A guide to IMEs in workers’ compensation claims Queensland

If you're navigating the workers' compensation system in Queensland, you may receive notice to attend an Independent Medical Examination (IME). Understanding what this means for you and your rights as an injured worker is crucial for managing your claim effectively.
Workers Compensation for Volunteers | NSW

If you're a volunteer for NSW Rural Fire Service, NSW State Emergency Service, Marine Rescue NSW, Surf Life Saving NSW, or NSW Volunteer Rescue Association, you may be entitled to lodge a workers' compensation claim for injuries sustained while volunteering.
Defamation claims resulting from a workplace investigation

A lot of employees ask, ‘can I be defamed during a workplace investigation?’ Most workplace investigations will involve some form of allegation or accusation. Defamation laws exist to protect a person’s reputation, including protection from unfounded accusations.
What happens if the original Will cannot be found?

When a person dies, and they had a valid Will, their executor will apply for a Grant of Probate to administer the estate. There can only ever be one original Will and it’s one document required for a Grant of Probate. So, what happens if that original Will is lost or missing?
Bail eligibility in NSW: the unacceptable risk test, bail conditions and bail refusals

Being arrested and charged with a criminal offence creates a lot of stress and uncertainty. If you are in this position in NSW, you will no doubt have many questions, which might include: “Will I get bail?”, “Will there be conditions imposed on my bail?” and/or “What can I do if bail is refused?”
Death of 11-week-old baby leaves government department open to being sued for compensation

In November 2018, a distressing incident in regional South Australia exposed the dark reality of child neglect and systemic failures in child protection services. Government departments and other organisations and institutions have a duty to protect children under their care from harm.
Investigation into historical abuse at Wolston Park Mental Health in Queensland

In a significant development, the Queensland government has announced an investigation into Brisbane's Wolston Park mental health institution following an ABC report that uncovered historical allegations of sexual, psychological and physical abuse at the facility.
Successful defence of criminal charge of ‘injure property’

In August 2024 we successfully appeared for a Tasmanian member of the United Worker’s Union in relation to a criminal charge of ‘injure property’. This matter highlights the importance of getting legal advice and representation early if you are charged with a criminal offence.
Assistance animals, discrimination and the law

The law involving assistance animals is complex and it can be difficult to find the right information if you already have an assistance animal or if you have a disability and are looking to receive the support of an assistance animal.
Australian workers have the “Right to Disconnect” outside usual hours

Laws giving employees the right to refuse employer contact outside working hours came into effect from 26 August 2024 for employees of non-small businesses (15 or more employees). The same rights will become available for small business employees from 26 August 2025.
The process of unfair dismissal claims in the Fair Work Commission

If you’ve been terminated and you believe that termination is harsh, unjust or unreasonable, you may be eligible for an unfair dismissal claim in the Fair Work Commission.
Hall Payne Lawyers appoints Juliana Virine to Principal Solicitor

We are delighted to announce the promotion of Juliana Virine to Principal Solicitor at Hall Payne Lawyers. Juliana’s promotion reflects not only her exceptional legal expertise but also the values of persistence and compassion that define her impact on the firm and her clients over the years.