At New South Lawyers, we work on matters across our practice areas – 12 of them to be exact. However, our clients generally have some relatively common queries and FAQs. To help, we have created this comprehensive list of the questions you should ask your lawyer.
The First Question You Should Ask Your Lawyer: Are You a Specialist in This Area of Law?
You wouldn’t go into a Porsche dealer searching for a Suzuki Swift, or a steak house if you were hungry for vegetarian pasta. Similarly, when trying to determine the best course of legal action for your case, one of the first questions you should ask your lawyer is about their area of expertise. While New South Lawyers is a multi-disciplinary firm with the ability to work across 12 key practice areas, every member of our team is an expert on the matters within their division.
To determine whether your lawyer is a specialist who can best support your specific needs, don’t be afraid to ask how long they have practised in that area of law, how many cases they have worked on with circumstances similar to yours, and their success rate in those instances. This is particularly important when engaging family law lawyers, where experience can significantly influence outcomes.
Who Will Actually Be Working on My Case and How Will It Be Managed?
The benefits of working with a boutique law firm such as New South Lawyers generally mean that one practitioner, or a specialised team, will be directly dedicated to your matter. This level of focus ensures you receive high-quality personalised service that remains centred on your needs.
It is also important to understand who will be accountable for your case so that you can develop a strong relationship with a primary contact. That person can explain how the work will be done, keep you informed of progress, and support you throughout the entire process.
Do I Have to Go to Court to Resolve This Matter?
A good lawyer understands that going to court can be costly and time-consuming, and will always attempt alternative dispute resolution options where appropriate. You should feel comfortable asking your solicitor about available out-of-court pathways and whether they suit your circumstances, so you can choose the most effective approach.
How Likely Am I to Win My Case?
Any lawyer with integrity will have an objective discussion about the strengths and weaknesses of your case. While success is never guaranteed, you should ask questions about the evidence, relevant legal precedent, the firm’s experience with similar matters, and the expected duration of proceedings. These factors help you realistically assess the prospects of success.
It is also worth remembering that a favourable outcome may take different forms, not just a final court judgment.
How Long Will It Take?
The time between an alleged offence or dispute arising and a final court outcome can range from weeks to several years. Although no lawyer can provide exact timelines due to variables outside their control, a competent practitioner should be able to give a realistic estimate based on experience and case complexity.
How Much Will It Cost?
Legal costs vary depending on the nature and complexity of the matter. Before commencing proceedings, ensure you sign a costs agreement. This formal document outlines the pricing structure, billing method, and scope of professional services.
New South Lawyers’ communications are intended to provide general information only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Formal legal advice should be obtained for specific matters.
To Find Out More
Chat with a member of the New South Lawyers team today to discuss your legal matter and next steps.