136 jobs found

Residential Conveyancer - Stoke - Hybrid Our client is looking for an ambitious and driven Senior Solicitor or Residential Conveyancer to join its growing team based in Stoke. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside experienced Partners, Associates, and support professionals in a collaborative and progressive environment. You'll be stepping into an established role following the departure of a current Associate, with a strong client base and a varied, interesting caseload ready for you to take on. About the Role: You'll work as part of a highly supportive and skilled team, which includes: 2 Partners Associate 2 Paralegals 2 Legal Support staff The firm operates a hybrid working model, with team members working 2/3 days in the office. The firm value flexibility, communication and professionalism, and is extremely proud of its inclusive, friendly culture. The person: A qualified solicitor or legal executive/ Licensed Conveyancer with at least 6 years' experience A proactive approach to client care and case management Strong interpersonal and communication skills Ability to work independently as well as part of a team Someone who enjoys building long-lasting client relationships and contributing to team growth What is on offer? Competitive salary and benefits Hybrid working (2 days office, 3 days WFH) Friendly, experienced, and supportive team Real opportunity for progression and development Modern working environment with a strong focus on wellbeing Ready to take the next step in your legal career? Apply now and join a team that values your contribution and supports your ambitions. Contact Rebecca Healey at G2 Legal or apply online for more information.

Opportunity: Residential Conveyancer (Solicitor / Legal Executive / Licensed Conveyancer / Fee Earner) Location: Axminster (Flexible and Hybrid Working Available) Salary up to £75,000 + Bonus Looking for more than just a caseload? This is a genuinely exciting opportunity to join a highly regarded regional law firm with deep roots in the South West and a strong reputation for quality, client care and long-term career development. With a growing property team and clear succession planning in place, this role offers a real pathway to Associate and Partnership for the right person. The Opportunity: You'll join a collaborative and well-established Residential Property team, working across a varied and engaging caseload including sales, purchases, remortgages, transfer of equity and shared ownership. Whether you're early in your career or more experienced, you'll be supported by knowledgeable senior lawyers while also having the autonomy to run your own files. There's scope here not just to do the work but to shape the future of the team, mentor others and build your profile in the local market. What Makes This Role Stand Out? Clear, transparent progression to Associate and Partnership A firm that genuinely invests in training and qualification support A balance of autonomy and support - ideal if you enjoy running your own caseload but want a strong team around you Opportunity to get involved in networking, business development and team growth What We Are Looking For: Experience managing your own residential conveyancing caseload (typically 2+ years) Open to qualified and non-qualified fee earners Confident working independently while being a team player A commercial mindset with an interest in building relationships and developing work What Is in It for You? Free parking 25 days holiday + birthday off + Christmas closure Early finish Fridays in the summer Healthcare schemes, life assurance & EAP support Perks and discounts platform A genuinely supportive, down-to-earth culture where people stay and progress If you're looking for a role where you can grow, be recognised and build a long-term future - this is well worth a conversation. Apply directly or reach out via email to arrange a confidential chat! Yolk Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and embraces diversity in our workforce. We employ the best people for the job at hand and actively encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, educational background, parental status, gender identity or any other protected characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity at Yolk allowing our team to bring their whole selves to work. Please note, whilst we do our best to contact all candidates, due to the high number of applications we receive we cannot guarantee this for every role. If you have not heard anything from us within 7 days of applying - then unfortunately you have been unsuccessful. Please keep an eye on our website for more opportunities.

Our client is looking for a qualified Solicitor, Legal Executive or Licensed Conveyancer with at least 10 years' PQE to manage a varied caseload of residential property matters, including sales, purchases, remortgages and transfers of equity. You'll handle files from start to finish within a supportive and collaborative team. Key Responsibilities: Manage a full caseload of residential conveyancing matters Handle freehold, leasehold, new build and shared ownership transactions Draft/review contracts and liaise with clients, agents and lenders Deliver excellent client care and maintain compliance standards About You: 10+ years' PQE with strong technical expertise Confident managing high-volume caseloads independently Excellent communication and organisational skills Proactive team player with a client-focused approach What's on Offer: Competitive salary + bonus scheme Generous holiday allowance Pension scheme Volunteer programme Subsidised training If you are an experienced Solicitor seeking to join a highly regarded conveyancing law firm, we encourage you to apply today.

