Legal Comment by Mark Illidge

March 2010

Whether you are buying or selling property, setting up a business, in a dispute, injured or planning your estate matters, at some point in your life you may have cause to visit a lawyer.

Here are some points that you might find useful:
· Most law firms will provide a short (1/2 hour or less) initial consultation at a discount to their regular hourly rate. This gives you the opportunity to ascertain your options, and decide if you wish to continue down the legal route.
· Most lawyers are not qualified to provide financial advice, which also precludes them from advising on the value of a property.
· If you are buying or selling a property or business, always have your lawyer check the contract before you sign it. Ask the selling agent to fax the contract to your lawyer. You and your lawyer can then discuss the contract details and your specific needs. If needed, changes can then be made before you sign.
· When leasing, it makes sense for the landlord to have their lawyer prepare the lease, as they are privy to the property and equipment details. The tenant should have their lawyer review the lease before signing.
· While most firms provide fixed fees where possible, if the duration and intensity of a matter is unpredictable the firm will usually charge based on an hourly rate.
· To put legal services within reach of the whole community, Suncoast Community Legal Service provides free 15 minute legal consultations. Lawyers from around the local area volunteer their time to provide advice and referrals. The service operates on alternate fortnights in Landsborough and Maleny. For more details phone 54437827.

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