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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.

Just go with the flow - daily testing announced for 100,000 key workers

Boris Johnson announced that approximately 100,000 workers in key industries will be told to take lateral flow tests on every working day in an effort to reduce the impact of the virus on staffing.

Chancellor announces new £1 billion for businesses impacted by Omicron

Today (21 December) Chancellor Rishi Sunak set out new measures to be put in place to provide additional support to businesses over the festive period.

Leathes Prior delighted to act for Kieran McKenna and Martyn Pert in their move to Ipswich Town Football Club

Dan Chapman, head of the Leathes Prior Employment and Sports team, represented McKenna and Pert who have arrived at Portman Road to take up management roles.

Changes to the Statutory Sick Pay Regulations as a result of COVID-19

On 17 December 2021 the Statutory Sick Pay (Medical Evidence) Regulations came into force to modify the rules for employees providing medical evidence in relation to sickness absence.

Plan B – what are the implications for businesses?

As most businesses will by now be aware, yesterday evening Boris Johnson announced that the spread of the Omicron variant had reached such a level that the Government now considered it ‘proportionate and responsible’ to introduce new preventative measures, known as ‘Plan B’.

Beware of Property Fraud

Given the recent press regarding property fraud and properties being sold without the owners knowledge, it is a useful time to remind our clients how they can best protect themselves.

Be Careful What You Agree

The Technology and Construction Court has recently reaffirmed the position that employer and contractor may be bound by verbal agreements reached during the course of a construction project.

2021 AUTUMN BUDGET: THE KEY POINTS

Nick Price and Gemma Hughes outline the key takeaways from this year’s Autumn Budget in our latest article.

Influencers, giveaways and the vital importance of T&Cs;

After a number of recent controversies with social media influencers failing to comply with advertising standards relating to giveaways and competitions, it is time for influencers to think more carefully about how they comply with the relevant rules when offering these competitions.

Medical exemption guidance now published

The Government has now confirmed how people working or deployed in care homes can apply for proof that they are medically exempt from vaccination. Importantly however, the procedure outlined in the exemptions guidance is not limited to care home workers, it also applies to anyone who is unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons.

HGV Drivers & Poultry Workers – New Scheme Launched

The government have now told us on Monday 11 October 2021 how the emergency temporary worker scheme will work.

Twitch Data Breach: UK GDPR and the cost of human error

This week, the livestreaming site Twitch, which is owned by Amazon, announced that a “server configuration change” led to approximately 135GB of data being posted online.

HGV Drivers – The Saga continues

On Saturday 2 October, the Government changed the rules yet again to allow tanker drivers to come to the UK immediately if they meet certain eligibility requirements.

Statutory Demands and Winding-Up Petitions are back

COVID related protections for debtors coming to an end (mostly) from 1 October 2021.

HGV Drivers – Too little? Too Late?

On 25 September 2021 the Government announced the proposed introduction for short term working visas for HGV drivers

Government tips at changes in the law for hospitality and leisure workers

Around five years after the Government closed a consultation into tipping and service charges in the hospitality and industries, a decision has been made to introduce legislation to prevent employers taking tips received by staff.

Leathes Prior Lex 100 winners in an incredible six categories

We are absolutely delighted and extremely proud that, during a year of facing the challenges of a global pandemic, the firm has managed to retain that unique, outgoing culture that continues to set us apart from other firms in the UK

Data protection reforms: The end of GDPR?

With the UK no longer being bound by EU law, there is now some scope for the UK’s data protection regime to diverge from the EU’s.

Leathes Prior welcomes three new Trainee Solicitors to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome three new Trainee Solicitors to the firm - Hannah Griffin, Joseph Thompson and Olivia Leeper.

Further changes to the rules on employing sportspersons from overseas

The UK Government has recently announced further changes to the rules on business immigration which will be relevant to those organisations looking to employ international sportspersons in the near future.

Covid-19 Autumn and Winter Plan: considerations for employers

The Government has today released its 32 page plan to address Covid-19 during the Autumn and Winter (“the Plan”). The Plan includes a number of important considerations for businesses.

Employing skilled workers from overseas – Hope on the horizon?

What is the government planning to do about the shortage of skilled labour following the implementation of Brexit?

Leathes Prior delighted to announce that all three Trainee Solicitors qualify at the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that the full 2019 cohort of trainees have been admitted to the roll of solicitors. Well done Ellie Davies, Nick Price and Matthew Hodgson.

Leathes Prior welcomes Employment Lawyer, James Conley to the firm

James specialises in providing expert advice to businesses and individuals across the UK on all areas of employment law.

