Risk on Air

“The biggest threat to privilege might be hiding in plain sight.” 

In this episode we sit down with Alex Haslam from Gilchrist Connell to unpack one of the most important client protections and the many ways it can unravel. From inadvertent disclosure and waiver to the emerging risks posed by AI tools, we explore why the biggest threats to privilege may be hiding in plain sight and share practical steps lawyers can take to protect confidential information and avoid becoming the next test case.

Trust No One. It sounds dramatic, but when it comes to protecting your trust account, it might be the best advice you’ll hear. 

In this episode of Risk on Air, we sit down with Law Society of NSW Chief Trust Account Investigator Sharon Blake to unpack the increasingly sophisticated scams targeting law practices. From AI-generated voice impersonations and business email compromise to multi-million-dollar payment fraud attempts, Sharon shares real stories from the frontline and the practical steps every firm should take to protect themselves and their clients.

“At some point, it will happen.”

That’s the warning from Detective Superintendent Matt Craft of the NSW Cybercrime Squad. In this episode Matt provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at how cyber incidents are investigated, what support is available to law firms, why reporting early matters and the practical steps firms can take to prepare, respond and recover more effectively.

Do you have a file on your desk – or hidden in your task list – that keeps getting pushed aside? In this episode of Risk on Air, we look at why difficult matters end up in the “too hard basket”, the risks this can create, and simple habits to help practitioners regain control before minor delays become bigger issues.

An area seeing a rise in claims, stamp duty advice is full of hidden traps. We break down concessions, exemptions and apparent misconceptions, how small missteps can lead to costly mistakes and what you can do to prevent problems arising in your practice.

It’s not always the law that trips lawyers up. It’s everything around it. This episode looks at the practical risks in commercial transactions, where small missteps can lead to big consequences, and how to avoid them in your practice.

What really counts as a claim? When does a concern become a notifiable circumstance, and what happens after you contact Lawcover? Through practical examples and straight‐talking guidance, we lift the lid on claims, unpack common misconceptions, and outline the steps you can take to manage issues early and with confidence.

Capacity issues extend well beyond wills. From property transactions to litigation and settlements, this episode examines where solicitors go wrong, what the courts expect, why capacity must be reassessed throughout a matter, and how to protect yourself.

As convenient communication apps become embedded in legal practice, new risk issues are emerging. This episode explores the hidden hazards behind everyday tools, from lost records to waived privilege, and shares practical strategies to help lawyers balance convenience with smart risk management.

We explore the realities of starting a new law practice from the ground up with key insights on risk management, compliance hurdles, business planning, and the importance of focus and support networks. Whether you’re contemplating the leap or are already on your journey, this podcast provides practical tips, lessons learned, and encouragement to help you “start smart” and ensure your new practice thrives well into the future.