Overseas Lawyers
6. Finding an Overseas Lawyer
Authors: Staff Legal Eagle
Firm / Chambers:
Last updated: 18 Aug 2015
- Sometimes it may be necessary to have a lawyer represent you in a foreign jurisdiction.
- It is important that you identify what type of lawyer you will need in that jurisdiction. Although the terms barrister, solicitor and lawyer are used in many legal systems they sometimes have different meanings in other countries.
- The Australian embassy or consulate in each foreign country maintains a list of lawyers in that country that may be able to assist you. This will rarely be a complete list and they can generally provide no further assistance in obtaining legal representation in a foreign country.
- It is important to find out what fees will be charged and how the lawyer expects to be paid. You should contact the law society or professional administrative body in the relevant country as in some cases the fees that can be charged are fixed by local law.
- You should treat your overseas lawyer the same as you would a lawyer in Australia:
- keep them updated on any developments or changes in your situation;
- ask the lawyer to provide you with regular updates about what is occurring; and
- ask to receive copies of all documents and letters that have been prepared by your overseas lawyer on your behalf.
- Our free Find a Lawyer directory may help put you in touch with the assistance you need.
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