How experience in the residential conveyancing department can help you develop a strong skillset in the pursuit of a successful legal career.

As I enter my sixth month of being a paralegal in the residential conveyancing department at Machins, I would like to provide an insight into my experience so far and advocate on behalf of a practice area that is perhaps not seen as the most glamorous field to qualify into. Nevertheless, there is a lot to be gained and it is my aim to shed some light on this.

What it is like being a residential conveyancing paralegal

Before I delve into why this area is such a rewarding one to work in, I think it would be helpful to detail what my role involves. Being a paralegal in the department is very much an open ended role and no day is ever the same.

One aspect of my role involves dealing with new enquiries and assisting clients with the on boarding process. As an initial contact in the department, I gain essential information from prospective clients and aim to steer them in the right direction.

I also work with clients, estate agents, other law firms, mortgage companies, and mortgage brokers to help matters progress and overcome any issues that arise. The technical aspects of my role involve preparing documents, such as contracts for sale, ensuring that the necessary searches take place, and assisting clients with enquiries raised. 

A lot of the work I do is done over the phone although over time I have also had the opportunity to have appointments with clients face to face and remotely.

Responsibility

Before joining Machins, I did not have any legal experience within a firm. Although I had studied Property Law and Practice as part of the Legal Practice Course, I was very much new to conveyancing. However, I have been given a healthy balance of responsibility and support which has enabled me to quickly get my bearings.

Working closely with clients and professionals in the area through different mediums has bolstered my confidence and has enabled me to work with an increased level of independence with the comfort of knowing that there is always support should I need it. This has also helped me improve my ability to communicate clearly and under pressure.

I am also relied upon to help matters progress. This involves ensuring that the information given is correct and that all the parties involved are on the same wave length. Drafting documents so that they contain the correct information and are accompanied by the necessary documents is also crucial to avoid unnecessary delays.

Being prepared

I work with each of the fee earners in the department on transactions at varying stages. It is important to stay on top of caseloads and deal with things in order of priority so that deadlines can be met. This is an important skill in any practice area and being able to establish a system that enables you to stay on top of your caseload will be essential as a trainee solicitor and beyond. I have a system where I use the firm’s case management system in conjunction with a notepad to track matters as they progress while keeping a note of specific deadlines and appointments.

Liaising with organisations

Working with other professionals who are part of the home moving process provides a brilliant opportunity to learn more about the field and understand the home moving process from their standpoint. This is also a great way to build professional networks.

Managing expectations

Most, if not all, transactions are subject to some kind of deadline. In an area which has a lot of involvement from organisations that are external to the firm, it is essential for expectations to be managed at all stages. Being able to manage and reset expectations while still developing good relationships with clients is the sign of a good lawyer and a trait that working in residential conveyancing can help you develop.

I hope this article has shown how gaining experience in residential conveyancing can help develop important skills that will help you in your legal career, whether that be a career in residential conveyancing or otherwise.