What to discuss at the first meeting
Explain whether you need pre-contract review or help with defects, payment, delay or termination. Provide the full contract and variations so advice is based on the current agreement.
Ask about legal and expert costs separately and do not assume withholding payment or ending a contract is an appropriate first step.
Working with a firm in Limestone Coast
Mount Gambier is the listed centre for the Limestone Coast. If a transaction, employment matter or family asset also involves Victoria, explain that connection when asking a lawyer to assess the work.
For building & construction, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant SA experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Limestone Coast. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
Provide the address, parties and current contract or notice. Explain whether anything has been signed and identify every agreed date.
Ask which terms, searches and ownership questions will be reviewed. Explain finance, proposed use and any linked transaction.
Agree who communicates with agents, lenders and the other side. Confirm how documents are approved and what happens if the matter is delayed or disputed.
Fees and the scope of work
Separate legal fees from searches, registration, taxes and third-party expenses. Complex ownership, negotiations or a dispute may fall outside an advertised conveyancing price.
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
Seek review before signing where possible. Ask about the actual dates in your documents; cooling-off and completion arrangements differ across states and transactions.
Questions to ask a building & construction adviser
- Which notice or response requires attention first?