News & Blogs

Filter by:

Recogni​sing Neurodiversity and Supporting Families

Divorce or separation can have a significant impact on children, and how it affects each child will vary depending on…

Lauren Pilcher

March 27, 2025 - 3 minutes read

World Book Day 2025 Thursday 6th March 2025

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Alexandra Baggallay

March 4, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Children’s Mental Health Week – how can we bring children’s voices into family proceedings?

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Zoe Rose

February 12, 2025 - 5 minutes read

Family Mediation Week 27th – 31st January 2025

This week is Family Mediation week which runs from 27th – 31st January. With all of the different types of…

Alicia Roscoe

January 28, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Why Non-Court Dispute Resolution IS the Better Choice for Families

As we approach Family Mediation Week (27-31 January), it is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of mediation…

Ian Davies

January 22, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Five Top Tips for Co-Parenting over the Christmas period

Christmas is an exciting time for children filled with fun, food and festivities. However, for parents who are separated, the…

Alexandra Baggallay

November 11, 2024 - 2 minutes read

When alcohol concerns aren’t limited to January

The first working Monday of the year has unfortunately earned the nickname ‘Divorce Day’. The media is keen to suggest…

Lauren Pilcher

February 1, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Why ‘Divorce Day’ isn’t a term that’s fit for 2024

The first working Monday of the year has unfortunately earned the nickname ‘Divorce Day’. The media is keen to suggest…

Lauren Pilcher

December 21, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Top tips for introducing a new partner to your children

Introducing a new partner to your children is always going to be an emotionally challenging time. You will be excited…

Lauren Pilcher

December 11, 2023 - 3 minutes read

5 top tips for co-parenting during the festive season

The lead-up to the festive season is an exciting time for children, filled with fun, food, and celebrations. However, for…

Alexandra Baggallay

November 14, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Taking a child abroad on holiday after divorce or separation

As the October half term approaches, many divorced or separated parents will be taking their children abroad on holiday. If…

Alexandra Baggallay

October 3, 2023 - 5 minutes read

Top tips for separated parents during the summer holidays

Before you know it, school will be out for the summer, and already the lovely weather has brought the feel…

Lauren Pilcher

June 17, 2023 - 5 minutes read

How can we protect children whilst giving them a voice during child arrangement decisions?

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Zoe Rose

June 1, 2023 - 5 minutes read

7 ways separating parents can help a child with autism cope with change

Divorce or separation can have a significant impact on children, and how it affects each child will vary depending on…

Lauren Pilcher

March 30, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Why your terms of business should be kept up-to-date

Your terms of business may not reflect the current legal requirements, and this could expose your business to financial loss…

Matthew Cotton

March 1, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Exclusion clauses in contracts: Wasted expenditure vs loss of profit

The choice of words is of paramount importance in the drafting of contracts. In the case of Soteria Insurance Limited…

Hedges Team

June 16, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Contracting parties: what’s in a name?

A recent High Court decision highlights the importance of being clear about the parties to a contract. When a customer…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2022 - 1 minute read

Commercial Property – looking ahead to 2022

This article briefly reviews the challenges faced by commercial property landlords in 2021, and gives an indication of the issues…

Hedges Team

December 23, 2021 - 1 minute read

The cost of justice

A worrying statistic has just been revealed – 1 in 5 people do not feel they can seek justice. Over…

Hedges Team

November 5, 2021 - 1 minute read

Once more unto the breach

Many business organisations have faced commercial pressures in recent times resulting from Brexit, the Covid pandemic, furloughed workers, driver shortages…

Hedges Team

October 28, 2021 - 1 minute read

Business interruption insurance payouts: just in time? Let’s hope so…

The ambiguity and in some cases outright refusal surrounding business interruption payouts from insurers has been the cause of many…

Hedges Team

January 18, 2021 - 1 minute read

Record year for UK tech!

With Brexit uncertainty still haunting businesses and investors alike, it’s great to see that the UK tech sector is continuing…

Hedges Team

November 1, 2019 - 1 minute read

Do Swedish paternity rights oppress women?

We’ve heard a lot about paternity leave rights in the press recently, with calls for a fairer system to be…

Hedges Team

July 10, 2019 - 1 minute read

Warning- GDPR has (big) teeth

You may remember that British Airways were in the news last year when hackers managed to steal personal data from…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

Next demands reduced rents to reflect other retailers’ CVA deals

According to the Sunday Times this weekend Next will be asking landlords to agree to a new lease clause to…

Hedges Team

May 21, 2018 - 2 minutes read

Need inspiration for a New Year’s resolution? READ THIS BOOK!

This book, The Anatomy of Peace, is one that falls into the category of ‘the books that changed my life’!…

Hedges Team

December 22, 2017 - 1 minute read

A Clever Move or Foul Play? The ‘Deliveroo’ Judgment That’s Sparking A Call For Reform

In the latest battle within the gig economy, a tribunal last week ruled that Deliveroo riders in North London are…

Hedges Team

November 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

In a cosy pub near you…..

