How to get my file from solicitors?

[Amunamun]

Hello. I did a huge mistake and I choose the wrong solicitor. I made a complaint which they refused and because I didn't have any more energy to quarrel with them, I paid their invoice (2.5k). Since then, they refused to communicate and I haven't received any official documents regarding the house sale (I'm a buyer, we completed in May). I started to bomb them with emails and now, I have only half of the documents, all copies. I have a feeling that they are making fun of me. Is there anything I could do? If I request my original file, are they obliged to give it to me? Also, if I give them a very bad and genuine review, can they sue me?

They are obliged to give it to you. Write asking for it and follow their complaints procedure. If that doesn't work go to the legal ombudsman.

Have you been into the office with photo ID (In case they says it's needed) and asked them to give you all your paperwork?
If they still don't I'd go to the ombudsman.

They'll only give you copies of letters between them and the other side solicitors. Any correspondence between them and the lender you won't get. The file is their property, they will only give you copies. Any letters they wrote to you during the transaction you won't get, since they deem you already have them. I believe since you paid their invoice that this would be seen as in full and final settlement, therefore unless you take it further to the ombudsman/SRA, they have no need to correspond with you.

Threaten to report them to the law society.

Thanks all. I asked for my file and I'm waiting. Silly question - what is the most important document I need? Original title deeds? I have only a copy from the land registry. I know I should ask my solicitor but he is useless Is this enough to prove that I own the house?

If you are the Registered Proprietor named on the title deeds, then you are the owner. Land Registry register most titles electronically these days so you would receive a downloaded copy not an 'original'.

The PP is right - there aren't any "original" Land Registry certificates any more as you just download the register etc from the Land Registry webiste. They should have sent you a copy showing that you are now the registered proprietor but there is nothing more flash than that any more!