Rockliffs Lawyers

Trudy was incredibly helpful and worked really hard to get me a great result in my motor vehicle insurance dispute. She explained everything clearly and was always honest, which made a stressful situation a lot easier to deal with. She was always available to answer my questions and kept me in the loop the whole time. I really felt like she was in my corner and advocating for me. I am really grateful and impressed — great value for money and I’d definitely recommend Trudy and Rockliffs.

We engaged this firm, and in particular Sarah Mooney, regarding a negligence and breach of duty matter linked to a pre-purchase inspection report. From the outset, our instructions were clear: formally contact both the contractor and subcontractor. We had already spent over a year attempting to resolve the issue amicably, supported by an engineer’s report identifying significant structural cracks that were not noted in the original inspection, as well as failures to meet inspection standards. Despite this, there was no meaningful progress. To our knowledge, only the subcontractor was contacted, and only by phone. No formal letter of demand was issued as expected, and no structured action was taken. During exchanges, we were surprised by questions that appeared to challenge our position (for example, why we had not identified the cracks ourselves or whether access was possible), even though these points were already addressed and, in our view, contradicted by the inspector’s own report. This gave us the impression that the documentation we had provided had not been fully considered. After repeated follow-ups and already committing around $5,000 in fees, we found ourselves in a difficult position. At that stage, we were advised to consult their barrister for an opinion on our prospects of success, without any independent expert report having been obtained and without any engagement with insurers. We followed this recommendation despite a lack of clarity around the overall strategy. The advice received was cautious regarding our chances of success, which increased our uncertainty, while little tangible progress had been made on the matter. After approximately $10,000 in total fees, and still no significant progress, we submitted a formal complaint to the firm and requested a fee adjustment, particularly in relation to actions initially expected (such as issuing formal letters of demand and taking steps to engage the relevant insurers) which had not been carried out. In response, we were advised that we could consider representing ourselves, while also being asked to settle the outstanding balance promptly. We then chose to engage a specialist lawyer in insurance and building disputes. With a different approach (independent expert report, formal letters of demand, and pressure to trigger an insurance claim), the matter progressed rapidly. Within a week, we were contacted by the insurer, and the case is now ongoing and under negotiation for a significant amount (in the order of half a million dollars). This experience was extremely frustrating, both financially and personally. We experienced a lack of clarity in communication, strategy, and overall case management. Some interactions left us feeling uncertain and lacking confidence, with the impression that our documents had not been fully reviewed. Overall, the level of service did not meet our expectations.

I used the services of Rockliffs Lawyers to recover costs after a motor vehicle accident. Right from the start they were professional and helpful. Without their guidance and advice throughout the process I would not have had the success that I did. I had the good fortune to deal with Michelle and Trudy. Trudy was an outstanding communicator. She always kept me informed of developments in a timely manner, and when necessary, she was able to explain the process in a way that I was able to understand and prevent me from becoming stressed by keeping me well informed and well advised. I cannot thank the team at Rockliffs enough for their work. I have no hesitation in recommending Rockliffs Lawyers.

We used Rockliffs Lawyers for the conveyance on our first property. As first home buyers we found them very knowledgeable, patient and supportive as we navigated lenders, a mortgage and the grants available to us. They reviewed and negotiated multiple contracts until we were successful in purchasing our property. The settlement went smoothly and they provided regular updates and explanations. I would highly recommend Rockliffs Lawyers to anyone looking for reliable and supportive legal assistance.

After working with a few different firms in Melbourne I was referred to Trudy at Rockliffs Lawyers. I was looking to dispute a motor vehicle insurance claim and working with Trudy was by far the best experience. She was incredibly professional and explained my options thoroughly in plain terms so that I would be comfortable with my choice. Would recommend, thanks so much :)

Rockliffs Lawyers were amazing in helping me recover money that was owed to me. They were very efficient, professional and promptly got me a successful outcome. I highly recommend their services!

Sarah, I can’t thank you enough! You were nothing short of amazing, stepping in when the stakes were high and the pressure was mounting. I was facing an approaching hearing with limited time to prepare yet you took on the case with such confidence and focus quickly familiarising yourself with all the details. Your ability to engage with the other side so effectively was remarkable. Within a week, you had already rattled the opposing party - something previous lawyers hadn’t been able to do. What really stood out was how you completely shifted the direction of the case. You didn’t just respond to the looming deadlines, but strategically dismantled the claims against me, got the court to see the deficiencies and forced the plaintiff to start over. It was such a huge relief when you managed to vacate the hearing, all thanks to your sharp understanding of the facts. Your ability to take charge and move things forward with my best interests at heart. From our first conversation, I felt a sense of calm and clarity I hadn’t experienced with other lawyers. While others couldn’t see the case from the right perspective, you knew exactly how to approach it. I never had any doubts after speaking with you and had complete trust you’d deliver the best outcome - which you did! You worked independently with your internal team, taking initiative every step of the way and I never felt like I had to guide you through the process. It’s rare to find someone who not only excels at their job but also cares so deeply about their client. You were firm, clear on your objectives and always had a plan to execute it. Thank you for your dedication, wisdom and support. I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done and would recommend your services without hesitation. You’re not just an outstanding lawyer - you’re someone anyone would be lucky to have on their side! Thanks again!