My legal matter was completed last week and I was not too happy with the service provided by the lawyer. I am thinking of complaining against the lawyer. I want to know what information my lawyer has kept in my client file?
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 Andrea Stein, Brisbane 4000 QLD
- Your lawyer will compile a series of documents relating to your matter in your client file.
- This will assist your lawyer in calculating the amount you owe for the legal services provided.
- Typically your client file will be made up of:
- your client instruction paperwork which details the type of legal work that has been carried out;
- your lawyer’s notes which outline when you attended appointments and any conversations you had over the phone with your lawyer;
- the preparation or drafting of letters and other documents for example documents given to a court prior to an appearance; and
- a record of all disbursements which are payments the law firm makes on your behalf such as:
- stamp duty;
- property title search fees; and
- court appearance fees of barristers and other experts.
- Your lawyer should have returned all original documents that you have provided them during the course of the matter once the matter is completed.
- The exceptions are:
- if you still owe them money in which case they are entitled to retain the documents as security until you pay their bill; and
- documents which you have requested that they store in safe custody for you such as wills and title certificates.