Welcome to the Victorian Legal Admissions Board's short video outlining the suitability process. A person must satisfy the board that they are of good fame and character and a fit and proper person to be admitted to the Australian legal profession.
To do this, you must disclose details of any matters of suitability which might not be favourable to you.
The disclosure guidelines are available to view in the link below, and also on the board's website. When making an application online, you will be required to attest to having read and understood the guidelines.
What matters do I need to disclose? Any matter that may be relevant to whether you are currently of good fame and character, and are a fit and proper person.
How much detail do I need to provide? Full and frank disclosure of all matters is important. Give an honest and candid account of the events and a thorough explanation of your conduct.
What documents do I need to provide? A disclosure statement, exhibit certificate, and relevant exhibit material. Why is a reflection important?
It shows that you have appreciated the seriousness of your conduct. Accepted responsibility and taken steps to rehabilitate yourself. If you have a current medical condition that may prevent you from carrying out inherent requirements of legal practice, then disclosure of capacity is required.
This includes a letter from your treating doctor including their opinion on your suitability to be admitted as an Australian lawyer.
You can seek a declaration of early assessment of suitability. A declaration that your past conduct will not affect the future. Assessment of your suitability may be available to you.
The assessment should only be sought after you have commenced your law degree. Visit our website for more information www.lawadmissions.vic.gov.au (External link)
For more videos in the series, please click the link below.