What legal documents and prerequisites do I need to start my own legal services business?

To establish a legal services business in Australia, you will need to prepare and register a variety of legal documents. Key requirements include:

• Registering your business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
• Obtaining Workers' compensation insurance and business insurance (e.g. public liability, professional indemnity).
• Securing Council approval (if operating from a commercial premise) and a lease agreement (if renting premises).
• Having Health and safety policies and procedures in place.
• Complying with privacy and data protection policies and procedures.
• Obtaining an Australian Business Number (ABN) and registering for Goods and Services Tax (GST).
• Ensuring your lawyers are qualified to provide legal advice in Australia (e.g. law degree, practice legal training (PLT) requirements).
• Having strong terms and conditions that customers agree to before they further engage with your business. This will allow you to limit liability for certain matters.