Job Title: Conveyancer - Residential Property Location: Liverpool (Hybrid Working Available) Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent Are you an experienced Conveyancer looking for a fresh challenge in a supportive and dynamic environment? Role Overview: Manage a caseload of around 60 varied residential conveyancing files from inception to completion. Work alongside a friendly, experienced team in a collaborative and positive working environment. Handle matters including freehold and leasehold sales and purchases, remortgages, transfers of equity, and new builds. Provide exceptional client care, ensuring the highest standards of service are maintained. Take advantage of hybrid working options, offering flexibility while maintaining a strong connection with the team. What's on Offer: A competitive salary of £45,000 - £48,000 per annum. Hybrid working available to balance office presence with home-based work. The opportunity to be part of a well-established, supportive firm with a strong focus on work-life balance. Join a firm that truly prioritises its clients and offers a collaborative, supportive working culture. About You: You will hold a qualification as a Solicitor, Legal Executive or CLC or hold at least 10 years conveyancing fee earning experience. Strong knowledge of the full conveyancing process and the ability to handle transactions with minimal supervision. Excellent communication skills with a client-centric approach. A proactive and organised individual with the ability to manage deadlines effectively. If you're looking to take the next step in your career with a firm that values both its clients and its team, we want to hear from you! How to Apply: Please send your CV across to Rebecca at (url removed) or call (phone number removed) for more information.

About the Firm This leading regional law firm, based in Coventry, has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality legal services to both individuals and businesses. Known for its client-focused approach and consistent growth, the firm prides itself on its collaborative culture and commitment to excellence. Its busy and expanding property department is now seeking an experienced Residential Conveyancer to join the team. The Role The successful candidate will manage their own caseload of residential conveyancing matters from instruction through to completion. The caseload will include a mix of freehold and leasehold sales and purchases, remortgages, transfers of equity, and new build transactions. Administrative support will be provided, but the role requires the ability to handle files independently while maintaining high standards of client care. Key Responsibilities Managing a full caseload of residential conveyancing files Handling transactions from initial instruction through to post-completion Liaising with clients, estate agents, lenders, and other solicitors Providing clear and practical legal advice to clients Ensuring compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements Maintaining accurate and up-to-date file records Contributing to the ongoing development of the department Requirements Minimum of 3 years' fee-earning experience in residential conveyancing Qualified Solicitor, Licensed Conveyancer, Legal Executive, or experienced non-qualified fee earner Proven ability to manage a busy caseload independently Strong technical knowledge of residential property law Excellent communication and client care skills Highly organised with strong attention to detail Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines What the Firm Offers Competitive salary package Supportive and collaborative working environment Clear opportunities for career progression Ongoing training and professional development Flexible working options (subject to role requirements)

A rare opportunity has arisen to join a highly regarded legal practice in Gloucester, led by partners who are widely respected across the South West. The firm rarely recruits and is known for its stable team, long standing professional relationships, and consistently high quality residential conveyancing work. Staff retention is exceptional, with people staying because of the quality of the work, the supportive culture, and the people they work with. They are seeking an experienced Residential Conveyancer or Solicitor to manage a caseload from instruction through to completion, delivering an efficient and client focused service. Key Responsibilities Managing residential conveyancing matters from instruction to completion Preparing and reviewing contracts and related legal documentation Ensuring compliance with current legislation and internal procedures Managing deadlines and maintaining accurate case records Candidate Requirements Qualified Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer CLC Proven experience in residential conveyancing Strong organisational and communication skills Ability to manage a caseload efficiently Good IT skills, including case management systems High attention to detail and a professional approach This role offers an excellent long term opportunity within a firm that values quality, reputation, and a genuinely positive working environment. Apply: To hear more about this conveyancing position, please contact Hannah at TSR Legal or apply online in total confidence.