This week’s blog from the fabulous Hero Brown gives us her recommendations for the best cosy pubs across our county…

Nicola Poole

November 10, 2017 - 1 minute read

From Uber to Judges: You won’t have thought this crowd would be fighting for ‘worker’ status

Uber, Deliveroo, Hermes… The list goes on in terms of those cases which have been in the spotlight of wanting…

Hedges Team

October 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Mediation in the spotlight – Day 5 – Without Prejudice

Today I am going to focus on the fact that anything said at a Mediation is Without Prejudice, what this…

Hedges Team

- 3 minutes read

Mediation in the spotlight – Day 4 – Confidentiality

Welcome to Day 4 of my Mediation blog, to help mark and promote Mediation Awareness week. Today, I’m looking at…

Hedges Team

October 19, 2017 - 3 minutes read

Mediation in the spotlight – Day 2 – A Non-binding process

Its Day 2 of my blog as part of Mediation Awareness Week, and I’m going to look at another aspect…

Hedges Team

October 17, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Mediation in the spotlight – Day 1 – A Voluntary Process

As part of Mediation Awareness Week, each day I’m going to be blogging on what I see as 5 key…

Hedges Team

October 16, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Microchipping – To be or should not be?

The Wisconsin based tech company Three Square Market made headlines a few weeks ago when they became the first company…

Hedges Team

August 25, 2017 - 3 minutes read

How Voluntary Overtime Affects Holiday Pay

The Case Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council v Willetts and ors The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) upheld a tribunal’s decision that…

Hedges Team

August 8, 2017 - 3 minutes read

Shared Parental Pay: The new issue within the equal pay debate

The Issue Discrimination against women who take maternity leave is a well-known issue. But with the introduction of shared parental…

Hedges Team

- 2 minutes read

Case Law Update: A victory for the exclusion clause

This Court of Appeal ruling confirms a broader approach to exclusion clauses in contractual disputes.  A unanimous decision by the…

Hedges Team

July 13, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Taylor review outlines key principles for “fair and decent work” for all

Matthew Taylor’s review puts a spotlight on modern working practices and outlines new approaches towards worker’s rights to ensure “good quality…

Hedges Team

July 11, 2017 - 3 minutes read

Wimbledon no exception when it comes to unconscious bias

I have been thinking about the fact that every year in recent memory there have been news stories about sexism…

Hedges Team

July 6, 2017 - 3 minutes read

Tips on preventing workplace harassment

THE LAW The Equality Act defines sexual harassment as unwanted conduct of a sexual nature which has the purpose or…

Hedges Team

July 5, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Businesses: Avoid reputational damage with this 3 measures

In this Internet age, news travels fast. Bad news travels even faster.  Protecting your business’ reputation is therefore ever the…

Hedges Team

June 26, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Maternity discrimination on the rise…but what is the real extent of the problem?

It is more than disappointing to read about the apparent rise in pregnancy and maternity discrimination.  Figures vary but recent…

Hedges Team

June 22, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Penguins: new lessons to be learned about the importance of mediation

Ok so this is not really about penguins, but I like the picture as it (clearly) depicts one penguin mediating…

Hedges Team

June 20, 2017 - 1 minute read

What the General Election Results Mean For Workers’ Rights

Whatever media rhetoric may be thrown at us, the Conservatives had the majority vote, and teaming up with the DUP…

Hedges Team

June 12, 2017 - 1 minute read

For all you “learning maniacs” out there !

Great article by Bill Taylor about the culture  Garry Ridge, CEO, helped create  at the WD-40 Company.  I’ve seen a…

Hedges Team

June 6, 2017 - 1 minute read

Case Law Update: Ambiguous contract clauses

This case makes for a good reminder of the importance of clarity in a contract. Businesses so keen to get…

Hedges Team

June 5, 2017 - 2 minutes read

The Liberal Democrats’ Manifesto and its Effects on Your Employment Rights

Having done a snapshot on some of the proposed changes by the Labour and Conservative party, I am mindful to…

Hedges Team

May 23, 2017 - 1 minute read

Strrrrriiiiike 32 for the Rail Industry

Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union has announced that employees at Southern Railway, Merseyrail and Northern (Arriva Rail North) will…

Hedges Team

May 22, 2017 - 1 minute read

The £18K reminder that disability discrimination in the workplace still exists

A part-time worker (Maria McKeith) for Ardoyne Association who was dismissed in March 2015 has been awarded £18,886 in damages.…

Hedges Team

May 18, 2017 - 1 minute read

How Your General Election Vote Could Affect Your Employment Rights

The 8th June 2017 will come upon us all a lot quicker than we may realise. Between now and then,…

Hedges Team

May 17, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Employer ordered to pay £2 for breaching employee’s right to be accompanied

Yes.  £2!  It is not a typo. The Law Employees have a statutory right to be accompanied to a grievance…

Hedges Team

May 15, 2017 - 2 minutes read

At last!

So the phone rings, I do not recognise the number.  First question, do I answer or is it just another…

Hedges Team

May 11, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Dealing With the Hippo in the Room

Some employees find themselves worried and anxious mid-meeting as they consider how to deal or respond to the hippo in…

Hedges Team

April 26, 2017 - 2 minutes read

[Another] General Election 2017: Politics & the Workplace

Can employers stop their employees politically campaigning in the workplace? Is it possible for employers to extend their control over…

Hedges Team

April 20, 2017 - 1 minute read

The Hidden Dangers of Non-Disclosure: The Moth-Infested Mansion

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

James Overton

February 14, 2025 - 5 minutes read

What Do Stamp Duty Changes Mean For You?

