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How to Hire a Solicitor

This guide walks you through the complete process of hiring a solicitor on eSolicitors.

Overview​

Hiring a solicitor involves these steps:

  1. Find suitable solicitors
  2. Request and receive quotes
  3. Compare and select
  4. Formally engage (hire)
  5. Make initial payment
  6. Begin working together

Step 1: Find Suitable Solicitors​

Before hiring, you need to find solicitors who can help with your matter:

Tip: Shortlist 3-5 solicitors before requesting quotes.

Step 2: Request Quotes​

Once you've found potential solicitors:

  1. Click "Request Quote" on their profile
  2. Describe your legal matter in detail
  3. Include relevant deadlines or timeframes
  4. Attach any relevant documents (optional)
  5. Submit your request

See Requesting Quotes for detailed guidance.

Step 3: Review Quotes​

Solicitors will respond with quotes that include:

  • Proposed Fee - How much they'll charge
  • Fee Structure - Fixed fee, hourly rate, or hybrid
  • What's Included - Scope of work covered
  • What's Excluded - Items not in the quote
  • Estimated Timeline - How long it will take
  • Next Steps - What happens after hiring

Comparing Quotes​

When comparing, consider:

FactorQuestions to Ask
PriceIs it within budget? What's included?
ExperienceDo they have relevant expertise?
CommunicationDid they respond promptly and clearly?
UnderstandingDo they understand your needs?
TimelineCan they meet your deadlines?

Step 4: Ask Questions​

Before deciding, you can:

  • Message Solicitors - Ask clarifying questions through the platform
  • Request Call - Ask for a phone consultation
  • Request Meeting - Some offer free initial meetings

Common questions to ask:

  • Who will handle my matter day-to-day?
  • How often will I receive updates?
  • What could cause the fee to change?
  • What's your experience with cases like mine?
  • What's the likely outcome?

Step 5: Select Your Solicitor​

Once you've made your decision:

  1. Go to the quote you want to accept
  2. Click "Accept Quote" or "Hire This Solicitor"
  3. Review the terms and scope of work
  4. Confirm you agree to the terms
  5. Proceed to payment

Step 6: Complete Engagement​

Review the Engagement Letter​

Before finalising, you'll receive an engagement letter covering:

  • Scope of Work - Exactly what the solicitor will do
  • Fees and Billing - How and when you'll be charged
  • Terms of Business - The solicitor's standard terms
  • Cancellation Policy - Your rights to cancel
  • Complaints Procedure - How to raise concerns

Important: Read this carefully before proceeding.

Make Initial Payment​

Depending on the arrangement, you may need to pay:

  • Full Fixed Fee - If it's a fixed-price service
  • Deposit - Partial payment to start work
  • Money on Account - Funds held for hourly billing
  • Nothing Upfront - Some matters start without payment

Payment methods accepted:

  • Credit/Debit Card
  • Bank Transfer
  • Direct Debit (for ongoing matters)

Step 7: Begin Working Together​

Once hired, you can:

  • Access Your Case Dashboard - Track progress
  • Message Your Solicitor - Communicate securely
  • Share Documents - Upload files securely
  • View Updates - See status changes
  • Receive Notifications - Get alerts for important updates

What Happens After Hiring​

Immediate Next Steps​

  1. Your solicitor will send a welcome message
  2. They may request additional information
  3. You'll receive access to the case dashboard
  4. Work begins according to the agreed timeline

Ongoing Communication​

Expect:

  • Regular progress updates
  • Requests for information or documents
  • Notifications of key milestones
  • Invoices (if hourly billing)

Your Responsibilities​

As a client, you should:

  • Respond promptly to requests
  • Provide honest and complete information
  • Pay invoices on time
  • Raise concerns early
  • Attend scheduled meetings/calls

Cancellation & Refunds​

Cooling-Off Period​

For most services, you have 14 days to cancel without penalty. After this:

  • Work completed will be charged
  • Any unused funds will be refunded
  • Cancellation fees may apply

How to Cancel​

  1. Go to your case in the dashboard
  2. Click "Manage Engagement"
  3. Select "Cancel Engagement"
  4. Provide a reason (optional)
  5. Confirm cancellation

Refund Timeline​

  • Refunds processed within 5-10 business days
  • Returned to original payment method
  • You'll receive confirmation by email

Troubleshooting​

Solicitor Not Responding?​

  1. Check your spam folder for responses
  2. Try the platform messaging system
  3. Wait 48 hours before escalating
  4. Contact eSolicitors support if needed

Unhappy with Service?​

  1. Raise concerns with your solicitor first
  2. Use the formal complaints process if needed
  3. Contact eSolicitors support for help
  4. See Complaints About Solicitors

Next Steps​

Remember: A good working relationship starts with clear communication. Don't hesitate to ask questions before hiring.