What to discuss at the first meeting
Explain whether the conduct is ongoing, the working relationship and the outcome sought. A stop-bullying process, an internal complaint and an injury claim have different purposes.
Ask for advice on the appropriate forum and available outcomes rather than assuming one application addresses every concern.
Working with a firm in Bendigo & Loddon
Bendigo and Castlemaine are the main centres listed for Bendigo & Loddon. Compare firms by the work you need: a sale contract, parenting arrangement, estate administration or business dispute will each require a different set of documents and questions.
For workplace bullying & stop bullying orders, 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 Bendigo & Loddon. 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.