Preparing For Your First Appointment with Garling and Co Lawyers
Worker's Compensation
29 April 2026
min read
Meeting with a lawyer for the first time can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. The process can be empowering by being prepared and knowing what to expect at the initial appointment
It is an opportunity to get advice and direction on the issues troubling you. The right lawyer (an accredited specialist in personal injury law) will give you ongoing assistance and guidance on navigating the claim process successfully.
When preparing for your initial appointment, it is essential to consider the information you need to have available. By being prepared and having the necessary information ready, your appointment will flow smoothly, and you will make the most of your appointment time with your chosen lawyer.
There is no charge for your initial appointment and we do not charge you to take instructions from you. In this appointment, we will determine if we can assist in your claim and our firm's role should you instruct us to act on your behalf.
Once you have made your initial appointment, you should prepare as follows:
- Add your appointments to your diary – Record and add reminders of the upcoming appointments.
- Leave plenty of time – This applies to travelling to in-person meetings or connecting online. You do not want to be unnecessarily stressed by unforeseen traffic or technology challenges.
- Write a list – The first meeting can be overwhelming. Write down everything you want to ask so you don’t have to rely on your memory.
- Bring a support person – You are welcome to bring a support person to your appointment. Just advise the lawyer of any additional people you want to be involved in the initial discussion.
Where possible, have available the following information:
- Date of accident.
- The location and time of the accident.
- A short summary of how the accident or circumstances occurred (if this is uncomfortable for you to talk about, write down the facts as best as you can).
- Any claim numbers or insurer details of those involved in the claim.
- Names and contact details of all your medical providers involved in your treatment.
- Name and contact details of any witnesses to the accident.
- Any police report and event numbers.
- The names of any medications you are currently taking for your injuries.
- Your Employer details at the time of the accident (including the legal name of your employer.
- Details of the work you perform and your wages/salary at the time of the accident.
- A summary of your time off work because of the injuries.
- Any dispute notices or issues of contention currently on foot for the claim. For example, a Section 78 notice (issued in workers’ compensation matters), denial decisions, or review decisions issued by the Insurer.
- Any correspondence from other solicitors involved in your matter.
- Your Medicare and/or Centrelink number if you currently receive benefits from them.
- Any statements or investigator reports relating to the accident.
At the appointment, your lawyer will want to make notes about the facts and circumstances of the accident and your work/home situation at the time of the accident. Having the above information available allows the lawyer to record the information needed efficiently and leaves more time to discuss your entitlements and questions.
Once the information has been collected, our lawyers will discuss the types of claims available to you, the compensation you can pursue, and the process. Legal fees and how they are paid for the work performed in your claim will be discussed during this meeting.
The lawyer will then review any specific questions or issues you have. If you are happy with the course of action proposed, immediately following the meeting, Garling and Co will open a file for you with an initial letter of advice, costs agreement and authority to act on your behalf.
We hope this article helps you in preparation for your upcoming appointment. Should you have any further questions, please contact our office at (02) 8329 9500 or complete a free case assessment by clicking here.
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I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with this workers Compensation team. When I first reached out, I was completely overwhelmed and unsure about the process. I hit rock bottom - unable to return to work, struggling emotionally, and feeling like I had no direction. From the very beginning, the solicitors were nothing short of amazing. They were patient, understanding and incredibly supportive at a time when I needed it most. They took the time to explain every step in a way I could understand, never making me feel rushed or alone. Their professionalism was matched only by their compassion and that combination made all the difference. Throughout the entire journey, I felt heard, respected and genuinely cared for. They fought for me when I didn’t have the strength to fight for myself and thanks to their dedication, I was able to get the outcome I needed to rebuild my life. If you’re unsure, scared or feeling lost like I was, I can confidently say you will be in the best hands with this team. They helped me through one of the hardest chapters of my life, and I am truly grateful. I can’t thank or recommend Garling & Co Lawyers enough.
Matthew Garling and his team have provided incredible support and guidance throughout my MVA damages claim this year, and I can’t thank them enough for making this journey feel like such a breeze. When I initially engaged Garling & co, I had no understanding of what was ahead. I was anxious and unsure about the process, while also navigating the physical challenges of my injuries. With assurance that my matter was being handled with high level of expertise, professionalism and integrity, I was able to focus on recovery instead. Throughout the process, Matthew and Allison have been honest, straightforward and efficient in all communication; being a supportive buffer in all dealings with the insurer, and consistently committed to a successful outcome. The outcome was excellent, and it is with huge relief and great thanks that I can put this matter behind me. I would highly recommend the services of Garling and co for any injury claims of a similar nature, and I’m forever grateful to Matthew and his team.
A big thank you to Matthew for his expertise, dedication, and genuine care in handling my matter. The outcome exceeded my expectations, and I am truly grateful for the excellent work of his entire team. Outstanding results - highly recommended.