Choosing a solicitor isn’t just about finding someone with a law degree. It’s about trust, communication, and whether they’re the right fit for your situation. A poor choice can waste time, cause stress and lead to poor outcomes. The good news? You don’t need to be a legal expert to make a smart decision; you just need to know what to ask.
Do they have experience with your type of case?
This might sound obvious, but it’s often overlooked. Legal matters come in all shapes and sizes. Family law is not the same as property, and wills and estates are entirely different from business disputes. A solicitor might be excellent at what they do, but if they haven’t handled your type of matter, you could be wasting time.
Don’t settle for vague answers. Ask for real examples. How many similar cases have they taken on? What were the outcomes? What challenges did they face? If they can talk comfortably about their work in that specific area, it’s a good sign they know what they’re doing.
Will they be clear about costs?
Legal work can get expensive, fast. If you’re not getting straight answers about fees, consider it a red flag. You should feel confident that your solicitor is being transparent, not just about their own charges but also about any extra expenses that could come up.
Find out how they structure their fees. Do they charge hourly, offer fixed rates or use a mix of both? Will you be billed monthly, at the end of the matter or upfront? Also, clarify what’s included. Some solicitors quote a base rate but leave out things like filing fees or admin costs. You need to know the full picture so you can plan properly and avoid surprises later.
What’s their communication style?
Legal language can be dense and technical, but that’s no excuse for poor communication. Good solicitors in Penrith will explain things clearly, without confusing jargon or rushed conversations. You should know what’s happening with your matter and what to expect next.
It’s worth asking how they generally stay in touch. Will they call, email or set up in-person meetings? How often will they check in? Some people prefer regular updates, others are fine with hearing only when something important comes up. Make sure their approach suits your style, especially if the case might take months or longer.
Who will actually be working on your case?
This one often catches people off guard. The solicitor you meet at the start might not be the one managing your file day to day. In larger firms, especially, work is often delegated to junior staff or paralegals. That’s not necessarily a problem, as long as you know what to expect.
Ask for clarity. Will your case be handled by the person you’re meeting, or someone else? If it’s someone else, what is their experience level? Will the original solicitor be overseeing the work? You’re paying for expertise, so it’s fair to ask who will be responsible for key decisions and who you’ll be communicating with throughout.
How do they approach problem-solving?
Every legal issue is unique. Some cases call for aggressive tactics, while others benefit from calm negotiation. The solicitor you choose should be able to explain how they approach conflicts and why. If they push litigation in every situation, even when it might not be necessary, that could be a concern. Likewise, if they avoid going to court at all costs, you may wonder if they’re prepared to fight when it counts.
Good solicitors understand the balance between strong advocacy and practical resolution. They should be willing to tell you the risks as well as the opportunities, even if the truth is uncomfortable. You want someone who can read the situation and act in your best interest, not someone who just tells you what you want to hear.
What are the realistic outcomes?
Be cautious with anyone who promises guaranteed results. Law is unpredictable, and every case carries risk. Instead of pushing for what you want to hear, focus on whether the solicitor gives a balanced view. Can they outline the possible outcomes, both positive and negative? Are they upfront about any weaknesses in your case?
This kind of honest assessment is invaluable. It helps you set realistic expectations and plan ahead. It also shows that the solicitor isn’t just chasing a new client, but is genuinely thinking through your matter with care.
How available are they?
It doesn’t matter how skilled someone is if they’re impossible to reach. Before you commit, ask about their availability. Are they managing a full workload or taking on new matters? Will they be away or on leave during critical stages of your case?
Make sure you know how quickly they typically respond to calls and emails, and who you can speak to if they’re tied up. Emergencies happen, deadlines come fast, and you need to know that someone will be available when it counts.
Do they explain the legal process clearly?
Most people don’t deal with solicitors regularly, so it’s perfectly normal not to know how the process works. Your solicitor should walk you through the key stages — from the initial filing or document preparation through to resolution. They should also explain what’s expected of you, how long things might take and what the common roadblocks are.
The way they explain this can reveal a lot. If they make it sound confusing or brush over your questions, that’s a warning sign. A confident, well-organised solicitor should be able to guide you through the process step by step in plain English.
Are you comfortable with them?
You don’t need to be best friends with your solicitor, but you should feel comfortable discussing personal or sensitive issues with them. Whether it’s a divorce, a workplace dispute or a will, many legal matters are emotionally loaded. If you don’t feel listened to or respected, you’ll have a harder time moving forward.
Trust your instincts here. If something feels off in the initial conversation, it’s worth exploring other options. You’re not just paying for legal skill, you’re investing in a relationship built on trust and understanding.
Take Control Before You Commit
The solicitor you choose will play a big role in how your legal matter unfolds. Don’t rush the decision. Ask the right questions early and take note of how they respond. Do they listen? Are they clear and upfront? Do they seem genuinely interested in helping?
A bit of care at the beginning can save you stress, time and money later. Trust your gut, stay informed and make sure the person you hire is someone you can rely on through every stage of the process.
