What area of law do you need?
It’s easy to get bogged down in jargon and complications. You may not know exactly what it is you’re looking for with a type of law. For example, some approach us looking to change the deeds on their property, not knowing that would be called a transfer of equity.
We try to make it simple on our site so you can see the area of law that your query might fall into. From there, you can pick a more specific service if it applies.
Do your research and read up on what you need. You'll probably find solicitors have got lots of experience in what you need, even if your situation feels complicated.
Do you need a local solicitor?
In some situations, people prefer having a local solicitor that they can visit or drop off paperwork to. If you’re dealing with family law or employment law, it's often better to have a local high street legal firm. This way, you can easily have friendly face to face meeting. Similarly, if you’re having a will drafted, you may want to take advantage of home visits.
However, many legal services can be done remotely. And this means you get more choice and a wider range of prices. Laws including conveyancing, for example. The conveyancing process, whether you're buying or selling, can be done almost completely online.
Online legal support would include lots of other property-related services, like a property transaction, registering with the Land Registry, or a transfer of equity.
Have you looked at reviews?
Whether you’re buying a holiday, a new piece of clothing or the services of a legal professional, you want to look at reviews. You'll want to know how a firm handled previous clients, and whether they were left happy. This can make a big difference to how comfortable you feel when looking to choose a solicitor.
Accreditations and key features
You’ll want to know that the law firm you choose has all the official accreditations and memberships. This way, you can ensure that they’re trustworthy and that you're up to date with any industry changes.
For your peace of mind, we only list firms on our site who are fully regulated.
Don’t forget to look at the other factors that may set the firm apart. Perhaps they have longer opening hours so you could go by after work? Perhaps having a female solicitor is a priority for you, or you need disabled parking/access near the office. We list these extra features on our site, along with any awards or accolades so you can find the right firm for you.
Do you have an idea of costs?
Legal costs are often difficult to compare, so it's common to assume the worst. Each legal situation is different. But it’s important for pricing to be transparent and for you to know exactly what your options are.
That’s what The Law Superstore is for. Just put in your details and get up to 4 quotes from solicitors. Then you can get an idea of the cost, read reviews, and talk to companies before deciding to proceed.
How much does a good solicitor cost in the UK?
Costs of solicitors vary in the UK based off experience, location, and specific profession. Some have fixed fees and some have hourly.
A good conveyancing solicitor's fees may exceed £2,000. If you petition for a divorce, costs might reach £1,500. A complex will could set you back by £300.
Luckily, The Law Superstore is here to help you reduce legal costs whilst also getting legal support from the best. Every legal firm we partner with is accredited and highly rated by previous clients. Compare prices for the legal support you need with us.
Have a chat!
You need to be able to trust your lawyer, with the belief that they have the knowledge and ability to take your case on. Whether it’s a simple process or a more drawn out one, talking to them on the phone will give you a clearer idea of who they are and what they can do for you. They’ll also be able to give you more detail with timings, pricings and expectations.
Some questions you can ask
Once you’ve got a shortlist, there are a few more questions you can ask a potential lawyer to see whether they're right for you:
Who will be handling my case?
Depending on the complexity of your case, you may find a number of different solicitors working on it. If it’s simple, it may be delegated to a junior. Make sure you know who your point of contact is.
How do you usually contact your clients?
Knowing if a company prefer to email, phone or have some sort of online system is helpful. You can discuss how you prefer to be contacted and what the best times are. If it’s likely to be a longer ongoing service, you may want to know how often you’re likely to be updated.
Are there any extra costs?
Costs are approximated at the beginning, but it's worth asking if there are any extras you're missing. With further conversations with the firm, you'll be able to get a more in depth breakdown. Anything from extra hours to printing extra copies of contracts can add up. So, make sure you know in advance if there may be extra costs.
When you’re not sure where to start with choosing a solicitor or will writer, The Law Superstore is there to make it easier. Put in a few key details about what you need, and get up to 4 quotes from local, professional firms. So you have all the information you need to make a decision that’s right for you.
What is the golden rule for solicitors?
The golden rule for solicitors is to act with integrity and uphold the rule of law. This principle demands that solicitors work to earn trust and confidence in the legal profession.
They are expected to demonstrate honesty, fairness, and respect for the legal system and its participants.
This rule is not just a guideline but an expectation. It makes sure lawyers act professionally when working with clients, courts, and other legal professionals.
What are solicitors not allowed to do?
Solicitors in the UK have to follow strict professional standards. There are several actions they are expressly prohibited from undertaking. These include:
- Breaching Confidentiality: Solicitors cannot disclose information about a client's case without permission, except in very specific legal circumstances.
- Conflict of Interest: They must avoid situations where there is a conflict between the interests of two or more clients, or between their own interests and those of a client.
- Misusing Client Funds: Solicitors are trusted to handle the clients' money. They must not misuse these funds or mix them with their own.
- Engaging in Unlawful Activities: Solicitors cannot engage in illegal activities or anything that compromises their integrity or the legal profession.
- Providing False Statements: Solicitors cannot knowingly make false statements or misrepresent facts to the courts or any party involved in legal proceedings.
Do solicitors need to be honest?
Yes, honesty is a fundamental requirement for solicitors in the UK. The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) states that solicitors must act honestly and with integrity.
This means they are expected to be truthful in all their professional dealings, whether it's with clients, courts, or other legal entities.
Dishonesty, even outside their professional role, can lead to serious consequences, including disciplinary action, fines, or even disqualification from practicing law.
Honesty is a legal ethic and a professional obligation. It's essential for maintaining public trust in the legal system.