What to discuss at the first meeting
Provide the complete refusal and the date it was received. Advice should identify whether review is available, who can apply and what response is required.
Do not assume every refusal has the same review pathway or that an ordinary appointment preserves a deadline.
Working with a firm in Northern Rivers
For matters involving Tweed Heads and Queensland, ask about cross-border experience. A nearby office is not enough to establish whether a lawyer can advise on property, proceedings or a business on the other side of the border.
For visa refusals & tribunal appeals, 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 Northern Rivers. 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 visa refusals & tribunal appeals adviser
- What review right and deadline apply to this decision?