Why specialist finance matters for solicitors

Legal practices face funding demands distinct from other SMEs: delayed client payments, disbursement requirements, conditional fee agreements (CFAs), long project timelines and partner drawings. Generic lenders may not properly account for WIP, retainers or client account rules. Specialist finance providers understand legal billing cycles, regulatory considerations and how to structure facilities that protect cashflow while respecting case accounting obligations.

Getting the right product can reduce pressure on fee-earners, smooth payroll, and enable investment in case management systems and business development without diverting partner capital.

How Fast Business Loans helps solicitors secure funding

We don’t lend. We act as a fast, neutral introducer that connects your practice with lenders and brokers who specialise in professional services and legal practice finance. Our process is quick and designed to avoid unnecessary paperwork until the right match is found.

1. Quick enquiry: Complete a short form with firm details and funding needs — it’s an enquiry, not an application. Get Started Free Eligibility Check
2. Targeted match: We match your firm with lenders or brokers who have relevant experience and are likely to consider your sector and circumstances.
3. Rapid response: Expect a call or email from matched partners to discuss options and next steps.
4. Compare and decide: Review offers directly with the lender or broker and proceed only when you’re comfortable.

Fast Business Loans only uses the information you provide to find appropriate matches; your enquiry will not be shared beyond carefully selected partners without your permission.

Finance solutions tailored to solicitors

Below are the most common products used by legal practices, when they make sense and what to expect.

Working capital & cashflow loans

Short-term loans or revolving facilities to bridge the gap between raising invoices and receiving client payments. Useful for payroll, urgent disbursements or temporary downturns. Typical facility sizes vary but lenders often consider deals from £10,000 upwards.

Professional practice loans

Longer-term loans to fund expansion, premises, partner buy-ins or mergers. These tend to involve more detailed due diligence and may be secured against business assets or property. Repayments and terms depend on the lender and firm profile.

Invoice finance & disbursement funding

Invoice discounting, factoring or specific disbursement funding can unlock cash tied up in unpaid bills, CFAs or settlements. Invoice finance is commonly used by practices with regular billing who need quicker access to cash without increasing borrowing limits.

VAT, HMRC & tax finance

Short-term bridging finance to cover VAT or tax liabilities can prevent penalties and smooth seasonal or timing pressures. These facilities are typically repaid once the firm has realised funds from invoices or settlements.

Asset & technology finance

Lease or loan options for case management systems, secure servers, office fit-outs or specialist hardware. Spreading costs helps keep working capital free for day-to-day needs.

For a deeper guide specifically focused on law firms, see our industry overview on Solicitors Business Loans.

Eligibility snapshot for solicitors’ finance

Each lender has different criteria, but below are common elements considered during initial checks:

• Business structure: incorporated legal practices and LLPs with UK trading presence.
• Minimum loan size: most of our partners consider facilities from around £10,000 upwards.
• Trading history: many lenders prefer established practices but some partners work with recently formed firms if professional experience is demonstrable.
• Turnover and cashflow: demonstrated fee income, WIP levels and creditor/debtor profiles.
• Credit and regulatory standing: lenders will consider the firm’s credit history and SRA/status where applicable.

These are indicative only — your matched partner will advise precisely after reviewing your enquiry.

Get Quote Now — answer a few quick questions and we’ll match you to the most suitable lenders/brokers.

Indicative costs & responsible borrowing

Costs vary by product, size, term and security. As a guide:

• Short-term cashflow facilities and invoice finance: effective rates can range broadly; fees and discount rates are often applied to amounts advanced.
• Term practice loans: APRs can vary depending on security and credit profile — smaller, unsecured facilities typically cost more than secured loans.
• Broker fees: some brokers charge arrangement fees which will be disclosed upfront.

Always compare total cost, early repayment terms and fees. Fast Business Loans helps you reach partners who will provide full cost breakdowns — you only progress if you accept the terms.

Figures are illustrative. Actual terms depend on your circumstances. Fast Business Loans acts as an introducer and does not provide regulated financial advice.

Success scenario: funding a growth-focused law firm

Situation: A regional firm with steady WIP faced a cashflow shortfall while waiting on several large settlements. The partners wanted to hire two fee-earners and upgrade their case management software but preferred to avoid diluting partner capital.

Solution: After a Free Eligibility Check (Free Eligibility Check), Fast Business Loans matched the firm with a broker experienced in solicitor finance. The broker arranged a combination of invoice finance to unlock WIP and a medium-term loan for technology and hiring costs.

Outcome: The firm smoothed cashflow, recruited the new staff, implemented the software and increased revenue within 9 months. The matched lender provided transparent costs and a repayment schedule compatible with the firm’s projected settlements.

(Illustration based on typical outcomes; individual results vary.)

What to expect after you enquire

Timeline and steps:

1. Acknowledgement: We confirm receipt of your enquiry and outline next steps.
2. Matching: Your details are shared (with your consent) with selected partners who can help.
3. Contact: Matched brokers or lenders will call or email to clarify details and discuss options.
4. Due diligence: If you choose to proceed, partners will request documentation and conduct checks.
5. Offer & completion: Once terms are agreed, the lender completes the facility documentation and funds as agreed.

Remember: the enquiry is not an application and does not commit you to any product. Get Started – It Takes 2 Minutes.

Checklist: documents often requested by lenders

• Recent management accounts and year-end accounts.
• Bank statements (typically 3–6 months).
• Cashflow forecast and WIP schedule.
• Details of major clients and outstanding settlements.
• Identity documents for directors/partners and corporate documents (incorporation, shareholder/partner agreements).
• SRA or other professional registrations where requested.

Requirements vary. Only provide documents to lenders or brokers you choose to engage with.

Frequently asked questions

Is Fast Business Loans a lender or a broker?

We are an introducer. We connect firms with lenders and brokers; we do not lend money or give regulated financial advice.

Can newly formed law firms enquire?

Yes — some partners consider applications from newer practices if professional experience and realistic forecasts are provided. Matched brokers will advise what is feasible.

Will my enquiry show up on credit files?

No. The initial enquiry does not affect credit files. Lenders may perform credit checks later with your consent.

What minimum loan size is typical?

Most partners consider loans from around £10,000 upwards. Some specialist facilities are designed for larger sums depending on purpose.

How long does funding take?

Short-term facilities can sometimes be arranged within days; larger or secured loans often take several weeks. Your matched lender will provide timelines.

Do you charge solicitors for introductions?

No. Our service is free for firms. Any fees charged will be by the lender or broker and disclosed to you directly.

Ready to explore solicitors business loans?

If your firm needs quick working capital, funding for growth, or specialist disbursement support, we can help you meet the right lenders and brokers quickly. Complete a short enquiry now — it’s free, non-binding and does not affect your credit score.

Get Quote Now — Answer a few questions and we’ll match you to the best lenders and brokers for your practice.