Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about using eSolicitors.
About eSolicitors
What is eSolicitors?
eSolicitors is an online marketplace that connects people who need legal help with qualified solicitors. We verify solicitors, facilitate secure communication and payments, and provide support throughout your legal matter.
Is eSolicitors a law firm?
No. eSolicitors is a technology platform operated by Esol Corporation Limited. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. The solicitors on our platform are independent professionals who run their own practices.
How is eSolicitors different from a traditional law firm?
| Traditional Law Firm | eSolicitors |
|---|---|
| You work with one firm | Choose from many solicitors |
| Limited transparency on fees | Compare prices upfront |
| Limited reviews available | See verified client reviews |
| Referrals may be biased | Objective matching based on needs |
| Geographic limitations | Access solicitors nationwide |
Is eSolicitors regulated?
eSolicitors as a platform is not regulated by the SRA (as we don't provide legal services). However, all solicitors on our platform must be SRA-regulated, and we verify this before they can offer services.
Finding a Solicitor
How do I find a solicitor?
- Visit esolicitors.com
- Enter your legal need or browse categories
- Review solicitor profiles
- Compare qualifications, reviews, and fees
- Send enquiries to solicitors who match your needs
Are all solicitors on eSolicitors qualified?
Yes. We verify every solicitor's:
- SRA registration and authorisation
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Identity
- Claimed qualifications
How do I know reviews are genuine?
Reviews can only be left by clients who used the solicitor through our platform. We verify this automatically and remove any suspicious reviews.
Can I meet solicitors in person?
Many solicitors offer both online and in-person consultations. Check their profile or ask when you enquire. Location filters help you find solicitors near you.
Costs and Payments
How much does it cost to use eSolicitors?
Using eSolicitors to search and enquire is free. You only pay if you instruct a solicitor, and you pay them directly for their legal services.
How do solicitors set their fees?
Solicitors set their own fees. Common models include:
- Fixed fee: One price for the whole job
- Hourly rate: Charged by the hour
- Capped fee: Hourly with a maximum limit
Are there any hidden fees?
No. Solicitors must be transparent about all costs. Your quote should include:
- Professional fees
- VAT (if applicable)
- Disbursements (third-party costs)
- Payment terms
How do I pay?
Payments are processed securely through our platform. We support:
- Credit/debit cards
- Bank transfer
- In some cases, payment plans
What if I can't afford a solicitor?
Options include:
- Compare prices to find affordable solicitors
- Ask about payment plans
- Check if you qualify for legal aid
- Enquire about no-win-no-fee arrangements (for eligible matters)
During Your Matter
How do I communicate with my solicitor?
You can communicate through:
- Our secure messaging system
- Email (if your solicitor prefers)
- Phone calls
- Video meetings
- In-person meetings (where offered)
What documents will I need?
This depends on your matter. Your solicitor will tell you what's needed. Common requests include:
- ID documents
- Proof of address
- Relevant contracts or agreements
- Correspondence related to your matter
- Financial information (for some matters)
How long will my matter take?
Timescales vary greatly depending on:
- Type of legal matter
- Complexity
- Other parties involved
- Court timescales (if applicable)
Your solicitor will give you an estimate when you instruct them.
Can I change solicitors?
Yes, you can change solicitors at any time. Your current solicitor must hand over your file to the new one. You may need to pay for work already done.
Problems and Complaints
What if I'm not happy with my solicitor's service?
- Raise it with your solicitor first - Many issues can be resolved directly
- Follow their complaints procedure - All firms must have one
- Contact the Legal Ombudsman - If not resolved within 8 weeks
- Report to the SRA - For serious professional misconduct
See our Complaints Guide for details.
What if there's a fee dispute?
- Discuss with your solicitor
- Request a detailed bill breakdown
- Consider the solicitor's complaints procedure
- The Legal Ombudsman can help with fee disputes
- Bills can be assessed by the court in some cases
What if my solicitor made a mistake?
If a solicitor's mistake caused you financial loss, you may have a claim against their professional indemnity insurance. Speak to another solicitor about your options.
Is there a time limit for complaints?
- Legal Ombudsman: Usually within 6 years of the problem (or 3 years of when you knew about it)
- SRA: No formal time limit, but report as soon as possible
- Negligence claims: Usually 6 years from the negligent act
Privacy and Security
Is my information secure?
Yes. We use bank-level encryption and security measures. Read our Privacy Policy and Safety & Security guide for details.
Who can see my personal information?
- eSolicitors: To operate the platform and support you
- Solicitors you contact: To respond to your enquiries
- Your instructed solicitor: To provide legal services
- Others: Only as required by law or with your consent
Can I delete my account?
Yes. Contact support@esolicitors.com to request account deletion. Note that we must retain some data for legal and regulatory reasons.
Technical Questions
What browsers are supported?
eSolicitors works best on:
- Chrome (latest 2 versions)
- Firefox (latest 2 versions)
- Safari (latest 2 versions)
- Edge (latest 2 versions)
Is there a mobile app?
Our website is fully mobile-responsive. A dedicated app is in development.
What if I forget my password?
Click "Forgot password" on the login page and follow the instructions to reset it via email.
I'm having technical issues. What should I do?
- Try refreshing the page
- Clear your browser cache
- Try a different browser
- Contact support@esolicitors.com with details of the issue
Still Have Questions?
Contact Us
- Email: support@esolicitors.com
- Help Centre: help.esolicitors.com
- Live Chat: Available on our website
Response Times
- Email: Within 24 hours
- Live Chat: Immediate during business hours
- Phone: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
Can't find your answer? Contact our support team