My time as a trainee solicitor in the conveyancing team

As a trainee solicitor, I will complete four seats in different areas of law across the firm. I am currently sitting in my first seat in residential property and am soon due to move to Wills, Trust, and Probate. Within this seat, I am learning about all aspects of the sale and purchase of freehold and leasehold property, both registered and unregistered.

The work I am doing within residential property is very dynamic and diverse. Some of the aspects I have had experience in include:

Contract Management:

• Exchanging contracts
• Raising and responding to pre-contract enquiries

Document Drafting and Review:

• Drafting and reviewing documents, including transfers, SDLT forms, and statements of truth for adverse possession

Search Result Interpretation:

• Analysing search results, including the official local authority search and the environmental search

Legal Research:

• Conducting legal research on things to be aware of before purchasing a leasehold property, including information about the Building Safety Act 2022

Stakeholder Liaison:

• Collaborating with various parties involved in property transactions, including clients, estate agents, and management companies

These experiences provide invaluable insights into conveyancing law and the practicalities involved in managing complex property transactions.

 In addition, although most of the property I have dealt with during my time in conveyancing is registered, I have also come across unregistered property. When a client decides to sell unregistered property, it is our job to read the title deeds, such as conveyances or abstracts of title, and put together an epitome of title which demonstrates a ‘good root of title’. A ‘good root of title’ shows at least 15 years of ownership of the property. Similarly, if a client wants to purchase unregistered property, this will trigger first registration, to which we would prepare an application and submit it to HM Land Registry.

Residential property is a fast paced and demanding area of law. Deadlines are tight, so effective time management is essential. I use a colour coordinated spreadsheet which tracks file names, and the work carried out on what date. This is a good way for me to keep a record of tasks I have completed and what tasks need to be completed next. I also have monthly meetings with my supervisor to go through what areas of conveyancing I have been working on and what areas I need more exposure to. This is not only an excellent way to ensure that I am getting the most out of my time in conveyancing, but it also allows me to ask any questions and for my supervisor to give me some feedback or advice.

During my time as a trainee solicitor in conveyancing, I have discovered the importance of undertaking thorough due diligence on property transactions, particularly purchases. This includes investigating and enquiring about potential legal issues such as restrictive covenants, easements, and restrictions affecting the property that may not only affect the property’s value but also cause problems for the client regarding their use and enjoyment of the property. I have learnt that these factors can often be complex and require careful examination to ensure the client is made completely aware of the risks involved with their purchase.

The residential property team offers support for all my tasks, and I have benefited significantly from their guidance and valuable feedback. They always encourage us to ask questions and share knowledge to enhance our collective expertise.

Overall, working in residential property is very rewarding. I am able to assist clients in their property transactions and ultimately help them achieve their goals. 

This blog is part of Birkett Long's National Conveyancing Week celebrations. If you would like to discuss our conveyancing services, please get in touch with Zoe Merideth on contacted on 01206 217336 or via email at [email protected]

Beth Wade