In basic terms, the act of conveyancing is the transfer of ownership, or other dealings in respect of rights in land. Yet, as anyone involved in this area of property law knows, the conveyancing process is multi-faceted and requires many individuals to get the job done.
The adoption of technology in order to assist in this process, isn’t new either: in fact it has formed part of the conveyancing landscape for at least the last 30 years. From HM Land Registry’s digital transformation, the rise of sophisticated case management systems to AI-driven automation and streamlined ID verification, the digital world already plays a fundamental role in the conveyancing transactions we all see, everyday.
And it’s that pace of change that is getting ever faster. At January’s Conveyancing Association Conference, Orbital co-founder Edmond Boulle presented on this topic for the day’s keynote, sharing his thoughts on the technological inflection point we now find ourselves in and to share with the audience his take on why AI is now good enough for conveyancing.
But back to the day-to-day for every conveyancer. Who are the characters involved in the conveyancing process today – and what relationship do they have with technology? Firstly, a short disclaimer: all the individuals mentioned below are purely fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is (I promise) entirely coincidental…
The numbers expert
Driven by profits, billing, cost savings, and caseload numbers, they leverage digital data and analytics to achieve and surpass targets. When looking at new digital conveyancing products the return on investment is a priority. This motivated conveyancer is also willing to step in to help the firm get another transaction ‘over the line’.
The juggler
Balancing family life with work, they rely on conveyancing technology for flexible working hours and location. Cloud-based tools and remote access to case files enable them to work from home or other locations, while video conferencing and collaboration software facilitate communication with clients and colleagues. A consummate multi-tasker, their clients love them.
The wise old timer
Given any opportunity, they love to regale with tales about conveyancing ‘back in the day’, reminiscing about the first time they had an electric typewriter or used a fax machine. Forget about SDLT holidays, the first cliff edge for them was the end of double MIRAS relief!
Having witnessed the evolution of conveyancing from paper-based processes to digital workflows, they embrace new technology with cautious optimism. They recognise the benefits of digital tools but also appreciate the importance of maintaining high standards of accuracy and client service.
The ambitious trainee
Fuelled by coffee and brimming with new ideas on how to utilise the latest technology, they want leaders to listen, after all they are the conveyancers of the future. Enthusiastic about new technology, they are eager to implement innovative ideas and learn new skills. They might experiment with AI-powered tools for contract reviews.
The influencer
They have strong opinions on the latest trends in property and technology and are active on social media, sharing their views on conveyancing and leveraging technology for self-marketing and building their professional brand. They like to connect with potential clients, share industry news and insights, or promote their firm’s services. Their witty and meme filled posts brighten up the days of their conveyancing contemporaries.
The outsourced team member
They love being part of the wider conveyancing community and could not imagine what a non-digital conveyancing world might have looked like. They provide essential support to the conveyancing process and are likely to specialise in tasks such as document preparation and data entry.
The legal engineer
A relatively new recruit to the conveyancing family, they are at the forefront of AI advancements and they seek to transform property transactions through the development and application of cutting-edge technologies. Do they believe they can change the way property is transacted – you bet they do!
The paralegal/assistant/secretary
The backbone of any conveyancing firm, they get stuck in and undertake a lot of the supportive leg work to assist conveyancers. Another cohort who are not afraid to take on the challenge of getting to grips with new tech solutions, using digital tools for file management, document organisation, and client communication.
The cashier
Having experienced the shift from paper-based accounting to online/digital banking, they ensure smooth financial transactions within the conveyancing process. They now use online banking platforms to process payments, track transactions, and manage client accounts. Capable, methodical and fearsome, they might have nightmares about the banking system going down on busy completion days!
The wellbeing advocate
They have a large caseload or other management responsibilities but always have time to offer a sympathetic ear or provide words of wisdom to their anxious conveyancing colleagues or clients. They recognise the value of technology in reducing stress and promoting work-life balance. They might advocate for the use of digital tools to automate repetitive tasks, ensure consistency, facilitate flexible working arrangements, and improve communication and collaboration.
The sceptic
Resistant to technological advancements, they may not be fully aware of the extent of new and existing technology integration in conveyancing. With a preference for manual processes and paper-based records, they may be reluctant to use tools unless they can have a record of 100% accuracy. They are likely to have support from a paralegal or secretary who are nonetheless likely to be receptive to, and a user of, digital conveyancing services.
The compliance professional
From a risk perspective, they have an appreciation of any digital software tools that can be utilised to transform the accuracy, consistency and automation of the numerous processes within the firm which they oversee. They might use software to track regulatory changes, manage risk and to ensure adherence to their regulator’s requirements.
The trainer
Responsible for the next generation of conveyancers they utilise case management software and AI tools as they guide and educate future conveyancers on the best conveyancing practices whilst following the firm’s policies. They might develop training programs, deliver workshops, or provide one-on-one coaching to help new conveyancers navigate the digital conveyancing landscape.
Recognise yourself or perhaps one of your colleagues?
We wouldn’t be surprised. Everyone involved in the conveyancing process is, in some way, already utilising technology within their role. Whether driven by legislative or regulatory changes, the availability of suitable technological solutions, or the need for specialised technical support, the digital conveyancing landscape presents exciting opportunities to benefit from those changes, individually and for the health of your firm.
Discover how Orbital Residential (already trusted by hundreds of conveyancers) can help you bring AI technology built for conveyancers into the day to day of operation of your firm today. Find out more here.
By Liz Stokes, Legal Engineer
This article was submitted to be published by Orbtial as part of their advertising agreement with Today’s Conveyancer. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Conveyancer
