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Join the resistance or fight the resistance?

The return to the office dilemma... Organisations must decide what the new normal looks like for them post-Covid, and whether this is working from home, hybrid working, or a complete return to the office. Gareth Stevens, Senior Associate in our Employment Team discusses...

Resolution’s Reform Proposals for Cohabiting Couples

In November 2022, Resolution asked its members share their views about the changes they would like to see to the family justice system. The vast majority responded that cohabitation reform should one of be the priorities. In a recent publication, Resolution explained its proposals for reforming the law relating to cohabitating partners, Maggie Berry explains more in this article.

Vision for Family Justice by Resolution

This week, on their 40th Anniversary, Resolution is using Awareness Week 2023 (27 Nov – 1 Dec) to launch their Vision for Family Justice campaign. The campaign highlights key changes its members want to see, to ensure a legal system for family law that is fit for the future. Read on to learn more about their aims.

Autumn Statement 2023 - A Summary

Jeremy Hunt delivered the Autumn Statement this afternoon (22 November 2023) focusing on the cost of living, investment, tax & inflation. Sam Poulter, Solicitor in our Corporate & Commercial Team looks into the statement here.

Personal Injury Claims: Frequently Asked Questions

Making a personal injury claim can be a daunting process, particularly when your focus should be on recovering. If you think you have a personal injury claim, here’s some of our most frequently asked questions answered by our expert, Kate Smith.

Leathes Prior act for successful local business in High Court claim to stop termination of franchise agreement

Yesterday (16 November 2023), judgment was handed down in The Burke Partnership (a firm) v The Body Shop International Limited [2023] EWHC 2897 (Ch). A successful outcome for Leathes Prior client, The Burke Partnership, in regards to stopping the termination of a franchise agreement for their Norwich & Cambridge stores.

New Holiday Pay Laws finally announced

On 8 November 2023, the Government made an announcement on The Employment Rights (Amendment, Revocation and Transitional Provision) Regulations 2023, Dan Chapman explains what this will mean for the calculation of holiday pay for workers with irregular hours.

What you need to know on the promise of leasehold reform from the King’s speech 2023

On 7 November 2023, King Charles opened parliament with the annual King's speech and one topic which has been highly anticipated is leasehold reform. In this article lease expert, Jake Mowatt talks about what was discussed, what the next steps are and what the potential reforms could mean for existing leaseholders, new leasehold property and those looking to purchase leasehold property.

Reforms to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974: New opportunities for ex-offenders

On 28 October 2023, a significant amendment took place as reforms to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 came into force.

Hope for patients as NHS England plan to introduce ‘Martha’s rule’

There is new support proposed for patients and their families after the Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, confirmed the Government’s commitment to introducing ‘Martha’s rule’, to give patients in England the legal right to request a second medical opinion from a dedicated critical care team whilst in an NHS hospital.

What you need to know about leasehold properties: The Ground Rent Issue

Are you a leaseholder or potential buyer of a property with ground rent over £250? Nadine Jasinski from our Residential Property Team explains what the ground rent issue (AST trap) means, what to look out for and steps you can take as a leaseholder or potential buyer.

Leathes Prior welcomes Kate Smith to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Kate Smith to the firm’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team, specialising in Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence.

The importance of Wills for assets outside the UK

If you have assets abroad such as a holiday home or a bank account, did you know that your existing UK Will may not necessarily adequately cover those assets? Anna Jordan discusses why having multiple Wills is so important when it comes to assets abroad and what you may need to be aware of during this process.

The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 receives royal assent

On 18 September 2023, The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 received royal assent with plans to come into force in 2024. The Act will give employees and agency workers with atypical work hours a right to request a more predictable work pattern, Kate Wheeler explains...

What you need to know when taking a new commercial lease

Taking on a new commercial lease? Rebecca Millard, Associate in our Commercial Property Team discusses some of the key points for tenants to bear in mind, and the potential pitfalls for tenants who don't fully understand their obligations.

Leathes Prior winners of six categories in the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce that the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey has awarded the firm a winner’s badge in six categories including ‘Vacation Schemes’, ‘Client Contact’, and ‘Social Life’.

UK Immigration Fees Set to Rise

On 15 September 2023, the UK government announced significant increases in immigration and visa fees. With changes set to take effect on October 4, 2023, Employment Solicitor, Zanthe Meijer explains.

