What areas of law does Maxwell & Co. specialise in? We are a full-service firm providing expertise in Conveyancing and Leasing, Commercial and Construction Disputes, Family Law, Estate Litigation, Wills and Probate, Personal Injury, Debt Recovery, and Migration Law.
Where is your office located, and what are your opening hours? Our main office is located at Level 2, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT 2600. We are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Do you only take on clients based in Canberra? While we are proudly Canberra-founded, we have expanded to assist clients across multiple states in Australia and maintain strong international connections in the Asia-Pacific region, including Shanghai and Malaysia.
Can I receive legal advice in a language other than English? Yes. We value diversity and understand the importance of clear communication. Members of our team can assist clients in their “home language” to ensure complex legal information is fully understood.
How do I prepare for my first consultation? It is helpful to bring any relevant documents (contracts, court orders, or correspondence), a timeline of events, and a list of specific questions you wish to ask. This helps our solicitors provide the most accurate initial assessment.
Property & Conveyancing
Can you help with property transactions in both the ACT and NSW? Absolutely. Our team, including practitioners like Ankur Johari, is experienced in handling residential and commercial property transactions, business sales, and leasing matters across both New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.
What is the difference between a solicitor and a barrister? A solicitor generally handles the day-to-day legal work, documentation, and negotiations for your matter. A barrister is a specialist advocate who represents you in court. Maxwell & Co. includes both Barristers and Solicitors to provide seamless end-to-end representation.
Why do I need a lawyer for a commercial lease? Commercial leases are complex and often favour the landlord. We review the terms to ensure your interests are protected regarding rent reviews, “make good” clauses, and options for renewal, helping you avoid costly disputes down the track.
Family Law & Estates
Do I need a lawyer for a simple divorce? While you can file for divorce yourself, a lawyer is essential if there are disputes regarding property settlements or parenting arrangements. We ensure your rights are protected and that any agreements are legally binding and enforceable.
How is property divided in a de facto relationship? In Australia, de facto relationships are generally treated similarly to marriages under the Family Law Act. Factors such as financial contributions, non-financial contributions (like caregiving), and future needs are all taken into account.
Why is estate planning important if I don’t have many assets? Estate planning isn’t just about money; it’s about control. It allows you to appoint an executor you trust, nominate guardians for minor children, and clarify your wishes regarding medical enduring powers of attorney.
What is probate and when is it necessary? Probate is a court order that confirms a Will is valid and gives the executor permission to distribute the estate. It is usually required if the deceased owned real estate or held significant funds in a bank account.
Can I contest a Will if I feel I have been unfairly left out? Yes, this is known as estate litigation. If you were a dependent or a close family member and believe the deceased had a moral obligation to provide for you, our team can help you navigate a “Family Provision” claim.
Commercial, Construction & Debt Recovery
What should I do if I’m involved in a construction or building dispute? Construction disputes often involve complex technical evidence and strict time limits. You should contact us as soon as a dispute arises so we can review your contract and advise on the best path—whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
How does the debt recovery process work for small businesses? We start with a formal Letter of Demand, which often prompts payment. If unsuccessful, we can progress to court proceedings, obtaining a judgment, and enforcing that judgment through means such as garnishee orders or property seizure.
What are the benefits of choosing an “innovative” law firm? At Maxwell & Co., being “innovative” means we use modern technology and strategies to work more efficiently. This often leads to better communication, faster turnaround times, and more transparent pricing compared to “old-fashioned” firms.
Personal Injury & Migration
Are there time limits for filing a personal injury claim? Yes, strict statutes of limitations apply to personal injury claims in Australia (often three years from the date of injury, though this varies). It is vital to seek legal advice immediately to ensure you don’t lose your right to compensation.
What types of visas can your migration team help with? Our migration law experts assist with a wide range of visas, including skilled work visas, family and partner visas, and business migration, helping you navigate the complexities of the Department of Home Affairs.
How much will my legal matter cost? Legal costs vary depending on the complexity of the case. We pride ourselves on transparency and will provide you with a costs agreement or disclosure early on so you understand how our fees are calculated.
Why should I choose Maxwell & Co. over other Canberra firms? We combine the tradition and expertise of a long-standing firm with a progressive, client-first approach. We focus on building strong personal connections and delivering “legal triumphs” through meticulous attention to detail and robust problem-solving.
