Solicitors

Disclaimer: This information sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child.

If a child/young person sustained their brain injury as a result of a motor vehicle accident, then a Compulsory Third Party Claim should be lodged. It is usually helpful to engage the services of a solicitor to assist with lodging the claim. The solicitor can act as the advocate on legal matters and provide advice as to whether a claim should be pursued. The solicitor can then act on behalf of the family if liability is yet to be determined or if the insurance company denies liability. The solicitor can also advise on the possible amount of financial compensation when the claim is settled.

How Do I Find A Solicitor?

The Brain Injury Service cannot make a recommendation about which solicitor a family should see. However, it is important that families choose a solicitor who has special accreditation in Personal Injury. That is, a solicitor who specialised in Third Party Compensation Claims.

The Law Society of NSW can provide names of solicitors who specialise in Personal Injury law. The Law Society can be contacted on Ph 02 9373 7300 or visit www.lawsocnsw.asn.au

What Should I Ask the Solicitor?

• Is my first appointment free?
• Are Solicitors at this practice experienced in Third Party Compensation Claims?
• Which solicitor will do my work? Do they have Third Party Compensation Claim experience?
• How is a solicitor allocated to my case?
• Am I entitled to Legal Aid?
• What are my chances of making a successful claim?
• How long will it take for the claim to be finalised?
• How will I be kept informed of the progress of the claim?
• How much will it cost?
• What are my options for paying for services from this firm?
• How and when will I be charged or billed?
• What are telephone service charges? ie. If I phone you or if you phone someone on my behalf?
• What are the charges for an interview in person?
• Will I be expected to pay ANY up front costs for medical investigations? Can these be waived?
• Can I have all cost agreements written down for me on firm letterhead or formally documented on letterhead?
• What should I do if I have a problem with my bill?

Rehabilitation Department The Children's Hospital at Westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Rd & Hainsworth St, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, 2145 Tel: (02) 9845 2132 - Fax: (02) 9845 0685 http://www.chw.edu.au/rehabilitation/