We have recently acted on behalf of a client who has been awarded significant damages in respect to the negligence of his former solicitors. This unfortunate case serves to highlight the importance of making the best choice possible when it comes to selecting the advisers you entrust to look after your affairs.
A few tips to keep in mind when searching for a lawyer that is right for you:
- Like many decisions we are faced with, some of the most valued opinions are often those received from friends, colleagues or family. Peer to peer recommendations come with a certain in-built level of confidence based on the pre-existing relationship with the particular individual. The power of referrals like this are clearly evidenced by the explosion of social media and the viral sharing of experiences (both good and bad!) customers have had with products, services and the companies that provide them.
Ask around amongst your networks to gather as much information as possible on the lawyers they may have used, the experience they have had and any useful advice they have to offer.
- If you already have a lawyer for other matters but they don’t practice in the area of law you currently require, a good place to start is to ask your current firm for a recommendation to a legal practice that specialises in the area of law you are seeking. Lawyers tend to recommend each other more on the basis of their respect for their legal ability and results they achieve for their clients.
- The WA Law Society has a free database where you can select a lawyer based on their area of law, language and suburb.
- Take advantage of law firms that offer a ‘free initial appointment’, like our Legal Information Desk service. This provides you with the opportunity to explain the matter to a solicitor in order to gain some idea of how it may progress as well as allowing you to meet with them face to face to get a read on whether you are comfortable working with them. It also a good time to get an estimate of the potential costs associated with the engagement.
To request your free initial 20 minute consultation with one of our solicitors, simply visit our website and complete a Legal Information Desk request, email reception or give our offices a call on 9221 2339.