Rebecca Reeves announced that there will be a change in the higher rate Stamp Duty Land Tax payable on the…

Hedges Team

December 9, 2024 - 4 minutes read

Navigating Property Law with Clarity and Confidence

At Hedges, we understand the inherent stress that can accompany property matters. Unfamiliar legal jargon, complex procedures, and a perceived…

Hedges Team

May 31, 2024 - 3 minutes read

family moving into a house

How we make your move faster and smoother

Moving house can be a stressful experience. There are lots of different people involved and much of the process is…

Hedges Team

March 27, 2024 - 3 minutes read

older hands holding

What should I do when a loved one loses capacity?

What should I do when a loved one loses capacity? It can be worrying when a loved one loses capacity,…

Hedges Team

March 11, 2024 - 2 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What are the Time Limits to Contesting a Will?

Losing a loved one is tough, and it can be even more stressful if the will doesn’t reflect your expectations.…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2025 - 2 minutes read

How Long Does Probate Take in the UK? Understanding the Timeline.

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, and dealing with their estate can add additional stress. One of the…

Hedges Team

January 16, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Understanding your role as an executor

At one point or another, many of us will be given the task of being responsible for the administration of…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

November 28, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Why it pays to get support from a probate solicitor

You don’t have to work with a probate solicitor to administer someone’s estate. As the Personal Representative, it is perfectly…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

November 22, 2023 - 4 minutes read

What to do when a loved one dies

The time following the death of somebody close to you can often be very difficult. We specialise in bereavement matters…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

April 4, 2023 - 3 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

The Hidden Dangers of Non-Disclosure: The Moth-Infested Mansion

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

James Overton

February 14, 2025 - 5 minutes read

a man and a woman gardening happily

Navigating Neighbour Disputes this New Year

The start of a new year often brings a sense of fresh beginnings and resolutions. Unfortunately, for some, this can…

James Overton

February 5, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Why Non-Court Dispute Resolution IS the Better Choice for Families

As we approach Family Mediation Week (27-31 January), it is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of mediation…

Ian Davies

January 22, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What are the Time Limits to Contesting a Will?

Losing a loved one is tough, and it can be even more stressful if the will doesn’t reflect your expectations.…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2025 - 2 minutes read

No-fault divorce has made things easier, but don’t forget about the finances

No fault divorce was introduced in April 2022, and this together with the online portal has made it much easier…

Hedges Team

January 6, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Challenging a Will: Who Can Do It?

The death of a loved one is a deeply emotional experience. However, in some cases, disagreements may arise regarding the…

Hedges Team

June 25, 2024 - 3 minutes read

a man and a woman gardening happily

Time to get back out in the garden? What you need to know about the most common garden disputes.

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

Matthew Cotton

April 12, 2024 - 3 minutes read

woman looking at phone, worried expression

FAQs: Professional Negligence Claims

It can be incredibly stressful if you receive poor advice from a professional you have hired. If you are lucky,…

Matthew Cotton

April 3, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Why your terms of business should be kept up-to-date

Your terms of business may not reflect the current legal requirements, and this could expose your business to financial loss…

Matthew Cotton

March 1, 2024 - 2 minutes read

woman hugging an older woman whilst looking out onto a beach

What should I do if an attorney is not acting in a person’s best interests?

An attorney must make decisions based on the best interests of the person they are representing. If you feel that…

Claire Cox

February 23, 2024 - 3 minutes read

older couple discuss people working sitting on sofa

10 top tips for those considering mediation for dispute resolution

Mediation is often the best way to resolve disputes. In many situations, it will be cheaper and speedier than litigation…

Matthew Cotton

February 15, 2024 - 3 minutes read

keys held up outside of house

Joint property ownership disputes: What happens when you can’t agree

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always go to plan. Relationships can break down and disputes can arise. When parties to a dispute…

Matthew Cotton

February 8, 2024 - 3 minutes read

sunset setting on an agricultural field

Understanding Agricultural Boundary Disputes

Agricultural Boundary disputes can be complex and emotionally charged, often causing tension between farmers, neighbours and landowners alike. Agricultural land…

James Overton

- 2 minutes read

How a Title Deeds Health Check can help you understand more about your property

Whether you’re a landlord, seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, understanding your property’s legal landscape is crucial. Land registry title…

James Overton

February 2, 2024 - 2 minutes read

5 tips for cohabitees who want to protect each other

Claire Cox, Head of Inheritance Disputes, shares her top tips on protecting yourselves as an unmarried couple or cohabitees who…

Claire Cox

- 3 minutes read

Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council [2023]: What does this mean for alternative dispute resolution, including mediation?

Judgment in the case of Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council [2023] was handed down from the Court of…

Matthew Cotton

December 6, 2023 - 3 minutes read

10 things landlords need to know about the new Renters (Reform) Bill

The Renters (Reform) Bill is the new proposed legislation that details the government's plans to reform the private rental sector…

Matthew Cotton

November 15, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Murderer ordered to pay victims family compensation

Ben Field was a church warden in Buckinghamshire who devised a sinister plot to dupe the vulnerable by manipulating them…

Claire Cox

September 8, 2023 - 1 minute read

Undue influence and the burden of proof

Undue influence is probably the most common suggestion made to me by clients as an explanation for a family member's…

Claire Cox

August 31, 2023 - 1 minute read

A court bill that will leave you cold

A widow is facing a court bill in the hundreds of thousands after losing a battle against her husband's first…

