Publications
For detailed information about the law, see the Law Handbook and 24 Legal.
Browse, view and print the below publications, by topic or by intended audience, or collect a copy from an office of the Legal Services Commission or ServiceSA.
If you need to place a bulk order, please do so through the Online Order Form.
Handy hint: to find a publication by title, use the Ctrl + F function in your browser.
- Publications
- By topic
- Accidents and Injuries
- Advance Directives and Wills
- Consumers and Goods
- Neighbours (fences, trees, noise etc)
- Criminal and Traffic
- Debt and Bankruptcy
- Child Support
- Family Relationships
- Family Violence
- Going to Court
- Legal Help
- Sexual Assault
- Strata and Community Titles
- By intended audience
Accidents and Injuries
This kit is to assist people who want to handle their own claim for the repairs to their vehicles as the result of an accident.
(32 page PDF download)
29-07-2016
1.0mb
Advance Directives and Wills
Information on what Advanced Care Directives are and what they are used for
If you give another person your ‘power of attorney’, it simply means that you give that person the power to act on your behalf (for example, to buy and sell things for you or operate your bank account).
28-01-2016
114kb
By making a will you are saying who you want to get your property and possessions (your ‘estate’) when you die.
28-01-2016
82kb
Consumers and Goods
Beware Door-to-Door Sales: What You Need to Know
A door-to-door sales person may knock at your home and try to sell you something or ask you to change your gas, electricity or telephone supplier. This factsheet explains the rules that sales people must adhere to, your consumer rights and where you can get further help.
16-05-2012
283kb
Keep unwanted door-to-door sellers away with the Do Not Knock sticker. When displayed in a prominent location it sends a clear message to salespeople – ‘you’re not welcome at this address.’
16-05-2012
115kb
28-07-2014
139kb
Neighbours (fences, trees, noise etc)
This booklet answers common questions about dividing fences and explains the legal procedure you need to follow when you want to erect, replace or repair a boundary fence. Updated February 2018.
(24 page PDF download)
07-02-2018
383kb
Noise from neighbours is a common source of nuisance, and for some people can be very upsetting. The main problems are caused by barking dogs, loud music or TV, shouting, banging doors and cars.
01-07-2017
493kb
Preventing Conflicts in the Modern Neighbourhood
A publication from Mediation SA providing advice and tips on being a good neighbour and how to resolve disputes
17-11-2015
778kb
10-11-2015
556kb
The purpose of this booklet is to outline the law relating to tree problems between private neighbours and to suggest some practical ways in which problems may be avoided. Updated December 2016.
(20 page PDF download)
01-12-2017
473kb
Criminal and Traffic
There are two different drink driving offences: driving over the limit, that is, exceeding the prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA) and driving under the influence (DUI).
12-12-2017
318kb
This fact sheet is for persons who have been charged with a criminal offence and have to attend a criminal law court. The civil and family law courts have different rules.
31-08-2017
197kb
Police in South Australia have wide powers and responsibilities. If you have contact with the police, it is important that you are clear about your legal rights. It is sensible to be helpful and courteous to police. However, you should not let the police abuse their powers or treat you in an improper manner.
09-02-2016
860kb
Debt and Bankruptcy
Bankruptcy is a way of saying “I can’t pay my debts!”. The general effect of bankruptcy is to wipe the slate clean, so that you can make a new start.
28-01-2016
939kb
Many of us go through a time when we cannot afford to repay money we owe. If you are being asked to pay money which you think you do not owe, you should seek help quickly to protect your rights.
20-04-2017
259kb
This PDF can be used if someone owes an established debt under $12,000, known as a Minor Civil Claim. An established debt means that the amount of money owed is fixed, for example: a dishonoured cheque, money owed for work done, money owed for goods, and money lent.
(24 page PDF download)
02-11-2017
437kb
A practical guide for people having trouble with their mortgage.
Published by Legal Aid New South Wales & Consumer Credit Legal Centre NSW
(98 page PDF download)
Child Support
If you are over 18 years of age and are unable to support yourself because you are completing your education, you may be entitled to receive adult child maintenance from your parent(s).
29-04-2014
400kb
Parents who do not live together need to make arrangements to ensure that their children receive financial support. Usually this means the payment of child support from one parent to the other.
29-10-2014
431kb
Maintenance - Child and Spousal
Orders can be made under the Family Law Act, 1975 for various types of maintenance payments, which are not covered by the Child Support Scheme.
23-05-2007
580kb
Family Relationships
A de facto relationship is one where two adults live together as a couple. It is not enough just to live in the same house, or even to sleep in the same bed. To have a de facto relationship you must both intend to live together as a couple.
22-02-2018
88kb
Family Advocacy and Support Service - FASS
The Family Advocacy and Support Service (FASS) provides duty lawyer and social work services to people with family law matters and is based in the Family Law Courts building.
