What is a Public Liability Claim?

Anyone who has sustained an injury in a public place or on private property, due to negligence or a deliberate act, is able to make a claim for compensation. This is broadly known as a public liability claim.

What are the types of Public Liability Claims?

Public liability refers to any injury sustained in a public place. This includes injuries at schools, parks or other public places (slips, trips and falls), gyms etc.

How Long Does a Public Liability Claim Take?

This varies depending on how the injury occurred and the nature and extent of the injury you have sustained. Most public liability claims however take between 1-3 years. A public liability claim can often be resolved with the public liability insurer without the need to go to court however sometimes it is necessary to commence a claim in court and this makes the claim longer to resolve.

What Public Liability Compensation Can be Claimed?

If negligence is established, you will be entitled to compensation for the following types of damages: Pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life, a lump sum payment for the injury sustained and the effects on you; out of pocket expenses; loss of income; and care and assistance.

Public Liability Lawyers

What is Public Liability?

Public Liability is an area of compensation law that covers accidents that occur in a public place; such as falls in the street, in shopping centres, or in your own home

Have you been physically or psychologically injured, and you can’t claim compensation through the motor accident or work cover commission or insurer in your state?

If so, you may be able to seek compensation by making a public liability claim.

Free Claim Check

5-Star Client Rating

You’ll receive outstanding service. We maintain a 5-star client rating.

Free Case Assessments

We provide confidential, free case assessments.

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

5-Star Client Rating

You’ll receive outstanding service. We maintain a 5-star client rating.

Free Case Assessments

We provide confidential, free case assessments.

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

We specialise in Public Liability Compensation Claims

Types of Claims Public Liability Lawyers Can Help With

Public liability refers to any injury sustained in a public place. This includes;

Injuries at schools
Injuries in parks or other public places (slips, trips and falls)
Injuries on council-owned land (fall on footpath or council caused danger)
Injuries on rented premises (landlord/tenant)
Injuries while on public transport
Injuries caused by animals (like a dog attack)
Swimming pool accidents
Amusement park accidents
Injuries in gyms
Boating accidents
Food poisoning
Supermarket or shopping centre injuries
Physical assault
Sexual assault

We’ve selected some of our public liability cases that include a range of injuries, circumstances, and compensation amounts for you to examine here.

Types of claims

The Claims Process:

Obligation free meeting with Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law
Understand what you are entitled to, the process and timeframe
Proceed on a No Win No Fee basis
Your case is built using the best experts to achieve the optimum result
Your will be kept updated throughout the process
We will secure the financial result in the shortest possible timeframe

Would you like assistance with your claim?

Complete our free, no obligation confidential case assessment form and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

Alternatively, we are available to talk by phone and email. Please contact our experienced accredited specialist personal injury lawyers to find out how we can help.

Call now to start your claim 02 8329 9500

No Win No Fee

You won’t be required to pay any fees until we win your case.

Industry Experts

We’re industry experts with over 20 years of experience.

Maximum Compensation

Our team of expert injury lawyers will help you get maximum compensation.

