Who are the best commercial lawyers in Canberra? Photo: Michelle Kroll.
If you’ve ever needed legal help resolving a dispute with a supplier, service providers or customer, you’ll understand how valuable a quality consumer law expert can be.
Consumer law is a specialised area covering many areas relating to safeguarding buyers of goods and services, and the public, against unfair market practices. This includes protecting you with refunds and repayments, lay-by schemes, unfair contract terms, product recalls and other unfair business practices.
A consumer law expert can help you sort matters as efficiently as possible, in line with Australian Consumer Law.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a consumer law expert, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great consumer law expert?
Choosing the right consumer law lawyer can help fast-track your consumer issue and take the stress out of what can already be an emotionally draining and time-consuming experience.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a consumer law expert.
- Specialisation and experience. Not all lawyers specialise in Australian Consumer Law. You’ll want a lawyer by your side who does, and who can demonstrate experience in this complex area.
- Expert problem solvers. A quality consumer lawyer will aim to solve your problem, including through dispute resolution alternatives, before heading to Court, which can be expensive and time consuming.
- Clear communicator. You’ll want a lawyer who can explain your rights and obligations in plain language, especially because consumer law is complex. This will position you to make clear, informed decisions.
- Proactive with advice. An experienced consumer lawyer will advise you on avoiding spending good money for the wrong reason, such as vengeance. They’ll outline your situation in realistic terms so you can see the big picture.
- Fees and services. You’ll want to understand your consumer lawyer’s fees and services before you sign on the dotted line to engage them. Not all consumer lawyers charge the same fee for the same service. You may want to shop around to avoid any surprises with legal bills.
The best consumer lawyers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
MV Law
MV Law is Canberra’s largest independent law firm. Expert and experienced lawyers are dedicated to going above and beyond in providing legal guidance, doing whatever it takes to deliver breakthrough results to every client. The firm provides an extensive range of services for individuals, businesses, government and not-for-profit organisations.
On Google, Greg Balding wrote, “They were very helpful especially in these days of Covid-19. Did what I done efficiently and were very helpful and friendly.”
BDN Lawyers
BDN Lawyers is a full-service law firm providing expert advice, including with consumer law. The team of experienced lawyers is accessible, responsive and innovative. The firm has invested in technology, systems and training so clients receive fast, effective legal services.
Ben Day wrote on Google, “Absolutely hands down the best lawyers in the business. Compassion, empathy and understanding. Professionals to the highest degree. I will never use anyone but Baker Dean & Nutt again.”
Snedden Hall & Gallop
Snedden Hall & Gallop, the oldest independent law firm in Canberra, delivers responsive legal advice and practical solutions for individuals and organisation, including in the specialised area of consumer law. Expert and experience lawyers act as risk managers and problem solvers for clients, with personal attention, compassion and respect every step of the way.
Julia Ovington wrote on Google, “Excellent lawful firm with professional helpful staff. The lawyers there have a great deal of experience which gives clients a great deal of confidence. I would personally highly recommended Snedden, Hall & Gallop.”
BAL Lawyers
Consumer law is one of the many areas of expertise at BAL Lawyers, for both individuals and organisations. Other specialist areas include business, real estate, government, environmental, employment, and commercial litigation.
On Google, Nuaa Peerlink wrote, “Excellent advice, timely, detailed and flexible. BAL has helped us with commercial leases, governance systems and general advice. Highly satisfied. Reasonably priced.”
If you’re looking for more information on commercial litigation in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best conveyancing lawyers, the best law firms in Canberra, the best business lawyers and the best commercial lawyers Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with consumer lawyers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the consumer lawyers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is consumer law?
Consumer law is a broad and multi-faceted area of law. It covers topics like safeguarding buyers of goods and services, and the public, against unfair market practices.
What can I expect to get out of my consumer law case?
The goal is to protect your interests as a consumer, which can include putting you in the same (or better) position than you were before you purchased goods or services. Having said that, each case is unique and must be assessed by an expert consumer lawyer.
What distinguishes a great consumer law lawyer from an average one?
There are many lawyers in Canberra, but not all specialise in consumer law. The best consumer law lawyers will have specific qualifications and experience working with consumer law matters. Clear communication is also important, along with a list of other qualities that can be found in our article.
How much does it cost to engage a consumer lawyer?
This depends on your case. Some cases are more straightforward and quicker to resolve than others and this affects costs. It’s important to get fees and services outlined in writing before proceeding with your case.
How important are warranty periods to my consumer rights?
Consumer law has consumer guarantees that apply to many scenarios, notwithstanding representations a vendor or manufacturer makes about warranty periods. A consumer law lawyer will help you explore your rights with warranties.
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