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome five new Trainee Solicitors to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome five new Trainee Solicitors to the firm: Alex Robinson, Eleanor Chapman, Georgia Sartin, Kirsty Chaplin, and Maggie Berry.

Leathes Prior congratulates Hannah Griffin as she qualifies into the firm’s Wills, Trusts and Probate Team

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce that Hannah Griffin has been admitted to the roll of solicitors and has accepted the offer to continue her career here at the firm within the Wills, Trusts, and Probate Team.

Pensions in Divorce Settlements - Why do some people fail to claim them?

With around 7 in 10 not including pensions in financial settlements during a divorce, Ellie Davies, Solicitor in our Family Team looks at why this is and what the repercussions could be.

Key Considerations When Investing in Commercial Property

Thinking of investing in commercial property? Whilst a relatively stable investment type, Rebecca Millard, Associate in our Commercial Property Team discusses key considerations to navigate the complexities of becoming a commercial property landlord and how to protect your investment.

Formalities of a Valid Will Explained

Jordan Walker from the LP Wills, Trusts and Probate Team discusses what formalities are needed for a Will to be valid and what happens should these not be observed.

Navigating Your Exit: Evaluating the Most Common Exit Options for Shareholders

Jack Horwitz, Associate in the Leathes Prior Corporate Team discusses the most common exit options for shareholders and their advantages and disadvantages.

Kicked on the way down; relegated Foxes fined for breach of Competition Law

Leicester City FC, fresh from Premier League relegation, on 31 July, the Foxes were fined £880,000.00 for their alleged collusion with JD Sports Fashion Plc in the sale of club merchandise. Chris Goodwin, Associate from LP Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team explains...

Test Match Cricket: A Business in Motion?

Dan Chapman, Head of Sport, reflects on an Ashes summer and draws parallels with business life.

Harsher punishments for animal cruelty offenders

From 1 July 2023 updated sentencing guidelines will apply for offences committed in contravention of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, Kirsty Chaplin explains the new and updated guidelines.

Unlocking talent: The power of a sponsor licence

Since the UK's departure from the EU there has been increasing demand for foreign skilled workers. Zanthe Meijer from the LP Employment Team discusses unlocking talent with a sponsor licence & the benefits of doing so.

Leathes Prior advise on the sale of ABC Power to landfill operator Enovert

We are pleased to announce that Richard Guthrie and Jack Horwitz of the Leathes Prior Corporate & Commercial Team have acted for Ronnie Blyth and Steve Carter on the sale of ABC Power to landfill site operator Enovert.

Lease Extensions and The Building Safety Act 2022

With growing concerns of leaseholders and pending reform, Jake Mowatt, Lease Extension Specialist explores the current issues with the Building Safety Act and when we can expect to see reform.

Leathes Prior welcomes Danny Turpin to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Danny Turpin to the firm’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team specialising in commercial disputes.

Lasting Power of Attorney: When you might need one

An often misconception about a Lasting Powers of Attorney, is that we won't need them until later in life. This article looks at some of the circumstances in which you may want to have an LPA in place and why to consider putting them in place before it's too late.

Leathes Prior advises Canham Consulting on becoming Employee Owned

We are pleased to announce that Alex Saunders & Jack Horwitz of Leathes Prior's Corporate Team have advised Canham Consulting on it's transition to an employee-owned business under an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) structure.

Seeking Seed Investment: Three key legal considerations for a company and its founders

For startup businesses and their founders, raising a seed investment round is often an exciting and crucial stage to kickstart growth and secure the necessary resources for success, but what do you need to consider when taking this step?

Employee ownership trusts (EOTs) on the rise

With a rise in popularity for Employee ownership trusts in recent years, Partner, Alex Saunders explores this and whether it could be the right option for your business.

Leathes Prior announce the promotion of eight key staff

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce the promotion of eight key members of staff: Lily Beel, Calum Paterson, Nina Ryan, Bethany Slaughter, James Conley, Rachael Hughes, Jake Mowatt and Edmund Ramsdale.

Luke Browning Signs with Williams Formula One Racing Driver Academy

Williams Formula One Team has today announced the signing of young racing driver and Leathes Prior client, Luke Browning, to its Driver Academy.

Building Safety Act: Registration of higher risk buildings goes live

Today, 6 April 2023, the registration of higher risk buildings goes live under the Building Safety Act. In this article Danny Turpin tells you what you need to know...