T M

08:15 27 Feb 25

To describe my experience with Garling & Co Lawyers as transformative would be an understatement. From the moment I engaged their services, I was met with a level of professionalism, compassion, and... legal acumen that is truly unparalleled. At the heart of this exceptional team is Mr. Matthew a man whose profound intellect, vast experience, and unwavering commitment to his clients set him apart as one of the finest advocates in the field of personal injury law.Mr. Matthew possesses an extraordinary depth of knowledge, honed by years of navigating the complexities of personal injury claims. His ability to anticipate challenges, strategize effectively, and counteract adversarial tactics is nothing short of remarkable. In my case, where I suffered a debilitating back injury as a result of a workplace accident, the road to recovery both physically and legally felt insurmountable. Insurance companies and medical examiners sought to downplay the severity of my condition, attempting to minimise my impairment rating and deny me the compensation I rightfully deserved. Yet, Mr. Matthew stood firm, refusing to let them diminish the gravity of my suffering.What struck me most about Mr. Matthew and indeed the entire team at Garling & Co is their genuine care for their clients. Mr. Matthew is not merely a lawyer; he is a compassionate advocate who understands the human element behind every case. He listened intently as I described the chronic pain, mobility limitations, and emotional toll caused by my back injury , treating my story with the seriousness it warranted. His internal and external team, equally brilliant and dedicated, worked tirelessly to gather medical evidence, consult specialists, and build an unassailable case that highlighted the true extent of my injuries. Together, they formed an unstoppable force, driven by a shared mission to deliver the best possible result for their clients.The professionalism exhibited by Garling & Co is of such a high caliber that it defies belief. Every interaction was marked by courtesy, precision, and transparency. They communicated with me regularly, keeping me informed at every stage of the process and ensuring I felt empowered rather than overwhelmed. Their ability to simplify even the most intricate legal matters into understandable terms speaks volumes about their expertise and client-centered approach.Thanks to Mr. Matthew and his team, what began as a daunting and disheartening journey ended in triumph. Facing a severe back injury that left me unable to work or enjoy life as I once did, I encountered countless obstacles designed to diminish my claim. Yet, under Mr. Matthew’s guidance, those barriers were dismantled one by one. The result he achieved for me was not just satisfactory it was extraordinary. He secured the maximum compensation I deserved, restoring not only my financial stability but also my faith in the legal system.If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a personal injury, whether it be a back injury , workplace accident, or any other trauma, I implore you to place your trust in Garling & Co Lawyers. They are more than capable of turning despair into hope, adversity into victory, and injustice into resolution. With Mr. Matthew leading the charge, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with the utmost integrity, intelligence, and tenacity.In closing, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to Mr. Matthew and the entire team at Garling & Co. You have made an indelible impact on my life, and I will forever be indebted to you for your tireless efforts and unwavering support. To anyone seeking representation that combines brilliance, professionalism, and genuine care, look no further Garling & Co is the epitome of excellence.read more

S Z

07:46 27 Feb 25

I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional support and dedication provided by Garling & Co Lawyers, particularly Mr. Matthew, Alison, and their incredible team. They have been nothing... short of a lifeline during one of the darkest chapters of my life a time when I felt abandoned, broken, and unsure if anyone could truly help me.After sustaining multiple disabilities from a workplace injury, I was left grappling with physical pain, emotional turmoil, and overwhelming uncertainty about my future. I had initially turned to another law firm one of those big names everyone talks about but they failed me. Despite their promises and polished reputation, they couldn’t deliver when it mattered most. Faced with insurance medical examiners determined to downplay my injuries and strip away my rights, I felt powerless. It seemed like no one was on my side until I found Garling & Co.From the very first conversation, Matthew, Alison, and the entire team showed me what real compassion looks like. They didn’t just hear my story; they felt it. Every phone call I made was answered with patience and understanding. Every question I had was met with clarity and reassurance. For the first time in months, I felt seen, heard, and valued not as a case file, but as a person.What sets Garling & Co apart isn’t just their unmatched legal expertise it’s their humanity. They understood the weight of what I was carrying, and they carried it with me. Where others saw obstacles too great to overcome, they saw opportunities to fight harder. Their wisdom, determination, and relentless pursuit of justice transformed a losing case into a victory that exceeded all expectations.The difference between my previous lawyers and Garling & Co? Heart. My former lawyers treated my case like a transaction; Garling & Co treated it like a mission. They refused to let the insurance company minimize my suffering or dismiss my struggles. Instead, they fought tooth and nail to secure the maximum impairment compensation I deserved a result I never dreamed possible after everything I’d been through.If you’re reading this and feeling lost, scared, or defeated, please know there is hope. No matter how complex or challenging your situation may seem, Garling & Co will stand by you. They’ll dig deep, work tirelessly, and leave no stone unturned in their quest for fairness and justice. You won’t just be hiring lawyers you’ll be gaining advocates who genuinely care about your well-being and your future.To Matthew, Alison, and the entire team at Garling & Co: thank you!!! doesn’t feel like enough. You’ve given me back my dignity, my peace of mind, and my belief that good people still exist in this world. If anyone is searching for a team that will pour their heart and soul into your case, look no further. These are the lawyers who will turn your darkest days into brighter tomorrows.read more

Jude M.

