What to discuss at the first meeting
Make the young person’s age, current situation and next court date clear. Ask how the lawyer will communicate directly with the young person and involve an appropriate support person.
Do not assume an adult criminal practice provides the same approach or services for a child or young person.
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 youth justice & children's court, 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.