The highs and lows of IR35

This week the outcome of two high profile cases concerning IR35 hit the news - one won by HMRC and one lost, here's what you need to know.

No-fault divorce one year on - What’s actually changed?

A year ago this week "no-fault divorce" was introduced, one year on Ellie Davies, Solicitor in the Family Team looks at what's changed and how it's impacting divorce.

Leathes Prior welcomes Harry Mayne to the firm

Leathes Prior is excited to welcome Paralegal, Harry Mayne to the firms Family Team.

An update on Probate delays and what this could mean for you

As new data is released by HMCTS, Billy Coughlin looks into the delays with Probate applications and what that could mean for you.

EPPP: 10 years’ on - a success story? At what compensation?

In late 2022, the Elite Player Performance Plan celebrated its 10th anniversary. This month, Partner Dan Chapman explores the questions, 'A success story? At what compensation?'

Selling a Leasehold Property – To extend, or not to extend?

When considering whether to extend the Lease on your property before selling, here's what to consider & your options.

Leathes Prior welcomes new Partner Sally Challinor to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Sally Challinor to the firm’s Commercial Property Team.

2023 Spring Budget - A summary

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has announced the Spring Budget 2023, focusing on the four pillars of Enterprise, Education, Employment and Everywhere. Sam Poulter looks into the budget here:

Leathes Prior announces retirement of two longstanding property Partners

Leathes Prior announces the retirement of dedicated and longstanding Partners at the firm; David Clarke and Rob Sibley, who will be retiring from the Partnership on 30 April.

Leathes Prior delighted to welcome Digital Marketing specialist Rhiannon Bond to the firm.

Leathes Prior is very pleased to announce the appointment of Rhiannon Bond into a new role for the firm, Digital Marketing Executive, to expand the firm’s Marketing Team.

Leathes Prior welcome Zanthe Meijer to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Zanthe Meijer to the firm’s Employment Team.

Are we about to see an increase in Japanese Knotweed claims?

Partner and Head of the Residential Property Team, Stephen Wilson looks in to the recent case of Davies v Bridgend County Borough Council.

Leathes Prior act on sale of Daro Group of UK manufacturing companies to Intellego Technologies AB

We are pleased to announce that Richard Guthrie and Nina Ryan of Leathes Prior’s Corporate & Commercial Team have acted for Mervyn Douglas and the other shareholders of the Daro Group of UK manufacturing companies on their sale to Intellego Technologies AB for a deal value of up to £10m.

Property Market sees ‘Biggest New Year Bounce’ since 2016

As anyone who has observed the property market over the last few months can attest, the overriding headline has been regarding the sharp and swift rise in mortgage rates.

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome four new joiners to the firm.

Leathes Prior continue to grow with the recruitment of Rebecca Millard, Lisa Robinson, Helen Jones and Madison King.

A Guide to the New FIFA Football Agent Regulations

Following approval by the FIFA Council on 16th December 2022, the new FIFA Football Agent Regulations come into force yesterday - see our article for a summary of the key changes.

Investigation into illegal cartels in the construction industry continues…

This week an update to the administration timetable was published, as the Competition & Markets Authority’s investigation into illegal cartels in the construction industry continues.

Leathes Prior advise on the sale of the Greensleeves Group

eathes Prior is pleased to have acted for the shareholders of the Greensleeves Group, David and Laura Truby, on the sale of the Group to Neighbourly Brands Limited (“Neighbourly UK”).

The importance of accuracy when following the JCT termination notices

The Court reminds us of the importance of accuracy when following the JCT termination notices: Thomas Barnes & Sons Plc (in Administration) v Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

Autumn Statement 2022

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has sought to provide assurances for businesses and individuals across the UK with the Autumn Statement 2022. Sam Poulter looks into the new statement here:

Leathes Prior advise shareholders of Tiger Eye Consulting Limited on sale to CTS Group

Leathes Prior is delighted to have advised shareholders, Dave and Julie Wilson, on the sale of leading iManage Partner, Tiger Eye Consulting Limited (“Tiger Eye”) to private equity-backed CTS Group (“CTS”).

What can employers do to help their employees in the current cost of living crisis?

On the back of yesterday’s largest interest rate rise in decades, and the Bank of England warning the country could face it’s longest recession since records began we look at what steps can be taken by employers to help their employees.

