When buying or selling a home, it’s natural to expect smooth progress once things are underway. But what happens if your solicitor isn’t meeting expectations? Delays, poor communication, or a simple lack of trust can leave you frustrated and questioning whether it’s possible to change legal representation partway through.
The good news is, you can switch solicitors during the conveyancing process, but there are some essential things you should understand before taking the leap. Read on to learn how to make a change without putting your transaction at risk.
Why You Might Consider Switching
Communication breakdowns are one of the most cited reasons clients seek a new solicitor. If you’re struggling to get timely updates or clear answers, it’s understandable to feel uneasy.
Cost concerns can also play a part. You may have found a solicitor who charges more than you were originally quoted or one who adds unexpected fees. In some cases, a lack of experience with certain types of property transactions such as leaseholds or shared ownership might mean you’re not getting the best support.
Legal Responsibilities You Must Consider
It’s important to remain aware of your obligations throughout the process. You’re still bound by the terms of your contract of sale or purchase, and any failure to meet deadlines could lead to penalties.
When you switch, ensure your new solicitor has everything they need to meet these obligations without further disruption. Working with a company like SAM Conveyancing can help reduce the stress of this transition. They aim to guide clients from start to finish and ensure all critical steps are covered without hassle or confusion.
What Happens If You Decide to Change?
Switching solicitors mid-process is entirely legal, but there’s a procedure you must follow. You’ll need to formally instruct your current solicitor to release your file to the new one. This includes all correspondence, search results, and documents prepared so far.
Expect to pay for any work already completed. Solicitors are entitled to be compensated for their time, even if you don’t remain with them until completion. Check the terms of engagement you signed initially many include clauses explaining how fees are calculated if the agreement is terminated early.
Will It Delay the Transaction?
In most cases, changing solicitors may add a few days of delay, particularly if your file isn’t released promptly. If you’re in a chain, this could have knock-on effects, so timing is crucial.
However, if your current solicitor is causing frequent setbacks or is simply unresponsive, a short delay now might prevent much longer delays down the road. A competent new solicitor can often pick things up quickly, especially if the previous work has been documented clearly.
Making the Right Move
Changing solicitors isn’t a decision to take lightly, especially mid-transaction. But if your concerns are valid and affecting progress, taking action early is often better than hoping things improve. Be proactive, read the terms you’ve agreed to, and make sure your new solicitor has the skills and resources to support you through to completion.