Conveyancer - Pudsey A respected regional law firm in Pudsey is seeking a Residential Conveyancer (1 PQE+) to join its growing team. This full-time role is ideal for a motivated individual looking for genuine career progression within a supportive and dynamic environment. Role Overview: Manage a full caseload of residential property transactions (freehold and leasehold) Handle files from instruction through to completion Work independently with minimal supervision What's on Offer? Join a highly accredited Yorkshire law firm with a strong reputation Flexible and hybrid working options to support work-life balance Benefits: 23-31 days' annual leave (based on service) Agile working and flexible hours Discounted bus travel and interest-free travel loans Health Cash Plan Payroll giving scheme Death in Service (3x salary) Free conveyancing on your own property Free will drafting service Regular social events Your Requirements: 1 PQE+ in residential conveyancing Strong technical knowledge of conveyancing processes Ability to manage a caseload independently Clear and confident communication skills If you're a Residential Conveyancer ready for your next step, apply now or contact Rachael Atherton at G2 Legal Recruitment for a confidential discussion.

A Senior Property Solicitor/Partner is required for this full service law firm close to Dorking. About the Client: Our client, a boutique law firm, provides a high level of service throughout their practice, which is consistently reflected in their Google reviews. With an office in the West End as well as another office in the Essex area, this law firms model means that you get all of the benefits of a central London law firm from the convenience of their Surrey offices close to Dorking. Position overview for this Senior Property Solicitor Vacancy: Our client requires a minimum of 8 -10 years + PQE as a Solicitor, Licensed Conveyancer or Legal Executive specialising in residential property. You will be provided with secretarial and paralegal support. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate a focus on providing outstanding service to their clients, will be confident with IT, and will be capable of working under their own initiative (albeit, naturally, with appropriate supervision). Hybrid work is potentially available after the probation period, depending on performance. Senior Property Solicitor experience to include: HNW Sales and purchases Remortgages Transfers of equity Freehold and leasehold matters Auctions Lease extensions New Build Qualifications for this Senior Property Solicitor vacancy: 8-10 years + PQE within the area of Residential Conveyancing as a Solicitor, Licensed Conveyancer or Legal Executive Works well under pressure Excellent client care skills Excellent communication skills with a client-focused approach IT literate Benefits for this Senior Property Solicitor vacancy: Competitive salary and bonus 23 days holiday + bank holidays + Christmas closure Auto-enrolment pension If you're a ready to take the next step in your career, apply today. Alternatively, contact Victoria at Law Staff Limited quoting reference 37484. PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL (INCLUDING SPAM FOLDER) FOR CONFIRMATION YOUR APPLICATION HAS BEEN RECEIVED. In accordance with The Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations 2003

Residential Conveyancing Solicitor Cheshire £48,000 per annum A well-established and respected law firm in Cheshire is seeking an experienced Residential Conveyancing Solicitor to join its friendly and supportive team. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a stable, long-standing practice with a strong local reputation, high-quality work, and an established client base. The Role You will manage a varied caseload of residential conveyancing matters from instruction to completion, including: Freehold and leasehold sales and purchases Transfers of equity and remortgages New build transactions Liaising with clients, agents, lenders, and developers Providing a consistently high level of client care You will have autonomy over your files, supported by an experienced conveyancing team and efficient systems. About You Qualified Solicitor (or Legal Executive / Licensed Conveyancer considered) Experience handling a residential conveyancing caseload independently Strong technical knowledge and attention to detail Excellent communication and client-facing skills Proactive, professional, and team-oriented What's On Offer Salary of £48,000 Established, reputable Cheshire practice Supportive working environment with low staff turnover Good work/life balance Quality caseload with long-standing clients Opportunities for long-term progression Location Cheshire - easily accessible with local parking and transport links. How to Apply To apply, please submit your CV and a brief covering note or contact Adam Norris at Reed. All applications will be handled in confidence.

