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26 May 2017 / Peter Ambrose
Issue: 7747 / Categories: Features , Property
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Conveyancing: time to modernise & move on

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Succeeding in today’s market requires expertise, investment & a touch of excellence, says Peter Ambrose

We know conveyancing is not glamorous but its ability to generate cash and spin-off work makes it very attractive. This is why it is so important to modernise traditional conveyancing departments so they can generate profitable work without increasing the risks involved. Here are some key suggestions.

Case management

There’s no way around this. Today, conveyancing is not practical without an effective case management system.

A decline in the number of experienced conveyancers means support staff need to be more effective. Making case details available helps them to handle inbound enquiries which enables the fee-earner to focus on the work only they can do.

Action

Case management does not have to be implemented in a “Big Bang” approach—incremental change works fine. Extensive (and expensive) projects that try to solve all the problems at the first attempt are destined to fail. Avoid workflow-based solutions initially—go for the minimum —contact details, note-taking and an automated precedent bank.

Standardisation—fall

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

NLJ Career Profile: John McElroy, London Solicitors Litigation Association

NLJ Career Profile: John McElroy, London Solicitors Litigation Association

From first-generation student to trailblazing president of the London Solicitors Litigation Association, John McElroy of Fieldfisher reflects on resilience, identity and the power of bringing your whole self to the law

Clarke Willmott—Elaine Field

Clarke Willmott—Elaine Field

Planning and environment team expands with partner hire in Manchester

Birketts—Barbara Hamilton-Bruce

Birketts—Barbara Hamilton-Bruce

Firm appoints chief operating officer to strengthen leadership team

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