Claire Cox

August 22, 2023 - 1 minute read

farm

Latest farming inheritance dispute

Simon Morton worked long hours farming on the farm all his life for "modest pay" while his sister pursued a…

Claire Cox

June 30, 2023 - 1 minute read

‘My nephew stole my £750k inheritance’ – Why lockdown Wills are leading to family fallouts

I am seeing increasing numbers of cases which arise from lockdown Wills. This case, reported by The Times, involved a…

Hedges Team

June 8, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Q&A with Claire Cox Head of Inheritance Disputes

Q&A with Claire Cox, Head of Inheritance Disputes

There has been a huge increase in inheritance disputes in recent years. This might involve a person contesting the validity…

Claire Cox

June 2, 2023 - 5 minutes read

How two inches extra on your home extension can cost you £200,000

Did you know: Two inches extra on your home extension could cost you £200,000? Sometimes the little things in life…

Matthew Cotton

April 28, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Why updating your Will should be at the top of your to-do list.

This week is Update Your Will Week (23rd-29th January 2023), an awareness campaign hosted by Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE)…

Carli Colby

January 22, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Wills, Inheritance, Trusts & Probate Dispute Questions and Answrers, FAQ

FAQs – Wills, Inheritance, Trusts & Probate Disputes

Disputes involving Wills, inheritance, trusts and probate can be complex and confusing. As a specialist contentious probate litigator, I have…

Claire Cox

December 20, 2022 - 6 minutes read

Exclusion clauses in contracts: Wasted expenditure vs loss of profit

The choice of words is of paramount importance in the drafting of contracts. In the case of Soteria Insurance Limited…

Hedges Team

June 16, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Contracting parties: what’s in a name?

A recent High Court decision highlights the importance of being clear about the parties to a contract. When a customer…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2022 - 1 minute read

Commercial Property – looking ahead to 2022

This article briefly reviews the challenges faced by commercial property landlords in 2021, and gives an indication of the issues…

Hedges Team

December 23, 2021 - 1 minute read

The cost of justice

A worrying statistic has just been revealed – 1 in 5 people do not feel they can seek justice. Over…

Hedges Team

November 5, 2021 - 1 minute read

Once more unto the breach

Many business organisations have faced commercial pressures in recent times resulting from Brexit, the Covid pandemic, furloughed workers, driver shortages…

Hedges Team

October 28, 2021 - 1 minute read

Business interruption insurance payouts: just in time? Let’s hope so…

The ambiguity and in some cases outright refusal surrounding business interruption payouts from insurers has been the cause of many…

Hedges Team

January 18, 2021 - 1 minute read

Record year for UK tech!

With Brexit uncertainty still haunting businesses and investors alike, it’s great to see that the UK tech sector is continuing…

Hedges Team

November 1, 2019 - 1 minute read

Do Swedish paternity rights oppress women?

We’ve heard a lot about paternity leave rights in the press recently, with calls for a fairer system to be…

Hedges Team

July 10, 2019 - 1 minute read

Warning- GDPR has (big) teeth

You may remember that British Airways were in the news last year when hackers managed to steal personal data from…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

Next demands reduced rents to reflect other retailers’ CVA deals

According to the Sunday Times this weekend Next will be asking landlords to agree to a new lease clause to…

Hedges Team

May 21, 2018 - 2 minutes read

Need inspiration for a New Year’s resolution? READ THIS BOOK!

This book, The Anatomy of Peace, is one that falls into the category of ‘the books that changed my life’!…

Hedges Team

December 22, 2017 - 1 minute read

A Neurodiverse Perspective on Family Law: Understanding and Support in Challenging Times

Divorce and separation are inherently complex, demanding a clear understanding of legal frameworks and a compassionate approach to individual needs.…

Ian Davies

April 1, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Recogni​sing Neurodiversity and Supporting Families

Divorce or separation can have a significant impact on children, and how it affects each child will vary depending on…

Lauren Pilcher

March 27, 2025 - 3 minutes read

World Book Day 2025 Thursday 6th March 2025

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Alexandra Baggallay

March 4, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Family Mediation Week 27th – 31st January 2025

This week is Family Mediation week which runs from 27th – 31st January. With all of the different types of…

Alicia Roscoe

January 28, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Why Non-Court Dispute Resolution IS the Better Choice for Families

As we approach Family Mediation Week (27-31 January), it is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of mediation…

Ian Davies

January 22, 2025 - 4 minutes read

No-fault divorce has made things easier, but don’t forget about the finances

No fault divorce was introduced in April 2022, and this together with the online portal has made it much easier…

Hedges Team

January 6, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Five Top Tips for Co-Parenting over the Christmas period

Christmas is an exciting time for children filled with fun, food and festivities. However, for parents who are separated, the…

Alexandra Baggallay

November 11, 2024 - 2 minutes read

What is Spousal Maintenance?

Spousal maintenance (also known as spousal support) is a financial arrangement between divorced or separated couples, where one person pays…

Zoe Rose

November 4, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Navigating Divorce when a Pension is Already Being Drawn Down

Divorce is a challenging time, particularly when it comes to dividing assets and planning for financial stability post-separation. With pensions…

Zoe Rose

October 15, 2024 - 3 minutes read

How To Start Divorce Proceedings: A Simple Guide

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Zoe Rose

June 21, 2024 - 6 minutes read

Royal Ascot Week: What happens to the horses in a divorce?

