Buying a real property can be one of the biggest investments in your life. You either want to avoid a problem you think will happen or you need help to address a problem currently in your transaction. No matter your situation, you need to find someone who knows you on a first name basis.

Step 1: Focus on firms that specialise in conveyancing

There are a range of different types of law including family law, employment law, and criminal law. Be wary of firms that act across multiple legal fields – the chances are, they are not specialists in either of them!

It is essential to find a firm that specialises in conveyancing and understands the subtleties of all possible charges and defences, and the various legislative and sentencing provisions.

Step 2: Ask for help

Ask friends and family if they have hired a conveyancing lawyer in the past for similar cases.

If so, would they suggest you retain them as well?

Step 3: Research firm reputation

Most law firms will have a section of their website outlining the awards they have won.

A good way to check the reputation is to look at online reviews of the firm, such as Google reviews.

This provides insight into how satisfied recent clients were with the representation and may highlight key lawyers within the firm that stand out to you.

If a specific lawyer sounds promising, you can review their profile on the firm’s website for more information.

Step 4: Review lawyer expertise and experience

Each law firm will typically have a section of their website dedicated to providing information about their team of lawyers.

Read the profiles of each lawyer to see whether they have expertise and practical experience in the specific type of matter you need help with.

Pay attention to whether you feel an affinity for them based on their profile.

Step 5: Schedule a meeting

The best way to decide who your lawyers should be is to talk to them in person. Contact their office and schedule a consultation.

If you go to their office, what’s your impression? Is it quiet, clean and organized?

Are piles of files on top of more piles of files, looking like they’re about to fall on the floor?

Are workers there amicably chatting with one another, quietly working away or loudly complaining to one another?

You want a law firm that will get your work done in a timely and professional manner, one whose lawyers and staff treat clients with respect. Look for an office that reflects that.

Make sure you feel comfortable with the person you choose. You may have to spend a lot of time with your lawyer. It is important that you are confident he/she wants to work with you, will listen to you and treat you with respect because there is no other way to get the job done.