E-Petition

The Petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the attention of the House a request that the Attorney General initiate an inquiry into the effectiveness of the Legal Services Commission in upholding professional standards under the Australian Solicitors Conduct Rules and Bar Association Barrister Conduct Rules. Members of the public have reported that solicitors and barristers have breached their duty to the Court by misleading the Court, presenting altered or fabricated evidence, omitting material facts, or failing to exercise independent judgment. Such conduct undermines the rule of law, erodes public confidence in the legal profession, and risks bringing the courts into disrepute. While the separation of powers prevents interference in judicial decisions, it does not preclude an inquiry into systemic failures where legal practitioners mislead the Court and the Legal Services Commission fails to investigate credible complaints. Public submissions supported by evidence of misconduct should be invited. An inquiry would ensure accountability, reinforce public confidence, and uphold the integrity and fairness of our courts.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to:

• examine systemic failures in the Legal Services Commission’s oversight;
• determine whether lawyers have breached their duties to the Court, including misleading the Court or omitting material facts. Invite public submissions supported by evidence of professional misconduct; 
• examine mechanisms to hold practitioners and law firms accountable, including disciplinary action and remedies under existing legal processes; and
• recommend changes to laws, regulations, or procedures to maintain public confidence, uphold court integrity, and provide avenues for redress for affected parties.