When buying or selling property, you’ll need help from a professional to handle the legal aspects of the transaction. This is where conveyancing lawyers and conveyancers come into play. Both professionals are equipped to manage the conveyancing process, however, there are key differences between them. This article will discuss the differences between conveyancing lawyers and conveyancers and provide guidance on which professional you should choose for your property transaction.
What Are Conveyancing Lawyers?
Conveyancing lawyers are legal professionals who have expertise in property law and have completed a law degree. They’re fully qualified solicitors or barristers, and they possess comprehensive knowledge of the entire legal spectrum. This allows them to handle complex property transactions and provide legal advice on issues that may arise during the conveyancing process. Conveyancing lawyers are regulated by their respective law societies and are required to adhere to strict professional standards.
What Are Conveyancers?
Conveyancers are professionals with expertise in conveyancing who have completed a conveyancing course but don’t have a law degree. They’re licensed to manage property transactions and are well-versed in the practical aspects of the conveyancing process. Conveyancers are regulated by their respective licensing authorities and must also adhere to professional standards. While conveyancers can handle most standard property transactions, they won’t have the legal expertise to address more complex issues that can arise during the process.
Key Differences Between Conveyancing Lawyers & Conveyancers
· Education & qualifications – Conveyancing lawyers hold a law degree and have completed additional training in property law, while conveyancers have completed a conveyancing course. This difference in education and qualifications means that conveyancing lawyers have a broader understanding of the law and can provide legal advice on a range of issues.
· Scope of services – Conveyancing lawyers can handle complex property transactions and provide legal advice, while conveyancers focus primarily on the practical aspects of the conveyancing process. If your property transaction involves complicated legal matters, a conveyancing lawyer may be better equipped to handle the situation.
· Cost – Conveyancers generally charge lower fees than conveyancing lawyers, as their services are more limited in scope. However, if your property transaction requires legal advice or involves complex issues, the additional cost of hiring a conveyancing lawyer may be justified.
Which Should You Choose?
The decision to hire a conveyancing lawyer or a conveyancer will depend on the complexity of your property transaction and your individual needs. If your transaction is straightforward and unlikely to involve any legal complications, a conveyancer may be the more cost-effective option. However, if your transaction involves complex legal issues, or if you require legal advice during the process, a conveyancing lawyer may be the better choice.
It’s essential to do your research and compare the services, qualifications and fees of multiple conveyancing lawyers and conveyancers before making your decision. Seek recommendations from friends, family or even colleagues who may have recently been through the property transaction process, and read online reviews to gauge the reputation and reliability of the professionals you’re considering.