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Alexandra Baggallay

June 17, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Navigating Pension Freedoms and Pension Attachment Orders in Divorce/Dissolution of Civil Partnerships

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Yasmine Plummer

June 7, 2024 - 4 minutes read

coping with separation

Top Tips For Looking After Your Mental Health When Going Through A Separation

Here at Hedges, we know the importance of protecting your mental health, but this can be particularly difficult when going…

Nicola Poole

May 9, 2024 - 2 minutes read

father son at sunset in the woods

What are the options for resolving family issues on divorce?

For couples that are separating, there are more options than you might think when considering resolving family issues on divorce.

Zoe Rose

March 11, 2024 - 5 minutes read

One Couple, One Lawyer a new service for divorcing couples

Out family team are experts in a range options to resolve family issues without going to Court, so we are…

Hedges Team

- 2 minutes read

When alcohol concerns aren’t limited to January

The first working Monday of the year has unfortunately earned the nickname ‘Divorce Day’. The media is keen to suggest…

Lauren Pilcher

February 1, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Why ‘Divorce Day’ isn’t a term that’s fit for 2024

The first working Monday of the year has unfortunately earned the nickname ‘Divorce Day’. The media is keen to suggest…

Lauren Pilcher

December 21, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Top tips for introducing a new partner to your children

Introducing a new partner to your children is always going to be an emotionally challenging time. You will be excited…

Lauren Pilcher

December 11, 2023 - 3 minutes read

5 top tips for co-parenting during the festive season

The lead-up to the festive season is an exciting time for children, filled with fun, food, and celebrations. However, for…

Alexandra Baggallay

November 14, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Does the divorce Final Order cover everything?

With the introduction of no fault divorce (or no fault dissolution of Civil Partnerships) in April 2022, many couples are…

Lauren Pilcher

October 30, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Final Order Divorce UK: A Complete Guide

Going through a divorce can be a tough, emotional journey. Once you have your Final Order in your divorce/dissolution it…

Yasmine Plummer

October 23, 2023 - 4 minutes read

Taking a child abroad on holiday after divorce or separation

As the October half term approaches, many divorced or separated parents will be taking their children abroad on holiday. If…

Alexandra Baggallay

October 3, 2023 - 5 minutes read

A legally binding marriage

The government's response to the Law Commission's recommendations is expected shortly, and it will be very interesting to see if…

Lauren Pilcher

August 21, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Top tips for separated parents during the summer holidays

Before you know it, school will be out for the summer, and already the lovely weather has brought the feel…

Lauren Pilcher

June 17, 2023 - 5 minutes read

The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 is 50 years old today!

The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 (“the MCA 1973”) received Royal Assent 50 years ago today. This means that the statutory…

Alexandra Baggallay

May 23, 2023 - 2 minutes read

changes to capital gains tax

Changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rules for separating couples

Lauren Pilcher explains the changes to the CGT rules that apply to separating couples. It's important that couples are aware…

Lauren Pilcher

May 5, 2023 - 4 minutes read

No fault divorce and dissolution of civil partnerships one year on

I can’t really believe that this week marks the one year anniversary of the introduction of “no fault” divorce and…

Zoe Rose

April 3, 2023 - 4 minutes read

7 ways separating parents can help a child with autism cope with change

Divorce or separation can have a significant impact on children, and how it affects each child will vary depending on…

Lauren Pilcher

March 30, 2023 - 3 minutes read

#InternationalWomensDay #EmbraceEquity

Women should act now to avoid missing out on thousands when they retire.

From the 31st July 2023 (an extension to the previous deadline of the 5th April), it will no longer be…

Zoe Rose

March 8, 2023 - 4 minutes read

Taking a wedding ring off the finger because of a conflict

10 steps to take to reduce conflict during a separation or divorce

No two situations are ever exactly the same but what all of our clients have in common is that they…

Nicola Poole

November 3, 2022 - 4 minutes read

Celebrating Employee Ownership Day

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Hedges Team

June 21, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Fire and rehire: employers should proceed with caution

Firing and rehiring is the practice of making changes to employment terms by dismissing members of staff and re-engaging them…

Hedges Team

July 22, 2022 - 1 minute read

Redundancy and moving on to pastures new

Recent data from Renovo suggests that out of those facing redundancy within the next 12 months, over half are considering…

Hedges Team

November 10, 2021 - 1 minute read

Celebrity support continues

Earlier this week Dame Barbara Windsor and her husband Scott Mitchell called on the Prime Minister Boris Johnson to solve…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

August 10, 2019 - 1 minute read

Do Swedish paternity rights oppress women?

We’ve heard a lot about paternity leave rights in the press recently, with calls for a fairer system to be…

Hedges Team

July 10, 2019 - 1 minute read

Increased protection: pregnancy & maternity rights

Unlike other trends in discrimination, maternity, pregnancy and family discrimination shows no sign of diminishing over time. Research commissioned by…

Hedges Team

January 28, 2019 - 4 minutes read

#MeToo vs Non-disclosure agreements

One would be hard-pressed to find a newspaper or website not reporting the latest headlines from Prime Minister’s question time.…

Hedges Team

November 1, 2018 - 3 minutes read

Gender diversity in the law

By Posy Putnam (Intern at Hedges Law) The gender pay gap in law sits at a staggering 30% – far…

Hedges Team

July 19, 2018 - 5 minutes read

The gender pay gap saga does not look to be dying down any time soon.