Your new company An award-winning Legal 500 firm, recognised across multiple areas that continues to experience exceptional growth, having doubled in size in recent years. With ambitious plans to keep expanding, the firm offers clear progression routes for talented solicitors at every stage of their career. Its meritocratic culture ensures transparent goals for promotion and well-defined career pathways, supported by strong leadership and mentoring opportunities. Working from a single, vibrant office, you'll enjoy a collaborative, energetic environment with open-plan spaces designed to encourage teamwork and innovation. The firm combines high performance with balance, offering hybrid flexibility, realistic targets, and a generous bonus structure that rewards hard work. If you're an ambitious, qualified solicitor looking to join a dynamic, forward-thinking practice, this is an opportunity to progress your career. Due to continued growth, we are looking to engage a Senior Solicitor within the Residential Property team. Your new role As a Senior Residential Property Solicitor, you will manage a varied caseload of residential property matters from instruction through to completion, while also playing a key role in supporting and developing junior team members. You'll act as a point of escalation, ensure quality standards are met, and contribute to process improvements across the department.Key Responsibilities: Handle a full range of residential conveyancing matters, including freehold and leasehold sales and purchases, remortgages, lease extensions, and transfers of equity. Supervise and mentor junior fee earners and conveyancing assistants, providing technical guidance and support Conduct title reviews, draft and approve legal documents, and ensure compliance with regulatory and firm standards. Deliver exceptional client care, offering clear, commercially focused advice. Work closely with management to enhance operational efficiency and client experience. Monitor caseload progression within the team, resolving issues promptly. What you'll need to succeed Qualified Solicitor, Legal Executive, or Licenced Conveyancer with 5+ years PQE in residential property. Strong technical knowledge of the conveyancing process, including title checking and drafting. Previous supervisory or mentoring experience with a collaborative leadership style. Excellent client care and communication skills, with the ability to build lasting relationships. Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage competing deadlines. Proficiency with case management systems is desirable. What you'll get in return A competitive salary based on experience partnered with a generous fee-earner bonus scheme. The office has free parking and is easily accessible. They provide a comprehensive benefits package including pension, enhanced maternity/paternity pay, holiday etc. This firm will give you the opportunity to learn and grow within a supportive and dynamic team, whilst developing leadership opportunities through their progressive development program. What you need to do now If you are interested in these roles or would like further information, please get in touch for a confidential discussion.If these jobs aren't quite right for you, but you're exploring new opportunities, we'd still love to hear from you.We would expect a lawyer with the given PQE to have gained the level of experience required, but this does not preclude applications from those with more or less PQE. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Job Title: Conveyancer / Conveyancing Fee EarnerLocation: Liverpool Salary: £30,000 - £55,000 (DOE) Job Type: Full-Time, PermanentOverviewAn established Liverpool-based law firm is seeking a Conveyancer / Fee Earner to join its growing residential property team. This is a brand new role created due to continued expansion, offering an excellent opportunity to join a supportive firm that invests in its people.The RoleYou will manage your own caseload of residential conveyancing matters from instruction through to completion, including: Freehold and leasehold sales and purchases Re-mortgages Transfers of equity General residential property transactions You will have the autonomy to run your files while benefiting from administrative support. Requirements Minimum 2 years' experience managing a residential conveyancing caseload Open to Solicitors, Licensed Conveyancers, and experienced Fee Earners Able to handle files independently with minimal supervision Strong organisational and client care skills Working Arrangement Office-based in Liverpool (Anfield) Hybrid working Free on-site parking Benefits Enhanced maternity and paternity leave Company pension scheme Ongoing investment in training and development Employee recognition scheme (reward-based incentives) Referral bonus scheme

