Number one: If you are questioned by the police

A solicitor is vital during the most critical stage of any case. A suspect’s responses will be recorded during questioning—and when something is said, it can never be taken back. People can say inaccurate things that are capable of misinterpretation when under pressure or when experiencing emotional distress.

It really is advantageous for the suspect to have a solicitor present at this point. The use of a solicitor during an interview under caution is recognized by the law as an absolute right. There is great history over the years, which many acknowledge, that an innocent person has been convicted before based upon a false confession or because of persuasion to have a “little chat” where they say things that may be misinterpreted.

Number two: Moving home

Conveyancing is the legal process of moving the legal ownership of property or land from a person to another. Licensed conveyancers are specialist property solicitors who:

• handle contracts;
• give legal advice;
• carry out local council searches;
• deal with the Land Registry; and
• transfer the funds to pay for your property.

Although not essential, several house hunters do this before sending out an offer. However, having found a solicitor you want to work with can speed up the process. It comes at a price, though, and can cost a maximum of £1,500.

Having a solicitor early on means that you won’t need to settle for the first one you find out of panic once your offer is accepted on the property. Of course, you would want a reliable solicitor who is excellent, a good communicator, and someone on the panel of the major lenders.

Using a conveyancer whom your lender does not trust will just add unnecessary delay. That being said, it’s acceptable for you to wait until you know what lender your mortgage is with.

Number three: Family issues

Family solicitors are those who act on matters such as divorce and separation, child contact and adoption, Local Authority care orders, and financial settlements. When acting for a client seeking a divorce, family solicitors are engaged in:

• taking initial details;
• gathering evidence including financial evidence;
• preparing the necessary documentation;
• negotiating settlements and contact or residency for children;
• referring to mediation; and
• advocating for the client in hearings.

Their work may also include instructing Counsel and attending Counsel at court. Child law solicitors, on the other hand, may also represent parties in care proceedings such as acting on behalf of parents, children, or local authorities.