With much of the data having now been gathered as to the gender pay gaps within large companies and charities…

Hedges Team

May 18, 2018 - 2 minutes read

Amending your claim and time limits in the Employment Tribunal

Previously, an amendment to a claim took effect from the date of the original claim. It was therefore essential for…

Hedges Team

January 8, 2018 - 2 minutes read

3 Employment Moments of 2017 That Will Shape 2018

We’ve made it into the new year! If like me, you are wiping away the sleep from your eyes as…

Hedges Team

January 2, 2018 - 2 minutes read

Christmas in the workplace: 3 things to look out for

Christmas parties. Secret Santas. The day after the night (or nights…) before. This season brings to light issues of employee…

Hedges Team

December 22, 2017 - 2 minutes read

A Clever Move or Foul Play? The ‘Deliveroo’ Judgment That’s Sparking A Call For Reform

In the latest battle within the gig economy, a tribunal last week ruled that Deliveroo riders in North London are…

Hedges Team

November 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Harassment -have we lost a code of good behaviour?

Listening to BBC radio’s moral maze yesterday , a fascinating discussion about our moral state played out.  Societal change does…

Hedges Team

November 12, 2017 - 2 minutes read

The Rise of Sexual Harassment Claims: How Employers Should Deal With Complaints

Following Hollywood Parliament is the latest cohort to report an increasing amount of people coming forward with allegations of historical…

Hedges Team

November 2, 2017 - 2 minutes read

From Uber to Judges: You won’t have thought this crowd would be fighting for ‘worker’ status

Uber, Deliveroo, Hermes… The list goes on in terms of those cases which have been in the spotlight of wanting…

Hedges Team

October 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Equality statistics making headlines again but are we getting real engagement with the issue?

It seems that we are never far from an equality and diversity statistic which indicates that the life reality for…

Hedges Team

October 10, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Gig economy again under scrutiny

An employment tribunal ruled that Addison Lee drivers are workers and not self-employed as argued by the company. In the…

Hedges Team

September 26, 2017 - 1 minute read

ACAS’ new guidance for employers regarding parents with premature of sick babies

There are more premature babies born in the UK than on would think. Currently, the figure stands at 95,000. The…

Hedges Team

September 25, 2017 - 1 minute read

How Voluntary Overtime Affects Holiday Pay

The Case Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council v Willetts and ors The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) upheld a tribunal’s decision that…

Hedges Team

August 8, 2017 - 3 minutes read

Shared Parental Pay: The new issue within the equal pay debate

The Issue Discrimination against women who take maternity leave is a well-known issue. But with the introduction of shared parental…

Hedges Team

- 2 minutes read

Supreme Court Rules on Employment Tribunals Fees

If you are an employment law practitioner, and you haven’t heard by now, let me assist: The verdict: Employment Tribunals…

Hedges Team

July 26, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Tips on preventing workplace harassment

THE LAW The Equality Act defines sexual harassment as unwanted conduct of a sexual nature which has the purpose or…

Hedges Team

July 5, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Robot Wars…On Jobs in the Next 10 Years

We have heard it already. Some (okay… quite a few) of our jobs may be at risk of being taken…

Hedges Team

April 25, 2017 - 2 minutes read

The Antidote For A Toxic Employee

Employment law in many countries provides a great deal of protection for employees. So what does an employer do with…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Valentine’s Day and 10 potential problems with workplace romance

Is it right for employers to have rules on personal intimate relationships at work? Are managers able to play Cupid…

Hedges Team

February 13, 2017 - 1 minute read

The “Right and Fair Thing To Do” for EU Nationals Working in the UK Following Brexit

The Government in its White Paper detailing proposals for leaving the EU stated that, “the UK remains ready to give…

Hedges Team

February 6, 2017 - 1 minute read

A Neurodiverse Perspective on Family Law: Understanding and Support in Challenging Times

Divorce and separation are inherently complex, demanding a clear understanding of legal frameworks and a compassionate approach to individual needs.…

Ian Davies

April 1, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Recogni​sing Neurodiversity and Supporting Families

Divorce or separation can have a significant impact on children, and how it affects each child will vary depending on…

Lauren Pilcher

March 27, 2025 - 3 minutes read

World Book Day 2025 Thursday 6th March 2025

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Alexandra Baggallay

March 4, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Children’s Mental Health Week – how can we bring children’s voices into family proceedings?

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Zoe Rose

February 12, 2025 - 5 minutes read

Family Mediation Week 27th – 31st January 2025

This week is Family Mediation week which runs from 27th – 31st January. With all of the different types of…

Alicia Roscoe

January 28, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Why Non-Court Dispute Resolution IS the Better Choice for Families

As we approach Family Mediation Week (27-31 January), it is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of mediation…

Ian Davies

January 22, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Is there a lack of knowledge and understanding about pre & post marital agreements in Family Law?

Recent research conducted by Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management reveals a significant knowledge gap surrounding the creation and implementation of…

Ian Davies

January 13, 2025 - 4 minutes read

No-fault divorce has made things easier, but don’t forget about the finances

No fault divorce was introduced in April 2022, and this together with the online portal has made it much easier…

Hedges Team

January 6, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Five Top Tips for Co-Parenting over the Christmas period

Christmas is an exciting time for children filled with fun, food and festivities. However, for parents who are separated, the…

Alexandra Baggallay

November 11, 2024 - 2 minutes read

What is Spousal Maintenance?

