I am trying to resolve a dispute with my neighbour. We have been fighting for several years now and can’t seem to come to an agreement between ourselves as we both get so mad and just shout at one another and go in circles. Would hiring a lawyer help?
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 Pearl Beaumont, Penrith 2570 NSW
- The main benefit is that while a lawyer has your interests at heart and will act on your instructions, they are independent and not affected by the emotional aspects of the dispute. In addition they have a clear understanding about the law and what your rights are which can enable them to make a more persuasive argument on your behalf.
- Trying negotiation is a really good first step. If you try to negotiate on your own behalf and find that you and the other party slip into unhelpful argument cycles then a lawyer may be able to help you.
- If you were previously unable to reach an agreement with your neighbour through your own negotiations a lawyer may be able to diffuse the situation and assist the process toward resolution.
- Alternatively you could try mediation as the mediator will help keep your communication on track. This has the advantage that you are still negotiating directly rather than through a third party.