TSR Legal are proud to be working in partnership with a Top 100 UK law firm to recruit a Senior Associate Residential Conveyancer (6+ PQE) to join their highly regarded property team. This is a standout opportunity to join a leading practice known for its strength in high-value, non-volume, non-panel residential conveyancing work. The firm has built an excellent reputation for advising high-net-worth clients on complex and bespoke transactions, delivering a discreet, partner-led service of the highest quality. The successful candidate will take ownership of a premium caseload of residential matters, managing transactions from instruction through to completion with minimal supervision. The role will involve handling complex and often time-sensitive matters, requiring a high level of technical expertise, commercial awareness and client care. Key responsibilities will include: Managing a high-quality caseload of non-panel residential conveyancing matters, including high-value and complex transactions Acting for high-net-worth individuals, ensuring an exceptional and highly personalised client experience Handling matters with minimal supervision, maintaining full ownership and accountability Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, agents and other professional advisers Supporting partners on complex transactions and contributing to the continued growth of the team Upholding the firm's high standards of compliance, risk management and technical excellence This role is ideally suited to an experienced conveyancer operating at Senior Associate level who is confident managing HNW work and thrives in a high-performing, client-centric environment. The firm is seeking candidates who can demonstrate: 6+ years' PQE with significant experience in residential conveyancing A strong track record handling high-value, non-panel transactions Excellent technical knowledge and attention to detail The ability to manage complex matters independently and make sound commercial decisions Exceptional client care skills, with experience working with high-net-worth individuals Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build lasting professional relationships A proactive, organised and commercially aware approach Confidence working in a fast-paced, high-quality environment This is an excellent opportunity to join a leading firm offering a collegiate and supportive culture, high-quality work, and genuine career progression at senior level. For a confidential discussion, please contact Hannah Williams at TSR Legal or apply directly below.

A well-established and highly regarded firm is looking to recruit a Conveyancing Fee Earner to join its friendly and supportive team. This is a replacement role, offering stability and a minimal caseload, making it an excellent opportunity for someone seeking a balanced and sustainable conveyancing position. In this role, you will focus specifically on handling transactions involving properties that have been acquired through repossession and are now being sold on. The work will include dealing with shared ownership, freehold, and leasehold matters, giving you exposure to a varied but structured caseload. Unlike many conveyancing roles, you will only be responsible for part of the transaction process, allowing you to focus on quality over volume. The caseload is equivalent to around 40-50 files, but remains very manageable due to the streamlined nature of the work. One of the standout benefits of this position is the genuine work-life balance on offer. The firm operates a hybrid working model, with employees working from home three days per week. There are no billing targets, removing unnecessary pressure and allowing you to concentrate on delivering a high standard of client care and legal work. This opportunity would suit a conveyancer, licensed conveyancer, or experienced conveyancing assistant who is looking for a less pressured environment without sacrificing quality work. The firm offers a competitive salary of £40,000 alongside a supportive culture and long-term career stability. If you're looking for a conveyancing role in a relaxed, target-free environment with flexible working and a genuinely manageable caseload, this position is well worth exploring.

Conveyancer (Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer) Location: Alfreton Job Type: Full-Time, Office-Based (5 days per week) An established and well-regarded law firm in Alfreton is seeking an experienced Conveyancer to join its strong and supportive team. This is a fantastic opportunity to step into a busy, well-maintained caseload due to an upcoming retirement, offering immediate responsibility and the chance to make a real impact. This role is ideally suited to a qualified Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer with a minimum of 2-3 years' experience who is confident managing files independently and able to hit the ground running. The Role: Manage a full caseload of residential conveyancing matters from instruction through to completion Handle all aspects of the conveyancing process, including sales, purchases, transfers, and remortgages Liaise with clients, estate agents, lenders, and other solicitors to ensure smooth progression of transactions Maintain high standards of client care and compliance throughout the process Opportunity to work on some commercial matters if experience allows (desirable but not essential) The Team: You will be joining a well-established and collaborative team, including an experienced paralegal (currently undertaking SQE), and two legal assistants who provide strong administrative support. Requirements: Qualified Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer Minimum 2-3 years' experience handling residential conveyancing files independently Ability to manage a caseload with minimal supervision Strong organisational and communication skills Commercial conveyancing experience is advantageous but not essential Working Hours & Benefits: Full-time, office-based role (Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm) 1-hour lunch break 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays Additional 3 days leave over the Christmas shutdown On-site parking available This is an excellent opportunity for a capable conveyancer looking to join a stable firm with a friendly team environment and a steady flow of work.

