Blog
Jul 2020
Reasons why there are more inheritance battles than ever - and what you can do to stop it
The number of court battles involving inheritance hit an all-time high last year. But, what was it that caused such a surge in figures and what can we do to make sure they don’t increase further?
Jul 2020
Could the 1st August deadline "force" a mass return to work?
As part of his speech delivered on 17th July, the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, announced changes to the guidance for working from home after 1st August. Some people may feel anxious about whether it is safe to go back to work and they may also worry about bridging any gaps in childcare. Can employers force employees to return to work and what are the obligations for both sides?
Jul 2020
"Common law” partners are more likely than ever to take care over legal rights
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) cohabiting couples are one of the fastest growing family types in the UK. Even though the law seems slow to catch up with this increasing trend, couples appear to be more prepared than ever when it comes to protecting their legal rights in the event of a separation.
Jul 2020
New Stamp Duty holiday could stimulate new housing market demand
Today the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak MP, announced a Stamp Duty holiday that is hoped will incentivize buyers and offer some much-needed support to the property market.
Jul 2020
“Mini” budget delivers major support for employment
As the Chancellor started his speech at the House of Commons on Wednesday 8th July, several questions remained as to how he planned to support the economy as it started to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. The spotlight was also firmly on jobs and how they would be affected by the winding down of measures, such as the jobs protection scheme. However, today’s “mini-budget” delivered several messages that could bring renewed hope to both businesses and employees alike.
Jul 2020
Covid-19 strikes again for grieving families seeking probate
In recent weeks, we’ve found ourselves writing a number of articles as to how the Coronavirus’ cruelty[http://stay-informed/legal-updates/covid-19-can-be-cruel-enough-without-the-additional-paperwork/] and lockdown limbo[http://www.downslaw.co.uk/stay-informed/legal-updates/will-lighter-lockdown-mean-limbo-is-eased-for-probate/] was causing headaches for many, but it seems that the recent pandemic continues to hold a sting in its tail for those who are grieving.
Jul 2020
Covid-19's after effects continue to take hold on families
As the plot surrounding Covid-19 continues to thicken, further mysteries are now revealing themselves in the form of mental and physical problems in patients recovering from Covid-19 that extend further than just respiratory.
Jul 2020
The true (hidden) cost of care
It goes without saying that when a relative becomes ill, we do our best to step in and look after them. However, when that illness becomes more long term, the costs of caring for that individual can soon mount up.
Jun 2020
No-fault divorce could begin from 2021
The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill concluded its passage through the House of Commons on 17th June, allowing couples seeking a no-fault divorce to file their claims - but they may have to wait until the autumn of 2021 to do so.
Jun 2020
HMRC releases latest furlough guidance
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) will cease at the end of October and changes will be phased in from next month. On 12th June, HMRC released further details around how the scheme is due to wind down and what employers will need to do to prepare.
