• evidence of understanding scope of own responsibility and roles and responsibilities of all relevant people involved in the matter • background legal implications are understood • evidence of understanding problems which may arise and approaches to resolving them • evidence of understanding what is and is not disclosable in general and in particular to the matter • appropriate information is given to clients • non-disclosable information is not communicated and where any doubt exists as to the information’s status it is not disclosed • where instructing other, instructions are clear with adequate explanation to allow the task/s to be completed • where instructing other, supervision is provided throughout the task/s in relation to: - providing advice and assistance with resolving problems - ensuring that work is completed within timelines - ensuring that confidentiality and security of information is maintained ensuring that work of others meets required standards • legal actions and legislative requirements are explained to client in simple language where appropriate • client special needs are accommodated promptly, courteously and with discretion • documentation required at different stages of the legal process is identified and purpose is understood • relevant non-litigious solutions are understood and are applied where appropriate • detailed negotiation/conflict resolution is attempted to client’s and firm’s satisfaction • court appearances are executed professionally and efficiently according to instructions and relevant legislation regarding the appearance of persons without legal practice certificate • file/matter number is attached to all relevant documents and such documentation is filed and file is culled for unwanted drafts • evidence of knowledge of archiving procedures and appropriate file retention period • all activities, actions and outcomes are documented • time is recorded whenever work on matter is performed • trust account monies are used for all matter expenses and not for any other purposes • excess trust account monies are returned to client • appropriate invoicing methods are employed • all work is conducted within accepted codes of conduct including those relating to: maintaining confidentiality, use of company property, duty of care, ethical behaviours, privacy, non-discriminatory practice, conflict of interests and compliance with reasonable direction |