10-04-2017
279kb
The Family Law Act is the main law that deals with divorce, disputes about children and the property of married and defacto couples. Updated June 2017.
(36 page PDF download)
04-07-2017
585kb
Conferencing is a meeting between people involved in a family law dispute. Conferencing is a type of family dispute resolution. It can help you to resolve your dispute without going to court
24-07-2017
1002kb
Family Law Handbook & Services Directory
This booklet outlines the services that make up the family law system. Contact details for the main support services and agencies, organised by location, are also provided and may be of benefit to you and your family.
Published by the SA Family Law Pathways Network.
18-06-2013
975kb
Having a Grandchild in Your Care
Are you a grandparent that is currently caring for a grandchild on a long term basis? Do you look after a grandchild for long periods of time? Are you raising a grandchild - or considering this? Then this factsheet is for you.
13-12-2012
378kb
Maintenance - Child and Spousal
Orders can be made under the Family Law Act, 1975 for various types of maintenance payments, which are not covered by the Child Support Scheme.
23-05-2007
580kb
22-02-2017
44kb
Supervised contact means that the Court wants a responsible third person present when a parent spends time with their child.
23-02-2011
71kb
Family Violence
Cyber Stalking and Cyber Harassment
Cyber Stalking and Cyber Harassment: Potential legal responses to abuse via technology
01-02-2018
293kb
An intervention order (previously known as a restraining order) is a court order which prohibits a person from behaving in a particular manner towards a protected person or persons.
20-12-2017
201kb
When there is an Intervention Order against You
This factsheet provides information about restrictions applying to Intervention Orders (formerly known as a Restraining Order) for defendants.
12-04-2012
133kb
Going to Court
Court and Tribunal Fee Waiver Guide
A guide on how to apply for an exemption or waiver of court and tribunal fees.
(33 page PDF download)
23-02-2016
705kb
Do you have a court date? Easy Read Guide
Have you been charged with an offence? Do you have a court date? If yes, this easy read resource sets out what you need to do.
27-07-2017
111kb
This fact sheet is for persons who have been charged with a criminal offence and have to attend a criminal law court. The civil and family law courts have different rules.
31-08-2017
197kb
Legal Help
This comprehensive guide gives useful contact details for the Legal Services Commission, Community Legal Services, Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement and other legal services in SA. Print on A3 paper for handy reference.
04-08-2017
292kb
Do you have a legal problem? This easy read resource shows there are many ways the Legal Services Commission can help. We can assist you when you visit one of our offices, when you call our Legal Helpline or online.
28-07-2015
593kb
Free to order double side colour cards - from our 'Got a problem?' campaign promoting the services provided by the Legal Services Commission.
31-07-2013
204kb
Free to order A-3 colour poster - a resource from our 'Got a Problem?' campaign promoting the services provided by the Legal Services Commission.
31-07-2013
52kb
20-06-2016
225kb
This easy read resource sets out what to do if you have a legal problem, including what services are available at the Legal Services Commission and how to access them.
20-06-2017
373kb
The Legal Services Commission helps people with legal problems. You may have been arrested, had a car accident, have a problem with your family, received a summons, or any of a hundred other things and not know where to go.
28-01-2016
109kb
Sexual Assault
Laws to protect people from sexual abuse Easy Read Guide
This easy read resource sets out the laws that protect people from sexual abuse and where help is available.
20-06-2017
494kb
Prevention of sexual exploitation of people with cognitive impairment
This factsheet is for community workers and volunteers working with people with cognitive impairment. It provides information about laws from 30 March 2015 to better protect people with a cognitive impairment from sexual exploitation.
20-06-2017
255kb
Becoming sexually active is a big step. It is important that you understand your legal rights and obligations when it comes to sex – so you know where you stand.
25-05-2017
2.3mb
Trusted Moments is a short film produced by the Legal Services Commission about risky behaviour. The promotional postcard highlights the website - www.trustedmoments.com.au - while a QR link opens the film trailer on your mobile.
29-11-2012
147kb
The poster resource for the Trusted Moments short film which was produced in 2012 by the Legal Services Commission Community Legal Education Unit. Additional support materials can be found on the www.trustedmoments.com.au website.
26-11-2012
292kb
Strata and Community Titles
Community Titles - Legal Guide
A new publication highlighting the changes to community titles in South Australia.
(48 page PDF download)
01-12-2014
383kb
A recently updated publication highlighting the changes to strata titles in South Australia and provides information regarding the rights and responsibilities of strata unit owners.
(36 page PDF download)
20-01-2014
792kb
Factsheet Series
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with alcohol and young people.
01-02-2018
1.6mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with bullying at school.
01-02-2018
909kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with buying things and your consumer rights.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.1mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with cigarettes and young people.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.3mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains the process for making an official complaint about the police.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.3mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with discrimination.