Will the government make a U-turn on the abolishment of ‘no-fault’ evictions?

The landmark development in landlord and tenant law was due to see the abolishment of ‘no-fault’ evictions, therefore requiring landlords to establish a reason to evict their tenant. However, the government’s stance appears to be uncertain after reports suggest the reform is not a priority and may be axed altogether.

Right to work checks have changed: here’s what you need to know

Now that the temporary arrangements for right to work checks have ended, the priority for employers who have benefited from using these arrangements will be to conduct retrospective checks as soon as possible, and by no later than 26 November 2022.

Leathes Prior delighted to act in Norwich City Football Club transaction

Leathes Prior were delighted to act for Michael Foulger and others in the recently completed transaction which has seen Mark Attanasio become a shareholder and director at Norwich City Football Club.

What are the proposed changes to IR35 and how can you prepare for them?

The government, as part of the controversial ‘mini-budget’ last week, announced to some surprise that it intends to repeal the 2017 and 2021 legislative reforms to IR35, also known as the off-payroll working reforms, from 6 April 2023.

Leathes Prior winners of five categories in the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey has awarded the firm a winners badge in five categories with two being a national top spot: ‘vacation schemes’ and ‘social life’.

The Mini-budget - SDLT Changes

From today (23/09/2022) the rates in which Stamp Duty Land tax (SDLT) will be charged on property transactions in the UK have been changed to reduce the amount of SLDT payable on the majority of transactions.

Leathes Prior excited to welcome four new Trainee Solicitors to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome four new Trainee Solicitors to the firm: Anna Jordan, Milan Pandit, Kate Wheeler, and Kimberley Holden.

Leathes Prior congratulates James Walker as he qualifies into the firm’s Wills, Trusts and Probate Team

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that James Walker has been admitted to the roll of solicitors and has accepted the offer to stay at the firm post-qualification in our Wills, Trusts, and Probate Team.

GDPR: Is the Scope of Special Category Data Widening?

Personal data is any information that can identify someone (i.e. name, email address, address). On Monday 1 August 2022, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) confirmed that the disclosure of personal data that has the potential to indirectly give away the sexual orientation of a person constitutes processing of special categories of personal data for the purpose of EU GDPR.

Leathes Prior act on disposal of Pellcomp Software to the Advanced Group

We are pleased to announce that Richard Guthrie and Nina Ryan of Leathes Prior’s Corporate & Commercial Team have acted for Martin Robson and Tim Davies on the sale of Norwich-based Pellcomp Software to Advanced Software and Solutions

Commercial Considerations for Using Blockchain in Trade Finance

Blockchains are shared, unchangeable electronic ledgers that facilitate the process of securely recording transactions and tracking assets in a network. Amongst other things, blockchains bundle digital records into blocks and these blocks are added to the end of a chain of blocks in chronological order. Blockchains are a form of distributed ledger technology.

Collateral Warranties still attract right to adjudicate

Yesterday (21/06/2022) the Court of Appeal handed down an important judgment which will be of interest to the construction industry generally and to those giving and receiving collateral warranties.

Renters Reform Bill - A halt to ‘no-fault’ evictions

The government has published a White Paper setting out a number of reforms to the private rental sector including the abolishment of ‘no-fault evictions’ – a landmark development in the world of landlord and tenant law.

Recovering training and other costs after employment ends – what’s the position?

Employers often pay for their employees to attend work-related training, or cover the cost of other fees incurred in connection with employment. Nick Price looks into what exactly can be recovered and how.

Obtaining a UK visa as an international sportsperson

This is the second article in our series on immigration routes for talented individuals in the creative and sporting industries.

Obtaining a UK visa as an amateur or professional artist

This article is the first in a series of two on possible immigration routes to the UK for creatives and sportspeople. It shall explore the different options and practical considerations to be aware of.

Leathes Prior delighted to announce the promotion of eight key members of staff

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce the promotion of eight key members of staff: Lucy Chambers, Lily Beel, Bethany Slaughter, Chris Goodwin, Patrick Gibney, Kelly Stannard, Jack Horwitz and Georgia Short.

Ban on new ground rents – a welcome result for leaseholders

On 8 February 2022, the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022 (“the Act”) received Royal Assent with the government announcing the intention to prohibit future ground rents of more than a peppercorn being charged within new long leases, subject to certain exceptions.

