As I have often said, conveyancing is hard work. It is mainly project management of a client and their move, being a shoulder for them to lean on (and cry on as and when) and perhaps some law thrown in at times. We are inundated with emails and sometimes the ‘real work’ has to be done out of office hours.
With all of this, anyone would be forgiven for wondering why we would choose to be conveyancers. So, with this thought bubbling around in my head, I thought I would ask AI: What are the positive aspects of being a conveyancing solicitor?
He/she/it gave me 10 reasons, and I don’t agree with all of them (especially number six!), but here they are.
- Clear, structured work
Conveyancing follows well-defined legal processes. If you like order, checklists and predictable workflows, it’s a satisfying area of practice.
- Tangible, feel-good outcomes
You get to help people buy their first home, move house, or invest in property. Clients often feel excited and grateful – your work has a real, visible effect on their lives.
- Strong, steady demand
Property transactions never disappear. Even when the market slows, conveyancers remain essential. It’s one of the most stable areas of legal practice.
- Great for building relationships
You interact with clients, estate agents, lenders, surveyors and other solicitors. It’s a people-orientated role where relationship-building can lead to more referral work.
- Opportunities for career progression
Conveyancers can become:
- Team leaders
- Heads of department
- Partners
- Specialists in commercial property
- Licensed conveyancers running their own firm
The pathway is practical and attainable.
- Good for work–life balance
Compared to some areas of law (like litigation), conveyancing tends to have fewer emergencies, no court deadlines, and more flexible hours in many firms.
- Develop valuable expertise
You gain strong skills in:
- Risk management
- Drafting and reviewing contracts
- Negotiation
- Client care
- Property law and finance
These are transferable to other legal and business roles.
- Opportunity for tech-enabled practice
Conveyancing is being transformed by digital signatures, case-management systems and online searches. Those who embrace tech can work more efficiently and even scale their practice.
- Potential for good earnings
With experience, a strong client base, or work in high-value property markets, conveyancing can be financially rewarding. Owning or partnering in a firm can increase earnings further.
- Daily problem-solving
Every case has quirks: planning issues, boundary questions, title defects. If you enjoy solving puzzles and negotiating solutions, conveyancing offers constant mental engagement.
What do you think? As we come into the busiest time of the year, with no surprises in the budget, would you agree with these as reasons to give to the younger conveyancers, or are we going to continue to post about the doom and gloom and negativity of the job?
This column is written by a real high street conveyancer who wishes to remain anonymous. Read more in Today’s Conveyancer every week.
4 responses
It’s a shame though that the number 1 reason not to become a professional remover.
Is ‘Conveyancing’.
I asked AI what are the negative aspects of being a professional remover. It’s reply below. Doesn’t mention conveyancers.
The negative aspects of being a professional mover (or “remover”) primarily stem from the intense physical demands, irregular working conditions, and the stress of managing customer expectations and potential issues like property damage.
Physical Demands and Health Risks
High Risk of Injury: The job involves frequent, heavy lifting, bending, and maneuvering bulky items through tight spaces, which can lead to chronic pain, muscle strains, back injuries, and joint stress.
Physical Exhaustion: Constant physical exertion over long hours leads to significant fatigue, which impacts overall well-being and increases the chance of accidents.
Strenuous Conditions: Movers often work outdoors in unpredictable weather (extreme heat, rain, snow), adding to the physical difficulty and potential for heat exhaustion or slips and falls.
Work Schedule and Logistics
Irregular Hours and Work-Life Balance: The job often requires early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays, making it difficult to maintain a consistent personal life and schedule.
Logistical Challenges: The nature of the business requires strategic planning for every move, and unforeseen issues like traffic jams, vehicle breakdowns, or difficult access to properties can cause delays and added stress.
Time Pressure: Tight schedules and multiple moves per day mean constant pressure to work quickly and efficiently, without sacrificing care.
Interpersonal and Emotional Stress
Demanding Customer Interactions: Moving is one of life’s most stressful events, and customers can be emotional, anxious, or difficult to deal with. Movers need patience and strong communication skills to manage complaints, expectations, and last-minute requests.
Responsibility for Valuables: The responsibility of safely transporting a client’s possessions, including items with high monetary or sentimental value, can be a source of significant mental strain.
Potential for Damage/Loss Issues: Accidents happen despite best efforts, leading to damaged or lost items, which can result in customer complaints, insurance claims, and a negative professional reputation.
Career and Industry Issues
Lack of Control/Flexibility: Once a job is underway, movers often have limited flexibility to make changes or adjust to unexpected circumstances, as they must adhere to the company’s schedule and the customer’s demands.
Potential for Scams/Poor Reputation: The industry has a reputation for some disreputable companies and scams, which can reflect poorly on honest professionals and make customers more skeptical or demanding.
Reliance on Tips: While not mandatory, tips are a significant part of the expected income for many movers, but they are not guaranteed, leading to financial unpredictability.
the fact you had to ask AI shows you dont love the job you’re in- you cant even create the list yourself
I agree the guy now just uses AI to do his diary for him. Like the previous week with title of songs. Shameful.