Every person with a tricky legal matter needs a lawyer consult. Legal matters big or small can turn your life upside down. The unknown of legalese, procedures and potential consequences can become a recipe for stress.
While a lawyer consultation may cost you, the benefits far outweigh the upfront cost. A lawyer can be your guide through the legal jungle, take the decision making off your hands and advocate for you, so you can have a more manageable and less stressful experience.
Why Do We Need Lawyers?
Legal matters can be stressful and confusing, so don’t hesitate to seek an initial consultation with a lawyer. If you’re unsure about your rights, facing a high stakes situation or just need help with procedures, a consultation can give you clarity and direction.
A lawyer can also be your advocate if you’re being sued or investigated, entering into a big contract or planning your estate. Remember many lawyers offer free or paid consults so you can get some insight without any commitment. But it’s better to pay for professional help to navigate your situation with less stress and more confidence.
Note: The Law Institute of Victoria accredits lawyers in different areas of law just like other states.
Choosing a Lawyer: A Guide for Clients
Finding the right lawyer can be daunting but don’t worry! Here are some tips to help you through the process:
Finding a Lawyer:
- Get a referral: Ask friends, a referral service, family or colleagues for recommendations.
- Search online or phone directories: Look for lawyers who specialise in your legal issue, have Law Society certification and have good reviews.
- Go local: They may have experience with local matters.
Before Your Initial Consultation:
- Ask about experience: Make sure the lawyer has experience with cases like yours.
- Ask about fees: What’s the cost of the consultation and ongoing fees.
- Look around: Talk to a few lawyers before you decide.
Before Your Consultation:
- Collect documents: Get any relevant papers like contracts, letters etc.
- Timeline: Create a brief timeline of events leading to your legal issue.
- List your concerns: Make a list of what’s worrying you.
Lawyer Consultation: Where Does Your Money Go?
Lawyer fees can be confusing but here are some FAQs to help you prepare for the cost.
What are you charged for?
- Time: Lawyers bill by the hour for time spent on your matter. This includes meetings, communication (phone calls, emails etc.), research, writing documents, filing papers, court appearances. Some lawyers charge fixed fees for their services so you can work with your lawyer without any hidden fees.
- Disbursements: These are extra costs on top of legal fees. They might include photocopying, filing fees, court costs or fees paid to other professionals like title searchers or barristers.
Will they give you a cost disclosure statement?
For matters over a certain amount lawyers must give you a cost disclosure statement. This document will tell you:
- What work is involved.
- Estimated total cost.
- How fees are charged.
- Your right to dispute costs
Will they give you a costs agreement?
The lawyer may give you a costs agreement before or during the consultation for you to sign. Even if you don’t sign it, continuing to work with the lawyer implies you agree to the terms and liable for costs.
What if I don’t go ahead?
Let the lawyer know as soon as possible if you decide not to proceed after the first consultation.
If the lawyer does any further work after you haven’t indicated you’re stopping, you may be liable for those costs.
What Matters Can a Lawyer Consultation Help With?
Family Law Matters
- Divorce and Separation: A consultation can clarify your rights and entitlements, child custody arrangements and property division.
- Parenting Disputes: Get guidance on establishing or modifying parenting plans and child support.
- Domestic Violence: A lawyer can provide legal advice on AVOs and legal options for your safety.
- Mediation: Mediation helps disputed parties find a common ground for their difficult family law matter. This is less expensive than court and can answer a lot of questions for disputed parents.
Criminal Law and Traffic Law
- Criminal Charges: A consultation can help if you’re charged or want to charge someone. They can guide you through the process, represent you in court and protect your rights.
- Traffic Offences: Traffic fines can be severe. A lawyer can advise on the penalties and options to minimize the impact on your license.
Click here to see our Criminal and Traffic law services
Commercial and Corporate Law
- Business Setup: Make sure your business is set up correctly and know the legal requirements.
- Contracts: Get advice on drafting, reviewing and negotiating contracts to protect your business.
- Compliance Issues: A lawyer can help you navigate the complex regulations and ensure your business is compliant.
Click here to see our commercial and Corporate law services
Land and Conveyancing
- Buying Property: A consultation can help you through the conveyancing process, review contracts and ensure a smooth transaction.
- Selling Property: Know your obligations and make sure all documentation is in order for a successful sale.
- Property Disputes: Get advice on resolving boundary issues, easements or other property disputes.
See our Land and Conveyancing legal services.
Immigration Law
- Visa Applications: A lawyer can help you navigate the visa application process and increase your chances of getting through immigration
- Appealing Visa Decisions: Get advice on contesting a negative visa decision and options.
- Citizenship Applications: Know the legal requirements and application process for Australian citizenship.
Employment Law
- Unfair Dismissal: If you think you were unfairly dismissed, a consultation can advise on your rights and options.
- Workplace Disputes: Get advice on resolving workplace conflicts, bullying allegations or unfair treatment.
- Employment Contracts: Get employment advice on reviewing or negotiating your contract to protect your rights.
Civil Disputes and Litigation
- Debt Recovery: A consultation can help you recover debts quickly and legally.
- Contract Disputes: Get advice on contract breaches, pursuing damages, and personal injury matters.
- Defamation Claims: If your reputation has been damaged, a lawyer can advise on legal options and protect your rights.
Which of these applies to you? JB Solicitors, a top Australian law firm has lawyers experienced in all of the above. From family law to complex commercial deals our team can provide the right jargon-free consultation to you.
Contact our expert lawyers today.
