Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I have documents sent to me?

  Yes, LIV members can request up to five documents to be sent per day free of charge.

  Download a Document Supply request form (PDF)

• Can non-members borrow from the LIV library?

  No, borrowing is only available to LIV practising, honorary and associate members.

• How much does it cost to have the LIV library locate a form or precedent for me?

  Visit the Research Services & Databases page for more information and to request assistance.

• How do I lodge a research request and what does it cost?

  For more information and to lodge a request, visit the Research Services & Databases page.

• Can the library help locate historical legal records or documents held by a legal firm that has now closed?

  Yes, the LIV library can help locate historical records or documents through the LIV Legal Archives service. 

• Can the LIV Legal Archives guarantee that they will find my documents or successor to a closed firm?

  No, information sources utilised in processing archive research requests come primarily from legal directories, information supplied by practitioners when notifying of practice changes or closures and information held the Law Institute of Victoria. While the library does their best to locate the information requested, we cannot guarantee it.

• Who maintains current practitioner details?

  Under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (Victoria) the Victorian Legal Services Board is required to maintain an ‘Australian Legal Profession Register’ where the practitioner’s home jurisdiction is Victoria. 

• I have previously contacted the Records Department and not had to fill out a form to locate a practitioner / successor to a law firm. Why has this changed?

  The LIV performs functions under delegations from the Legal Services Board. In the past, Practising Certificates (Records) was one of these functions which is now managed by the Legal Services Board. 

• Who does a lawyer have to notify if their firm closes?

  Sole practitioners and law firms must give notice to the Victorian Legal Services Board upon their intention to engage in legal practice, or their intention to cease legal practice in Victoria. 

• Why do I have to fill out the form for a Legal Research request?

  This form is the best way for the library staff to ensure they have the information they need to complete your request efficiently and effectively. 

  Please note: The Law Institute of Victoria protects the privacy and security of information provided by you. By completing the form, you agree to the use of your personal information in accordance with the LIV Privacy Policy. 

• Does the LIV hold my Will or legal documents?

  No, the LIV does not hold any documents.

• What does a response to a research service request consist of?

  Information provided will include:

  • Date, Firm Name
  • Dates of firm mergers, closures
  • Contact details at firms that may be able to assist.