Registered Migration Agent (non-lawyer) lawyers in New England & North West, NSW

What to discuss at the first meeting

Ask the provider to identify their registration and the work they will undertake. A registered migration agent and a legal practitioner have different professional statuses even when both provide immigration assistance.

Confirm whether any tribunal or court work is within the agreed service and professional scope.

Working with a firm in New England & North West

For advice around Armidale, Tamworth, Moree and Gunnedah, distinguish personal matters from business or farm matters at the first enquiry. Land, a trading business and a family estate may involve different owners and documents.

For registered migration agent (non-lawyer), 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 New England & North West. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.

How the engagement may progress

Gather identity documents, visa records, decision letters and application history. Confirm who will give the advice and their scope of work.
Ask which requirements and evidence need assessment, including translations or reports. No provider can guarantee the application outcome.
Agree who receives correspondence and tracks requests. Keep a complete copy of lodged material and understand what you approve before submission.

Fees and the scope of work

Separate professional fees from government charges, translations and other expenses. Preparing an application does not necessarily include a review or court proceeding.

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 expiry dates and the entire decision letter immediately. Review rights and dates depend on the particular decision and circumstances.

Questions to ask a registered migration agent (non-lawyer) 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 check a migration agent is registered?

Search the OMARA register using their name or MARN.

Which courts hear cases from New England & North West?

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.

Registered Migration Agent (non-lawyer) lawyers in New England & North West

CHRISTOPHER SEROW SOLICITOR

Why registered migration agent (non-lawyer) matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to registered migration agent (non-lawyer) in New England & North West