Instructing a non-local solicitor

[leela]

Are there any downside to working with a solicitor at a distance? I was initially planning to instruct a local person, but I've been unimpressed with his initial assessment and his response time. I've spoken with someone at a recommended firm 200 miles away, who seems much more on the ball and is a specialist in the area (contentious probate).

If I go with her, are there any potential problems or disadvantages to a more remote legal relationship?

[Pezza54]

I can't think of any. Far better to have a solicitor a distance away that you are confident and impressed with than a local solicitor that you aren't
Distance is readily overcome, emails, skype, next day post delivery.

[atticus]

Modern communication methods can make distance relatively meaningless. The only concern I would have is the distance that may need to be travelled by either you or the solicitor for hearings. You should discuss the practicalities with the solicitor before instructing.

[leela]

Thank you atticus and Pezza54 . Could I please ask a follow up question? I had an initial interview with the original solicitor, and received a client care letter, but I haven't instructed him further, and that initial work has been invoiced and paid for. I'm assuming that it's perfectly okay for me to instruct this new person without any issues? I'm not committed to the first one in any way? I feel a bit bad about moving on, and want to make sure I'm not doing anything wrong. He's emailed me awaiting my instructions regarding the next stage, and I'm not sure how to respond.

[atticus]

You can say to that solicitor that on refection you have decided that you will be instructing another solicitor and that you wish to thank him (or her) for his (or her) help to date.