Buying a property is one of the largest financial commitments most people will make, and much of the work that protects that commitment happens out of sight. Among the least understood parts of the process are “searches”. They rarely involve the buyer directly, yet they can determine whether a purchase proceeds, what it costs, and […]
Families applying for probate are set to see significant changes to court fees from 13 July 2026, subject to parliamentary approval. While the cost of making a probate application is increasing substantially, there is some welcome news for those who need official copies of the Grant of Probate. Probate application fee increases The court fee […]
Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) tools are becoming part of everyday life. Many people now use them to help draft emails, summarise documents, research topics, prepare forms or explain unfamiliar concepts. AI can be useful, but it also carries risks. This is especially important where legal documents, personal information, financial details or confidential family or business matters […]
Introduction Gifting residential property, such as your home or a second property, is sometimes considered as part of estate planning, particularly where individuals are looking to reduce inheritance tax (IHT) or pass assets on during their lifetime. A common assumption is that simply giving your home to a family member will remove it from your […]
The family home is often the largest asset in the estate of someone who has died, and obtaining an accurate “date of death” valuation is crucial – HMRC can and do check that such valuations are appropriate. Sorting out valuations at an already difficult time can feel burdensome, but with the right approach and advice […]
A significant Part of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has now come into force (1 May 2026), introducing wide-ranging reform to the private rented sector in England. The changes significantly strengthen tenant protections while placing new and clearer obligations on landlords. End of “no-fault” evictions Section 21 Notices have now been abolished. They cannot be […]
Tax Year 2026/27: Key updates and what they mean for your planning We are pleased to share our Tax Tables for the 2026/27 tax year, reflecting the latest measures announced in the Autumn Budget, the Scottish Budget, and subsequent government updates. With the government’s shift from spring to autumn Budgets, the timing of major fiscal […]
If a UK law firm closes down while handling your ongoing matter – perhaps a Will, your house purchase, a family member’s probate or a litigation matter – it can be disruptive, stressful and upsetting. However you do still have options, and there are clear regulatory protections in place. Beware scammers First of all, a […]
When couples buy a property, they usually assume a rosy future together. They do not want to discuss the grim prospect of a property dispute on splitting up. However, when a dispute between cohabitees reaches the courts, the judge may infer or impute (legal terms the court likes to use!) that the couple had a […]
When someone can no longer make decisions for themselves and has not put a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, the Court of Protection can step in. Applications to the Court of Protection allow decisions to be made about a person’s finances, property, health or welfare, either on an ongoing basis through a deputyship or […]
Probate fraud is a growing problem in the UK, as criminals find new ways to exploit the system that handles people’s estates after death. Families can be left devastated, not only financially but emotionally, when fraudsters interfere with the rightful inheritance process. Is probate fraud on the rise? Yes cases are increasing – especially as […]
The winter market moves quickly – and preparation is key. Find out how to get your home ready, what to organise behind the scenes, and how the conveyancing process fits in under the law of England and Wales. Sellers who prepare their property’s presentation, choose their estate agent, assemble their paperwork and plan their marketing […]
