The legal basics, explained simply.
Short, plain-English explainers on choosing a lawyer, understanding legal costs, and what to expect from a matter.
This section brings together short video explainers for common questions that come up before and during a legal matter. Content is organised by practice area and is independently researched, checked against the relevant legislation, courts, tribunals and regulators, and reviewed when the law changes.
New videos are added regularly as they're produced. Choose your country, then browse by topic below to find one relevant to your situation.
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How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Legal Matter? (The Real Factors)
"How long will this take?" is the question almost everyone asks first, and almost nobody gets a straight answer to. This video breaks down the real factors that drive legal timelines, agreed versus contested, tribunal versus court, preparation and evidence, the other side's behaviour, and appeal windows, plus a general, non-promised guide to what different types of outcomes tend to look like.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Every Legal Problem? (Probably Not)
Not every legal issue needs a lawyer, but some absolutely do. This video breaks down when tribunals, ombudsman services and workplace bodies are built for you to handle things yourself, and when it's genuinely worth getting a lawyer involved, criminal charges, family law, high-value disputes, and anything where the other side already has one.
What Happens If You Can't Afford a Lawyer in Australia? (Your Real Options)
Think you can't afford legal help? In Australia, you usually have more options than you realise. This video breaks down Legal Aid, community legal centres, duty lawyers, pro bono services, no win no fee arrangements, and self-representation, so you know what's actually available before you assume you're stuck.
FAQs
How do I know if I need a solicitor or a barrister for my matter?
For most matters, you engage a solicitor first. A solicitor manages the matter directly, prepares documents, and appears in lower courts such as the Magistrates or Local Court. A barrister is usually briefed by your solicitor only when specialist courtroom advocacy is needed, typically for more complex matters or higher courts, and does not usually deal with a client directly.
What must a lawyer disclose to me about costs before I engage them?
Under the Legal Profession Uniform Law, a law practice must give a client a written costs disclosure, or an estimate, if the total cost of the matter is likely to exceed $750. This must set out how fees will be calculated and the client's right to negotiate the costs agreement or seek independent advice before signing.
Is a "no win, no fee" arrangement available for any type of legal matter?
No. Conditional costs agreements are commonly used in personal injury, professional negligence, and similar claims, but the Legal Profession Uniform Law prohibits their use in criminal proceedings and in matters under the Family Law Act 1975. Where they are used, any uplift fee is capped at 25 per cent of the professional fees, and disbursements such as medical reports or filing fees can still apply if the matter is unsuccessful.
Do separated parents have to attempt mediation before applying to court?
In most cases, yes. The Family Law Act 1975 requires parties to make a genuine attempt at family dispute resolution and obtain a Section 60I certificate before filing most parenting order applications with the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Exceptions apply where the matter is urgent or involves family violence or child abuse.
What can I do if my visa application is refused or cancelled?
The refusal or cancellation letter from the Department of Home Affairs will state whether the decision can be reviewed and, if so, by which body. Most reviewable migration decisions go to the Administrative Review Tribunal, which replaced the Administrative Appeals Tribunal in October 2024. The deadline to apply is set by legislation, is generally short, and cannot be extended once missed.
What happens the first time I appear in court on a criminal charge?
A first appearance for any criminal charge takes place in the Magistrates Court. You can enter a plea of guilty or not guilty, or ask the court to adjourn the matter so you can obtain legal advice first. Most Magistrates Courts have a duty lawyer available on the day to provide free advice, particularly useful if you have not yet arranged your own representation.
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Find My Law FirmThis page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and does not replace advice from a qualified lawyer about your specific situation. Expert Lawyer Guide is not a law firm.