Instructing a Solicitor

[yellowplum]

I just wanted to clarify the technical way that you can instruct a solicitor and what steps they have to take before instruction is actually made.

Do they have to take copies of passports etc? Do they have to send specific instruction letters? Quotes? Etc? What do they have to do?

[Celestine]

Re: Instructing a Solicitor

Hi there

When instructing a solicitor, they will speak with you either in person or on phone to assess your case.
Once both parties agree a course of action, you will be sent a client care letter; which needs to be signed and returned. Sometimes you will also receive a Terms of Business letter alongside the client care letter.

The Client care letter sets out the scope of work, the cause of action, the timescale and the costs. It will specifically set out how the case shall be funded, e.g. fixed fee work or 'no win no fee'.
All solicitors firms will also require photo ID and proof of address for anti money laundering purposes, even if the area is not regulated business. (e.g. conveyancing)

[yellowplum]

Re: Instructing a Solicitor

Thanks for the info, I contacted a number of solicitors to ask about what the cost would be to take on the case and do some work for me. They all quoted roughly the same fee, however one seems to have felt aggrieved as I didn't send him the work and is seeking money from me.

Hence why I asked.

Is there anywhere the information you have provided is written down as a requirement, I have contacted the SRA but they are unable to help, they did point to the solicitors guide online but I couldn't find anything directly.

[Celestine]

Re: Instructing a Solicitor

Yup, sounds familiar. Many firms really do NOT get the fact that to assess a case takes time and effort and you don't get paid for this part of the work.
IF when you made the appointment they explained a fee would be due that would be something, but if you were seeking a quote and needed to assess different firms, you should not have been charged.
My own firm offers a 30 minute no obligation meeting or telephone conference so we don't get into these muddles. But many many firms still do charge whenever and wherever they can.