Legal News & Resources

Plain-English guides to compensation claims, will disputes and estate law in Queensland — from the team at ROC Legal.

Burn Injury Compensation in Queensland: Your Legal Options

ROC Legal Blog

In Australia, burn injuries are more common than many realise, with 2,423 burn patients admitted in 2022-2023 (ANZBA). Whether caused by a workplace accident, a road crash, or an incident in a public space, burns can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardship. Navigating the compensation process after a burn injury can be overwhelming, … Read more

Succession Planning: What You Need to Know About Securing Your Business Legacy

ROC Legal Blog

As a business owner, you’ve invested significant time, resources, and energy into building your enterprise. But what happens if you become incapacitated or pass away? Who will assume control of your business? How can you protect your family’s financial future and ensure your business legacy endures? These critical questions are at the heart of succession … Read more

I was injured in a public space. Can I make a compensation claim against the local council?

ROC Legal Blog

Blocked council drains flooding a basement, uneven footpaths causing falls, or unkempt trees damaging cars can lead to serious personal and financial harm. Such accidents may stem from council negligence, where local authorities fail to maintain public safety. Despite limited resources, councils must meet reasonable standards in managing public infrastructure. Understanding council negligence is key … Read more

Car Park Accidents in Queensland: Who’s at Fault and What You Need to Know About Compensation

ROC Legal Blog

Car park accidents are more prevalent than many might assume. The tight spaces, reversing vehicles, pedestrians, and often confusing signage can easily lead to collisions and injuries. In Queensland, determining who is at fault in these accidents can be intricate, involving a variety of laws and considerations. However, if you’ve been injured, you may be … Read more

Contesting Handwritten Wills: Legal Challenges and Considerations

ROC Legal Blog

In estate planning, handwritten Wills, also known as holographic Wills, present unique challenges when it comes to contestation. Whilst these documents may seem straightforward, they often lead to complex legal disputes. This article considers the intricacies of contesting handwritten Wills, exploring the grounds for contestation, the legal process involved, and the potential outcomes. If you … Read more

Superannuation and Wills: Essential Components of Australian Estate Planning

ROC Legal Blog

In Australian estate planning, the interplay between superannuation and Wills is often misunderstood, leading to potential complications for beneficiaries. Many Australians mistakenly believe that their superannuation is automatically covered by their Will, but this is not the case. Understanding the distinct nature of these two elements is crucial for effective estate planning. The Unique Nature … Read more

Workplace Bullying: Understanding Its Effects and Pursuing Compensation

ROC Legal Blog

In the current professional climate, workplace bullying is an ongoing issue that impacts as much as 1 in 10 employees, according to WorkSafe Queensland. This detrimental behaviour not only harms employees but also disrupts the overall health of organisations. In this article, we will consider the signs, consequences, and available legal avenues for addressing workplace … Read more

What You Should Know About E-Scooter Accidents and Compensation Claims on Queensland Roads

ROC Legal Blog

The rise of electric scooters, or e-scooters, in Queensland has transformed urban transportation, offering a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional modes of travel. However, this surge in popularity has brought with it a host of challenges, particularly concerning road safety, accidents, and the complexities of compensation claims. This article explores the current state of … Read more

Am I Eligible for Compensation when Suffering from Food Poisoning in Queensland?

ROC Legal Blog

Food poisoning is a significant public health concern in Queensland and across Australia, with an estimated 4.1 million cases occurring annually, affecting one-sixth of the population. While most cases resolve without lasting effects, the Food Safety Information Council reports that food poisoning results in approximately 32,000 hospitalisations and 86 deaths each year, with an estimated … Read more

The $300,000 Gift – Unravelling Undue Influence in the Bampton v Vourlides Lottery Legacy

ROC Legal Blog

In the realm of estate disputes, few cases are as emotionally charged and legally complex as those involving allegations of undue influence and unconscionable conduct. The recent Court of Appeal decision in Bampton v Vourlides QCA 191 serves as a stark reminder of the intricate dance between familial relationships and financial decisions, especially when it … Read more

I was Injured in My Apartment. Can I Make a Claim Against My Landlord?

ROC Legal Blog

When you rent a home or apartment in Queensland, you expect a safe living environment. However, accidents can happen, and sometimes these accidents result from unsafe conditions in the property. If you’ve been injured due to such conditions, you may be considering making a public liability claim against your landlord. This article will guide you … Read more

Workers’ Compensation for Gig Workers in Queensland: What You Need to Know

ROC Legal Blog

In Queensland, the rise of the gig economy has fundamentally changed the landscape of work. Gig workers—individuals involved in short-term, flexible roles frequently facilitated through digital platforms—are increasingly becoming a crucial component of the workforce. Nonetheless, the nature of gig work introduces distinct challenges regarding workers’ compensation. This article explores the complexities of workers’ compensation … Read more

Navigating the Complexities of Workers’ Compensation Claims: The Apelu Case and Its Implications for Psychiatric Injury Assessment

ROC Legal Blog

Two cases, Apelu v Lusty Tip Trailers Pty Ltd QSC 262 and Apelu v Lusty Tip Trailers Pty Ltd QCA 158, involve a worker seeking damages for injuries sustained in a workplace accident, including both physical and psychiatric injuries. The first case, QSC 262, is the initial decision made by the Supreme Court of Queensland. … Read more

General Damages in Queensland Personal Injury Claims

ROC Legal Blog

General damages, also known as damages for pain and suffering, are an important component of personal injury compensation in Queensland. They aim to provide monetary compensation for the non-economic losses suffered by an injured person, such as physical pain, loss of amenities of life, and loss of enjoyment of life. The assessment of general damages … Read more

CTP – Can I choose my rehabilitation providers?

ROC Legal Blog

The Supreme Court of Queensland’s decision in Delaney v AAMI Insurance Ltd QSC 174 involving a severely brain-injured motorcycle passenger provides significant clarification on the interpretation and application of the Motor Accident Insurance Act 1994 (Qld) (MAI Act), particularly regarding the provision of rehabilitation services. Background On 16 June 2006, the applicant sustained severe brain … Read more