Leathes Prior acts as Alex Albon returns to the Formula One grid

We are delighted to announce that Head of Sport, Dan Chapman, was involved as the lawyer in the contractual negotiations that saw client Alex Albon today announced as a Williams F1 driver for the forthcoming 2022 season.

Unskilled Workers – The impact of Brexit

Many sectors are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit unskilled workers as they no longer have the option of recruiting from the European Economic Area (apart from the Republic of Ireland) following the UK’s departure from the European Union on 1 January 2021.

Employee unfairly dismissed following employer’s failure to properly consider Furlough leave

The recent Employment Tribunal decision of Mhindurwa v Lovingangels Care Limited is the first reported case to make its way through the system to consider the implications for an employer who failed to properly consider ‘furlough leave’ as an alternative to redundancy.

Who’s crying over spilled [alternative milk product]?

A Cambridgeshire based family farm, Glebe Farm Foods (Glebe Farm), has successfully seen off a claim for trademark infringement and passing off, brought by the oat milk giant, Oatly.

Leathes Prior assist shareholders of Rent4sure in sale to PIB Group

We are very pleased to announce that Leathes Prior have acted for the shareholders of Rent4sure Ltd (“Rent4sure”) on the sale of Rent4sure to PIB Group Ltd (“PIB”), as part of the Barbon Insurance Group.

HIGH COURT SUCCESS FOR LEADING MOTORSPORT TEAM

The Leathes Prior Litigation and Sports teams have succeeded in a High Court claim for client Hitech Grand Prix Limited against their former racing driver Enaam Ahmed.

Probate fees: an update

Under new proposals published last week, the Government is seeking to increase the fees payable for applying for a Grant of Representation (often called a Grant of Probate).

Working remotely abroad beyond COVID-19: is it viable?

Though many employers have been willing to accommodate such a temporary arrangement, is it viable for employers and employees to agree to homeworking from abroad on a permanent basis, particularly once the government guidance to work from home has been removed?

Lease renewals: are pandemic clauses fair and reasonable?

After the recent County Court case of Poundland Limited v Toplain Limited, we anticipate tenants will increasingly try to include pandemic clauses when negotiating lease renewals.

No more self-isolation if you are double jabbed

As of 16 August 2021, those who have had both of their jabs will not be required to self-isolate if a close contact tests positive for COVID-19.

Developers beware: the new Building Safety Bill

The Government has today introduced the new Building Safety Bill into Parliament. Although only in its first stages, and therefore not yet law, it's expected to introduce some of the biggest changes to the regulation of building safety in a generation.

Leathes Prior act on disposal of Thornton’s Budgens Belsize Park to the Kavanagh Group

We are pleased to announce that Leathes Prior have acted for Andrew Thornton on the sale of Thornton’s Budgens to The Kavanagh Group.

Breaking News: Commercial Evictions banned until 25 March 2022

The Government has today announced another extension to the commercial eviction ban.

Steps to take when a loved one passes away

The death of a loved one is a devastating and emotional event in life, which is often made more difficult by the administrative tasks that must be done immediately after their passing. To help you through this, we have compiled a simple guide explaining the different stages in the estate administration process.

Doctor doctor! I’ve been defamed!

Dr Jessen’s actions stand as a cautionary tale for defendants in all kinds of claims not to bury their heads in the sand when it comes to ongoing proceedings.

What do the upcoming Stamp Duty changes mean for my purchase?

Whilst the stamp duty rates will change as of 1st July, you will still be able to take advantage of the savings if you are looking to move home or purchase an investment property after the 1st July.

What is an easement and what should you avoid as a developer?

Easements can play a critical role in a successful development. Where a proposed development site does not directly adjoin the public highway, developers will need to rely on access and services being provided via land in third party ownership.

Leathes Prior welcomes Risk & Compliance Manager; Adrian Baker

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Adrian Baker to the firm.

Forfeiture: when is it safe to accept or demand rent?

The recent Court of Appeal decision Faiz v Burnley BC [2021] EWCA Civ 55 has provided further clarification on what rent can be accepted and when waiver will occur. See the full details here:

Leathes Prior Partner Sarah Appleton appointed as the firm’s Training Principal

As Training Principal, Sarah will hold the overall responsibility for the recruitment, training and development of the Trainee Solicitors at Leathes Prior.

Calling all Landlords, Part Two!

Landlords need to be aware of two new updates regarding 'Right to Rent Checks' and 'The Debt Respite Scheme'. See them here.

