Chadwick Lawrence LLP

Chadwick Lawrence LLP’s conveyancing department in Bradford delivered one of the most frustrating and unprofessional experiences we have ever encountered. What should have been an extremely straightforward sale and purchase became a seven-month ordeal defined by appalling communication, endless delays, and a complete lack of accountability. Our sale involved a first-time buyer with no chain whatsoever. Our purchase also had no chain, and we were effectively cash buyers. There was absolutely no reason for either transaction to drag on for over seven months, yet Chadwick Lawrence somehow managed to turn two simple matters into a drawn-out nightmare that placed both transactions at serious risk multiple times. Communication was shockingly poor from start to finish. Emails routinely went unanswered for days or even weeks, phone calls were not returned, and we were constantly left chasing for updates. At no point did we feel that anyone had a clear grasp of our case. The original case handler was off ill for a significant period, but instead of ensuring continuity and proper oversight, the file appeared to be passed aimlessly between staff members. In total, around ten different people became involved in our transaction. Every time we spoke to someone new, it was obvious they had little or no understanding of the history of the case. We repeatedly had to explain matters from scratch because nobody seemed willing to take ownership or responsibility. The lack of professionalism extended beyond poor organisation. My wife had been expressly authorised by me to deal with matters on my behalf, something Chadwick Lawrence had already been informed of. Despite this, when she contacted the firm she was met with rude and belittling responses questioning what she “had to do with the transaction” and why her name appeared on documentation. The irony was that the form in question had actually been completed by Chadwick Lawrence themselves, and her name was entirely correct and expected to be included. Instead of showing basic courtesy and competence, staff were dismissive and confrontational, which only added to the stress and frustration of an already badly managed process. The delays caused by this incompetence had real financial consequences. We incurred more than £400 in additional surveyor costs because deadlines were repeatedly missed, and we were also forced to continue paying unnecessary running costs on a property that should have been sold quickly and efficiently months earlier. The stress and uncertainty caused by their handling of the transactions was completely avoidable. Most concerning of all was the firm’s attitude towards complaints. When we raised formal complaints in line with Chadwick Lawrence’s own complaints procedure, they were simply ignored. Neither the case handler, supervisors, nor partners acknowledged or dealt with the issues raised. It was only after we threatened to escalate matters to the Legal Ombudsman that we finally received any meaningful response at all. Conveyancing is stressful enough without having to fight your own solicitors for basic communication and competence. Chadwick Lawrence’s conveyancing arm demonstrated a staggering lack of organisation, professionalism, and customer care throughout. We paid for a professional service and instead received months of delay, confusion, financial loss, and unnecessary stress. Based on our experience, we would strongly advise anyone considering using Chadwick Lawrence for conveyancing to look elsewhere.

I used Chadwick Lawrence for a remortgage and transfer of equity after the work was outsourced from SAM Conveyancing Ltd. Communication throughout the process was inconsistent and reactive. There was a long period between mid‑February and early March where I couldn’t get clarity on the status of the file, despite repeatedly asking for updates. Key documents were received by the firm but not actioned promptly, which contributed to delays and additional interest being charged. I also contacted their general enquiries inbox to request a supervisor’s details and received no response. The process completed, but the lack of visibility and oversight made the experience unnecessarily stressful.

AVOID at all costs. If I could give zero stars I would. Purchased my first house and used Chadwick Lawrence in particular Conveyancer Zoe H. Not the cheapest quote but went for them due to the so called awards for service. Now, after completion I’m receiving a fine from HMRC because they haven’t filled out the land transaction return (or even advised me what this is). I wasn’t going to leave a review because I was just glad I finally got my house but I’ve now had enough. To summarise all issues with Zoe / Chadwick Lawrence - poor / non existent communication - rude email communication - charged more than quoted which in the end just paid because I was stressed enough. - still not received money owed for cash back offer. As previously said, save yourself time money and stress and go elsewhere!

Communication Failure: My experience with Chadwick Lawrence was characterized by a total lack of responsiveness. Despite repeatedly trying to reach multiple offices and the head office, I was met with ignored emails and unanswered calls. Misleading Costs: The initial fee structure appeared attractive, but it quickly became an avenue for adding unexpected costs. It felt less like a professional service and more like a strategy to draw clients in before inflating the final bill. Incompetence: The solicitor's lack of experience led to significant issues in my case. Simple matters were complicated by basic errors, resulting in avoidable troubles and stress. Overall Verdict: Do not be fooled by the competitive pricing. The hidden costs and the incompetence of the legal staff make this firm a liability. I strongly recommend finding a firm that values transparency and communication over low initial quotes.

Very stressfull experience dealing with this Wakefield firm. A purchase that was a cash buy and no chain 5 months on still not settled. Always dealt with Godlove so I thought I would get the same service how wrong I was. Never answer the phone, having to leave voice messages that are never answered till you ring ring ring. Emails after emails very frustrating experience. Can't wait for the experience to be over. Would have gone elsewhere but nearly at the end now as all work been done. Will never use this firm or recommend to family or friends.