
Terms of Business
These Terms of Business govern the engagement between InHouse Law (IHL) and our clients. They set out the basis on which IHL provides legal and related services. These terms apply unless otherwise agreed in writing in an Engagement Letter. Where there is any inconsistency between these Terms of Business and the Engagement Letter, the Engagement Letter prevails.
1. Engagement and Offer
By accepting services from InHouse Law (IHL), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Business. Your receipt of our services in relation to the matter described in the Engagement Letter is deemed acceptance of these terms. These terms replace any previous agreement regarding that matter. IHL may review and update these Terms of Business periodically.
2. Scope of Services
The scope of services is set out in the Engagement Letter. Unless otherwise agreed, IHL’s services do not include: advice on the laws of jurisdictions not specified in the Engagement Letter, verifying client-provided information, or implementing advice. IHL is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of third-party information.
3. Understanding Your Objectives
You must clearly communicate your objectives and provide accurate, complete, and timely information to enable IHL to act effectively on your behalf. Please advise IHL of any changes to your objectives or instructions during the engagement.
4. Authority and Staffing
IHL will obtain your approval before incurring significant or extraordinary expenses except in cases of urgency. IHL may engage barristers, experts, or other professional firms where necessary and charge related expenses. The Principal Lawyer or Partner identified in the Engagement Letter is primarily responsible for your matter, with assistance from qualified team members as required.
5. Fees and Expenses
Fees are charged in accordance with the Engagement Letter and IHL’s current schedule of fees and expenses. Unless otherwise agreed, fees are calculated based on time spent at IHL’s standard hourly rates. Invoices are issued monthly and payable within 30 days. Legal profession legislation may entitle you to certain rights regarding costs disclosure, billing, and assessment. Payment must be made free of deductions or withholdings.
6. Confidentiality and Privacy
IHL will keep your information confidential unless disclosure is authorised by you, required by law, or necessary to provide services. You consent to IHL disclosing confidential information to its insurers, advisers, and trusted service providers. Personal data is handled in accordance with IHL’s Privacy Policy, which is available on request.
7. Conflicts of Interest
Engaging IHL does not prevent IHL from acting for other clients whose interests may be adverse to yours, provided IHL complies with professional obligations and maintains confidentiality. If a conflict arises that cannot be resolved, IHL may terminate the engagement.
8. Benefit of Advice
IHL’s advice is provided solely for your benefit and for the specific purpose stated in the Engagement Letter. It may not be relied upon by, or disclosed to, any third party without IHL’s prior written consent. Advice is limited to the law of New South Wales as at the date of communication.
9. Liability
IHL’s liability to you is limited in accordance with the relevant Professional Standards Scheme. All claims, including negligence, are subject to this limitation except where prohibited by law.
10. Termination
You may terminate this agreement at any time by written notice, subject to payment of fees and expenses owing. IHL may terminate the engagement if you fail to pay invoices, provide adequate instructions, or where a conflict arises. Upon termination, IHL will charge for work done and expenses incurred up to the termination date.
11. Retention of Documents
After completion of your matter and payment of all outstanding costs, you may request return of your documents (excluding working papers). IHL may retain copies for its records and destroy files seven years after completion unless otherwise required by law.
12. Use of Client Name and Logo
Unless you advise otherwise in writing, you consent to InHouse Law using your name and logo on its website and marketing materials to indicate that IHL has provided services to you. Any such use will be professional and factual, without implying endorsement.
13. Governing Law and Jurisdiction
These Terms of Business and any non-contractual obligations arising out of them are governed by the laws of New South Wales. The courts of New South Wales have exclusive jurisdiction in relation to any dispute concerning these terms.
