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Is your lawyer helping you build your business? Or charging you through the nose to clear up the mess?
All lawyers know the law, but it is how it is applied that makes the difference
What makes a good lawyer is the ability to apply the law to the business context in an way that is easily understandable to the business owner and produces measured results. If you only talk to your lawyer when you have a problem, it's probably because your lawyer isn't doing a good enough job keeping you out of trouble.You would never plan to have open heart surgery
Health professionals will tell you that it's better to keep fit than be a couch potato and end up having open heart surgery. It's the same with running your business: it's better to get preventative advice than pay for someone to clear up the mess when it goes wrong. That's my philosophy, and I use my wide experience in law to help businesses stay out of trouble.My experience
My experience has been acquired over eleven years of practice in both London and Auckland. I've practiced in many areas of law from employment and sport (my current specialties) to commercial law, white collar crime, construction law, personal injury claims, defamation and even claims against the police.That uniquely wide background has given me an understanding of the issues faced by business owners. But not only that, I have put that experience into practice.
A businessman as well
I'm not only a lawyer but also a businessman. In fact I own or part own four separate businesses which means I have lived through the highs and lows of setting up and running a business.So, not only do I draw on the experiences of 11 years worth of clients but also my own personal experiences. I come with many recommendations which you can read before you instruct me.
That experience can be passed onto you to help build your business. But that's not unique - other lawyers have may have an equal or even greater amount of experience. What makes me different is the way I charge. The Apporachable Lawyer charging system allows me to deliver my knowledge in a way that prevents disasters occurring whilst at the same time keeping it affordable for you.
The Approachable Lawyer charging system
The first question people generally ask is "how much?". If you have landed on this page it is likely that you haven't found the answer to your problem or issue in one of the Approachable Lawyer's generic products under the Solutions tab of this website. You need tailored advice but have heard stories of lawyers costing a fortune.I hate nasty surprises, so let me put your mind at rest.
I charge on a hourly basis, but my rate depends on whether:
- You are a Hotline Member;
- Whether you have been referred from a legal strategic alliance;
- When you pay your invoice.
Ultimately, you choose what you pay. Currently, my lowest hourly rate is $180/hr (for a premium hotline member paying in advance or within 7 days) and my highest is $300/hr (both plus GST) for a non- Hotline members.
To save you searching, the lowest rate is deliberately set lower than you will find anywhere in New Zealand for a lawyer of 11 years experience.
How to get the lowest rate
I segregate my client database into two lists: Hotline members and non-Hotline members. Hotline members are charged at reduced rates.The reason Hotline members get charged less is because they are on a “preventative maintenance programme”. That involves getting free access to me to ask questions whenever they want. They also get access to other information of a preventative nature (again for free). That means they are less likely to get into trouble and so get preferred rates.
How to become a Hotline member?
Membership of the Hotline involves a two-stage process. Firstly, you have to complete an application form. The purpose of this is for me to assess your suitability for membership.The second step is to complete an automatic payment form . There is a small monthly fee for membership and you can either be a Premium Member or a Basic Member. For more details on the benefits of becoming a member click here.
| NB. Since there are only so many hours in one day to handle member qustions, membership of the Legal Hotline is restricted. Once the limit is reached the doors close, so it is important to apply straight away. |
What can you advise on?
My specialties are employment and sports law, but I have a wide knowledge of other areas of "business law". If something is outside my expertise I will refer you to one of my expert strategic alliances who have been pre-vetted by me to ensure you receive trusted advice. By using me as your first port of call, you can be assured that you will be looked after well.Do I need a solicitor?
I am a self employed barrister which means that for contentious High Court or District Court work I need an instructing solicitor. For other types of work (such as employment cases) it may not be necessary. But don't worry if you haven't got a solicitor, I can refer you to one.Any questions?
Regards,
Michael Smyth LLb. (Hons.), Dip, Cert
The Approachable Lawyer
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From the first conversation I had with you, I
felt
enormous relief as if you had just taken my awful problem from me.
You handled the entire matter on my behalf, liaising with me all the
way and negotiating the best possible outcome for me. I found you
to be professional, efficient, and formidable in your approach to
the problem.
Engaging you was of real value, I'm so pleased I did!
Mellany Boulle, Auckland.
I thought I knew a fair bit about employment
procedures so at first
thought I could handle my own dispute with my employer. But, I decided
to give Michael a call anyway and seek his views. It was only then
that I realised how little I knew and how much value he could add
to the process. I particularly appreciated the fast and prompt service.
Your knowledge of employment procedures, calm demeanour and easy going
nature greatly assisted me in resolving my dispute. I would have no
hesitation in recommending your services to others and in fact have
already done so to two others. Richard Carr, Auckland
I just wanted to thank you for the superb job you did for us. Your input and support was invaluable and there is no question that without you onboard the outcome would not have been so positive. Although the issue probably appeared small to you the outcome was so important to our club. The player is now a keen member of the squad. The things I appreciated most was your accessibility and positive, but honest view of the situation. I enjoyed working with you and definitely look forward to using you in a proactive manner in the near future. I will continue to highly recommend your services to who ever will listen. Once again thanks mate, You're a gem! Tony Benson - Hibiscus Coast Raiders Rugby League Team
Throughout the period that Michael has been associated with New Zealand Gymnastics he has impressed us with his professional approach to client service. In relation to both legal and sporting issues we have found him to be a very knowledgeable person who undertakes thorough research of the topic and its application to the business of New Zealand Gymnastics. New Zealand Gymnastics consider that both the level and standard of services that Michael provides far exceeds our original expectations. His 'after hours' accessibility is an additional benefit that befits his knowledge and passion for sport. It is of great assistance to us that he is available to follow through and provide additional assistance as and when required. This may be in dispute resolution, members meetings or topical presentations to the Board of Directors or the Annual General Meeting. Marie Stechman - Executive Director, New Zealand Gymnastics