With respect and without delay
It is a sad fact of arguments over estates that a subject of dispute may be the remains of the deceased. By long-established common law principle a body cannot be property – no one can have rights of ownership over it. So if there is disagreement over the method and place of disposal, or who…
Beware of who you sell to
Most buyers are genuine and have no hidden agenda but be wary of online companies which advertise that they will buy any property quickly. Although the conveyancing process may seem to be running smoothly, these firms have a habit of getting to the point of exchange of contracts and then deciding that an inspection of…
How to get the best out of your litigation lawyer
If you find yourself involved in a dispute – over a will, with a neighbour over boundaries, or with tradespeople over poor work – you may wish to consult a solicitor but be put off by the costs involved or by the demands that taking action will place on your time and energy. How can…
Challenges to wills
In 2017 we wrote about the Ilott v Mitson case, where the Supreme Court upheld a claim against an estate brought by the long-estranged daughter of the deceased. It was widely predicted that the number of such cases would increase, and this has come about. Today came a report of a year-on-year increase of 47%…
Covid-19 Update
Ahead of the new requirements to wear face covering, we have made provisions to ensure that the safety of all visitors and staff can be maintained whilst still providing our services. As from 15th July 2020, we have asked all visitors to wear face covering when attending our office. Staff members who greet, provides assistance…
Changes to Divorce Laws
As from Autumn of 2021, the divorce laws will change and ‘no-fault divorce’ will be introduced. This would be the first change in divorce laws for nearly 50 years. The current position in England & Wales is that there is only one ground for divorce and that is that the marriage has broken down irretrievably…
Stamp Duty – Bye for now
The Chancellor has announced an immediate stamp duty “holiday” for homebuyers. SDLT will not be payable for property purchases up to the value of £500,000 with immediate effect to run until 31 March 2021. For all your conveyancing needs and support please contact us on 01795 533337 and speak to our conveyancing specialists.
No holiday for the SEND Tribunal
The return of normality to schools – or not – is much in the news. Despite the uncertainty the work of the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Tribunal continues as far as possible as usual. Local authorities are still expected to respond to requests for education, health and care (EHC) needs assessments and to…
SOME GOOD NEWS FOR RESIDENTIAL LANDLORDS
When creating an Assured Shorthold Tenancy of a residential property the Landlord needs to provide specified information to the Tenant. Where applicable, this would include a current gas safety certificate. Where particular requirements apply but were not followed then the penalty could be an inability to serve a valid “Section 21 Notice”, which is the…
Easing of lockdown
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced a series of measures to take effect from 4 July, easing the lockdown in England. However, we confirm that there will be no change to Tassells’ Covid-19 precautions in the office, to protect our clients and staff. We are still discouraging people from attending the office, so please telephone…