It started with changing the way we shop. Then the digital era revolutionised the way we communicate.
Now the internet, technology and innovation are beginning to disrupt the legal industry. With more and more of us venturing online in search of cheaper and faster access to legal services, the legal industry is responding. Both major firms and smaller practices are moving away from the traditional ‘bricks and mortar’ business model.
Digital law firms offering fixed-fee legal services and customisable basic legal documents are becoming the preferred, and much cheaper, alternative to hiring a lawyer in the conventional way.
For young Australians, this opens up a world of possibilities – now your business, entrepreneurial, creative or personal vision does not have to remain a dream. With legal information and services instantly available online, accessing the law and resources needed to make it a reality, has never been easier.
What Legal Services And Forms Are Available To You?
The range of legal services and legal documents offered online for everyday Australians is quite staggering. The Lazy Law offers personal legal templates such as an Australian Will Kit, basic contracts, personal loan agreements or power of attorney that are fully customisable to meet your specific set of circumstances.
For businesses, you’ll find that Allens Accelerate, LegalVision and LawPath provide documents required for forming, running and selling your company, hiring employees or independent contractors, protecting intellectual property and lots more.
In addition to providing free or significantly cheaper legal documents, digital law firms are also providing reduced-cost legal services. This means you can always access and speak with a lawyer about your particular issue.
Are Online Legal Services Right For You?
The answer to this question depends on your specific set of circumstances.
In the case of legal documents, if you have a fairly common issue for which legal forms are required, using a document supplied by an online legal service is a relatively safe bet. Make sure that the documents are written by lawyers, that the legal service has received consistently positive reviews, or has been recognised with awards from independent industry bodies or the media.
If your legal issue is more complex, there is no substitute for speaking with a solicitor specialising in your specific area of law, either using an online legal service or traditional law firm. For example, if you require legal documents or advice on a large company with complex business dealings, or a large personal estate containing diverse assets, it is essential to speak with an experienced legal professional.
Should You Use Online Legal Documents?
If you’re thinking about going the DIY route for legal documents, these pros and cons may help you make up your mind.
Let’s start with the advantages of using online legal documents:
- The cost is very affordable compared with hiring a lawyer to draft your legal documents
- You do not need legal training or experience. Simply download your required forms and customise them to your needs
- Going online is fast and convenient
- Most forms are written in plain english and are easy to understand
- Many online legal services such as LawPath provide users with access to an solicitor meaning you can ask a question and receive a brief consultation, for either no charge or for a small fee. If you are not sure what you need, you can receive a free legal health check for your business.
Some potential disadvantages of using online legal documents:
- Unless you are obtaining online legal services in conjunction with your legal documents, no one will check that the information you provide in your documentation is correct. This could leave you exposed to unforeseen litigation
- While there are explanations on most sites of each document’s purpose, it is your responsibility to choose the correct form
- Not all online legal services offer reliable legal documentation. It is important to choose a service with a sound reputation, established by a team of lawyers and with a proven track record.
The Bottom Line
Consider the complexity of your legal issue and do your research.
A growing number of Australian digital law firms are providing high quality, reliable and cost-effective legal documents and services. If you choose to download and fill out your own legal documents, but are uncertain about whether you are adequately protected, always to seek professional advice sooner rather than later.
Have you, or would you ever, use online legal services or documents for personal or business matters? Tell us about your experiences in the comments section below!
Further Information
For reliable, cost-effective and efficient online legal advice or documents visit:
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