What to discuss at the first meeting
Identify the exact publication, audience, timing and person or organisation involved. Give the lawyer a copy in its original context rather than a paraphrase.
Ask for advice before sending demands or publishing a response that may create additional issues.
Working with a firm in Hume & North East
Shepparton, Wangaratta, Wodonga and Seymour are grouped within Hume & North East. Where a matter involves Albury or other NSW connections, explain that early so the lawyer can identify any cross-border issues.
For defamation, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant VIC experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Hume & North East. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
Prepare a chronology, agreement or policy, important communications and a calculation of any claimed amount. Distinguish firsthand facts from assumptions.
Discuss negotiation, a complaint scheme, mediation, a tribunal or court. Ask which options are available for this particular matter.
Agree on a first step and a point to reassess progress and cost. Before settling, understand what claims would be released and how obligations would be recorded.
Fees and the scope of work
Request stages for advice, correspondence, negotiations and proceedings. Discuss filing, expert and barrister costs and any potential liability for another party’s costs.
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
Provide every demand, decision and court document with its date. Do not assume informal negotiations suspend a response or filing deadline.
Questions to ask a defamation adviser
- What immediate steps and dates need assessment?