Taking on unjust proposed laws — and winning

Eleven years ago, the former Queensland state government proposed laws to criminalise gays, lesbians and singles from undertaking surrogacy. Internationally renowned surrogacy expert Stephen Page was among those who fought against the flagged laws and ultimately won that fight. Here, he discusses why lawyers can and must embrace change and always remember to serve others. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Page Provan director Stephen Page about his personal and professional journey, leading the fight against the then Queensland attorney-general’s push to criminalise gays, lesbians and singles from undertaking surrogacy, why this fight was so important and the toll it took on him. Mr Page also reflects on the legal skills he drew on during that fight, how it made him a better lawyer and advocate, why the label “activist” isn’t a bad thing for legal professionals, and how and why it is so critical for lawyers to remember that they are ultimately servants of the court and the communities around them. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email editor@lawyersweekly.com.au for more insights!