Colin v Cuthbert: the battle of the caterpillar cakes

Last week, Marks and Spencer (M&S) lodged a High Court claim against Aldi. M&S claims that Aldi has breached its intellectual property rights by launching its own caterpillar shaped chocolate cake, called Cuthbert.

Leathes Prior’s Senior Partner William Riley announces retirement

Leathes Prior’s Senior Partner, William Reginald Conduit Riley is set to retire after 48 years of service at the firm.

Leathes Prior welcomes Howard Catherall as Partner and Head of Regulatory & Criminal Defence

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that Howard Catherall has joined the firm as Partner and new Head of Regulatory and Criminal Defence as Tim Cary is set to retire after 38 years at the firm.

Skilled Worker Visa - No More Resident Labour Market Test

All approved Sponsors now have to do is check that the job is eligible for this visa and that they are prepared to pay the minimum salary or the ‘going rate’ for the type of work the proposed employee will be doing - whichever is higher.

Employment Law Changes - April 2021

As is the case every year, there are a number of key changes which come into force at the start of April including a change in the National Minimum Wage.

Sleeping on the job? It doesn’t pay…

Whilst the obvious application of this ruling is for those involved in care work, this decision will also have ramifications for other industries which commonly engage staff for “sleep-in” shifts.

Calling all residential landlords: EICR needed by 1 April

From 1 April 2021 all private landlords in England must comply with electrical safety standards.

Forfeiture and tenant evictions: the saga continues

Last week the government announced another extension to the ban on forfeiture for non-payment of rent and bailiff enforced residential evictions.

Leathes Prior welcomes commercial property and agricultural lawyer Julia Routledge

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Julia Routledge to the firm’s Commercial Property Team.

Brexit – Going on tour to Europe? The end of performances in Europe by British artists?

Anyone seeking to work and be paid for their work in the entertainment sector must comply with the individual laws of each country in which they intend to perform.

Leathes Prior Offer Free Compulsory Risk Assessment Templates

As we did following Lockdown 1.0 Leathes Prior will again be providing free of charge template Risk Assessments to help our clients and prospective clients re-open and work safely.

The Budget: Inheritance Tax Allowance frozen at £325,000 until 2026.

We have seen media outcry over Rishi Sunak’s “stealth tax” on the middle class as the personal allowance and income tax thresholds are frozen until 2026. But this is nothing new.

The Budget: further boost to the housing market with stamp duty holiday extended and 5% mortgages for first time buyers

Chancellor, Rishi Sunak has said “We will do whatever it takes to help…”

Leathes Prior announce six key promotions at the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce the promotion of six key members of staff, Simon Willis, Stephen Wilson, Alex Saunders, Nina Ryan, Calum Paterson and Charlotte Sheehy.

The end of the road for Uber (in the UK at least)?

In a long awaited Judgment of the Supreme Court, following a lengthy legal battle on the employment status of Uber drivers, the Supreme Court has confirmed that Uber drivers are workers, and are therefore entitled to employment rights including holiday pay and the national minimum wage, amongst other things.

Preparing your Terms and Conditions for the UK’s Holiday Boom

With the announcement that British residents who travel abroad will need to quarantine on their return to UK, and the continued uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, the UK’s leisure and tourism industry is seeing a big increase in demand for holiday bookings.

Tim Cary to retire after 38 years at the firm as Howard Catherall joins as Partner and Head of Regulatory & Criminal Defence

Tim Cary, Partner and Head of Regulatory and Criminal Defence at Leathes Prior, is set to retire as a partner on 30 April 2021.

“You’ve got mail!” Duchess of Sussex v Associated Newspapers Limited

Yesterday (11/02/21) the High Court ruled in favour of HRH the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle in her claim for misuse of private information and copyright infringement. See the full details here.

Want to take a break? – Commercial break clauses and how to exercise them

Break clauses are often found in commercial leases and allow a party to bring the lease to an end early.

Diversity training - is yours stale?

See the latest decision coming from the Employment Appeal Tribunal (“EAT”) that highlights the importance of employers continuing to organise regular and effective anti-harassment, equality and diversity training for staff.

Protecting your digital assets in your Will: From Twitter to Bitcoin and beyond…

In a recent survey commissioned by the Law Society, it was established that 93% of those who have a Will have not included any digital assets.

Leathes Prior act on acquisition of multi-award winning publication, The New European, from Archant

Alex Saunders and Jack Horwitz advised TNE on the corporate aspects of the transaction.

Restrictions on evictions, is the end near?

Last year, we saw unprecedented protection for commercial tenants. For the first time landlords were (and still are) unable to recover commercial premises due to rent arrears.

