The law is often seen as something intimidating and remote, but it shouldn’t be. It exists to serve you. Everyday Law demystifies the law by examining the workings of the Australian legal system, as well as the many legal issues that impact our everyday lives.

In this second edition, the material has naturally been thoroughly revised and updated. But it goes even further than that. New issues are constantly arising and this new edition reflects evolving concerns, such as personal privacy. And then there’s money. A new part has been added to the book in order to recognize the importance of understanding our rights in the increasingly complex finance arena.

Everyday Law 2nd edition is divided into four parts:

• The workings of the legal system and how to access it;
• Personal matters, such as family law, children, employment law, and health and safety;
• Property issues, including buying, renting, and building a home; neighbourhood disputes; car ownership; and
• Money matters, providing an overview of investments, insurance, consumers’ rights, debt, wills, and estate administration.

This book is the first step in identifying and tackling legal problems. It helps you identify the relevant issues and then points the way to further information.

Table of Contents

How to use this book

PART ONE: ACCESS TO JUSTICE
CHAPTER 1: The Legal World
CHAPTER 2: Going to Court
CHAPTER 3: Criminal Law
CHAPTER 4: Dealing with the government

PART TWO: PERSONAL MATTERS
CHAPTER 5: Your family
CHAPTER 6: Children and the law
CHAPTER 7: Your job
CHAPTER 8: Your health and safety

PART THREE: PROPERTY MATTERS
CHAPTER 9: Your home
CHAPTER 10: Your neighbourhood
CHAPTER 11: Your car

PART FOUR: MONEY MATTERS
CHAPTER 12: Your investments
CHAPTER 13: Insurance
CHAPTER 14: Consumer protection
CHAPTER 15: Wills and estates

Acknowledgments
Glossary
Index