We provide assistance to individuals, businesses and organisations in their commercial dealings, either with their transactions or when a dispute arises.
These disputes usually involve debt collection, disputes about whether contracts have been properly performed (for example, building disputes) or disputes about rights in relation to property.
Whether you need to document your business dealings, need advice on a course of action to take, are engaged in a commercial dispute or are likely to engage in litigation, or you simply wish to put your personal or business affairs in order, we will work collaboratively with you to make the right decisions for you and your business or your personal affairs.
8,000+
Matters handled
We have handled over 8,000 matters, with many that are repeat clients.
Phil Testa
Partner
Barrister & Solicitor
24 years of experience
Meet Phil Testa
Phil Testa was admitted to practice in 2002 after completing a double degree in Arts and Law at Adelaide University. He has considerable experience in general legal practice and has worked at various firms. Phil has also worked at Allianz SA – CTP managing claims involving major and catastrophic injury. He practices in all areas specialising in Civil Litigation, Family Law, Personal Injury Law and Wills and Estates. He was a member of the Law Society’s Accident and Compensation Committee for numerous years. Over the years, Phil has successfully handled large and complex matters involving personal injury (Common Law, Workers Compensation, Motor Vehicle Accidents) and general Civil Litigation. He has also developed a keen interest in all aspects of Family Law.
Phil is:
- a Barrister and Solicitor admitted to practice in both the Supreme Court of S.A. and the High Court of Australia.
- a member of both the Law Society of South Australia and the Law Council of Australia (Family Law Section).
Law Society of South Australia
High Court of Australia
A Letter from Lauri & Phil
Lauri and Phil commenced working together in 2007 before starting Evans Testa Lawyers. Lauri had a policing background in uniform duties, plain clothes and prosecution. Having started in 1986 and resigning in 2003, to start something fresh. As with most corporate jobs, she began to get restless. To complement work in prosecution, and to fill some extra hours, she completed her law degree after hours. An opportunity to leave the police and put the degree into action was offered and a decision influenced and supported by family was taken. At the time, the opportunity had arisen to work with a small boutique firm that provided stability and growth. After 10+ years, and too much growth, a new opportunity arose to start a small, fresh, individual firm.
After completing his studies in law, Phil worked in the insurance industry managing major and catastrophic claims. This piqued his interest in personal injury law before he worked at numerous firms practising in this and other areas. Phil has since practiced for many years in civil litigation, family law, wills and estates. After many years, Phil jumped at the opportunity to start a small firm with a completely new outlook.
Lauri and Phil commenced Evans Testa in 2013. Since then, it has grown into a firm servicing the local and wider areas in numerous practice areas.
Warm regards,
Our Process
Step 1: Initial Free* Consultation
We often initially chat over the phone or face to face about your legal matter. We take the time to talk to you so we can understand your problem and offer options as to the right path moving forward.
*Your first 30 minute personal or telephone consult is free of charge.
Step 2: Engagement
If you choose to engage our services we will clearly set out what we require from you and what the initial steps will be in handling your matter. We will also provide you a quotation for your legal fees moving forward.
We will be transparent regarding our likely fees.
Step 3: Conduct of Matter
We will keep you informed regarding the conduct of your matter and let you know what is required at each step of the process in a timely manner.
We advise you, but you will always determine the path your matter takes.
We can promise that one lawyer will handle your matters from start to finish. Your matters are also never “handballed” to a junior lawyer.
Step 4: Conclusion of your matter
We aim to conclude your matter as expeditiously as possible.
Your matter may conclude but could give rise to further related legal issues. If so, we will offer further assistance.
Why Choose ET Law
Personalised service with experienced lawyers who take the time to listen and provide advice tailored to your specific needs or situation.
The ability to organise home visits to prepare Wills, Powers of Attorney and Advance Care Directives.
We do not apply any one set formula to all our matters. Each matter is dealt with on a case by case basis.
We provide up front quotations as to the likely cost of your matter and can offer fixed fee services in some cases.
We offer a 24 hour emergency service for arrest and urgent matters, so you can reach a legal representative when you need one most.
Your first 30 minute personal or telephone consult is free of charge, so you can understand your options before you commit.
FAQs
Below are some of our more frequently asked questions for our legal services
What is a commercial dispute?
Some typical commercial disputes include:
- Contractual disputes (non-payment, breach of contract)
- Leasing issues (commercial/retail leases)
- Building and construction disagreements
- Disputes between businesses and government agencies
- Warranty or service-delivery issues
How can I resolve a commercial dispute?
With the help of your lawyer, you may resolve these matters by:
- Negotiation
- Private mediation
- Court mediation
What are potential outcomes?
Your matter may resolve by:
- Agreement through negotiation
- Agreement at Mediation
- Court imposed outcome such as a Trial
What is the likely cost?
Mediation is generally funded equally by the parties with each funding their own legal costs.
Parties fund their own Trial and if successful claim legal costs from the other party.
**It is difficult to estimate costs in all matters as each matter is assessed on its own merits and has different considerations.
Send us a message
Use the following form or contact us directly through phone or email.
Your first 30-minute consultation is free*.
For after hours emergency advice, call 0409 645 733.