Following alarming reports that clients of Gold Migration Lawyers were told late last Friday that the law practice would be stopping operations, Victoria’s legal regulator has moved quickly to safeguard consumers' interests.
 
The Victorian Legal Services Board has appointed an independent manager to that law practice, which is now in liquidation. Her role is to manage the practice, and help clients and other affected stakeholders.
 
Over the coming days, Louise Gehrig of Piper Alderman will take control of the law practice. Her core focus will be on assessing client files, and prioritising those that have the most immediate needs.
 
The Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner’s Executive Director of Legal and Investigations Matthew Anstee said he is deeply concerned about the impact of this sudden closure on Gold Migration Lawyers’ clients.
 
“If you are a client of Gold Migration Lawyers, we understand you will likely be very worried and anxious about your matter and next steps,” Mr Anstee said.
 
“If you have been affected, I want to give you every assurance that Ms Gehrig's team will contact you in due course, though if you do have an urgent query, you can contact the team now.”
 
Ms Gehrig's email is goldmigration@piperalderman.com.au, and the dedicated phone line to reach her team about Gold Migration Lawyers matters is 0429 936 263.
 
It’s really helpful if you can let the team know the timing of your application or hearing, along with:

• your full name and contact details
• your application or proceeding number
• key dates that you know of – like the next deadline or hearing date.

"By promptly appointing an independent manager to take control of Gold Migration Lawyers, we're exercising our powers as the regulator to protect clients' funds and their ongoing legal matters from harm," Mr Anstee said.