If you’ve ever wondered what it is exactly that solicitors do or if you’ve considered becoming one yourself, here is a brief introduction into the work of a solicitor.
Definition
A solicitor is a type of lawyer who works mainly with clients outside of the courtroom. They are able to approach potential clients or vice versa and can aid and advise on a variety of matters.
Wills, Trust and Equity
This concerns the property and assets of a person after they have died. A will is a legal document that outlines the recipients of a person’s belongings upon the event of their death. These are very important documents to make, and it is always recommended to be prepared and write one. Solicitors are experts and can help you make your will, all you need to do is search will writing services near me to make the process as simple and stress free as possible.
Family Law
Family law relates to anything to do with the family unit. From divorce to childcare disputes, solicitors can provide support and advice in a range of areas. This is a particularly sensitive area of a solicitor’s work as it can involve dealing with children, relationships, mediation, and adoption proceedings. They can also assist in pre- and post-nuptial arrangements, pensions, and the dissolution of civil partnerships.
Property
This area of law relates to ownership of land and personal property and is also known as conveyancing. Solicitors can help in the buying and selling of property to ensure that the process is as smooth and accurate as possible. Dealing with property and home ownership can be complex, and it is difficult to handle on your own. A solicitor can help you with everything from help to buy schemes to becoming a live-in land lord, buying and selling, and even helping your children buy their first property.
Personal Injury
Solicitors can help support you if you have suffered from a wide range of illnesses or accidents caused by someone else’s negligence. Incidents such as car accidents, or specific work-related injuries can cause huge disruption in your life and leave you unable to work. Solicitors can help you claim compensation in these situations. This also applies to illness, such as workplace exposure to asbestos, or other industrial diseases. As well as monetary compensation, a solicitor can also help you access treatment and further care.
How to Become One
If you feel as though you have the passion and skills required to make a great solicitor, there are multiple courses and training opportunities available. The most common way to do this is to study a law degree at university as this will give you all the information, knowledge, and experience you need, as well as support and placements. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, you can take a conversion course, which adds on to your previously earned credits, using existing skills and accelerating you to the same level as graduating law students. Apprenticeships are also available in England, allowing you to experience the role without a degree first.