Spousal maintenance (also known as spousal support) is a financial arrangement between divorced or separated couples, where one person pays…

Zoe Rose

November 4, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Navigating Divorce when a Pension is Already Being Drawn Down

Divorce is a challenging time, particularly when it comes to dividing assets and planning for financial stability post-separation. With pensions…

Zoe Rose

October 15, 2024 - 3 minutes read

How To Ask For a Prenup Without Upsetting Your Fiancé(e)

Discussing a prenuptial agreement with your fiancé(e) can be a delicate matter, but it doesn’t have to be a source…

Alexandra Baggallay

June 25, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Can You Get A Prenup After Marriage?

While prenuptial agreements are typically created before marriage, there may be instances where couples realise the benefits of such an…

Ian Davies

- 2 minutes read

How To Start Divorce Proceedings: A Simple Guide

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Zoe Rose

June 21, 2024 - 6 minutes read

Royal Ascot Week: What happens to the horses in a divorce?

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Alexandra Baggallay

June 17, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Marriage or Civil Partnership: Navigating Love and Law in the UK this Pride Month

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Zoe Rose

June 13, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Navigating Pension Freedoms and Pension Attachment Orders in Divorce/Dissolution of Civil Partnerships

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Yasmine Plummer

June 7, 2024 - 4 minutes read

What Is A Pre Nuptial Agreement?

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Hedges Team

June 3, 2024 - 3 minutes read

post nup agreement

How To Get A Post Nuptial Agreement

Marriage is a wonderful journey, but even the strongest relationships can encounter unexpected bumps. While prenuptial agreements (prenups) are a…

Alexandra Baggallay

May 31, 2024 - 4 minutes read

coping with separation

Top Tips For Looking After Your Mental Health When Going Through A Separation

Here at Hedges, we know the importance of protecting your mental health, but this can be particularly difficult when going…

Nicola Poole

May 9, 2024 - 2 minutes read

father son at sunset in the woods

What are the options for resolving family issues on divorce?

For couples that are separating, there are more options than you might think when considering resolving family issues on divorce.

Zoe Rose

March 11, 2024 - 5 minutes read

One Couple, One Lawyer a new service for divorcing couples

Out family team are experts in a range options to resolve family issues without going to Court, so we are…

Hedges Team

- 2 minutes read

close up of branch with wedding rings

Is a prenuptial agreement something I should consider?

This Valentine’s Day, Zoe Rose and Yasmine Plummer explain what a prenuptial agreement is, what they do, and why everyone…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2024 - 4 minutes read

5 tips for cohabitees who want to protect each other

Claire Cox, Head of Inheritance Disputes, shares her top tips on protecting yourselves as an unmarried couple or cohabitees who…

Claire Cox

February 2, 2024 - 3 minutes read

When alcohol concerns aren’t limited to January

The first working Monday of the year has unfortunately earned the nickname ‘Divorce Day’. The media is keen to suggest…

Lauren Pilcher

February 1, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Why family mediation could be the best way to resolve your family disputes

There are many benefits to using family mediation as a way to resolve issues following a relationship breakdown. It is…

Zoe Rose

January 24, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Why ‘Divorce Day’ isn’t a term that’s fit for 2024

The first working Monday of the year has unfortunately earned the nickname ‘Divorce Day’. The media is keen to suggest…

Lauren Pilcher

December 21, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Top tips for introducing a new partner to your children

Introducing a new partner to your children is always going to be an emotionally challenging time. You will be excited…

Lauren Pilcher

December 11, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Does a declaration of trust survive a marriage or civil partnership?

If you own property with someone but are not married or in a civil partnership then having a Declaration of…

Yasmine Plummer

November 20, 2023 - 2 minutes read

5 top tips for co-parenting during the festive season

The lead-up to the festive season is an exciting time for children, filled with fun, food, and celebrations. However, for…

Alexandra Baggallay

November 14, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Does the divorce Final Order cover everything?

With the introduction of no fault divorce (or no fault dissolution of Civil Partnerships) in April 2022, many couples are…

Lauren Pilcher

October 30, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Final Order Divorce UK: A Complete Guide

Going through a divorce can be a tough, emotional journey. Once you have your Final Order in your divorce/dissolution it…

Yasmine Plummer

October 23, 2023 - 4 minutes read

Taking a child abroad on holiday after divorce or separation

As the October half term approaches, many divorced or separated parents will be taking their children abroad on holiday. If…

Alexandra Baggallay

October 3, 2023 - 5 minutes read

What to consider when moving in together as an unmarried couple

It remains a common misconception that unmarried couples in the UK have the same legal rights as married couples when…

Ian Davies

September 27, 2023 - 4 minutes read

A legally binding marriage

The government's response to the Law Commission's recommendations is expected shortly, and it will be very interesting to see if…

Lauren Pilcher

August 21, 2023 - 2 minutes read

What to expect from family mediation

Deciding what to do with your assets can be difficult and challenging for separating couples. Whilst some may consider Court…

Lauren Pilcher

August 2, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Top tips for separated parents during the summer holidays

Before you know it, school will be out for the summer, and already the lovely weather has brought the feel…

Lauren Pilcher

June 17, 2023 - 5 minutes read

Why a family law team with advocacy experience is vital right now

The continuing squeeze on court funding is likely to create repeated administrative issues, and the benefit of a Family Law…

Ian Davies

June 15, 2023 - 3 minutes read

How can we protect children whilst giving them a voice during child arrangement decisions?

