I was recently dismissed from my full time job which I held for two years. The reason given was "a downturn in business, affecting cashflow". I was given no notice or any indication that the business was having financial issues. I have had a consultation with a lawyer who said I have a case and should apply for unfair dismissal. The lawyer has already charged me $1650 for a phone call and a few emails and will charge $5500 to help with the application and conciliation.
I guess I just want to know if anyone has had any experience with unfair dismissal? Is the conciliation something I can do on my own or is that not advised? Are there other (cheaper) lawyers I could use?
I'm just worried that I either won't win the case or won't get much compensation and be stuck with a massive lawyer bill that I won't be able to pay. I have tried free legal services but it's just so hard to get any actual help. I have also applied for legal aid but that will take a long time and there's no guarantee I'll get it.
They are also currently withholding my pay which is probably a separate issue.
Any help/advice is appreciated.
I guess I just want to know if anyone has had any experience with unfair dismissal? Is the conciliation something I can do on my own or is that not advised? Are there other (cheaper) lawyers I could use?
I'm just worried that I either won't win the case or won't get much compensation and be stuck with a massive lawyer bill that I won't be able to pay. I have tried free legal services but it's just so hard to get any actual help. I have also applied for legal aid but that will take a long time and there's no guarantee I'll get it.
They are also currently withholding my pay which is probably a separate issue.
Any help/advice is appreciated.
