Can I change my solicitor after the auction?


Technically, yes, you can change your solicitor after the auction — but it is strongly discouraged unless absolutely necessary. Once the hammer falls and contracts are exchanged, the clock starts ticking. Completion deadlines in auctions are usually 14 or 28 days, and changing solicitors mid-way can seriously disrupt the process.

WHY IT’S RISKY TO SWITCH SOLICITORS AFTER AUCTION

Changing solicitors late in the process can lead to:

  • Delays in file transfer, especially if the previous solicitor is uncooperative.
  • Time lost repeating identity checks, onboarding, and title reviews.
  • Missed completion deadlines, which can result in:
    • Loss of deposit
    • Daily interest penalties
    • Legal action for breach of contract

The new solicitor would have to rebuild the file from scratch, including  reviewing the legal pack, confirming finance, and communicating with the seller’s solicitor — often in a drastically shortened timeframe.

WHEN MIGHT IT BE NECESSARY?

In rare cases, a change might be appropriate if:

  • Your current solicitor lacks auction experience or refuses to act within the required timescale.
  • The firm is unresponsive, closed, or unable to complete the transaction.
  • You are switching from a general conveyancer to an auction specialist like Versus
    Law who can handle complex or urgent issues quickly.

If you do switch, make sure the new solicitor is:

  • Fully briefed with all existing documents (legal pack, memorandum of sale, ID checks)
  • Able to act immediately upon instruction
  • Experienced in auction timescales and risks

HOW TO MINIMISE DISRUPTION

If you need to change firms, you should:

  • Obtain a full copy of the legal pack and all correspondence from the original solicitor.
  • Ensure your new solicitor confirms capacity and turnaround time before instruction.
  • Be clear about your completion date and whether mortgage or bridging finance is in place
  • Instruct the new solicitor in writing as soon as possible.

SUMMARY

While it is legally possible to change your solicitor after the auction, doing so is highly risky and should only be considered when absolutely necessary. At Versus Law, we’re often asked to
take over urgent auction files and can act quickly — but we always recommend clients instruct the right solicitor before bidding to avoid unnecessary complications.