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Right To Rent Checks

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

Footballers and football clubs at risk of failing to hear the final whistle on Brexit?

Amidst the understandable focus on the impact of Covid-19 on the professional football game, one could be forgiven for failing to pay sufficient attention to what arguably also presents a seismic challenge to domestic football clubs: the arrival of Brexit on 31 December 2020.

FURLOUGH EXTENDED – AGAIN

It may (or may not) come as a surprise that the Chancellor has announced a further extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”) until 31 March 2021.

Contact with your children during lockdown 2.0

During the first lockdown earlier this year there was initially some confusion about whether children could continue to spend time with both parents, or whether the lockdown rules would prevent children moving between their parents’ houses. This article looks at lockdown 2.0:

Furlough Scheme Extended and Job Support Scheme Postponed

One of the words of 2020 perhaps – “furlough” – is back.

New Set of UK Immigration Rules Announced

A new set of Immigration Rules, which are due to come into effect from 1 December 2020, will apply to all non-British and Irish citizens arriving in the UK from 1 January 2021. The rules (being a mere 514 pages long) provide for a number of changes to the existing immigration system. The key changes are as follows:

Update to the Job Support Scheme

The Chancellor has today (22 October 2020) amended his original plans for the scheme that is to replace the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”) after it ends on 31 October 2020. The new scheme is known as the “Job Support Scheme Open”.

Tenant Evictions During COVID

The eviction process has now changed, introducing new obstacles and delaying the process. See the full details here.

Chancellor announces changes to the Job Support Scheme: furlough in disguise?

The Chancellor Rishi Sunak has once again pledged additional measures to support businesses that will be severely affected by further lockdown restrictions made in light of Covid-19. See the details here.

Leathes Prior awarded most sociable law firm in the UK for an incredible fourth year running

Leathes Prior is celebrating the news that unbelievably, for an incredible fourth year in a row, the firm has been awarded as ‘The most sociable law firm in the UK’ by the Lex 100; annual trainee solicitor survey.

NHS COVID-19 App launches – The Data Protection Ramifications

The overarching concerns relating to the App concern personal data: what data would be required, what the data would be used for, and would the data be used for reasons other than combating the spread of COVID-19.

Extension of majority of measures to protect struggling businesses - update to Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020

There has been a number of updates to Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020, see a useful summary here.

Details of Winter Economy Plan and update to Track and Trace released

The Chancellor yesterday (24 September 2020) announced the Government’s Winter Economy Plan, see the key changes here.

Protection for Commercial Tenants Extended Again

Following the recent Government announcement, this protection has now been extended again, this time until 31 December 2020.

Exciting conservation project WildEast challenges our region to become one of the biggest, best connected and restored nature reserves in the world

Leathes Prior is delighted to have been instructed to act for WildEast in their aim to make the Eastern region one of the largest, best connected and restored nature reserves in the world, to span 1,250,000 hectares.

Leathes Prior welcomes three new Trainee Solicitors to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome three new members of staff with the recruitment of Trainee Solicitors Aimee Lynch-Coleman, Gemma Hughes and James Walker.

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

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that Myles Chingara has qualified as a Solicitor

ICO publish new Children’s Code to protect data online

The Code itself contains 15 guiding standards that should be met by organisations operating websites and any other online services likely to be accessed by children.

The Kickstart Scheme opens its doors to applications from today (02/09/2020)

The Scheme is designed to give unemployed young people a future of opportunity and hope by creating high-quality, government-subsidised jobs across the UK following the Coronavirus pandemic and to provide a stepping stone to further employment.

EU-US Privacy Shield declared invalid – What you need to know when transferring data from the EU to the US

The decision in Schrems II is one of the most significant developments since the implementation of the GDPR.

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Leathes Prior welcomes new Facilities Manager Matthew Chaplin to the firm

Matthew brings with him a wealth of experience, with ten years managing the Health, Safety and Facilities at a leading International Book Wholesaler Bertram Group.

Students and Schools – What next after results day?

Results day, whether for GCSEs or A-Levels, is a stressful event for all involved. So what should you be doing – as a student or a school – to deal with complaints, appeals and the rest?

Wills witnessed by video link to be made legal

New legislation is to be introduced in September which makes Wills executed via video link legal in England and Wales.

Getting Your Affairs In Order – Registering Your Property at the Land Registry

For many, the most valuable asset within their estate is their home. With this in mind, it is important to consider whether the paperwork for your property is in order.

Landlords & Tenants: making workplaces COVID-secure

A key consideration for businesses that rent their premises will be their right to make alterations.

Health and Care Visa – An opportunity for Health and Care staff?

