What to discuss at the first meeting
Describe the institution, decision and whether the client is a student, parent, employee or provider. Different internal, regulatory and legal processes may apply.
Ask about privacy, the student’s participation and any immediate educational arrangements while advice is obtained.
Working with a firm in Melbourne CBD
A Melbourne CBD search can be useful for comparing teams with different specialisations. Ask who will do the work and who will supervise it, especially when a firm has several practice departments.
For education law, 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 Melbourne CBD. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
Keep the complete notice, reasons and review information. Record when and how the decision was received.
Ask whether internal review, a tribunal, complaint or court process is available. The Administrative Review Tribunal reviews specified Commonwealth decisions, not every government matter.
Identify evidence relevant to the disputed findings and ask how the agency file can be obtained. Clarify the result the reviewer can provide.
Fees and the scope of work
Clarify charges for advice, submissions, appearances and reports. Ask about legal aid or specialist assistance where appropriate.
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
Give the decision and receipt dates immediately. A general complaint may not preserve an opportunity to seek formal review.
Questions to ask a education law adviser
- Which process can address the decision?
- What outcome and evidence are relevant?