1. Introduction

These Terms of Business set out the basis on which Higher Echelon Law (“we”, “us” or “our”) provides legal services to you. By instructing us, you agree to these Terms of Business together with any accompanying client care letter, quotation, or engagement documentation provided to you.

 

2. Our Services

We provide legal services primarily in the area of residential conveyancing, including sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity, together with related legal services as agreed with you.

Details of the specific work we will undertake for you will be confirmed in writing at the outset of your matter.

 

3. Our Responsibilities

We will:

• Act in your best interests at all times, subject to our professional and legal obligations
• Provide our services with reasonable skill, care, and diligence
• Keep you informed of progress and key developments
• Maintain confidentiality of your information, subject to legal and regulatory requirements

 

4. Your Responsibilities

You agree to:

• Provide accurate, complete, and timely information
• Respond promptly to requests for instructions or documentation
• Inform us immediately of any changes to your circumstances
• Pay our fees and disbursements in accordance with these Terms

Delays or additional costs arising from incomplete or late information may affect the timescale of your matter.

 

5. Fees and Disbursements

Our fees will be confirmed in writing and are based on the work required for your matter. Disbursements are costs payable to third parties on your behalf (for example, searches or Land Registry fees).

Unless otherwise stated:

• Fees are quoted exclusive of VAT
• VAT will be charged at the prevailing rate
• Fees may be revised if the scope of work changes or if unforeseen issues arise

 

6. Payment of Fees

We may request payment on account before commencing work and at various stages of your matter. Final invoices are payable upon completion or earlier if your matter concludes prematurely.

We reserve the right to charge interest on overdue invoices in accordance with applicable legislation.

 

7. No Completion, No Fee

Where expressly agreed, we operate a “no completion, no legal fee” arrangement. This applies only to our legal fees and does not cover disbursements or third-party costs, which remain payable.

 

8. Client Money

Client money is held in accordance with the SRA Accounts Rules. Interest on client money will be dealt with in accordance with those rules and our internal policies.

 

9. Identity and Anti-Money Laundering Checks

We are required by law to carry out identity verification and anti-money laundering checks. We may request documentation or conduct electronic checks before or during your matter.

We cannot proceed until satisfactory checks are completed.

 

10. Confidentiality and Data Protection

We will handle your personal data in accordance with applicable data protection legislation and our Privacy Policy, which is available on our website.

 

11. Limitation of Liability

Our liability for any loss or damage arising from our services is limited to £5,000,000 in respect of advice given under English law, unless otherwise agreed in writing.

We do not accept liability for losses arising from inaccurate information provided by you or third parties.

 

12. Termination

You may terminate our instructions at any time by written notice. We may terminate our engagement where permitted by law or professional rules, including for non-payment of fees.

Fees and disbursements incurred up to the date of termination remain payable.

 

13. Complaints

If you are dissatisfied with our service, please raise the matter with the person responsible for your file in the first instance.

If the issue is not resolved, you may contact our support team below:
Email: support@higherechelonlaw.com
Telephone: 0333 301 1130

Further details of our complaints procedure will be provided upon request.

 

14. Professional Indemnity Insurance

We maintain professional indemnity insurance in accordance with SRA requirements. Details are available on request.

 

15. Governing Law

These Terms of Business are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

 

16. Updates to These Terms

We may update these Terms of Business from time to time. The version in force at the time of your instruction will apply to your matter.

 

If you have any questions regarding these Terms of Business, please contact us before providing instructions.