Indigenous Protocols for Lawyers Second Edition

Many lawyers in the Northern Territory act for and provide advice to Aboriginal people. For many lawyers, especially those who do not identify themselves as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, those who do not have Indigenousheritage and those who are new to the Territory, communicating with Indigenous clients poses some special challenges.

The first edition of Indigenous protocols for lawyers was introduced more than 10 years ago and it continues to be a relevant and important publication and a key aid in legal practice. With the Society’s consent, the Law Society of South Australia recently adapted the first edition to provide guidance for lawyers practicing in South Australia.

The second edition provides a set of six protocols, some related discussion and tips for a legal practice that is culturally attuned to the special requirements of communicating with and representing Indigenous people. It is intended to be a guide for lawyers providing services to Indigenous people in the Northern Territory whose first language is an Australian Indigenous language. However, these protocols will be of assistance to lawyers across the country.