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General FAQs

Answers to common legal questions about JustFund fee funding, what to wear to court, being sued, and what to expect from your first appointment with a lawyer.

Important Legal Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is general legal information only and is not specific legal advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Laws change regularly and every situation is unique.

We strongly advise you to contact us to discuss your specific situation before proceeding with any action based on the information provided here.

Billing

Do you offer funding for Family Law or Wills and Estates?
Can’t afford legal fees upfront? We partner with JustFund to provide legal financing for family law and estate disputes. Pay only after your case is settled.
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Why can't you give me a cost estimate over the phone?
Every legal case is unique. A ‘simple’ divorce or contract can quickly become complex once we review the documents or the other party’s position. Giving an e…
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Business Compliance

Can a food business operate without customer toilets in Queensland?
Understand the regulatory framework governing toilet facilities at Queensland food businesses, including building codes and development approvals.
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Civil Litigation

If you win in court, does the other side automatically pay all your legal fees?
One of the most common myths in civil litigation is that the winning party has all of their legal fees paid by the loser. In reality, costs orders in Queensland courts are highly discretionary, calculated on a complex scale that rarely covers actual fees, and entirely absent in most QCAT matters.
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How do I enforce a QCAT decision if the losing party ignores it?
QCAT makes decisions but does not enforce them. To recover your money, you must register the decision in the Magistrates Court and proceed with enforcement actions.
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Client Rights

Can I change lawyers if I'm unhappy with my current firm?
Yes. You have the right to choose your legal representation. If you are unhappy with the service, communication, or advice you are receiving, you can transfe…
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Consumer Law

Do I have to pay a call-out fee for items under warranty?
Warranty typically only covers mechanical or electrical defects. If a technician is called out and discovers the ‘issue’ was user error or a lack of instructions, you are legally responsible for the call-out fee.
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Court

How should I behave in court? (Court Etiquette)
Court is a formal environment with strict rules of conduct. You should dress professionally (business attire), arrive at least 30 minutes early, bow to the C…
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Queensland Court Hierarchy: A Practical Guide to QLD Courts & Tribunals
Understand the Queensland legal system hierarchy: from QCAT small claims to the Supreme Court. Learn monetary limits, which court handles your case, and where to start.
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How do I appeal a court or tribunal decision in QLD?
An appeal is a request for a higher court to review a decision made by a lower court. You cannot appeal just because you dislike the outcome; you must prove …
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Education

Glossary: Common Legal Terms Explained
Lawyers often use specialized language. This glossary provides simple, plain-English definitions for common terms like ‘Affidavit’, ‘Subpoena’, ‘Litigation’,…
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General Questions

How much does an initial consultation cost?
We believe in transparency. For many standard matters (like Wills or Conveyancing), we offer fixed-fee quotes so you know exactly what you will pay. For comp…
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Rules for Storing and Transporting Petrol in Jerry Cans in QLD
Are you storing fuel at home or transporting petrol in a jerry can? Queensland law dictates strict limits based on where it’s stored to prevent fire hazards and insurance voids.
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Do you offer payment plans?
We understand legal costs can be unexpected. For many matters, we can arrange flexible payment plans or ‘pay at the end’ arrangements (deferred payment) depe…
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Can I have a consultation via phone or video (Zoom)?
Need a legal consultation? We offer in-person strategy sessions at our Southport office and secure Zoom or phone meetings for follow-ups and remote clients.
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Do you offer client parking?
Yes. While our building does not have reserved visitor spots, there is street parking available on Scarborough Street and several secure multi-level carparks…
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How do I verify a lawyer's credentials?
You can verify any Queensland lawyer’s practicing certificate using the Queensland Law Society’s ‘Find a Solicitor’ tool. Bell & Senior Lawyers are fully acc…
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Do you serve clients outside the Gold Coast?
Yes. While based in Southport, we assist clients across Queensland and Australia, particularly for commercial transactions, property, and Wills. We offer rem…
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Can Queensland solicitors operate interstate?
Yes. As admitted Australian Legal Practitioners, our solicitors are qualified to practice in federal jurisdictions and interstate courts. We regularly assist…
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Litigation

What should I do if I am being sued?
If you receive a ‘Claim and Statement of Claim’, do not ignore it. In Queensland, you normally have only 28 days to file a ‘Notice of Intention to Defend’. I…
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