I'm about to have a directions hearing and my lawyer is taking care of it but I don't really understand what is going to happen on the day. What are the main things my lawyer will do at the direction's hearing?
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by Neha Sharma, Hillsdale 2036 NSW
- The complexity of your medical condition and your claim will determine the strength of your case before a tribunal.
- A lawyer is generally required to address the following issues at a directions hearing:
- the type of dust-related disease the plaintiff has contracted;
- the prognosis (expected outcome) of the patient suffering the disease;
- whether additional medical or expert reports will be required;
- the current state of the pleadings; and
- the timetable for completion of preparation for trial and a proposed date for hearing.