National Conveyancing Month Special: The rigors of conveyancing

In this special National Conveyancing Month edition of the Today’s Conveyancer Podcast, host David Opie welcomes Convey Law Managing Director Janine Wellington to discuss her views on talent, training, culture, and the systemic challenges facing modern conveyancing.

In a career which has taken her from fee earner to senior leader, Wellington discusses the challenges the profession faces in attracting and retaining conveyancers; at a time when in their heart or hearts, most conveyancers would hesitate to recommend the career to their own children!

Wellington shares how Convey Law have implemented structured training, progression pathways, and pastoral support, including; a multi‑stage “Convey Law Pathway” combining practical training, academic modules; a strong emphasis on developing resilience, tenacity, and confidence; clear progression ladder; and a culture that encourages juniors to ask questions, set boundaries, and develop people‑skills essential for client care.

She acknowledges she benefits from the time, money, and technology investment the firm can make by virtue of its size but with many firms still reliant on outdated systems or a lack of dedicated training structures, career development harder to achieve.

The prevalence of hybrid working brings additional obstacles as the traditional model of “learning by osmosis”, sitting beside experienced colleagues, listening to calls, and gaining confidence through constant informal interaction, is diminished.

Culture, regulation, AML and due diligence, tax advisers status, digitisation are all topics the podcast as the discussion meanders around the rigors of coalface conveyancing.

Despite everything though, Wellington is optimistic. She believes the profession can return to being a rewarding, respected career. Better fees, better recognition, and clearer guidance are essential. Above all, she insists, people will always need to buy and sell homes; the industry has no choice but to evolve.

The Today's Conveyancer podcast can be found on your preferred podcast provider and also at www.todaysconveyancer.co.uk. Subscribe and listen in for all the latest conveyancing industry news and views.

Thank you to our podcast sponsors LEAP Legal Software, Moneypenny and Compass.