Straightforward answers to common legal questions.

That depends on what happened, when it occurred, who may be responsible, the available evidence and the law applying to the matter. A free initial assessment can help identify whether the firm may be able to assist and what information is needed next.

The firm will ask for a summary of what happened, relevant dates, the injury or loss involved, any existing claim or insurer details and the current stage of the matter. The purpose is to understand the issue and identify the next practical step.

No. Contact the firm even if some records are missing. Useful documents may include medical reports, insurer letters, employment records, contracts, correspondence, photographs and court documents, but the team can explain what is most important for the particular matter.

Information provided for the purpose of seeking legal advice is handled confidentially, subject to the firm’s legal and professional obligations. Avoid sending sensitive documents through public comments or social media.

Yes. Adams & Co offers a free initial assessment so the firm can understand the matter and explain whether it may be able to assist. There is no obligation to proceed.

A No Win No Fee arrangement may defer covered professional legal fees until the successful outcome defined in the written costs agreement is achieved. It does not mean the matter is free if it succeeds, and disbursements or court-cost risks may be treated separately. Read the full No Win No Fee explanation.

No. It may be available for eligible compensation matters after the firm assesses the claim.

The proposed costs arrangement will be explained before the firm is retained. You should receive written information about the basis of charging, estimates, disbursements and other relevant costs before deciding whether to proceed.

Timeframes vary considerably. They may depend on recovery, medical evidence, insurer decisions, liability disputes, statutory procedures, settlement negotiations and whether court proceedings are required. Your lawyer should update you as the matter develops.

Almost all of your claims resolve through negotiation, mediation or another dispute-resolution process. Some matters require court proceedings. Your lawyer can explain the likely process based on the type of claim and how the other party responds.

Possibly. Insurers and other parties may request an examination by an independent medical specialist. Your lawyer can explain why the examination has been requested, what documents to bring and how the report may be used.

A rejection does not always end the matter. The available review, dispute or appeal process depends on the type of claim, the reasons given and the applicable time limits. Obtain advice promptly and keep the written decision.

It is not possible to estimate compensation accurately without understanding the claim. Relevant factors may include the type of claim, injury severity, medical evidence, past and future income loss, treatment and care needs, liability, statutory thresholds and applicable limits.

Lost income may be relevant in some compensation schemes and damages claims. The available entitlement depends on the applicable law, medical capacity, employment history, earnings evidence and the effect of the injury on work.

Psychological injuries may be compensable in some circumstances, including workplace, motor vehicle, public liability and medical-negligence matters. The requirements vary and generally require appropriate medical evidence.

Treatment expenses may be recoverable or payable under some compensation schemes. The position depends on the type of claim, whether the treatment is considered reasonable and necessary, insurer approval and the applicable legislation.

In many circumstances, yes. Before changing firms, obtain advice about the current stage of the claim, upcoming deadlines, the existing costs agreement and how the file will be transferred.

The former firm may have a claim for work already performed and expenses already incurred. The way those costs are dealt with depends on the existing agreement, the circumstances of the transfer and any arrangement reached between the firms.

After the new firm is instructed and any required authority is signed, the firms can arrange transfer of the file. Outstanding costs, liens and urgent deadlines may need to be addressed before the transfer is completed.

A transfer can cause some administrative delay, particularly if the matter is close to a deadline or hearing. Early advice, an organised file transfer and clear communication between the firms can reduce disruption. Learn more about obtaining a second opinion.

Adams & Co is based in Sydney and assists clients in NSW and, where appropriate, in matters throughout Australia. Whether the firm can assist depends on the type of matter and the applicable state or territory law.

Phone or video consultations may be available where suitable. Some documents may still need to be signed, witnessed or verified in a particular way depending on the matter.

Members of the team can assist in English, Korean, Vietnamese and Portuguese. Additional language support may be arranged where available and appropriate.

Update frequency depends on the stage of the matter and whether there has been a meaningful development. You should also contact the firm when your circumstances change, new medical information becomes available or you receive correspondence from an insurer or another party.