Victorian Law Week has been running for 45 years.
Inspired by ‘Law Day’ in the United States and noticing that the law was intimidating and often misunderstood, Shepparton lawyer Chris Riordan, along with a small committee, created the first Law Week in 1980.
They set out to demystify the law and make it more accessible.
Law Week is presented by Victoria Law Foundation in association with its supporters to help Victorians learn about the law in their lives.
Events take place in person and online across Victoria and include a program of on-demand podcasts, videos and resources.
This year, events will occur between Monday, May 19, and Sunday, May 25.
They will be run by a range of organisations, including community legal centres, neighbourhood houses, government bodies, community organisations, law firms, courts and tribunals, and many more.
The program provides an opportunity to talk with experts and learn how the law can help resolve everyday problems, help you understand your rights, find legal help or explore the justice system.
You could find advice to help you navigate a problem with your home, talk with a lawyer to solve a family issue or join a discussion on rights and discrimination.
The program's events look at when law meets life across a range of important topics, such as business, disability, discrimination and abuse, emergencies and natural disasters, employment, family and relationships, family violence, fines, complaints, goods and services, legal assistance, legal information, mental health, neighbour disputes, power of attorney, property, renting, seniors' rights, scams, wills and estate planning, and women’s rights.
See the full program of community-based events at www.viclawweek.org.au
