Risk on Air

Trust No One. It sounds dramatic, but when it comes to protecting your trust account, it might be the best advice you’ll hear.  In this episode of Risk on Air , we sit down with Law Society of NSW Chief Trust Account Investigator Sharon Blake to unpack the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting law practices. From AI-generated voice impersonations and business email compromise to multi-mi...

“At some point, it will happen.” That’s the warning from Detective Superintendent Matt Craft of the NSW Cybercrime Squad. In this episode Matt provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at how cyber incidents are investigated, what support is available to law firms, why reporting early matters and the practical steps firms can take to prepare, respond and recover more effectively. Transcript: Calling...

Do you have a file on your desk – or hidden in your task list – that keeps getting pushed aside? In this episode of Risk on Air, we look at why difficult matters end up in the “too hard basket”, the risks this can create, and simple habits to help practitioners regain control before minor delays become bigger issues. Transcript: Eat the Frog: Dealing with the Too Hard Basket

An area seeing a rise in claims, stamp duty advice is full of hidden traps. We break down concessions, exemptions and apparent misconceptions, how small missteps can lead to costly mistakes and what you can do to prevent problems arising in your practice. Transcript: Call of Stamp Duty Resources Duties Act 1997 (NSW) Real Property Act 1900 El Chami v Chief Commissioner of State Revenue [2025] NSWC...

It’s not always the law that trips lawyers up. It’s everything around it. This episode looks at the practical risks in commercial transactions, where small missteps can lead to big consequences, and how to avoid them in your practice. Transcript: Pressure Points in Commercial Practice Resources Commercial N Pty Limited v Huang & Ors [2024] NSWSC 23 Provident Capital Ltd v Papa [2013] NSWCA 36...

What really counts as a claim? When does a concern become a notifiable circumstance, and what happens after you contact Lawcover? Through practical examples and straight‐talking guidance, we lift the lid on claims, unpack common misconceptions, and outline the steps you can take to manage issues early and with confidence. Transcript: Claims 101

Capacity issues extend well beyond wills. From property transactions to litigation and settlements, this episode examines where solicitors go wrong, what the courts expect, why capacity must be reassessed throughout a matter, and how to protect yourself. Transcript: Beyond Instructions: What to do when client capacity is uncertain Resources Ryan v Dalton; Estate of Ryan  [2017] NSWSC 1007 Petrovsk...

As convenient communication apps become embedded in legal practice, new risk issues are emerging. This episode explores the hidden hazards behind everyday tools, from lost records to waived privilege, and shares practical strategies to help lawyers balance convenience with smart risk management. Transcript: What App: Smarter app use to reduce legal risk

We explore the realities of starting a new law practice from the ground up with key insights on risk management, compliance hurdles, business planning, and the importance of focus and support networks. Whether you’re contemplating the leap or are already on your journey, this podcast provides practical tips, lessons learned, and encouragement to help you “start smart” and ensure your new practice...

Looking at claims against solicitor executors and solicitors who act for executors, we shine a spotlight on the hidden hazards lurking in estate administration. From overlooked assets to distribution errors, we examine real cautionary tales with practical risk management tips to help you steer clear of similar pitfalls. Transcript: From Will to Woe: Traps for Executors Resources Nemler-Aquilina v...

Employment law can be a legal minefield where timeframes, jurisdictional twists, and client curveballs can trip up even the sharpest practitioners. We examine some of the challenges and risk areas unique to this area of practice and what solicitors can do to minimise their risk, sharing practical insights and tips to help you stay ahead. Transcript: Employment Law: Unique Risks and Practical Tips...

The statutory tort of serious invasion of privacy is here, and it’s reshaping the risk landscape for solicitors. From handling client information and advising on privacy matters to responding to data breaches and managing cyber security, we unpack the new tort and explore its implications for you and your practice, including the steps you can take to manage the risks. Transcript: The New Tort &#82...

Navigating tough conversations is a reality many lawyers face. From managing unrealistic expectations to de-escalating conflict, we explore practical strategies for communicating with clarity, empathy and professionalism, not only to foster stronger client relationships, but also to reduce risk and maintain control in highly charged interactions. Transcript: Difficult dialogue: Managing challengin...

