new clinic.
“This invaluable service will ensure help is close at hand for our community. The clinic is available to people of all backgrounds, who may be facing a range of legal issues,” she said.
Clinics specialising in family and criminal legal issues will be held on the first, second, third and fifth Monday of each month, from 12pm to 3pm, at Cowra Local Court. Call 6342 1933 to make an appointment, or simply drop in.
Existing clinics specialising in civil or everyday legal issues will continue to be held at Cowra Local Court on the fourth Monday of each month, from 11am to 4pm. Call (02) 6362 8022 to make an appointment.
