QUESTION_OF_CHOICE_

It seems that there are two distinct poles which are pulling apart.On the one hand are the factories who argue that conveyancing is just... It seems that there are two distinct poles which are pulling apart.On the one hand are the factories who argue that conveyancing is just a process, that local knowledge is irrelevant, that quality staff can be recruited to handle volume and that the best interests of the consumer their clients are served in this way.On the other are the quality firms who are anxious to provide a quality localised service, who want to see clients face to face, who are investing in technology and training, and who by forming loose co-operatives locally are able fully to support the government's intention of speeding up the conveyancing process.

Fundamentally, this is about consumer choice and consumer best interests.

With the factory, the consumer benefits from neither of these.

In practical terms, I know that conveyancing is not like a remortgage programme.On the latter there is one customer, no estate agent, sometimes a broker but importantly no other law firm to deal with.Conveyancing is different.

I recently asked somebody at a factory what searches they would do if they were instructed by a client wishing to buy a property in Yalding.The person to whom I spoke asked me how I spelt it, missing completely the fact that the poor town has been flooded frequently in the last 12 months.Solicitors in Kent would know exactly what problems to anticipate if acting for a buyer in that area.

It is clear that conveyancing is undergoing major surgery and about time too.It is clear that huge opportunities are available and it is interesting to say the least whether the Law Society will give a view on whether the best interests of clients are served in a factory process or best served by having increased choice and the benefit of a local adviser.