The government has now confirmed that the new Health and Care Visa will be available from Tuesday 4 August.

Foreign Workers – Government gives more details on the new Points Based System

The Government gave further details on Monday 13 July of how the new Points Based Immigration System will operate from next year when the UK leaves the EU.

Getting Your Affairs in Order - Lasting Powers of Attorney

This article is the second in a series by our Wills, Estates and Powers of Attorneys Team which looks at ways you can get your personal affairs in order.

Pavement Licences: A European twist to the British pub experience

One significant barrier to the hospitality sector's recovery is social distancing.

Reduced rates of Stamp Duty announced by Chancellor

The budget announcements made by Chancellor Rishi Sunak today have certainly got people talking, but the announcement of a Stamp Duty holiday is a big one for the Property Industry.

Chancellor Announces The “Plan For Jobs” Budget

In the latest announcement from the Chancellor today a number of measures of interest to employers were introduced:

Getting Your Affairs In Order - Wills

This article is the first in a series by our Wills, Estates and Powers of Attorneys Team which looks at ways you can put your personal affairs in order.

Updated guidance released on how businesses should collect customer details

At the time of the Prime Minister’s statement, there were a number of question marks over how this would be compatible with data protection law, which the ICO has sought to clarify in its most recent guidance.

Government gives clarity on furlough and EMI options

Until now, the impact of furlough leave on Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) options has been of significant concern to many EMI option holders affected by COVID-19.

Attracting Foreign Workers After Brexit

The Government continues to announce various measures designed to help foreign workers come to the UK following our departure from the EU.

New insolvency legislation to protect struggling businesses now in force Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020

Following on from government announcements dating back to 28 March 2020 and the introduction to Parliament on 20 May 2020 of proposed legislation aimed at protecting struggling businesses affected by the Coronavirus pandemic, the much anticipated Bill has finally passed its final stage in Parliament and received Royal Assent on 25 June 2020.

Furlough Fraud, Misuse and the Finance Bill: HMRC to fight back?

It is important to distinguish between a furlough “fraud” and a furlough “mistake”.

Service please! The complications of commencing proceedings in a pandemic

These consequences have recently been felt by the Claimant (and her solicitors) in the case of Stanley -v- London Borough of Tower Hamlets, a case involving a claim for breach of data protection by a local council.

Protection from forfeiture for commercial rent arrears extended

The “relevant period” has now been extended to 30 September 2020.

Relaxation of lockdown: new guidance requires restaurants, bars and other businesses to collect customer details

The Prime Minister yesterday announced further relaxation of lockdown restrictions, in particular for businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors.

Leathes Prior stand ready to assist the hospitality sector in their 4 July return

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement today

Update on ‘No-Fault Divorce’

The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill, is rapidly progressing through Parliament with only a couple of stages remaining until it becomes law.

Leathes Prior advise Angling Direct plc on £5.5 million fund raise

Paul Warman and Nina Ryan of Leathes Prior’s Corporate Team have assisted Angling Direct plc in raising up to £5.5 million through a placing of new shares on the alternative investment market of the London Stock Exchange.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme - Flexible Furlough

The Government have now published further guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

New insolvency legislation to protect struggling businesses announced (Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020) - Relief for debtors, worrying times for creditors?

Relief for debtors, worrying times for creditors?

‘No fault divorce’: could significant change to divorce in the UK be just weeks away?

Yesterday (8th June 2020) the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill was backed by MPs with 231 votes to 16 against, with indications that it could be passed as soon as July 2020. It is a move welcomed by many as a means to allow couples the opportunity to end their marriage without the need to apportion blame.

Coronavirus: Commercial Tenants In Rent Arrears - Get Protected

Whilst the Government has recently implemented various measures to help protect commercial tenants in rent arrears, these measures will not remain in place indefinitely. Tenants should make sure they protect themselves before these measures are lifted.

Phase Two of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Announced

Further detail has emerged following the Chancellor’s announcement last Friday evening which confirmed the headline details of the revised Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).

The NHS Test and Trace System – what should an employer be aware of?

This System looks set to become an integral part of the nation’s recovery strategy. Partner and Head of Employment, Dan Chapman talks us through what this means for the employer.

Tips for Divorce and Financial Settlement

Leathes Prior’s Family Team share some tips for coping during the difficult separation process.

Employing Tier 2 and 5 Migrants during the current Covid-19 crisis

The Home Office have confirmed that employers can continue to employ an employee who is waiting for their Tier 2 or 5 visa application to be decided if:

Coronavirus - it’s good to talk

Whether your employees are working from home, on Furlough Leave or are preparing to return to the office, taking into account their health and wellbeing, and anticipating their concerns, is crucial in order to ensure a smooth transition in the physical return to the workplace.

