What to discuss at the first meeting
Identify the alleged offence, issuing authority and any immediate licence action. A fine, suspension review and criminal charge may involve different pathways.
Ask about the effect on driving before assuming you may continue driving or that paying a notice resolves every issue.
Working with a firm in North West & West Coast
Devonport, Burnie and Ulverstone are the listed centres for North West & West Coast. An office on the north coast may still be a considerable journey for a West Coast client.
For traffic offences, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant TAS experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside North West & West Coast. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
Send the charge, summons, bail paperwork and hearing dates through the method requested by the lawyer. Identify whether you are enquiring for yourself or someone else.
Ask what evidence is available and what must be obtained. Decisions about a plea or statement should follow advice on your own circumstances.
Confirm who will attend the next event, where to meet and what preparation is included. Ask how changes in the case would affect the estimate.
Fees and the scope of work
One mention, a contested hearing and an appeal are different scopes of work. Ask about preparation, barrister fees and additional appearances.
Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.
Dates to raise at first contact
Make hearing dates and bail conditions clear at first contact. If the firm cannot assist in time, ask about an available practitioner or the relevant legal-aid service.
Questions to ask a traffic offences adviser
- Which process applies to this notice?