Choosing the right kind of assistance
A workplace enquiry may concern dismissal, wages, a contract, discrimination or an investigation. Say whether you are the employee or employer and whether the employment has ended. Employment advice and a related injury claim are different types of work.
Working with a firm in Darwin & Palmerston
Darwin, Palmerston and Casuarina are grouped for this directory search. For a workplace, tenancy or government-decision matter, identify the decision-maker or other party and gather the written notice before contacting a firm.
For employment & workplace, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant NT experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Darwin & Palmerston. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
- 01
Gather the contract, dates, pay records and relevant correspondence. Identify the employer’s legal name rather than only a trading name.
- 02
Ask which law or process applies and whether its requirements are met. Fair Work Commission unfair dismissal applications have a 21-day filing timeframe, making prompt advice important.
- 03
Agree how to respond, prepare for a meeting or assess a settlement. Have any release and confidentiality terms explained before signing.
Fees and the scope of work
Advice on a single document, an investigation response and ongoing representation need different estimates. Ask what negotiation and appearance work is covered.
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
Put the dismissal or decision date in the first enquiry. Ask whether an external deadline is running while an internal complaint is being considered.
Questions to ask a employment & workplace adviser
- Which claim or response fits these facts?