Although most people know that solicitors play a large part in the legal system in England and Wales, they may not be familiar with the different roles they carry out.
Corporate law versus private individuals
One division is between individual work and corporate law. The latter involves taking instructions from directors and carrying them out, sometimes in the area of acquisitions and mergers and sometimes in legal proceedings in the courts.
Private clients may be advised on matters such as property law, probate and wills or divorce law. Increasingly, they may advise on a UK power of attorney. If you are thinking of making an LPA, you will find firms online who can help, such as https://powerofattorneyonline.co.uk.
What skills does a solicitor need to have?
Solicitors need a wide range of skills – some they will have acquired during their training, whilst others will be a part of their personality traits.
Good communication skills are crucial, as is the ability to listen. Given you will be writing letters and drafting documents, good writing skills are also crucial.
Regular tasks you would expect to undertake
Solicitors undertake a series of jobs on a regular basis, for example, you would expect to carry out the following day-to-day tasks.
- Provide clients with legal advice.
- Instruct advocates or barristers if they are employed to act for your client.
- Draft contracts, legal instruments and letters.
- Undertake research through records and the case law affecting a matter.
- Keep abreast of new legislation.
- Attend client meetings and related negotiations.