De Vrij Wins Lawsuit Against Former Agent

“My advice to other players, rely upon independent sports lawyers who only work for you”

Working Safely at Leathes Prior

We would like to provide reassurance that the firm continues to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of both our clients and our people. We have measures in place to ensure we continue to work safely to stop the spread of respiratory infection, following the government guidance published on 1 April 2022.

Reducing the Spread of Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19 in the Workplace

Living with Covid for employers now means they must make decisions. By moving from strict rules of "must" and "should", to guidance of "may" and "try", the approach taken in the workplace has now firmly been passed to individual employers to determine.

Automatic renewal and consumer rights – how can businesses comply?

The use of a subscription model to sell to consumers has become increasingly popular over the years. Jack Horwitz and Olivia Sherman's latest article looks into this model and what the CMA has recommended as good practise.

Spring Statement 2022

The 2022 Spring Statement came against a challenging backdrop for the Chancellor. Given the forecasts, Rishi Sunak looked to provide some positive news for business and individuals alike. Sam Poulter looks at the Spring Statement here:

LP delighted to announce Sam Poulter has qualified with the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that Sam Poulter has been admitted to the roll of solicitors and has accepted the offer to stay at the firm post-qualification.

How do I hire an employee from overseas?

Recruiting skilled employees from outside of the UK to come and work in your business can seem a complicated and daunting process - But what is this process? And how can you get things right?

Do we need a Farming Partnership Agreement?

Most family farms operate as traditional partnerships. Yet many do not have a written partnership agreement. Richard Guthrie explains why it is important to have an agreement in place.

No-Fault Divorce - What Is Changing?

6 April 2022 signals the dawn of a new era in family law with the introduction of the concept of “no-fault divorce” as the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 marks the biggest reform of divorce law seen in the last 50 years.

Singing in the witness box – Sheeran defends copyright claim in song

Earlier this afternoon (08 March 2022) Ed Sheeran swapped the Pyramid Stage for the witness stand as he gave evidence for a second day in a copyright trial over a riff in his single Shape Of You.

What’s the best way to sell my business?

Selling your business can be long, complex and stressful, especially if your business isn’t ready for the legal process. Richard Guthrie gives us some useful tips in his latest article.

Update to government plans regarding the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme

HMRC confirmed today (23 February 2022) that the Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme will end on 17 March 2022. In light of the swiftly approaching deadline, employers will be best placed to submit claims sooner rather than later.

Health and Care Worker visa category finally expanded

The promised expansion of the Health and Care Worker visa category has arrived!

What does the end of Covid-19 restrictions mean for employers?

The government’s document titled “Covid-19 Response: Living with Covid-19” sets out a roadmap for the coming weeks. Dan Chapman has set out the key provisions for employers to be aware of in his latest article.

The importance of AST costs clauses

Joseph Thompson looks into the importance of including AST cost clauses in a tenancy agreement, as shown by a recent landlord/tenant matter represented by Sabina Hagg in our Property Dispute Team.

UPDATE ON JAPANESE KNOTWEED

New guidance on surveyor’s approach to Japanese Knotweed has been released by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors which to come into effect in March 2022.

Mandatory vaccination for NHS workers to be scrapped

The government plans to revoke its decision to make COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for healthcare workers in England after warnings that the already-stretched NHS could face serious safe shortages.

Land Registry Fees Increase

As of 31 January 2022, the Land Registry application fees will be increasing for the first time since 2009.

Four things to watch out for in commercial law in 2022

Alex Saunders and Olivia Sherman look into the key areas to watch out for in 2022 - these include digital assets, smart contracts and the Metaverse. An interesting year ahead in the world of commercial law!

Health and Care visa route expanded to include Care Staff

It has been well known for some time that the social care sector is suffering from a recruitment crisis - from the 15 February the Health and Care visa route is being expanded.

Return to the office begins as restrictions relaxed – what does this mean for you?

On 19 January 2022, the government announced that it will no longer be asking employees to work from home. It will now be up to employers to decide whether to ask their employees to return to the office. What does this mean for you?

Attorneys / Deputies - Do you know your limitations?

The role of an Attorney or Deputy involves a great deal of power and responsibility. But do you understand your limitations?

Leathes Prior delighted to announce that Lewis Kelly has qualified with the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that Lewis Kelly has accepted our offer to stay on at the firm post qualification.

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