We advise on mortgages, guarantees, prenuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements and other transactions where one party must receive separate, impartial advice . Our lawyers explain the terms, potential risks and alternatives, certify your understanding and issue the necessary legal certificate for lenders or courts.
Independent legal advice is essential in a variety of situations, including when you act as a guarantor for a business loan, provide a personal guarantee to a bank, sign a mortgage deed as a co‑borrower, agree to a transfer of equity, take out a second mortgage, enter into a promissory note or guarantee a director’s loan. It is also required when entering pre‑nuptial or post‑nuptial agreements, deeds of variation, settlement agreements and deeds of gift. We review the relevant documentation, explain the legal and financial implications and ensure you understand your obligations and potential liabilities. Meetings can be held in person or remotely via video call, subject to lender requirements. We provide impartial advice without pressure from the lender or other parties, allow time for questions and confirm that you are signing voluntarily. After the meeting, we prepare and sign the solicitor’s certificate of independent legal advice, which is provided to the lender or the other party. We maintain detailed records of the advice given in case of future disputes. For clients with language or capacity issues, we arrange interpreters and capacity assessments. We also handle cross‑border transactions where documents are governed by foreign law, liaising with foreign counsel to ensure advice covers relevant jurisdictions.
Independent advice protects you from undue influence and ensures agreements stand up to scrutiny. It also provides comfort to lenders and counter‑parties that you were properly informed.
By receiving independent legal advice, you understand the nature and risks of the transaction and can make an informed decision. This reduces the likelihood of later claiming that you did not understand what you signed, which could otherwise result in unenforceable agreements or litigation. Lenders and other parties gain assurance that you have been advised by an independent solicitor, protecting them against claims of undue influence. Proper advice can uncover potential issues, such as the impact on your home, family or credit, and help you explore alternatives. It also ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of the transaction being challenged. Overall, independent advice provides peace of mind and safeguards your interests.
We are experienced in providing impartial advice and follow Solicitors Regulation Authority guidelines . Our clear explanations and supportive approach help you make informed decisions.
Our lawyers have provided independent legal advice in hundreds of transactions, working with major banks, lenders and individuals. We are familiar with lender requirements and ensure that our advice meets their specifications to avoid delays. We take time to explain documents in plain language and encourage clients to ask questions. We are flexible with meeting arrangements and can often accommodate urgent appointments. We charge transparent, fixed fees so that you know the cost upfront. We maintain confidentiality and do not share information with other parties without your consent. Clients appreciate our friendly, professional manner and our commitment to ensuring they fully understand the implications of their decisions.