How to find a specialist solicitor?

[BrassicaBabe]

Hi
Husbands family need a solicitor specialist in planning permission, S106 agreements and commercial property. How do we go about this? Our normal solicitor isn't saying things that give me confidence they are the right person to deal with this. Any solicitor can use key words in their website so they appear in google searches. How do I find an actual specialist?
Thanks

Have you considered a direct access barrister? To find a solicitor specialising search on the law society website.

Thank you. A quick google suggests that direct access barrister is an online search? But I guess they can't just say they are experts when actually they are "run of the mill"?

When do I need a barrister and when do I need a solicitor?

I've been given 3 local ish names via a professional membership. Maybe I should speak to those 3 and hope someone gives me the feeling one confidence?

It's a mine field for the uninitiated!

It's difficult, Brassica, isn't it? If it's commercial property, do you have a managing agent or surveyor who could recommend a firm?

A barrister may be able to help with the planning permission side of it, but is unlikely to help with S106 agreements which are largely left to solicitors.

You will probably need a larger firm than the normal high street firm which will cover most household matters. I would suggest a search on Chambers and Partners for "planning" and your area. The firms will be more expensive than high street, but will at least know what they're doing. If you have a list of names and a surveyor, the surveyor may be able to express a preference or share some knowledge which will help you choose.

Thanks guys. We're nearing the end of planning permission. But too early for agents or surveyors. (hmm, I think we're too early for a surveyor. I'm not actually sure what they would do in this instance.) I'll give those searches a go, thank you.