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The impact of Property and Conveyancing Law on the job market

Written by: Jessica Higham, Sellick Partnership
Published on: 16 Jul 2014
Category:

Property and Conveyancing Law

According to a report published by the Legal Ombudsman, 1 in 5 legal complaints they receive is in relation to residential conveyancing. After the previously shaky housing market began to stabilise, a higher volume of work – and, consequently, higher pressure on the residential conveyancing solicitors in place – is understandable, with people rushing to secure their ideal property.

People naturally want what is best for them, but what impact is the stampede for housing having on the conveyancing market?

The effect appears to be two fold; lawyers are at risk of rushing house purchases through in order to keep up with demand, meaning firms and public bodies are looking to hold on to the highest-calibre candidates who can cope with the number of instructions, but also create temporary legal jobs to support their teams.

When it comes to the attraction and retention policies of all organisations, they have begun to recognise and reflect the needs of their employees. The introduction of a flexible working policy for all workers across the UK should mean the promotion of a better work-life balance for all, though this ultimately depends on the willingness of each professional body to implement the changes going forward.

Other elements being reviewed by employers - especially firms wanting to hire on a permanent basis and retain the best conveyancers on the market - include salary levels and opportunities for bonuses, annual leave allowances and pension packages. Not only are there more conveyancing jobs on the market as demand grows, but candidates have the opportunity to be increasingly selective when it comes to deciding which offer they accept.

This is positive for those seeking permanent jobs as they are able to regain control of their careers, selecting an employer who can not only provide them with professional stability but also putting the individual’s needs first.

Demand for locum conveyancers has also picked up, with an unsteady number of instructions and need for cover during times of increased annual leave, such as summer holidays and sabbatical. Whether lawyers work on a locum basis to gain the aforementioned elusive work-life balance, a change of professional scenery, or to take advantage of the often better rate of pay, they’re sure to find themselves in a strong position in the current market.

If you’re looking for conveyancing jobs, it is important to consider your options and ensure you’re securing the best placement for you. As ever, the legal sector is changeable, with factors such as legislation, the economy and legal proceedings affecting the most in demand areas of law.

Sellick Partnership is a recruitment agency specialising in the finance, accountancy, procurement and legal sectors. Established in 2002, the firm has expanded to six offices, offering recruitment solutions nationwide. View the latest opportunities from Sellick Partnership.