The relationship between lawyer and client has to be one of trust and confidence and lawyers are under a fiduciary duty, the highest level of trust the law allows, to act in their client's best interests.

Whilst it is often said that lawyers act under the client's instructions, in practical terms the client's instructions are usually based on the advice that has been given to them by the lawyer. Being a good lawyer does not mean acting merely as the client's 'mouthpiece'. 

At Southern Legal we take the time to listen to our clients' problems before providing considered advice. We will not accept instructions unless we are confident we can deliver an acceptable outcome for the client. We advise our client on what needs to be done, what can be done, when it can be done and what it is likely to cost.

As part of the process we may have to tell a client things that they would rather not hear!

Wherever possible, Southern Legal uses a billing system that is based on task modules and outcomes rather than on six-minute periods of time actually spent on your matter. It includes all communications and also photocopying and fax charges which many lawyers charge as extras.

This benefits you by giving you the knowledge of how much your matter is going to cost in professional fees.

If there are disbursements such as valuer's fees, court filing fees, mercantile agent fees etc. then these are not included in the task module fee but you will be advised of an estimate of these fees. 

We are able to use task module billing even in the early stages of litigated matters but if you have a matter that goes to a court hearing the actual hearing itself will usually need to be costed on a time basis due to the many factors that are beyond the control of the lawyer. 

To find out more about Southern Legal and our areas of practice feel free to wander around our website and if you wish to make an appointment to discuss your matter please go to our Contact Us page.