“How do I find out if a solicitor is good?” you might ask. Most people only hire a solicitor a few times in their life. So when you need one, it is normal to wonder how you can tell whether they are actually any good.
You do not need insider knowledge. You just need a few checks that cut through the marketing.
1) Start with independent reviews, not the firm’s own testimonials
Look for a steady pattern of feedback. One glowing review means very little. Twenty reviews saying the same thing about responsiveness, fairness, and clear advice, that is useful.
Use a mix of sources. Reviews on a single platform can be skewed, either positively or negatively. Cross check and look for consistency.
2) Make sure they do the type of work you need, every week
A good conveyancing solicitor might not be the right person for a contested probate dispute. Specialism matters. So does volume.
Check what they publish and what they lead with on their profile pages. If your issue is a big part of their practice, it will usually show.
3) Check recognition, but understand what it does and does not prove
Directories and rankings can be helpful, especially when they are based on research and peer feedback. They are not the full story, but they can be a strong signal, particularly for complex matters.
Use them alongside client reviews, not instead of them.
If you are using legal directories and review sites, consider Google Reviews or Trustpilot and other well-known legal review and directory sites such as ReviewSolicitors, Chambers and Partners, our very own FantasticLawyers.com (see e.g. our directory of best family lawyers or legal directory of personal injury attorneys) and FiveFantasticLawyers.com, or The Legal 500 or the Times Best Law Firms.
4) Pay attention to the first conversation
Small things matter. Do they listen properly? Do they ask sensible questions? Do they explain the next steps without drowning you in jargon?
You should come away feeling clearer than when you started. Even if the news is not what you wanted.
5) Fees should be clear before you commit
Good solicitors are not vague about costs. You should understand the fee model, what is included, what might change the cost, and how billing works.
If you feel pressured to sign quickly, slow it down. You can always speak to someone else.
Quick checklist
- Independent reviews look consistent across more than one platform1
- They regularly handle cases like yours, not occasionally
- You can verify regulation and basic credentials with the right regulator
- They communicate clearly, early, and in plain English
- Fees are explained upfront and confirmed in writing
FAQs about choosing a solicitor
How can I check if a solicitor is properly regulated?
Check the relevant regulator’s register. For England and Wales, that is the SRA. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own bodies, so make sure you are using the correct one for where the solicitor practises.
Are legal directories worth looking at?
Yes, as part of a wider check. Use them to shortlist, then confirm with reviews, specialism, and how the solicitor communicates with you.
What if a solicitor has a couple of bad reviews?
It depends on the pattern. A few criticisms among many strong reviews is not unusual. Repeated complaints about the same issue, especially communication or hidden costs, should make you cautious.
Should I choose a local solicitor?
For some work, local knowledge helps. For others, it matters less. What matters most is relevant experience, speed, and clear advice.
Is it okay to speak to more than one solicitor first?
Yes. Comparing two or three options can quickly reveal who is organised, transparent, and easy to work with.
What to look for when choosing a solicitor?
Look for relevant experience, consistent client feedback, transparent fees, and a sensible plan. You want someone who explains options plainly and sets expectations without overpromising.
How do I check out a solicitor?
Check regulation and status with the appropriate legal regulator. Then review their practice focus, recent articles or guidance, and independent feedback. If possible, speak to them briefly and compare them with another firm.
How do you know if you got a good lawyer?
You feel informed, not confused. Deadlines are met, updates are timely, and advice is practical. A good lawyer also tells you what you do not want to hear when it is necessary, and backs it up with reasons.
What is the biggest mistake during a divorce?
Letting emotion drive decisions about money and children. Another common mistake is agreeing to something quickly just to end the stress. Take advice, get the figures, and think in months and years, not days.
What is a lawyer checker search?
It is a basic check to confirm a lawyer is genuine, regulated, and authorised to practise. People use regulator registers and reputable directories to verify identity, location, and disciplinary history where available.
How much does a good solicitor cost in the UK?
It varies by area of law, complexity, and location. Some work is fixed fee, such as many conveyancing matters, while disputes are often billed hourly. A good solicitor is not always the most expensive, but they should be upfront about costs, what is included, and what could increase the bill.
What is the golden rule for solicitors?
Clarity and candour. In practice, that means giving advice you can act on, explaining risks, and keeping you informed. If you feel left in the dark, something is wrong.
What are the red flags for buying a house?
Delays with paperwork, incomplete replies to enquiries, unexpected restrictions on the title, and uncertainty about boundaries or access. Another red flag is pressure to exchange quickly without clear answers on key points like planning permissions, leases, or building issues.
What are the 3 C’s of divorce?
People often use the 3 C’s as a practical reminder: communication, compromise, and child focus. If you keep those three in view, decisions tend to be calmer and outcomes more workable.
How can I find a good solicitor?
Use a shortlist approach. Check independent reviews and reputable directories, confirm the solicitor’s specialism, and speak to at least two firms. Choose the one who is clear about options, costs, and likely timelines.
How do I prepare for my first meeting with a solicitor?
Write a short timeline of what happened, gather key documents, and list your questions. Bring any letters, contracts, emails, photos, and dates. It also helps to be honest about your priorities, such as speed, budget, and desired outcome.
What is the hardest question to ask a lawyer?
Usually it is the direct one: what are my chances and what will this really cost. Ask it anyway. A good solicitor will answer carefully, explain uncertainties, and set realistic expectations.
What is the most common complaint against lawyers?
Communication. Clients often complain about slow updates, unclear explanations, or not knowing what is happening next. That is why responsiveness and plain English advice matter so much when you are choosing.
How do you find a really good lawyer?
Look for proven experience in your exact problem, consistent independent feedback, and strong professional reputation signals. Then test the fit. A really good lawyer makes the process feel controlled and understandable, even when the situation is difficult.
