How to find a lawyer in Australia

When people look for a lawyer in Australia, they are usually trying to work out where to begin. Most have not dealt with a legal issue before and are unsure which type of lawyer they need, how the process works, or what the first step should be.

Because this information is not set out clearly, people often spend time searching online or contacting multiple firms before speaking to the right lawyer.

This article explains how to find a lawyer in Australia, what to look for when choosing one, and how Advisent is structured to help people book the best lawyers in Australia without unnecessary back-and-forth.

Start by finding the right type of lawyer

Lawyers in Australia practice in specific areas of law. Speaking to the wrong type of lawyer often leads to general advice that does not move the matter forward.

Common searches include:

You can search for lawyers on Advisent by area of law, and also State and Territory, helping you narrow your search before booking an initial consultation.

How to choose a lawyer in Australia

There is no single best lawyer in Australia. The right lawyer depends on the issue, your location, and what kind of outcomes you are looking for.

When choosing a lawyer, it is useful to look for:

  • Years of experience in the relevant area of law such as family law, criminal law, commercial law, or property law
  • Legal practice in your state or territory
  • Clear communication, including options and next steps
  • Transparency of legal fees
  • Availability to properly handle your matter

The firm size, advertising, and search rankings by itself are not reliable indicators on their own. It is important to directly speak to the team for at least an initial consultation to make sure that they understand your legal issue, are able to answer your questions, and that you are confident that they can handle your case.

How much does it cost to see a lawyer in Australia

Legal fees vary depending on the area of law and the experience of the lawyer. \ Lawyers may charge:

  • Hourly rates
  • Fixed fees

Many people prefer a fixed-fee consultation because it allows them to obtain advice without open-ended cost exposure and without committing to ongoing representation.

Finding and booking a lawyer online

For people who want to find a lawyer online, the main issues are time and uncertainty.

Advisent is designed for people who want to search for a lawyer, compare options, and book an initial consultation without calling around or submitting multiple enquiries.

Advisent will help you:

  • Search for lawyers by area of law and State or Territory
  • Review lawyers based on their experience and practice areas
  • See the cost of the first consultation before booking
  • Book directly using a lawyer’s available calendar

There is no cost to browse, and there is no obligation to proceed beyond the first consultation. During the first appointment, the lawyer will understand your legal issue, provide options, and give you a fee estimate for your case if future steps are needed.

FAQs about finding a lawyer in Australia

How do I find the best lawyer in Australia?

There is no single best lawyer for everyone. The best lawyer is the one who regularly works in your area of law, is familiar with your local courts, and can explain your options clearly.

What is the best way to find a lawyer?

The best way to find a lawyer is to start with the type of legal issue you have, identify lawyers who practice in that area, and speak to one through an initial consultation where fees and scope are discussed before you proceed.

How much does it cost to speak to a lawyer in Australia?

The cost depends on the lawyer and the area of law. Some lawyers charge hourly rates, while others offer fixed-fee consultations. A first meeting usually ranges between $330 to $660 including GST depending on the lawyer’s experience.

Can I find a lawyer online and book an appointment?

Yes. Advisent allow you to find a lawyer online, see consultation fees upfront, and book directly when you are ready, without calling multiple firms.

Do I have to continue with the same lawyer after the first consultation?

No. An initial consultation does not require you to retain the lawyer. You can use the appointment to obtain advice and then decide whether to proceed.

Are lawyers on Advisent qualified Australian lawyers?

Yes. Advisent provides access to a network of qualified and experienced Australian lawyers across different states and practice areas.

Next step

If you are looking to find a lawyer in Australia, start with the type of issue you have and the advice you need now.

Advisent is designed to help you easily find and book the best lawyers in Australia now.

Find a lawyer

About the Author

Amy Soong L.L.B (Hons), L.L.M, BBus (Accy), GradDipLP (QUT) is the Legal Practice Director of Ashworth Lawyers, a leading Brisbane criminal defence law firm founded in 2014. She has been exclusively practising as a criminal defence lawyer in Brisbane for over 16 years. Amy leads a team of the best Brisbane criminal lawyers for all serious and complex crimes in Qld.

This includes extensive experience in successfully defending rape and sexual violence, drugs, fraud, assaults and choking, murder, arson, extortion, kidnapping, money laundering, human trafficking, tax, and aviation offences.

Amy is admitted in the Supreme Court of Queensland and High Court of Australia. She is a Council member of the Society of Notaries in Qld and is a member of the Qld Law Society Wellbeing Working Group. She has achieved numerous recognitions including as a finalist in the Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Awards and under her leadership, Ashworth Lawyers is also recognised as Criminal Law Firm of the Year Qld (APAC Insider Australian Made Awards 2025) and Client Service Excellence Award (APAC Insider Australian Made Awards 2025).