can you use same solicitor as vendor?

[Hodge]

I've been using a local solicitor for years and always have used them for conveyancing and legal work. I've just realised that the vendors of a property I'm keen to purchase are also using the same solicitor.

Any harm if we use the same solicitor or should I try find a new one for this property?

Thanks for your help.

 

[thatbum]

The vendors will probably end up having to use a different solicitor if you buy the property...

 

[Hodge]

Really? I would have thought I'd have to find a new solicitor seeing they signed with them first.

 

[Corey Batt]

Lots of conveyancers taking both sides of the coin for transactions around these parts, I wouldn't do it personally. I'd think the solicitors wouldn't be able to take you on for this matter?

 

[Hodge]

Just called the solicitor to ask the question and he said it's fine. I asked him if he wants me to email him the contract to review his work before I sign.

 

[Corey Batt]

Just called the solicitor to ask the question and he said it's fine. I asked him if he wants me to email him the contract to review his work before I sign.

So what happens when theres conditions which suit the vendor, but not the purchaser?

Or you ask for an extension on settlement date/finance etc.

Does he pull out his sock puppet and do a schizophrenic comedy routine?

 

[Hodge]

That's what I was thinking on the phone to him. All good until ***** hits the fan.

 

[marg4000]

Unless there is more than one solicitor in the practice (so that each party can have a separate person) I would be very wary.

In the event of a dispute there is a huge risk to impartiality if the one person represents both parties.
Marg

 

[Hodge]

I think the practice employes 3 solicitors. That's my main concern if things turn pear shaped.

 

[Scott No Mates]

There have been several threads on this topic previously. Avoid this situation unless you are dealing with another solicitor from the same office if it's a large firm eg: Minters etc where there is plenty of separation between different solicitors.

 

[S.T]

meh, I'd just use a different solicitor to make sure my interests are protected.

 

[Big Will]

I would use a different one, even if there was more than one person in their office. Protect your interest, I am sure your usual solicitor would know some other good ones and would understand the conflict of interest and why you would like to use a different one from the vendor.

 

[Terry_w]

Yes solicitors can act for both sides. There are potential conflict of interests and therefore there are solicitor rules about this.

 

[Truly Exotic]

Definitely a conflict of interest, not sure of the legalites, but all the lawyers ive dealt with wont do it