Conflicts of duties can quietly arise in the routine of everyday legal practice. From property transactions to estate planning, these conflicts often go unnoticed, until it’s too late. In this episode, we explore how to spot the red flags, the importance of clearly documenting client relationships, and knowing when it’s time to step back. Transcript: A family affair: Conflicts of duties when actin...

It’s the outcome every solicitor involved in litigation strives for: settlement. But for some, that “game over” moment can mark the beginning of a new set of problems. In this episode, we unpack settlement regret and why it remains a significant risk. From overlooked advice to misunderstood outcomes, what can solicitors do to avoid becoming the next cautionary tale? Transcript: Settlement regret:...

Changes to the NSW Duties Act are still creating challenges for solicitors. In this episode Andrew Rider, specialist Tax Barrister, provides practical guidance on navigating the key amendments to the Duties Act, why solicitors continue to have difficulties in this area and why the Commissioner’s guidance on transfer duty on options is essential reading for property lawyers. Transcript: Duty calls:...

Maintaining good working relationships with clients is much easier when expectations have been clearly set at the beginning. In this episode Jacqui Dawson, principal of Sexton Family Law and an Accredited Specialist in Family Law, shares her tips and insights for keeping client relations on the right track. Transcript: Great Expectations: Managing client relationships in Family Law

In the final part of this 2-part episode we examine compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma in legal practice – what is the difference between them and why do they pose significant risks not only for the individual solicitor, but for the practice and its clients. Transcript: Part 2 – Trauma-informed practice: Reducing risk and improving outcomes Additional Resources Mental Health & Well...

In part 1 of this 2-part episode, host Julian Morrow is joined by Rachel Clements Co founder and Director of The Centre for Corporate Health to discuss trauma informed practice and how it can enhance client interactions, reduce risks, and improve overall outcomes – for everyone. Transcript: Part 1 – Trauma-informed practice: Reducing risk and improving outcomes Additional Resources Mental Health &...

In this episode, host Julian Morrow is joined by Malcolm Heath, Lawcover’s Practice Risk Manager, to unpack a five-letter word that could feel like a four-letter one: CYBER. The key question isn’t just how to prevent a cyber-attack but also how to respond when it happens—because how you respond can make all the difference. Transcript: Cybercrime – How you respond matters Additional Resources lawco...

Conflicts of interest can challenge even the most seasoned of solicitors. In this episode, we explore common situations where and when conflicts may arise and strategies to better identify potential conflicts, take appropriate action, and uphold your duty to your clients and the law. Transcript: Whose Side Are You On? Navigating conflicts of interest Additional Resources Atanaskovic Hartnell v Bir...

In this episode, Julian Morrow chats with Ian Denham , partner at Moray & Agnew Lawyers, to unpack a crucial but often misunderstood legal concept: the Harman Obligation. What does it entail, what are the practical implications if you get it wrong, and how can you protect yourself? Transcript: Navigating the Harman Obligation Additional Resources Johnston v Allen [2024] NSWSC 187 Hearne v Str...

In this episode, Julian Morrow talks with Brett McGrath , current president of the New South Wales Law Society, about navigating new legislative and technological changes, what these shifts mean for solicitors in their daily practice and why it is important to start preparing now. Transcript: Preparing your practice: managing legislative and technological change Additional Resources AML and CTF Hu...

In this episode, Julian Morrow talks with tax law barrister Andrew Rider about the intersection of immigration, tax and property laws in the complex landscape of Surcharge Purchaser Duty (SPD) and Surcharge Land Tax (SLT) in NSW. Transcript: Surcharge Traps Additional Resources Keddas Pty Ltd ATF Kaluarachchi Family Discretionary Trust v CCSR [2024] NSWCATAD 138

How to stay secure while working on the run? In this episode, Julian Morrow talks with Cathryn Urquhart, a Professional Skills Trainer, about the risks and practicalities of working anywhere other than a designated desk and highlights the risks to be aware of in a world of flexible work arrangements. Transcript: Legal Work on the Run