If your solicitor has closed without warning

When a firm we regulate closes suddenly, we may step in to protect clients. This is called an intervention. It means we close the firm down, take possession of its files and take control of any money it was holding for clients.

Your money

Money a firm holds for you sits in a separate client account and does not belong to the firm. If we intervene, that money is transferred to us and held until the rightful owner is identified. If money has been lost through dishonesty, you may be able to claim from the SRA Compensation Fund.

Your file and your transaction

We appoint an intervention agent, a separate firm of solicitors, to take custody of the files. If you are mid transaction, instruct a new solicitor as soon as you can. The intervention agent will release your file to them. Tell your estate agent and your lender straight away that your solicitor has closed, so that deadlines can be revisited rather than missed.

What we need from you

• The name and address of the firm
• What the firm was acting for you on, and where it had reached
• Any money you paid to the firm, when, and what it was for
• The name of anyone you dealt with at the firm

If you are struggling

Losing access to money and facing a failed house purchase at the same time is genuinely distressing. If this is affecting your health or you feel unable to cope, please tell the adviser handling your report. We can prioritise your case and point you towards independent support.