01-02-2018
1.7mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with illegal drugs.
HTML version
01-02-2018
844kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with families.
HTML version
01-02-2018
923kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with illegal graffiti.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.1mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to with health stuff, including going to the doctors.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.1mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with living independently, including leaving home and finding accomodation.
HTML version
01-02-2018
826kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with parties, including information on gatecrashers, alcohol and drugs.
HTML version
01-02-2018
934kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with porn and young people, sexually explicit images and films, and some other filming offences.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1004kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains the laws to do with pregnancy and has information about getting help.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.0mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with public transport and the law.
HTML version
01-02-2018
966kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with guards, bouncers, and protective security officers.
HTML version
01-02-2018
957kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explainslaws to do with sex, consent and the law.
HTML version
01-02-2018
916kb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to with social media and self-incrimination. If you are looking for information on images and films, please see the factsheet 'Porn, Sexual Photos and Films'.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.2mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to do with tattoos and piercings.
HTML version
01-02-2018
1.4mb
This factsheet is for young people and their workers. It explains laws to with the police including details on giving personal details, searches, and arrest.
HTML version
01-02-2018
882kb
Other publications
Community Legal Education for Young People & Workers
The Community Legal Education for Young People and Workers poster - is available now online - or you can source this resource via our Publications Order page.
21-10-2014
781kb
Free to order double side colour cards - from our 'Got a problem?' campaign promoting the services provided by the Legal Services Commission.
31-07-2013
204kb
A brochure for young people explaining the legal support and advice offered by the Youth Legal Service at the Legal Services Commission.
01-06-2014
131kb
Need a lawyer? Easy Read Guide
Are you under 18 years of age? Have you been charged with an offence? This easy read resource sets out what to do if you have been in court having been charged with an offence and you need a lawyer.
20-06-2017
354kb
Becoming sexually active is a big step. It is important that you understand your legal rights and obligations when it comes to sex – so you know where you stand.
25-05-2017
2.3mb
Trusted Moments is a short film produced by the Legal Services Commission about risky behaviour. The promotional postcard highlights the website - www.trustedmoments.com.au - while a QR link opens the film trailer on your mobile.
29-11-2012
147kb
The poster resource for the Trusted Moments short film which was produced in 2012 by the Legal Services Commission Community Legal Education Unit. Additional support materials can be found on the www.trustedmoments.com.au website.
26-11-2012
292kb
What do These Legal Words Mean?
A basic dictionary of common criminal law words for young people.
27-04-2017
588kb
Older People
Information on what Advanced Care Directives are and what they are used for
Knowing Your Rights – a Guide to the Rights of Older South Australians
05-10-2016
1.5mb
If you give another person your ‘power of attorney’, it simply means that you give that person the power to act on your behalf (for example, to buy and sell things for you or operate your bank account).
28-01-2016
114kb
By making a will you are saying who you want to get your property and possessions (your ‘estate’) when you die.
28-01-2016
82kb
People with disabilities (Easy Read Guides)
Do you have a court date? Easy Read Guide
Have you been charged with an offence? Do you have a court date? If yes, this easy read resource sets out what you need to do.
27-07-2017
111kb
Do you have a legal problem? This easy read resource shows there are many ways the Legal Services Commission can help. We can assist you when you visit one of our offices, when you call our Legal Helpline or online.
28-07-2015
593kb
Laws to protect people from sexual abuse Easy Read Guide
This easy read resource sets out the laws that protect people from sexual abuse and where help is available.
20-06-2017
494kb
20-06-2016
225kb
This easy read resource sets out what to do if you have a legal problem, including what services are available at the Legal Services Commission and how to access them.
20-06-2017
373kb
Need a lawyer? Easy Read Guide
Are you under 18 years of age? Have you been charged with an offence? This easy read resource sets out what to do if you have been in court having been charged with an offence and you need a lawyer.
20-06-2017
354kb
Rights On Show Legal Education Resource Kit
RIGHTS ON SHOW is a legal education resource about rights with police. This resource has been specifically made for people with intellectual disability and cognitive impairment. The resource includes five photo stories, five easy read guides, an information factsheet and presenter notes.
Information in other languages
Information in other languages (...see Sample Card)
‘Need Legal Help’ cards are available in Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bosnian, Burmese, Chinese, Croatian, Dari, Dinka, Filipino, French, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Kirundi, Khmer, Kurdish, Nepali, Persian, Polish, Russian, Serbian, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Thai, Tigrinia, Uighur, Vietnamese.
09-02-2017
219kb
A guide available in multiple languages intended to assist new migrants learn about South Australian law plus find out more about the services available to assist people with specific legal problems.
(20 page PDF download)
Available here in ten languages.
17-06-2016
366kb
.png)
.png)
.png)