How to best manage a solicitor that doesn't communicate.

Hi,

Looking for help with a solicitor. I purchased an empty chain free house mid August and need to complete by Jan (paid over the odds on that basis as thought it would be a 'smooth process'). 6 months for a chain free house where I'm a first time cash buyer sounded more than realistic I thought....well apart from when you pick a solicitor whose only emailed me once instructing her and this was after me sending many emails. Phoning is pointless, receptionist always used to tells me her line was 'engaged', now she's very busy, has my messages / emails and respond when she can.

It's been 10 weeks ands from what I can see zero progress has been made on her behalf. I feel if I'm looking for a January completion with a solicitor that's never returned one of my calls and only responded to one of my emails this isn't looking good.

Any ideas of how to handle this. Keeping chasing isn't really working as the moody receptionist just tells me she has a lot on, is dealing with it blah blah. I email - no response.

Unfortunately they aren't local or I'd jsut go down there myself.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated as at the minute I'm not really getting anywhere. I'm not sure how to gain an update from someone who just will not respond and receptionist will never put me through (I'm beginning to wonder of this solicitor even exists).

I know 10 weeks isn't that long, but I feel I can't let this situation go on and go or we will be here in another 6 months at this rate. A simple update would be good.

I'm sure many have been in a similar situation. So, wondered how you best tackled it.

Thanks for any advice, input!