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Conveyancer vs. Solicitor: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the differences between a conveyancer and solicitor can be difficult. This article will explain the basic and core definitions of these two professions, so that you can make an informed decision on which one to choose for your case.

Definition of a Conveyancer

A conveyancer is a legally qualified and licensed legal executive, usually engaged on a day-to-day basis to prepare and execute the real property conveyancing process for their clients. A conveyancer will undertake tasks like grant of the mortgage, placement of the purchase and the mortgage on a property, purchasing and selling of an existing property, and providing any other necessary legal, tax or legal administration services. The solicitor’s role differs from that of a conveyancer as a solicitor requires higher qualifications and more time in comparison to a conveyancer.

Definition of a Solicitor

The most common job description for a solicitor in the United Kingdom is as an independent legal professional that assists individuals and businesses in securing legal services, such as conveyancing, in order to protect and safeguard their interests. A solicitor’s job is to provide advice on the different ways that individuals and businesses can be protected. In this sense, a solicitor is similar to a lawyer, but a solicitor also provides public legal advice such as taking on cases in court. In addition to providing advice and knowledge, solicitors are required to file legal documents, such as deeds and powers of attorney. From the perspective of the conveyancer, a solicitor’s role is significantly different from that of a conveyancer.

What can you do with a solicitor?

Unlike conveyancers, solicitors get paid on a retainer basis. That means the client hires the solicitor for a set period (normally 6 months to 2 years). When the client doesn’t need the solicitor anymore, the solicitor needs to go back to his previous client and collect his fee. This fee can range from a few hundred pounds, up to tens of thousands. However, if you are a higher earner, then a solicitors retainer fee is usually not such an issue for you. In most instances, a client can pay a solicitor a flat fee, and keep more of his earnings for himself. The solicitor is not expected to bring in a large profit; he just needs to keep doing his job. This fee is especially advantageous for property investors.

What can you do with a conveyancer?

A conveyancer is the person who has the authority to make a legal decision on your behalf, including real estate transactions and gifts. It’s their job to facilitate the transaction, to help you find the right solution, and to provide legal advice on various aspects of the transaction. On the other hand, a solicitor is the person who makes a legal decision on your behalf, from the process of setting up the estate to the transfer of the property. A solicitor does not give legal advice, but they offer legal services to you. Who is a conveyancer and who is a solicitor? If you are planning on hiring a solicitor, you can have your own lawyer. However, if you are setting up your own estate, you can always hire a conveyancer.

Conclusion

A conveyancer is a solicitor who specializes in commercial conveyancing. A solicitor is a solicitor who specializes in commercial conveyancing. The two professions have similar types of cases, but differ in their clienteles.

Posted by on 05/08/2021 in Solicitor or Conveyancer?

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