Not only do estate agents maintain that they hold the upper hand in relation to customer care (and all that is wrong with conveyancing is the fault of solicitors) but now software salesmen believe they do too (see [2004] Gazette, 7 May.

15).

I have no doubt there are bad conveyancers just as there are bad estate agents and bad software suppliers.

But the reality that solicitors are still the first choice for conveyancing services proves that we must be doing something right, if not in fact very well indeed.

If estate agents and software suppliers want to criticise solicitors I suggest they establish detailed regulation of their industries, including the power to exclude those who won't follow the rules.

They should encourage their clients to expect to pay a proper rate for the legal work involved in the transaction rather than creating an expectation that legal fees can be low and a good service is assured.

They should refrain from giving any advice on legal issues to their clients.

They should accept that their industries are as much to blame as anyone for the problems that exist in conveyancing and stop whinging.

Michael Robinson (solicitor-advocate) Jacqueline Emmerson Solicitors, Sunderland