Solicitor wants half of fee up front.

Hi,

Is it normal for a solicitor to demand half of their conveyancing fee upfront? My solicitor has requested this before they even look at the contract?

They are the best value for money from the quotes that I have received but they did not mention this requirement in their quotation.

Thanks.

Mac1976 said:

They are the best value for money from the quotes that I have received

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Do you mean that they are the lowest fee? That is very different to the best value for money.

Yes, about 20% lower than the average.

Mac1976 said:

Yes, about 20% lower than the average.

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I reckon it is unusual but really it is not unreasonable. If you have planned for this outlay in your budget then it should not be a problem. Anyway i think a solicitor has some kind of lien on your property until the fees are paid.

You oughn't to pick a solicitor just because it's the lowest fee.

As you are not a client there is nothing wrong with requesting part of the fee up front. Be sure to get a S68 letter. It's your legal entitlement. Do you understand the difference between fee and outlays ? Also ask what happens if the sale does not go thru. How much is the fee?