Latest HM Treasury Direction provides further update on Furlough Leave

The Treasury has recently confirmed in a new Treasury Direction the rules that are to apply under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”) for the period of 1 February 2021 – 30 April 2021.

Dan Chapman successfully represents Louis Foster on his Appeal before the Motor Sport Council’s National Court.

Dan Chapman, head of Leathes Prior’s Sports Team, has successfully represented the racing driver Louis Foster on his Appeal before the Motor Sport Council’s National Court.

Hoteliers, Pub and Bar operators in England - Don’t lose your Premises Licence during lockdown

The current lockdown continues to cause major problems for the hospitality sector.

Making a Will during Lockdown 3.0

Here at Leathes Prior, we continue to be flexible to accommodate our clients’ specific needs.

Residential evictions: A further update

The “winter truce” on evictions was due to end on Monday 11 January 2021, at which point landlords would have been permitted to re-start the eviction process and instruct bailiffs to attend their properties. This date has been extended again.

Insurers to pay out on claims by small business owners for Covid-19 lockdown losses

Following the latest landmark judgment of the Supreme Court, business owners should be reviewing their insurance provisions.

Could employers require its employees take the Covid-19 vaccine?!

There is never a dull moment in the world of employment law these days but this one was always coming….

Temporary Agricultural Workers – Life after Brexit

Employers in what the government terms “the edible horticultures sector” are now able to source workers for seasonal work for up to 6 months through an approved operator scheme.

The End of Free Movement – An ongoing Saga?

The government continues to tie up the loose ends so that most citizens of the European Union will be treated no differently to the vast majority of non-British citizens when it comes to moving to the UK

2021 Employment Law: Brexit and much more

Now that the dust has settled on 2020, Dan Chapman looks ahead to 2021 and what it may have in store for businesses and individuals alike in the world of employment law.

Housing secretary announces significant reform

The Housing Secretary has announced a significant reform to the current law governing leasehold properties, with a new right for millions of leaseholders to extend their leases by a maximum term of 990 years at zero ground rent.

Data protection after Brexit – Key implications of the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement

Jack Horwitz discusses the key points in relation to data protection that businesses should take away from the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

Lockdown 3 - You can still move home

Despite the announcement of lockdown 3, the Government guidance has confirmed that you can still move home.

Leathes Prior announce three-year extension to Swardeston CC sponsorship

Leathes Prior are delighted to announce that a deal has been agreed to extend the sponsorship of Swardeston Cricket Club for a further three years.

Leathes Prior advise on merger of Stellar Global Ltd and Mash Staffing Holdings Limited

Alex Saunders and Jack Horwitz advised the shareholders of Stellar and Mash Staffing on the corporate aspects of the transaction.

Help to Buy Regional Price Cap Introduced

From Wednesday 16 December eligible purchasers will be able to apply to the new Help to Buy Equity Loan Scheme. See the full details here:

Last Chance Saloon for Business Tenants

A final deadline has now been set for landlords and tenants to resolve rent arrears.

Government takes new immigration rules to extra time – but clarity at last for clubs on the position after Brexit?

With just a month to spare, the FA - having reached agreement with the Home Office - have confirmed the position that is to apply to all clubs looking to recruit players and coaching staff from outside the UK after 31 December 2020.

Workers from outside the UK – All change from 1 December 2020?

Free movement to and from the European Union will end at midnight on 31 December.

Webinar for charities facing HR challenges

In conjunction with the Norfolk Community Foundation, Harriet Howes, Senior Associate within our Employment Team, will be conducting a lunchtime webinar on Wednesday 16 December 2020 aimed at charities and not-for-profit organisations, to discuss common concerns for employers during lockdown and beyond.

HMRC begins auditing of CJRS claims – act now

The time has now come for HMRC to retrospectively check the validity of many of the CJRS claims. See what they are reviewing, the consequences of "Furlough Fraud" and how to prepare here.

CJRS FURLOUGH update - new guidance and legislation published late on 13 November 2020

Following on from the, perhaps for some, surprising news of the extension of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme allowing for the continued use of Furlough Leave into 2021, the relevant legislation has been published.

EEA Citizens – Time is running out

30 June 2021 - Deadline day

Further Restrictions On Evictions Announced

The Government announced a “winter truce” on evictions.

Frontier Workers and Brexit

The Government has now published The Citizens’ Rights (Frontier Workers) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020. See what this means for Frontier workers here.

Right To Rent Checks

New Guidance released and the introduction of a new online checking service.

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