03:54 21 Feb 25

I rang Mr Matthew Garling on a matter, and Matthew gave me his time and honest advice from goodwill. Matthew is a very honest, good man of integrity who went beyond the call of duty. I would highly... recommend Matthew and his company.read more

Pouya Zadbar T.

01:36 15 Feb 25

Garling and Co were very helpful and did their best to get the most payout for my mothers workers compensation claim. We were very happy with their patience and understanding as this was a long and... trying process with the insurance. I Would definitely recommend their services.read more

Don T.

05:59 13 Feb 25

I had an occupational accident for 2 years and after the surgery for a whole year there was no good result and my body was in so much pain that I could not return to work. Everyone told me to find a... lawyer immediately, I did not know which lawyer could help me so I searched on Google. After searching I found that many clients were very satisfied with Garling & Co, so I texted Garling & Co. They immediately called back and asked if I felt pain and could not come to the office, they would come to see me but I replied that I could come. And the legal journey started from there. I met Mr. Garling who was about my age but very enthusiastic and dedicated and he explained and advised me in a way that I could understand all the questions and I agreed with him very much, then he handed over my case to Ms. Allison to contact me. Everything went very well according to his arrangements from the first step to the last step. Until the last day, he explained how the negotiation was going and I understood the whole story. I did not ask for too much and the number I gave was quickly agreed to avoid lengthy legal headaches. In total, after 4 years of the accident and almost 2 years with the help of Garling & Co, everything was resolved happily for all parties. Once again, I thank Mr. Garling, Ms. Allison and everyone at Garling & Co for helping me, they are wonderful and I hope they will continue their good work helping people who need legal help like I need help. Thank you very much Garling & Co.read more

Pedro M.

04:26 11 Feb 25

Thank you so much for all the help and support this past years.I recommend it to anyone who needs help.Thanks again and all the best for the Garling & Co team and a special thanks to Kerry Byrnes.

Ron J.

03:49 11 Feb 25

I had an overall good experience with Garling and Co. I was the victim of a major motorvehicle accident in April 2021. There were a few complications in my case including me having to move overseas... for 2 years temporarily during the progression of my claim and original lawyer from Garling that handled my case leaving the firm. The move overseas resulted in the insurer cutting off my income replacement, which lasted for 9 months, which as you can imagine created a major financial strain on the family On both these occasions, Garling worked to get a good result. They fought in front of the NSW Panel, and got a reported decision that states that all Permanent Residents and Citizens of Australia have the right to be paid income replacement even when overseas, during an accident claim under CTP cover. They also worked very hard in the face of a typically uncooperative and obstructive insurer to progress my claim over the last (almost 4 years) and the replacement lawyer Kerry Burns has done amazing work, with care, empathy and professionalism. I've had a good experience with them!read more

Sandra C.

03:27 06 Feb 25

Garling & Co Lawyers were professional from start to finish. They made me feel like I was as important to them as all their clients. Emma Perkins and her team went over and above in all aspects to... exceed my expectations. Highly recommended.read more

kokomo U.

01:38 15 Jan 25

Such a difficult time for me and so grateful to have alison and Mathews help...knowing I could trust in their knowledge, along with the understanding and compassion I received helped make a trying... time easier to navigate. Thankyou guys, would highly recommendread more

Sam H.

09:47 17 Dec 24

Very knowledgeable, explains everything very clearly and highly recommend.

