How much does going to court cost?

It depends on the court, the complexity and how far the matter goes. Ask for a written estimate for each stage, and remember that the losing party often pays part of the winner's costs.

Can I sue for defamation?

Possibly, if a publication identified you and caused or is likely to cause serious harm to your reputation. There are defences and strict time limits, usually one year from publication.

My insurer rejected my claim. What now?

Ask for the reasons in writing and use the insurer's internal complaints process. You can then take the dispute to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, which is free, or get legal advice on court action.

Disputes & Litigation lawyers in Sydney CBD, NSW

Choosing the right kind of assistance

A demand, unpaid account, insurance decision or disagreement over professional work can require different strategies. Identify the outcome sought and supporting evidence. The amount involved, other party’s position and cost of pursuing the matter all affect a proportionate approach.

Working with a firm in Sydney CBD

A city-centre address can be convenient for meetings, but it does not tell you which solicitor will handle the file. For a business transaction, employment issue or dispute, ask whether the team has experience with your particular industry and the size of the matter.

For disputes & litigation, 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 Sydney CBD. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.

How the engagement may progress

Prepare a chronology, agreement or policy, important communications and a calculation of any claimed amount. Distinguish firsthand facts from assumptions.
Discuss negotiation, a complaint scheme, mediation, a tribunal or court. Ask which options are available for this particular matter.
Agree on a first step and a point to reassess progress and cost. Before settling, understand what claims would be released and how obligations would be recorded.

Fees and the scope of work

Request stages for advice, correspondence, negotiations and proceedings. Discuss filing, expert and barrister costs and any potential liability for another party’s costs.

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 every demand, decision and court document with its date. Do not assume informal negotiations suspend a response or filing deadline.

Questions to ask a disputes & litigation adviser

What evidence would change the assessment?
Is a complaint or dispute-resolution scheme available?
What are the practical costs and risks if agreement is not reached?

Disputes & Litigation lawyers in Sydney CBD

Cityscape Lawyers

Norton Rose Fulbright

E.Law International

Sydun & Co Solicitors

Buttar, Caldwell & Co.

CANARY LEGAL

Denison Toyer Pty Ltd

Chen Shan Lawyers

Jemmeson & Fisher

Construction Expert Witness Australia

Daniel Wakim Law Firm

Frankel Lawyers

GMH Legal

MRC

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers

Bazaliza Lawyers

Heenan & Co

Tiyce & Lawyers

Dimocks Family Lawyers

Carneys Lawyers c/- Walker Beer Solicitors + Conveyancers

Makinson d'Apice Lawyers

Navado

E.Law International

KP Lawyers & Barristers

Why disputes matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to disputes & litigation in Sydney CBD

Choosing the right kind of assistance

Working with a firm in Sydney CBD

How the engagement may progress

Fees and the scope of work

Dates to raise at first contact

Questions to ask a disputes & litigation adviser

Frequently asked questions

Disputes & Litigation in other NSW regions

Other lawyers in Sydney CBD