What to discuss at the first meeting
Identify the proposed or existing proceeding and any registration or settlement notice. Ask what participation involves, who represents the group and how funding and deductions are explained.
Do not assume registering interest and becoming bound by a proceeding or settlement are the same event.
Working with a firm in Far West
A Far West search starts with Broken Hill, but the right adviser may also be available remotely. For a matter involving another state, explain where the event occurred and where any property, employer or other party is based.
For class actions, 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 Far West. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
- 01
Provide a chronology, relevant locations and employer or insurer details, together with forms and decisions already received.
- 02
Discuss medical, employment, incident and expense records. Ask who will obtain reports and how access, privacy and expert costs will be managed.
- 03
Have any offer, assessment or release explained before agreeing. Clarify what a resolution would cover and whether related claims need separate advice.
Fees and the scope of work
Ask for the written meaning of no win, no fee, including expenses, any uplift and possible other costs. The phrase alone is not enough to compare arrangements.
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
Ask early about notice, claim and review limits in the relevant scheme. Keep the incident date and every insurer decision available for assessment.
Questions to ask a class actions adviser
- What is my status in the proceeding?
