How we work with you
Our approach to legal advice
Good advice starts with understanding the situation you are facing and what you want to achieve. We take the time to understand the circumstances, explain your options clearly and help you make informed decisions about the way forward.
Our approach combines legal expertise with practical judgement. We consider the risks, costs and likely consequences of each option, then develop a strategy suited to the matter. And when circumstances change, we adapt.
The stages
How matters are handled
Every matter is different. These stages explain the main considerations that guide our work, with the steps and their timing adapted to your circumstances.
Stage 1
Understand the situation
We begin by understanding the circumstances of your matter, who is involved and what matters most to you. We identify uncertainties, further information that may be needed, and the likely costs and demands involved so you can make an informed decision about what to do next.
Stage 2
Assess your position
We consider the available information and explain the legal and practical issues that may affect your options. That includes identifying uncertainties and any further information needed. We discuss the proposed work and costs so you can weigh the likely demands of a matter alongside what you hope to achieve.
Stage 3
Agree a way forward
We develop a strategy around your objectives and the circumstances of the matter. That may involve negotiation, mediation or court proceedings. We explain our recommendations, the alternatives and the implications of each so you understand why a particular course is being taken.
Stage 4
Progress the matter
As the matter develops, we take the agreed steps and explain developments that affect your position. New information or a change in the other party’s approach may require a fresh assessment. We consider those changes with you and discuss their implications before decisions are made about the next course of action.
Stage 5
Explain the outcome and next steps
When an outcome is reached, we explain what it means for you and identify any further action or responsibilities. The form of that outcome will depend on the matter. Our focus is on helping you understand where things stand, including anything that remains unresolved or needs attention after the immediate dispute ends.
Working together
What you can expect
Clear communication
You will know who is handling your matter and how to contact them. We explain material developments and the decisions that need your attention in language you can understand. Questions are welcome, particularly where something is unfamiliar or you need more context before giving instructions.
Open discussion about costs
Costs are an important part of deciding how to proceed. We discuss the proposed work and the factors that may affect its cost, including uncertainty about how a dispute will develop. If the scope changes, the cost implications form part of the discussion about your options.
A clear understanding of your part
Your information and instructions are important to the progress of your matter. We explain what documents, information or decisions are required and why they matter. Keeping us informed of changes in circumstances, priorities or the information available allows us to assess their significance and advise accordingly.
Our commitment
Our commitment to clients
We are committed to honest advice, respectful communication and careful handling of sensitive information. That includes being direct about uncertainty and helping you understand the implications of your choices, without creating unrealistic expectations about an outcome.
Contact Mazzeo Lawyers
Discuss your matter
If you would like to understand whether we can assist, contact our Melbourne office. We can discuss the issue you are facing and an appropriate next step, whether that involves further assessment by our team or a referral to another practice.
