Solicitor Spirit

Len Boreland from Julie West Solicitors overcomes the challenges of lockdown.

“We were at the point of exchange on the sale of a property with a large outstanding mortgage – which had been vacant for several months – when lockdown was announced. Our client was in a highly anxious state and I was working remotely, from home.

At this point the buyer’s solicitors effectively closed their offices, claiming that in doing so they were following the government advice. The situation appeared bleak. What was to be done?

I did not sit back and accept the situation. Instead, I was proactive and immediately discussed the problem with colleagues at our daily Zoom team meetings, contacted other solicitors to find out if and how they were continuing to work, researched the government and industry advice and located and amended a Coronavirus Delay Clause to add to the contract. I also enlisted the assistance of the estate agent. Fully informed and armed I was able to propose solutions and persuade the buyer’s solicitor to agree to a simultaneous exchange of contracts and completion within a period of 2 weeks, thereby saving the client further delay, expense and worry. The result was one extremely satisfied client who was happy to spread the word about the excellent service he received: “Many thanks to all at Julie West, especially of course Len who has done a frankly amazing job in the circumstances!! Very happy with the job done and would happily recommend to anyone!”.

It’s great when a plan comes together.”

Have you overcome challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic to help your colleagues, clients or community? Share your story at #solicitorspirit ■