Why do I need a consultation?
This is a common question – Immigration law is complex, with many factors affecting the advice or approach (to a visa application, response to the Department etc.). The consultation is to ensure that we are across all the facts relevant to your case, so we can identify any issues or complications to ensure that they’re addressed appropriately and that any application process is smooth.
It is also an opportunity for us to ensure that your understanding of any visa or other process and criteria is correct.
What can I expect from a consultation?
You can expect questions from us to determine what advice you’re looking for, your circumstances, any relevant details to ensure that visa criteria are met. You can ask any questions that you feel is relevant to your circumstances, and what you’re trying to achieve.
The consult will typically have a detailed discussion about visa criteria, process, timing, and costs (where relevant). You will receive written advice summarising our discussion afterwards.
Can I provide information/documents before the consultation?
Yes, within reason of course. Where it enable us to have an understanding of your circumstances before the consultation, it’s helpful in ensure that the meeting is productive for all parties.
Helpful documents depend on the visa that you’re applying for. For skilled visas, an up-to-date CV is helpful. For family visas, a bit of background as to your family circumstances is helpful. Where you have a visa refusal or visa issue, it’s helpful to provide a copy of the decision record, or documentation relevant to your issue.
Can I provide a list of questions before the consultation?
Yes, within reason of course. If you like to prepare in advance, sometimes sending us a copy of your questions will be helpful to ensure that we can advise on your questions and don’t miss any points that you’re seeking advice on.
I have a simple question that does not require the full hour. Do I still need the consultation?
Unfortunately, the only way for us to determine that is by having a discussion with you to ensure we understand your full circumstances.
You can certainly make an enquiry on our website, and if it is a simple question we can try to point you in the right direction with general information – however if you’d like to ask specific questions relevant to your circumstances, a consultation is the most appropriate way for us to ensure that we have understood these circumstances and provided appropriate advice that is relevant to you.
What if my consultation takes less than 1 hour?
Unfortunately, the costs of the consult are to cover up to one hour of a lawyer’s time. While you’re entitled to ask as many questions as you’d like during that hour, we do also provide advice in writing after the consultation.
Can I credit the costs of the consultation towards the professional fees of a service if I engage you?
Ordinarily, no. The consultation is to ensure that we have an understanding of your circumstances, and provide advice including on options during that hour. If your consult was restricted solely to one topic (i.e. one particular visa subclass), we may consider providing a credit.
I no longer require the consultation, may I have a refund?
If you cancel the consultation with at least 24 hours notice, we can issue you a full refund less the credit card surcharge. Unfortunately, less than 24 hours notice would not incur a refund, as having that consult booked locks out that lawyers time and potentially prevents other clients from being able to have booked that slot.
Can I reschedule the consultation?
Yes, if you do so with at least 24 hours notice. The booking confirmation you receive should enable you to see your chosen lawyer’s availability and re-book a suitable date and time