New COVID-19 Secure Health & Safety advice issued today

The Government have today issued further brief guidance to all businesses

Coronavirus – Future Fund goes live today

Following its announcement on 20 April 2020 by the Chancellor, the Future Fund targeted at supporting high growth companies has today opened for applications, which can be made through to the end of September 2020.

Leaseholders: Extending Your Lease During COVID-19

The fallout from COVID-19 is still to be assessed and it is important now, more than ever, to plan ahead and ensure that our financial positions are such that we are best placed to weather any storm that may lie ahead.

Back to work? Reassessing your business property needs beyond COVID-19 lockdown

As the UK business world is slowly re-opening its doors, for many working from home has become a day to day reality since the lockdown measures were announced. We are helping many businesses consider their property needs going forward and can help your business take this important next step.

Getting The Market Moving - A Further Update

The Government advice on home moving during the COVID outbreak has now been updated

Update - What lies ahead for Commercial Property

With the recent changes to Government guidance and legislation, many parts of the commercial sector are now looking at a phased return over the next couple of months.

Buying and Selling Properties at Auction

Buying or selling a property at auction need not be unduly complicated. This article gives a few pointers to help you consider whether or not you should consider looking at an auction going forward.

Getting the Property Market Moving COVID-Secure

Re-starting the Property Market. The latest legislation has been released!

Making your Business COVID-Secure – Free Compulsory Risk Assessment

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on 10 May 2020 which has prompted a change of emphasis in encouraging businesses to return to work where safe to do so, further detailed and sector-by-sector guidance was published late on 11 May 2020.

Latest guidance issued by CAFCASS to assist children and families

CAFCASS, the ‘Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service’ have issued Guidance on their website to assist separated parents in coming to arrangements for their children during the current crisis.

Furlough Leave – What can I ask my Employees to do?

This article covers the basics of what an Employee cannot do whilst on Furlough Leave and looks at the issues facing the Modern Employer.

Contact tracing apps: is the data privacy risk worth the benefit?

As a key part of the next phase of fighting the pandemic, the Government are proposing the use of “contact tracing” apps. These apps will aim to track the spread of COVID-19 and allow for people to be notified if they have been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for the virus.

Game Changer: Land Registry relax ID rules in response to Covid-19

The Land Registry have announced welcome (albeit currently temporary) changes when verifying a person’s identity and for signing deeds which will ease at least some of the difficulties faced in completing on conveyancing transactions.

Leathes Prior nominated to win Best Recruiter award

Leathes Prior are extremely proud to have received two nominations in the LawCareers.net Awards 2020.

Leathes Prior congratulates Partner Tim Cary listed in the “Legal 500 Hall of Fame”

We are proud to announce that Leathes Prior Partner Tim Cary, has been named for his work across the transport sector in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame which aims to highlight the world’s leading lawyers.

Easing the lockdown – the challenges facing employers as the workplace resumes

The transition as businesses re-open and employees return from home-working or furlough leave will lead to new challenges for employers to manage, and these will arguably be more difficult and elongated than the initial lockdown.

UK Government to increase protection for Commercial Tenants as Landlords look to side-step the 3-month long forfeiture ban

The UK Government has announced that it will introduce new legislation preventing landlords from using what is being described as ‘aggressive debt collection tactics’ against their commercial tenants.

“Bounce Back Loan Scheme” announced for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

The “Bounce Back Loan Scheme” is designed to overcome the difficulty and delays some businesses have encountered in applying for the Government’s other schemes.

Coronavirus – Future Fund for Innovative Companies

Last week, the Chancellor announced two new business support packages for innovation companies; one targeted at supporting high growth companies (the “Future Fund”), and another providing grants for Small and Medium Enterprises focused on research and development.

Residential Property Update

Leathes Prior - still here to help you.

Employing existing workers from the European Union after Brexit

Citizens of the European Union already here need to take certain steps to retain the right to live and work here by applying for the necessary permission under the EU Settlement Scheme. The deadline for applying is 30 June 2021.

Employers advised to apply now for licence to sponsor overseas workers once free movement ends

The Government has recently issued further clarification on how the employment landscape will change after the UK leaves the European Union next January

Continuing to act for you!

During this difficult time, the Wills, Estates and Lasting Powers of Attorney Team is continuing to find innovative and flexible ways to act for clients.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – Update: 15 April 2020

Although future amendments are possible, the fourth version of the guidance read alongside the law could well be the definitive guidance on how the CJRS is to operate.

