What to discuss at the first meeting
Describe the treatment, the concern and the effect on you in chronological order. The lawyer should explain whether independent medical assessment is needed and how that differs from making a service complaint.
An unsatisfactory outcome does not by itself establish negligence; ask for an assessment based on records and appropriate expertise.
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 medical negligence, 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
- 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 medical negligence adviser
