Lawyers and Conveyancing Blue Mountains

You can raise the issue internally through HR or management, make a complaint to the Fair Work Commission (if systematic), lodge a workers compensation claim (for psychological injury), or pursue legal action. We’ll advise the best approach for your situation.

Useful evidence includes employment contracts, payslips, emails, text messages, performance reviews, witness statements, and diary notes of incidents. Start documenting issues as soon as they arise. We’ll help identify what evidence strengthens your case.

Yes, we assist both employees and employers. For employers, we provide advice on compliance, draft employment contracts and policies, manage dismissal procedures, and defend against claims. We help create legally compliant workplaces that minimise dispute risks.

While following internal grievance procedures can be helpful, you’re not required to exhaust them before seeking legal advice or filing certain claims. In fact, getting legal advice early can help you navigate internal procedures more effectively.

Unfair dismissal relates to dismissals that are harsh, unjust, or unreasonable. Unlawful termination involves dismissal for prohibited reasons like discrimination or exercising workplace rights. Different rules and time limits apply to each type of claim.

No. It’s unlawful for an employer to dismiss or take adverse action against you for making a legitimate complaint, exercising workplace rights, or raising safety concerns. If this happens, you may have grounds for a general protections or adverse action claim.

We believe in transparent pricing with no surprises. During your initial consultation, we’ll provide a clear cost estimate based on your specific matter. Many employment issues can be resolved through negotiation, keeping costs manageable. We always explain all costs upfront before you commit.

Time limits are critical in employment law. Unfair dismissal claims must be filed within 21 days of termination. General protections claims have 21 days (or 14 days if dismissed). Other matters may have different time limits. Contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Yes, we generally need to sight original documents to provide proper certification. We’ll advise on the best approach based on your specific situation and the requirements of the receiving country.

Simple notarisations typically take 15-30 minutes. Complex documents or multiple documents may take longer. We’ll estimate the time required when you book your appointment.

An apostille is an additional authentication for documents going to countries that are party to the Hague Convention. After notarisation, documents often need an apostille from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. We can advise whether you need one based on your destination country.

Bring your original documents and valid photo identification (passport or driver’s licence). If someone else signed the document, they may need to attend the appointment. We’ll confirm specific requirements when you book.

We believe in transparent pricing with no surprises. Notarial fees vary depending on the type and number of documents. During booking, we’ll provide a clear quote based on your specific requirements. Our fees are competitive and always explained upfront.

A Justice of the Peace (JP) can witness signatures and certify documents for use within Australia. A Public Notary is appointed by the Supreme Court and has international recognition to authenticate documents for overseas use. Most foreign governments and institutions specifically require notarisation by a Public Notary, not a JP.

Insurance companies often deny claims initially, hoping claimants will give up. They may argue policy exclusions, dispute the extent of damage, or delay processing. Having legal representation significantly improves your chances of a successful claim resolution.

Evidence requirements vary by dispute type but generally include documents, photographs, correspondence, witness statements, and expert reports where relevant. We’ll help you identify and gather the evidence needed to support your claim effectively.

In some civil proceedings, the successful party can recover legal costs from the losing party. However, in tribunals like NCAT, each party usually bears their own costs. We’ll explain the cost implications for your specific type of dispute during your consultation.

The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) handles many civil disputes including consumer claims up to $100,000, tenancy disputes, and dividing fence matters. It’s designed to be less formal and cheaper than court proceedings. We can represent you in NCAT or guide you through self-representation.

While informal discussions sometimes work, having legal representation early often leads to better outcomes. A formal letter of demand from a lawyer carries more weight and can resolve matters quickly. We can advise whether direct negotiation or immediate legal action is most appropriate for your situation.

Timeframes vary significantly depending on the complexity of your dispute and whether it settles out of court. Simple matters might resolve in weeks through negotiation, while complex court proceedings can take 12-18 months or more. We’ll provide you with a realistic timeline based on your specific situation.