What Does a Solicitor Do? A Guide to Their Role & Responsibilities
Thursday, 17th April 2025
What Does a Solicitor Do? A Guide to Their Role & Responsibilities
Have you ever wondered what does a solicitor do? Whether you're buying a house, dealing with a legal dispute, or setting up a business, solicitors play a crucial role in providing legal advice and representation. This guide explores the responsibilities of solicitors, their specialisations, and what to expect when working with one.
What Is a Solicitor?
A solicitor is a legal professional who provides expert advice, drafts legal documents, and represents clients in various matters. They work in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments.
Key Responsibilities of a Solicitor
- Providing legal advice and guidance
- Drafting and reviewing contracts
- Handling property transactions
- Representing clients in court (in some cases)
- Managing wills, trusts, and probate matters
What Does a Solicitor Do When Buying a House?
Buying a house is a significant financial commitment, and a solicitor ensures the process runs smoothly. Their main role is to handle legal aspects of property transactions.
Key Tasks of a Solicitor in Property Purchases
- Conducting property searches
- Checking the legal title of the property
- Handling contract exchange
- Transferring funds securely
- Registering the property with the Land Registry
What Does a Solicitor Do When Buying a House in the UK?
When purchasing a property in the UK, a solicitor ensures that all legal requirements are met. This includes conducting due diligence, checking for outstanding debts, and ensuring contracts are legally sound.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House with a Solicitor
- Initial Consultation: The solicitor reviews your purchase agreement and outlines the process.
- Property Searches: They check for planning restrictions, flooding risks, and ownership history.
- Drafting Contracts: The solicitor prepares contracts to finalise the sale.
- Exchange of Contracts: Once signed, the sale becomes legally binding.
- Completion and Registration: The solicitor transfers ownership and registers it with the Land Registry.
Do You Need a Solicitor to Buy a House?
While it is not a legal requirement to hire a solicitor when purchasing property, it is highly recommended. Without legal expertise, buyers risk encountering issues such as unclear property titles or financial complications.
How Much Do Solicitors Charge for Conveyancing?
The cost of hiring a solicitor for property transactions varies. Factors influencing solicitor fees include the property's value and the complexity of the transaction.
Typical Costs for Conveyancing Solicitors
- Basic legal fees: £500 - £1,500
- Search fees: £200 - £400
- Land Registry fees: £100 - £300
- Stamp Duty: Varies based on property value
What Other Legal Matters Can Solicitors Handle?
Solicitors work across multiple areas of law, including:
Family Law
Solicitors handle divorce, child custody, and financial settlements.
Employment Law
They advise on workplace disputes, contracts, and wrongful dismissal cases.
Corporate Law
Solicitors help businesses with mergers, acquisitions, and compliance.
Criminal Law
They represent clients in court and advise on legal defences.
What Qualifications Does a Solicitor Need?
Becoming a solicitor in the UK requires completing specific educational and training steps.
Pathway to Becoming a Solicitor
- Obtain a law degree (LLB) or a non-law degree followed by a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
- Complete the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE).
- Undertake two years of legal work experience (Qualifying Work Experience - QWE).
- Pass the character and suitability assessment.
Solicitor vs Barrister: What’s the Difference?
While both solicitors and barristers practise law, their roles differ.
Key Differences
- Solicitors: Primarily provide legal advice, draft documents, and handle client cases.
- Barristers: Specialise in courtroom advocacy and represent clients in higher courts.
How to Choose the Right Solicitor?
When selecting a solicitor, consider their experience, client reviews, and fees. It’s also essential to check whether they are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
Tips for Choosing a Solicitor
- Check qualifications and accreditations.
- Read client reviews and testimonials.
- Ask about fees and any hidden costs.
- Ensure they specialise in the relevant area of law.
Why Solicitors Matter
Solicitors play a vital role in the legal system, providing expert advice on a wide range of legal issues. Whether you need help buying a house, drafting contracts, or handling disputes, a solicitor ensures everything is legally sound.
Need legal assistance? Contact a solicitor today to get professional advice tailored to your situation.
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