Employer Advisory & Industrial Relations lawyers in Riverina & Murray, NSW

What to discuss at the first meeting

Identify the business, workforce and proposed decision or issue. Seek advice on the actual contract, policy or process before implementing a change where possible.

Clarify whether advice covers a single employee issue or wider policy and industrial-relations work.

Working with a firm in Riverina & Murray

Riverina and Murray matters may involve NSW and Victoria, particularly where people, property or businesses are based on both sides of the border. Identify each relevant location before comparing legal services.

For employer advisory & industrial relations, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant NSW experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Riverina & Murray. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.

How the engagement may progress

Gather the contract, dates, pay records and relevant correspondence. Identify the employer’s legal name rather than only a trading name.
Ask which law or process applies and whether its requirements are met. Fair Work Commission unfair dismissal applications have a 21-day filing timeframe, making prompt advice important.
Agree how to respond, prepare for a meeting or assess a settlement. Have any release and confidentiality terms explained before signing.

Fees and the scope of work

Advice on a single document, an investigation response and ongoing representation need different estimates. Ask what negotiation and appearance work is covered.

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

Put the dismissal or decision date in the first enquiry. Ask whether an external deadline is running while an internal complaint is being considered.

Questions to ask a employer advisory & industrial relations adviser

Courts and tribunals in New South Wales

In New South Wales, most criminal and minor civil matters start in the Local Court, with more serious matters in the District Court and Supreme Court. Tenancy, strata, consumer and guardianship disputes usually go to NCAT. Solicitors are licensed by the Law Society of New South Wales, and complaints about lawyers go to the Office of the Legal Services Commissioner.

Frequently asked questions

How do I dismiss an employee lawfully?

Follow a fair process, give reasons and an opportunity to respond, and comply with notice and award requirements.

Which courts hear cases from Riverina & Murray?

Most matters start in the Local Court. More serious cases go to the District Court or the Supreme Court of NSW. Family law matters are heard by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

How do I check a lawyer is licensed in New South Wales?

Practising certificates in New South Wales are managed by the Law Society of New South Wales. You can check a solicitor's status on its public register or by contacting it directly.

Employer Advisory & Industrial Relations lawyers in Riverina & Murray

Pennicott Weir Lawyers

Why employer advisory & industrial relations matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to employer advisory & industrial relations in Riverina & Murray