If you have suffered financial loss due to poor legal advice or mistakes in property transactions, you may be entitled to make a professional negligence claim. Understanding whether your claim should be against a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer is essential, as it affects the potential compensation.
Claims against licensed conveyancers
Licensed conveyancers specialise in property law and conveyancing. Claims against them are usually property-specific and arise from issues such as:
- Failing to identify title defects or restrictive covenants
- Missing important property searches (e.g., drainage, environmental, or mining)
- Errors in registering property transactions or titles
- Mistakes in stamp duty or property fees
Because licensed conveyancers focus on conveyancing, claims are typically narrower than those against solicitors, but the same duties are owed to clients as would be if you instructed a solicitor.
The difference arises in respect of the compensation available. Licensed conveyancers and solicitors are both obliged to have insurance. However, the insurance rules relating to solicitors are more extensive than those relating to conveyancers. This means that you are more likely to receive your full compensation should your case be against a solicitor.
How WE Solicitors can help
At WE Solicitors, our specialist team has extensive experience in professional negligence claims against both solicitors and licensed conveyancers. We can:
- Assess whether you have a valid legal negligence claim
- Advise on the most effective route to recover full compensation
- Guide you through the claims process, including Ombudsman complaints where appropriate
- Ensure strict adherence to time limits and legal protocols
Whether your case involves poor legal advice, conveyancing errors, or solicitor negligence, we provide clear, practical guidance every step of the way
