What to discuss at the first meeting
Identify the transaction and ask the provider to confirm their licence and permitted scope. A conveyancer may be suitable for the agreed transaction while a related dispute or broader legal issue needs a lawyer.
Compare the scope, searches and disbursements as well as the quoted fee. Ask who will explain unexpected title issues or contract changes and when separate legal advice would be recommended.
Working with a firm in Hills District
For clients comparing Castle Hill, Baulkham Hills and Norwest offices, the most useful distinction is often the work the lawyer regularly handles. Buying a home, acquiring a business and updating an estate plan require different documents and advice.
For licensed conveyancing (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 Hills District. 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.