Choosing A Solicitor

Choosing A Solicitor

Choosing A Solicitor

Robert Abbey (Professor of Law) gives expert video advice on: Do I have to use a local solicitor?; What is the best type of firm to go for?; How do I get a quote from my solicitor? and more...

What are the benefits of using a local solicitor?

The benefit of choosing a local solicitor is that you can contact them, or call into them if something needs to be signed. It's very helpful having a local solicitor, because there will be to-ing and fro-ing with documents and money, and it's very sensible to be able to contact them quickly if an emergency arises.

Do I have to use a local solicitor?

You don't have to use a local solicitor. You can use a solicitor from almost any part of England and Wales. It just makes a little more sense to use a local solicitor, or one near to you if there's a problem that needs to be sorted out quickly.

How will my solicitor communicate with me?

Your solicitor will communicate with you in all usual ways: by letter, by phone, by fax, by e-mail.

What is the best type of firm to go for?

The best type of firm to go for is one that you find suits your needs and is of a size that you prefer. Some people like to go to very large firms. Other people like to go to a small firm where they can make connections with the individuals that they deal with. The type of firm is a matter of personal choice.

What are disbursements?

Disbursements are payments that the solicitor makes on your behalf. So, he would have to carry out searches, which incur a fee. That's a disbursement.

When are disbursements paid?

Disbursements can be paid pretty well at any time during the conveyancing transaction. Some solicitors ask for money at the start so that the disbursements are funded. Some solicitors ask for a payment at the end when they render their bill, including all dispersals. So you can expect a request for payment for disbursements at any time in the conveyancing transaction.