Note that this is a non-exhaustive list.
1. Contact the VLSB+C
Regarding your practising certificate: Notification of change of information - Local legal practitioner.
Note that this must be done through LSB Online.
For legal practices (non-ILP) see: Legal practice other than incorporated legal practice.
For ILP’s: Termination of provision of legal services: incorporated legal practice.
If the practice is an ILP you will also need to meet ASIC requirements regarding closure.
2. Notify the LPLC that you will not be renewing your practising certificate and insurance.
Note the LPLC’s run-off insurance policy.
3. Retain or transfer files and deeds. Note your obligations regarding files under the Uniform Law.
Note the LIV’s Ethics: File ownership retention and destruction guidelines
The following articles may be useful as a guide but note that these reflect the position under the Legal Profession Act 2005:
Practice management: Filing facts
November 2014 88(11) LIJ, p.78
LPLC: The Seven Year Ditch
May 2011 85(5) LIJ, p.74
4. Notify clients of the intention to transfer or store deeds and files to give them an opportunity to collect these. Your obligation is to give clients at least 14 days’ notice when transferring files and deeds (See Rule 6 Legal Profession Uniform Legal Practice (Solicitors) Rules 2015). The obligation to seek client approval extends to closed files including closed files in electronic form. Note that it may be the legal personal representative who has rights over the deceased client’s deeds and files.
5. Close the trust account. Information and forms can be found on the VLSB+C’s Website:
Fact Sheet: Closing the trust account
6. While in no way compulsory it is advisable to permit the closure of practice details to be noted on the Legal Archives Register so that former clients and other practitioners can trace deeds and files etc. This can be done by contacting the LIV as the Library holds these records.