The First Appointment

Don't bring the kids

We ask that you do not bring the children to the appointment (or to our office at any time). In Family Law, the solicitor is never allowed to interview or speak with the children of the parties.

There is also a firm principal in Family Law that the children are to be kept away from the legal issues as much as possible.

Don't bring the Ex

What you can bring

• At the first appointment there is a lot of information. It's okay to bring a support person, but they need to keep things to themselves as confidential advice will be given. It's okay to take notes or bring a list of questions.
• Make a list of your main assets and debts, if you would like to discuss a property settlement.
• Bring any relevant documents, letters, child support assessments, any letters from other lawyers etc, that you have. If you don't have any or many documents don't worry.
• Download and fill-in a brief info sheet. CLICK HERE to download.

Confidentiality Assured

• It is a strict duty and obligation on lawyers to keep secret what is told to them by their clients. Gordon Lawyers take this responsibility very seriously. Lawyers can be subject to disciplinary action if they breach this duty. This means what is discussed in a lawyer's office stays in a lawyer's office. Gordon Lawyers have have taken additional steps...
• No client's files or documents are kept at reception
• The office walls have extensive sound proofing
• The entry to our office can be hard to find, but it is also discrete
• Unneeded documents are securely destroyed
• We only write (post and email) to clients at approved addresses and contact them on approved phone numbers.
• If we meet you in the street we will not talk to you about your matter unless you raise it first (please don't think we are rude)
• When we write to you our envelopes will not say who the letter is from, only a return to sender PO Box number
• Appointments are scheduled whenever possibly to have a half hour gap between appointments. This also results in minimal waiting time (if any)

How much will it cost?

• Gordon Lawyers charge a fixed fee for the first consultation of $330.
• We ask that this this fee be paid at the time of the appointment. If this causes a problem let us know.
• Credit card facilities are available. Some prefer to pay in cash so an entry does not appear on a statement.
• During your appointment David Gordon will discuss the legal costs and payment options if further work is needed.