Should I use a local firm of solicitors near me, or can I use a solicitor based elsewhere in the country?
This is a question that is often asked by those searching for legal help. There is really no set answer, as there are a number of advantages to each. Ultimately, it will depend on your personal preferences.
Remote solicitors
Sometimes you will find a solicitor that you feel may be able to help with your legal issue, but will then notice that while you are based in Skegness, the law firm you are considering is in Southampton.
The same might happen if a friend or family member recommends a firm they have previously used, yet you are not located in the same part of the country. This is what we refer to as having a ‘remote’ solicitor.
In days gone by, it would have been more problematic to use a solicitor that was not based in your local vicinity. But these days, so much is done via email, phone and letter. In fact, very personal legal matters, such as the writing of your Will, can be done without ever even meeting your solicitor. So, if you find a solicitor who you are happy with, you should not necessarily let their location deter you from instructing them.
The exception to this is if you live in England or Wales, you should not instruct a solicitor based in Scotland or Northern Ireland. This is because they have different laws, and so will be unable to work for clients across the border. Therefore if you live in England or Wales, you need to find a solicitor in England or Wales. The same goes if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.
Local solicitors
On the other hand, many people find it comforting to have their solicitor situated nearby. You can go into the office for face-to-face meetings, drop off documents and pop in to sign important pieces of paperwork. Depending on the nature of your legal issue, you may also have to attend conferences or court hearings. If you are located nearby, it will reduce your travel time.
So while by no means essential, instructing a local solicitor does certainly have advantages, particularly if you are someone who prefers to build a relationship with your lawyer. But the bottom line is that it is entirely up to you.
Solicitors near me
If you are looking for a solicitor in England and Wales to help you with a legal matter, we can help. More than that, we can do the searching for you. We have hand selected the best solicitors across the country.
Once you have told us a little bit about your legal issue, we can pick out the solicitors near you that are best suited to your individual set of circumstances. We do this completely free of charge.
To find a solicitor near you, simply fill out the free online enquiry form, or contact us for more information.