Lawyers Urged to Help Clients Better Understand the Law

Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Jone Maritino Nemani has urged legal practitioners to help clients better understand Fiji’s no-fault accident compensation framework, saying that managing expectations is key to maintaining trust and fairness in the system.

Speaking at the Fiji Law Society Convention and the Second Pasefika Lawyers Collective Convention in Nadi, Mr. Nemani said many Fijians still misunderstand how the no-fault system works.

“Some clients think that ‘no-fault’ means ‘no process’ — that they should receive money immediately after an accident,” Mr. Nemani said.

“But the reality is that every claim must still go through proper verification and documentation.”

He explained that the Accident Compensation Act 2017 was designed to remove the need to prove fault and make compensation quicker and more accessible for victims of workplace, motor vehicle, and school accidents.

However, he said this has also created new challenges for lawyers who must now guide clients through administrative procedures instead of litigation.

Mr. Nemani noted that incomplete documentation remains the main reason for delays in compensation payments. He urged lawyers to help clients prepare all necessary paperwork, including medical reports, employment verification, and, in some cases, probate documents, to ensure claims are processed smoothly.

He also reminded the legal fraternity that the no-fault system provides fixed compensation rates and does not include damages for pain and suffering, which often surprises clients used to the old court-based system.

“Clear and honest communication at the start of every case can prevent frustration later,” Mr. Nemani said.

“Lawyers are the bridge between the system and the people. When they explain how the process truly works, clients can focus on recovery rather than disappointment.”

Mr. Nemani concluded by thanking the Fiji Law Society and regional legal professionals for their partnership, saying continued dialogue between lawyers and the Ministry will help strengthen the accident compensation framework for all Fijians.