Independent legal advice for a legal charge
A legal charge gives a lender security over your property for a loan. If you are signing one, especially for business borrowing, the lender may require independent legal advice first. A solicitor explains what the charge allows the lender to do and signs the certificate needed.
- ★ 4.9 · 282 Google reviews
- 70+ lenders
- SRA-regulated solicitors
- Video, or in person in London
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Free 10-minute consultation
ILA from £140 + VAT per person · fee confirmed on the call
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- ★ 4.9 · 282 Google reviews
- 70+ lenders
- SRA-regulated solicitors
- Video, or in person in London
What is a legal charge?
A legal charge is a mortgage-style security registered against a property at HM Land Registry. It gives the lender the right to take possession of and sell the property if the loan it secures is not repaid.
Charges are often used to secure business loans, bridging finance or private lending, and can be first or second charges ranking behind an existing mortgage.
Why does my lender require independent legal advice?
Because a legal charge can lead to the loss of your property, lenders want to be sure you understand the risks, particularly where the borrowing benefits a company or someone else. Many therefore require advice from a solicitor independent of the lender, confirmed in a certificate, before funds are released.
What your solicitor will explain
What is secured
Which debts the charge covers, including any future or “all monies” borrowing.
Enforcement
When and how the lender could take possession and sell.
Ranking
How the charge sits alongside any existing mortgage.
Your options
Alternatives, limits you could ask for, and that you can decline to sign.
Completion deadline close? Same-day appointments available.
Documents you'll need
- The legal charge from the lender
- The facility letter or loan agreement
- Your lender's ILA certificate template, if it has one
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
- Proof of address dated within the last three months
How it works
- 1
Book a free consultation
Pick a time above. It takes under a minute.
- 2
Speak to your solicitor
An SRA-regulated solicitor explains the risks in plain English, by video or in person in London.
- 3
Certificate sent to your lender
Your signed ILA certificate and documents are dispatched, usually the same day.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the advice online?
Yes. Most lenders accept advice given by video call, so you can usually be advised from home. If your lender insists on a face-to-face meeting, that can be arranged in London instead.
Is there an ILA solicitor near me?
You don't need one nearby. Our SRA-regulated solicitors advise by video call wherever you are in England and Wales, often the same day, and video advice is accepted in most cases. If you need to meet face to face, appointments are available at the solicitor's office in London.
What is the difference between a legal charge and a third-party legal charge?
With a third-party charge, your property secures someone else's debt, such as a company's or a relative's loan. The risks are similar, but you receive no direct benefit from the borrowing.
How quickly can I get my certificate?
Often the same day. Once your solicitor has your documents and has advised you, the signed certificate is usually sent to your lender, broker or conveyancer the same day.
How much does it cost?
Independent legal advice starts from {price} per person. Your solicitor confirms the fixed fee on your free consultation, before any work starts.
Reviewed by Saba Rehman, Solicitor
SRA-regulated · Last reviewed 9 October 2026
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