Carluccio’s – early judicial consideration of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

Even though the CJRS was only announced by the Chancellor on 20 March 2020 and the published guidance notes still leaving many questions unanswered, remarkably, the first legal consideration of the Scheme has already been heard in the High Court.

What are the Capital Gains Tax changes for property sales and how do they affect me?

As from 6 April 2020 anyone who makes a taxable gain when selling residential property will have to account to HMRC within 30 days of completion of the sale/disposal – this means not only submitting a Return but also accounting for any tax due.

Leathes Prior team up with Legal Tech company Settify

During these challenging times, Leathes Prior has teamed up with Settify to provide new clients with a helpful and discrete way to interact with our Family Team remotely.

Furlough Leave (part 2) – The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

Following the initial announcement by the Chancellor on 20 March introducing the concept of Furlough Leave and furloughed workers, there has been a huge take up from businesses across the UK.

Coronavirus: Wills, A Possible Change in the Law…

For many, the law is often seen as rigid and slow to change with an emphasis on tradition and formalities. Despite that, The Law Society are in discussions with the Ministry of Justice to urgently change the requirements on the witnessing of Wills.

Updated Statement for clients regarding Wills.

We are still here for you!

Government confirms children from separated families CAN continue to see both parents during Coronavirus lockdown

It is understandable that there will be confusion amongst separated parents about what the impact of the lockdown will be and whether their usual living/contact arrangements for their children can continue.

Coronavirus: Tips for Commercial Landlords now faced with rent arrears

If tenants cannot afford to pay their rent then landlords and tenants alike should consider their options as soon as possible. This article sets out the options available for landlords when their tenants are unable to pay rent.

Coronavirus: Tips for Commercial Tenants now unable to pay rent

If tenants cannot afford to pay their rent then landlords and tenants alike should consider their options as soon as possible. This article considers the options available for commercial tenants who are unable to pay their rent.

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Furlough leave - what is it?

Employers and employees (and even employment lawyers) all raised eyebrows at the Chancellor’s use of the term ‘furlough’ on 20 March as part of the latest Government response to the coronavirus crisis – but we all need to become accustomed to it, as it promises to be one of the most significant developments in UK employment law of all time.

What can I do about the arrangements for my children during the Coronavirus outbreak?

For many separated parents, the coronavirus pandemic is creating its own unique challenges and is likely to cause disruption to the usual arrangements for children.

Coronavirus: How It Is Affecting Commercial Contracts

For business owners forced or deciding to suspend or cancel operations as a result of this pandemic, there are very real challenges in managing contractual relationships and avoiding potentially ruinous claims.

Coronavirus: The Impact on Termination of Commercial Leases

This is the first article in a series of articles setting out the likely legal impacts resulting from the global Coronavirus pandemic. In this article we consider options for terminating a commercial lease.

Statement for clients regarding Wills, Estates and Powers of Attorney.

We are still here!

Legal Musts for Commercial Landlords and Tenants - A Legal Update

Given the current uncertain and ever-changing position, this article covers some general points you may wish to consider in regards to any existing lease, whether you are a landlord or a tenant.

Coronavirus: What personal information can be collected and used?

In this article, we consider what information an organisation can collect in relation to coronavirus, how that personal information can be used and to whom it can be disclosed.

Landlords: Is a Housing Court the answer to your prayers?

Imagine taking your mobile phone from your pocket, unlocking it, and handing it to the nearest stranger.

Leathes Prior assist Samurai Sportswear in deal with Leicester Tigers

Samurai Sportswear have agreed a three-year deal with Premiership Rugby Club Leicester Tigers.

Leathes Prior Assist Salix River & Wetland Services Limited in sale to RSK

We are pleased to announce that Leathes Prior have acted for the shareholders of Salix River & Wetland Services Limited on the sale of the company to RSK Environmental Ltd.

Fender rocked by £4.5 million fine

Jimi Hendrix, Nile Rogers, Jeff Beck, Bruce Springsteen, George Harrison. What do these great musicians all have in common?

How Climate Change Can Affect Your Home

Associate, Sabina Haag takes us through the potential impact of climate change on your home.

When an email exchange constitutes a contract

“Please go ahead with the below”

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce a significant IT infrastructure upgrade

As a key step towards providing the most innovative of services, Leathes Prior is delighted to announce a significant IT infrastructure upgrade, moving from traditional IT services to a Hyper-Converged Infrastructure.

Charity Of The Year 2020

Leathes Prior are proud to announce that we will be supporting St Martins Housing as our Charity Of The Year throughout 2020.

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