Licensed Conveyancer v Solicitor
Both licensed conveyancers and solicitors can assist with property transactions in the UK, but there are some key differences between the two:
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Qualifications: To become a solicitor, one must complete a law degree or a non-law degree followed by a conversion course, then a Legal Practice Course (LPC) and then complete a training contract. To become a licensed conveyancer, one must complete a specific conveyancing qualification, such as the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC) qualification.
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Scope of Practice: Solicitors have a wider scope of practice and can offer legal services in a variety of areas, including conveyancing. Licensed conveyancers are specialists in conveyancing and property law, and are therefore limited in the types of legal services they can offer.
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Regulation: Both solicitors and licensed conveyancers are regulated by their respective professional bodies. Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), while licensed conveyancers are regulated by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers (CLC).
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Cost: Licensed conveyancers are often cheaper than solicitors, as they only offer conveyancing services and have lower overheads than a full-service law firm.
Ultimately, both solicitors and licensed conveyancers can assist with property transactions, but the decision as to which to choose will depend on the individual's needs and preferences.