Video chapters
Quick answer
Start by setting out the problem and the outcome you want in writing. Ask for your costs disclosure, itemised bill and file. Protect any court deadline before changing lawyers, then use the complaint or costs-review process for the state or territory where the lawyer practises.
What to do
- Define — Write down the service, conduct or billing problem
- Request — Ask for an itemised bill, disclosure and your file
- Protect — Keep court dates and limitation periods covered
- Escalate — Use the correct regulator or costs-assessment path
Transcript
If you are unhappy with your lawyer, first separate the issue. Is it communication or delay, alleged misconduct, a strategy disagreement, or a bill you do not understand? That distinction determines whether the answer is a written complaint, a costs assessment, a new lawyer, or a negligence claim.
Write to the firm with specific examples and the result you want. Ask for the costs agreement, disclosure updates, an itemised bill and a copy of your client documents. Keep the tone factual. If a hearing or filing date is close, protect that deadline before the dispute consumes your attention.
You can end the retainer and appoint another lawyer, but work already performed may remain payable. An unpaid lawyer may have a lien over parts of the file, although a new solicitor can sometimes arrange security so urgent documents move. Costs review and complaint time limits differ sharply between jurisdictions, so act early.
Use the legal profession regulator for the lawyer's state or territory. A conduct complaint, costs dispute and professional-negligence claim are not interchangeable. If your concern is about an Independent Children's Lawyer, remember that person does not represent either parent; raise case issues through the court process and conduct issues through the regulator.
Before moving the file, obtain an independent view of the deadlines, likely cost and handover risk. Go To Court can provide free general information and, where a suitable lawyer is available, arrange a consultation about your options. The contact details are on your screen.
Sources and further help
Sources checked 3 September 2026.
- Law Council of Australia — Australian Solicitors' Conduct Rules
- Legal Services Council — Consumer rights about legal costs
- Office of the Legal Services Commissioner NSW — Making a complaint
- Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner — Disputing a legal bill
- Legal Services Commission Queensland — Costs assessments
- Go To Court Lawyers — Urgent legal help
Important
This video provides general information about legal profession complaints and legal costs in Australia. It is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. Laws, procedures, fees and time limits can change, and state or territory rules may apply. Get advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.