ECL Program - How to Get Off on the Right Foot on Any File

This month’s seminar, “How to Get Off on the Right Foot on Any File – Witness Statements and Assessing Your Case vs. Charging in with Guns Blazing” will focus on practical steps and best practices to set up a file for success from the very start. Key points to consider include:

• Be properly retained – Ensure you have a signed legal services agreement in place and that funds are held in trust.
• Take a statement early – Capture your client’s account of events as soon as possible to preserve accuracy and clarity.
• Get documents to verify what your client says – Supporting evidence strengthens the case and reduces reliance on memory alone.
• Give advice early – Provide clear guidance from the outset so your client understands the options and potential risks.
• If necessary, get barrister opinion early – Seek expert legal input promptly if complex or contentious issues arise.
• Keep money in trust at all times – Ensure funds are always held in trust so that fees for work performed are secured and disbursements can be paid as needed.
• Bill regularly – Issue tax invoices consistently to track work completed and manage client expectations.
• Reassess your costings and scope of work – Regularly review the file to ensure that the fee estimate and scope of work remain aligned with the work required.
• Keep the client up to date – Provide timely updates so your client feels informed and confident throughout the process.
• Don’t be afraid to give unwelcome advice if necessary – Professional honesty is essential, even if it’s not what the client wants to hear.
• No one wants a trial – Focus on resolution and effective case management to avoid unnecessary litigation.

The Early Career Lawyers Program is a series of seminars aimed at early career lawyers organised by Clem van der Weegen (barrister) and Pippa Colman.

The objective of this program is to give early career lawyers practical assistance in areas they work in on a day to day basis.

These seminars will be held bi-monthly at Pippa Colman Family Law in Maroochydore.

The seminars will be conducted by a range of Sunshine Coast lawyers and professionals, drawing on their expertise and experience.

📅 Date: Tuesday, 2nd December 2025
⏰ Time: 6.45am for a 7.00am start, finishing at 8.00am
📍 Location: Pippa Colman Family Law, 19 First Avenue, Maroochydore

Don’t miss the opportunity to join Kyle as he shares his insights and practical guidance in this session!

Also check out other Workshops in Maroochydore, Arts events in Maroochydore, Fine Arts events in Maroochydore.