Choosing a Solicitors & Legal: what to look for

If you're researching Solicitors & Legal in Manchester, this short reference covers the essentials.

What to look for

• Check the provider is regulated for the work you need - search the SRA solicitors register, the BSB Barristers' Register, or the relevant regulator's site to confirm a current practising certificate.
• Confirm whether your matter is a 'reserved' activity (e.g. court litigation, conveyancing, probate) that must be done by a regulated professional, or general advice/will-writing where the provider may be unregulated.
• Get a clear written quote up front stating whether fees are fixed or hourly, what's included, VAT, and likely disbursements.
• Ask about relevant specialism and experience (e.g. family, conveyancing, probate) and any accreditations such as Law Society quality schemes or STEP (TEP) for estates.
• Check the firm carries professional indemnity insurance and has a client account if handling your money.
• Understand the complaints route: the firm must have an internal complaints procedure, and unresolved service complaints can go to the Legal Ombudsman.
• Compare more than one quote and don't choose on price alone - clarity, responsiveness and relevant expertise matter.

Regulation & standards

If you're researching Solicitors & Legal in Manchester, this short reference covers the essentials.

Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) - regulates solicitors and law firms in England and Wales, setting professional standards, authorising practice and taking disciplinary action; it regulates well over 100,000 solicitors across more than 11,000 firms.