When purchasing a property, it may help to know about the difference between a solicitor and a conveyancer. Are solicitors and conveyancers the same thing? The short answer in no.
A solicitor and a conveyancer are two different professionals that work together in the conveyancing process.
Often, people think that the conveyancer and solicitor do the same jobs in this property process. Although this may be true in some aspects, it is still worth investigating the difference between these two professionals to see which role can best help you with your home purchase.
Today, let’s take a closer look at the two professions to understand the difference. Here’s what you need to know:
What is a Solicitor?
A solicitor is a legal professional that has undertaken formal legal education and training and is then admitted to practice as a lawyer
What is a Conveyancer?
A conveyancer is not a lawyer or a solicitor but they are trained in the conveyancing process. In Queensland, a conveyancer works closely with a solicitor in the conveyancing transaction.
A conveyancer will work with a solicitor to prepare the legal documents for settlement and generally completes the following tasks:
- Prepare, review and lodge all necessary legal documents, such as the transfer forms, transfer duty assessment;
- Conduct property searches and report back any issues with proeprty searches;
- Prepare and review the statement of adjustments;
- Liaise with all the parties to the transactions, such as the solicitor/conveyancer on the other side and the bank or financer; and
- Prepare for and attend settlement.
In short, it is the conveyancer’s role to ensure that everything is in order with the conveyancing process so that settlement can take place successfully.
How Do You Choose Between a Solicitor and Conveyancer?
In Queensland, a conveyancer must work alongside a solicitor. Generally, a conveyancer, as a trained professional, will run your matter under the supervision of a solicitor.
However, if you so wish, you may engage a solicitor only to assist you with your conveyance. If you chose to do so, you will likely pay more for your conveyancing than you would if a conveyancer handled your matter under the supervision of a solicitor.
The Bottom Line
Although there is a difference between a solicitor and a conveyancer, In Queensland, they work hand in hand in a conveyancing transaction.
If you are looking for some pro-tips on how to select a conveyancer or a solicitor to assist with the conveyancing process, read our article on this here.
If you are looking for a reputable conveyancing firm that is client focused, we can help you! At One80 Conveyancing, we help home buyers get into their dream homes efficiently and trouble free with our revolutionary One80 Prime System™ and One80 App™ . Contact us today to learn more and get started! Book a free consultation or request a quote online.
DISCLAIMER: This article is provided for general information purposes only. Its content is current at the date of preparation. Changes in circumstances or policy or legislation after the time of preparation may impact the accuracy of the information provided. It is not legal advice and is not tailored to meet your individual needs. You should obtain specialist advice from a qualified professional based on your specific circumstances before taking any action concerning the matters discussed in this guide. One80 Conveyancing Pty Ltd will not accept liability for any reliance on this article, including but not limited to, the accuracy, currency or completeness of any information or links.
