If you're researching Solicitors & Legal in Manchester, this short reference covers the essentials.
Is the difference between a solicitor and a barrister important when choosing?
Yes. Solicitors usually provide day-to-day advice and handle most legal work directly for clients, while barristers are specialists often instructed for court advocacy and expert opinions. Both are separately regulated (SRA and BSB).
How do I check if a solicitor is genuine and qualified?
Use the SRA's online solicitors register to confirm the person/firm is authorised and holds a current practising certificate. Barristers can be checked on the BSB Barristers' Register.
Do I legally need a solicitor to write a will or do conveyancing?
You don't legally need one to write a valid will (it can be unregulated work), but conveyancing and probate applications are reserved activities normally handled by a regulated solicitor or licensed conveyancer to protect you.
What can I do if I'm unhappy with my solicitor?
First complain through the firm's internal complaints procedure. If unresolved, you can take a service complaint to the Legal Ombudsman, generally within six months of the firm's final response (and within set overall time limits). The service is free to consumers.
How much will legal work cost?
It varies by type and complexity. Many firms offer fixed fees for things like wills, conveyancing and uncontested divorce; others charge by the hour. Always ask for a written estimate including VAT and disbursements before instructing.
Are will-writers regulated like solicitors?
Not necessarily. Will-writing is not a reserved legal activity, so some will-writers are unregulated. Choosing an SRA-regulated solicitor or a STEP member gives you regulatory protection and recourse if something goes wrong.