An Ethics Hypothetical - the gap between what the community expects and what the law and its personnel and institutions can deliver

The Australian Academy of Law extends a warm invitation to all to attend this, the first in a series of three ethics-themed events that it is holding in Sydney this year. The theme of the events is based on these objects of the Academy—to promote the highest standards of ethical conduct and professional responsibility, to enhance understanding and observance of the rule of law, and to provide a forum for debate and the interchange of views.

The first in the series will be a “hypothetical” which will pose questions concerning the limits of law and lawyering. Are laws always an answer? Do our processes deliver what is claimed for them?

Moderated by John Sheahan QC of the Sydney Bar, the panel will comprise:

• The Hon Ray Finkelstein AO QC, formerly a Judge of the Federal Court of Australia
• Professor Bryan Horrigan, Dean, Faculty of Law, Monash University
• Dr Ruth Higgins, Barrister, Sydney
• Professor Peter Cashman, Barrister, Sydney; Professor of Law, University of Sydney
• Cathie Armour, Commissioner, Australian Securities and Investments Commission
• Professor Uwe Dulleck, Business School, Queensland University of Technology
• The Hon Michael Lavarch AO, Commissioner of the Australian Skills Quality Authority; Attorney-General of the Commonwealth 1993-1996