JULIAN TALBOT
Independent analysis for complex legal and policy matters
I provide independent, fixed-fee analytical work used by law firms, counsel, and advocacy organisations to clarify complex issues, test assumptions, and reduce downstream risk in high-stakes matters. The work sits upstream of legal advice, advocacy, and decision-making, and is designed to bring structure, logic, and evidential discipline to situations that are contested, uncertain, or politically or emotionally charged.
This work does not include legal advice or representation, drafting documents for filing, advocacy, lobbying, or communications. All deliverables are provided as independent analysis, not argument.
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The analytical work typically takes one of three forms.
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Independent risk assessment (ISO 31000). A structured evaluation of key risks, uncertainties, and exposure factors aligned with ISO 31000:2018. Used internally to inform strategy, client advice, and decision-making. Depending on scope, this may include treatment options and decision trade-offs.
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Analysis of competing hypotheses (ACH). A formal analytical method originating in intelligence analysis that tests multiple, mutually inconsistent hypotheses against the same body of evidence. The method is designed to reduce confirmation bias, expose weak assumptions, and identify the most robust position in circumstances where facts are contested or narratives are unstable.
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Systems or root cause analysis (HFACS-based). An integrated pre-event and post-event causal analysis using a Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) event-logic tree. This approach maps organisational, supervisory, precondition, and frontline factors into a clear causal chain, shifting analysis away from simplistic “human error” explanations toward systemic causes.
These deliverables are provided as stand-alone analytical reports and visual models suitable for internal strategy, briefing counsel, or supporting expert opinion. They are not drafted for filing.
Typical engagements involve law firms and barristers working on complex or high-stakes matters, industry and advocacy organisations engaging policymakers or regulators, and senior advisers or boutique consultancies supporting boards or executives. All engagements are discreet, confidential, and time-boxed.
This is not content writing, paralegal drafting, or research assistance. It is senior-level analytical troubleshooting delivered in written form. The value lies in replacing a significant amount of internal executive analysis, clarifying causation and risk, and reducing downstream legal, regulatory, and reputational exposure.
Engagements usually commence following a short discussion by call or email to confirm scope and fit. I then prepare a one-page scope and deliverables note setting out the analytical method and fixed fee. Work begins on acceptance of scope and payment of a $5,000 + GST mobilisation fee, which is credited against the agreed total fee. The balance is invoiced on delivery. One substantive revision is included.
I have more than 35 years’ experience in risk management and governance across government and regulated industries. I hold a Master of Risk Management and am the author of practitioner texts used in Australia and internationally. My work has involved preparing analytical material for boards, regulators, inquiries, and courts in contentious and politically sensitive environments.
For professional enquiries, contact julian@juliantalbot.com or +61 (0)414 314 349. Professional services are provided via Chowne Group Pty Ltd.