Due to ongoing expansion, my client is currently looking to recruit a newly qualified or Junior Conveyancer to join their team in Sevenoaks, Kent. Responsibilities to Include: • Professional pro-active approach, strong client care skills and a sensitive and sympathetic understanding of clients needs. • Responsible for all aspects of Conveyancing and on occasions, where appropriate providing technical expertise, training and guidance to other team members. • Ability to manage appropriate caseload types and complexities. • Assisting with casework including dealing with a range of Sales, Purchases, Transfers of Equity, Re-Mortgages, Equity Release, • New Build, Shared Ownership, Help to Buy, Deed drafting etc • Dealing with correspondence • Maintaining accurate time costing procedures • Implementing any recommendations made by your supervisor following monthly file reviews ensuring that these are dealt with promptly • Ensuring compliance with file management. Your Experience: • Qualified Licensed Conveyancer, Solicitor, or Legal Executive (CILEx), or substantial conveyancing experience in a law firm context. • Must have a clean, valid Practicing Certificate at the time of applying • Committed team player and adapt well to new challenges • Supervisory experience and working to key performance indicators • Professional with a pro-active approach; excellent client care skills and ability to deal with client matters in a sensitive manner and resolve complicated practicalities • Excellent networking and communication skills with the ability to successfully market the Company and generate new business • Excellent analytical and organizational skills • Ability to use own initiative and sound judgment • Have extensive experience in dealing with various aspects of Conveyancing. • Experience in own advocacy is an advantage • Excellent IT Skills -familiar with Microsoft Office applications, document management skills and use of case management systems Should you have any questions or wish to apply please do not hesitate to contact Clear Legal and Financial Recruitment Please Note: Due to the number of applications we receive we may be unable to respond to every application directly. If you have not heard from us within 3 working days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Qualified Conveyancer - Salary up to £55,000 - Yeovil Office A Law Firm who have served communities in the South West region for over a hundred years are on the search for a Residential Conveyancer at a minimum of 2PQE to join their thriving team in Yeovil; they are one of the largest and most long-established firms in the four areas wherein they operate. Some of what the firm both offer and expect: Conveyancing role with responsibilities for managing a caseload, and supporting clients through the full process from inception to completion Minimum of two years' PQE Strong expertise as a fee earner, whilst simultaneously establishing and maintaining great client relationships Based in Yeovil or other associated offices on a hybrid arrangement Varied client base, ranging from residential purchasers to investors and developers Highly competitive salary (up to £55k) and separate benefits package The firm are seeking an outstanding Conveyancer driven by a commitment to client satisfaction, with a proven track record of working independently without supervision, and who may have been involved in the training and development of more junior practitioners. Their longstanding presence and outstanding reputation combine to ensure a stable stream of property business for themselves and, by extension, their Conveyancers. Liaising with clients, estate agents, lenders, and other solicitors, is a pivotal aspect of the position, and Conveyancers at this firm are entrusted and rewarded in equal measure - bonus schemes are aplenty, and their salaries are competitive always at each level of experience. The firm will consider any PQE level from two years and beyond, and compensate accordingly. To find out more on the role, feel free to contact directly Jack Cooper at QED Legal .

Residential Property Conveyancer/Paralegal Location: Mansfield Salary: From £30,000 (DOE) Contract: Full-time, Permanent A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced Conveyancer or Paralegal to join a well-established and highly regarded Residential Property team. The Role: You'll handle a broad range of residential conveyancing matters - from sales and purchases to exchanges and completions - with the support of a dedicated administrative and legal team. This role offers excellent scope to develop your technical skills and progress within a supportive environment. Key Responsibilities: Managing a varied caseload of residential property transactions Drafting and preparing contracts, agreements and other legal documents Liaising with clients, agents and other parties to ensure smooth progress of files Handling exchanges, completions and related post-completion work Assisting with new business enquiries and client onboarding About You: Previous experience in residential conveyancing (essential) Qualified (NQ Solicitor, CILEX, or equivalent) or qualified by experience Excellent written and verbal communication skills Highly organised, detail-oriented and proactive Strong IT skills, ideally with experience using case management systems What's on Offer? Salary from £30,000 (DOE) Bonus scheme Generous holiday allowance (including Christmas closure) Company pension Flexible working options Free parking and regular company events Ongoing training and genuine career development opportunities If you're looking to take the next step in your conveyancing career within a supportive and progressive environment, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact Steven Wade at G2 Legal for a confidential discussion.