Public Liability Lawyer FAQs

1. Who is a Public Liability Lawyer?

A public liability lawyer is a legal professional who specialises in public liability law. These lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the legal framework that governs public liability cases and can provide legal advice and representation to clients who have suffered injuries or damages in public places.

2. What Does a Public Liability Lawyer Do?

Public liability lawyers are responsible for representing clients who have suffered injuries or damages in public places due to the negligence of another party. Their primary role is to help clients receive the compensation they deserve for their losses.

Some of the tasks that a public liability lawyer may perform include:

Investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident
Gathering evidence to support the client’s case
Negotiating with the other party or their insurance company
Filing a claim in court if a settlement cannot be reached
Representing the client in court
Providing legal advice and guidance throughout the claims process

3. Importance of Hiring a Public Liability Lawyer

If you’ve been injured or suffered damages in a public place, it’s essential to seek legal advice from a public liability lawyer. These lawyers have the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of public liability law and can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

4. When Should You Consult a Public Liability Lawyer?

If you’ve been injured or suffered damages in a public place, you should consult a public liability lawyer as soon as possible. The earlier you seek legal advice, the better your chances of receiving fair compensation for your losses.
It’s also important to consult a public liability lawyer if:

You’re unsure whether you have a valid claim
The other party’s insurance company is disputing your claim
You’ve received a settlement offer that you’re unsure about
You’re concerned that you may be liable for damages

5. How to Choose a Public Liability Lawyer?

Choosing the right public liability lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. When selecting a lawyer, consider the following factors:

Experience: Look for a lawyer who has experience handling public liability cases similar to yours.
Reputation: Check online reviews and ask for referrals from family, friends, or colleagues.
Communication: Choose a lawyer who communicates clearly and promptly and keeps you informed throughout the process.
Fees: Make sure you understand the lawyer’s fee structure and how they will charge for their services.
Accredited Specialist: Choose a lawyer who is an accredited specialist in personal injury law in NSW.

6. What to Expect from a Public Liability Lawyer?

A public liability lawyer should provide you with the following services:

Initial consultation: A lawyer should offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and determine whether you have a valid claim.
Investigation: A lawyer should conduct a thorough investigation of your case, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts.
Negotiation: A lawyer should negotiate with the other party or their insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
Representation: A lawyer should represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Legal advice: A lawyer should provide you with legal advice and guidance throughout the claims process.

7. Benefits of Hiring a Public Liability Lawyer

Hiring a public liability lawyer offers several benefits, including:

Expertise: Public liability lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the legal framework governing public liability cases and can provide you with expert legal advice and representation.
Higher compensation: Public liability lawyers can help you receive higher compensation for your losses than you would likely receive without legal representation.
Reduced stress: Public liability lawyers can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Faster resolution: Public liability lawyers can help you resolve your case more quickly than you would likely be able to do on your own.

8. Public Liability Lawyer Fees

Public liability lawyer fees vary depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s experience. Most public liability lawyers work on a “no win, no fee” basis, which means that you won’t have to pay any legal fees unless your lawyer wins your case.

9. What is the best way to prepare for a consultation with a public liability lawyer?

To prepare for a consultation with a public liability lawyer, gather any relevant documents or evidence related to your case, such as medical records, witness statements, and photographs of the scene. Be prepared to discuss the details of the incident and any losses you have suffered as a result. Finally, be prepared to ask any questions you may have about the legal process and your potential compensation.

10. What should I look for when choosing a public liability lawyer?

When choosing a public liability lawyer, look for someone with experience in handling similar cases, a track record of success, and a commitment to providing personalized service. It’s also important to choose a lawyer who is transparent about their fees and who communicates clearly and regularly with you throughout the claims process. You should also only choose a lawyer who is a NSW accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law.

More Faqs

Workers Compensation Lawyers

Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Sydney

Medical Negligence Lawyers Sydney