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Zoe Rose

June 1, 2023 - 5 minutes read

The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 is 50 years old today!

The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 (“the MCA 1973”) received Royal Assent 50 years ago today. This means that the statutory…

Alexandra Baggallay

May 23, 2023 - 2 minutes read

A Neurodiverse Perspective on Family Law: Understanding and Support in Challenging Times

Divorce and separation are inherently complex, demanding a clear understanding of legal frameworks and a compassionate approach to individual needs.…

Ian Davies

April 1, 2025 - 3 minutes read

World Book Day 2025 Thursday 6th March 2025

Today is International Children’s Day, it is a day when the world comes together to celebrate children but also to…

Alexandra Baggallay

March 4, 2025 - 3 minutes read

Why Non-Court Dispute Resolution IS the Better Choice for Families

As we approach Family Mediation Week (27-31 January), it is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of mediation…

Ian Davies

January 22, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Is there a lack of knowledge and understanding about pre & post marital agreements in Family Law?

Recent research conducted by Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management reveals a significant knowledge gap surrounding the creation and implementation of…

Ian Davies

January 13, 2025 - 4 minutes read

No-fault divorce has made things easier, but don’t forget about the finances

No fault divorce was introduced in April 2022, and this together with the online portal has made it much easier…

Hedges Team

January 6, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Why family mediation could be the best way to resolve your family disputes

There are many benefits to using family mediation as a way to resolve issues following a relationship breakdown. It is…

Zoe Rose

January 24, 2024 - 3 minutes read

What to expect from family mediation

Deciding what to do with your assets can be difficult and challenging for separating couples. Whilst some may consider Court…

Lauren Pilcher

August 2, 2023 - 3 minutes read

farm

Latest farming inheritance dispute

Simon Morton worked long hours farming on the farm all his life for "modest pay" while his sister pursued a…

Claire Cox

June 30, 2023 - 1 minute read

The Gay Farmer Helpline offers a vital service, and at times a lifeline

It was hugely encouraging to read, on The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, of the positive impact that…

Hedges Team

May 17, 2021 - 2 minutes read

“No legacy is so rich as honesty” William Shakespeare

The Farmer’s Guardian writes this week about the particular tendency within farming families to avoid tackling succession planning either at…

Nicola Poole

October 10, 2020 - 1 minute read

Farming grants to help ease Covid recovery

Excellent news for UK farmers today as the government announces a £20 million fund from the European Regional Development Fund…

Nicola Poole

September 2, 2020 - 2 minutes read

Guilt free organic ice-cream. What’s not to like?

Only yesterday I was getting excited about Oxfordshire farmers using throw-away plastics as an innovative new material for building animal…

Hedges Team

July 17, 2019 - 1 minute read

Oxfordshire leads the way with eco-friendly turkey shed

With environmental protection concerns taking ever greater prominence and an increasing public demand to reduce plastic waste how nice to…

Hedges Team

July 16, 2019 - 1 minute read

How much protection does an agricultural tenancy really offer?

Perhaps it’s just a sign of the times but the question of what rights a landlord retains to enter land…

Hedges Team

July 3, 2019 - 1 minute read

Promises should be kept – Court of Appeal speaks on farming family dispute

This case involved a claim by the youngest daughter in a farming family for a share of the farm on…

Hedges Team

June 26, 2019 - 2 minutes read

Whose farm is it anyway?

The recent High Court case of Guest v Guest  [2019] provides helpful guidance on the “Son, one day all this will…

Hedges Team

June 25, 2019 - 2 minutes read

Illegitimate son inherits country estate

If you’ve ever wondered if an illegitimate child can claim inheritance in the UK here’s a story that will be…

Hedges Team

May 22, 2019 - 1 minute read

Buying and Selling Agricultural Land

Read my top tips for buying and selling agricultural land in the latest edition of Farm Diversity Magazine….

Hedges Team

May 21, 2019 - 1 minute read

Educating Britain on farming

It is becoming increasingly common to hear reports of the lack of education being provided in relation to farming, agriculture…

Hedges Team

February 19, 2018 - 2 minutes read

Working on the family farm

Working in any family business can be difficult at times, however, some can be trickier than others! Generations of farming…

Hedges Team

November 14, 2017 - 1 minute read

Interest rate rises – another blow for farmers?

The agricultural community couldn’t be accused of having had it easy over recent years…. and just as we’re getting used…

Hedges Team

September 19, 2017 - 1 minute read

Have British consumers been putting all of their eggs in one basket?

Around 180 farms in the Netherlands are believed to have bought their poultry from suppliers using illegal insecticide. The insecticide…

Hedges Team

August 11, 2017 - 1 minute read

Tenant farmer buys first home at the age of 98!

The UK average age for first time buyers  currently stands at 30 years old. Triple that and you will be…

Hedges Team

July 26, 2017 - 1 minute read

Time for change? Announcement of the proposals for Will reform

The current law governing Wills stems from the Wills Act 1837 which is now believed to be outdated. With  the…

Hedges Team

July 19, 2017 - 1 minute read

100% British Lamb- A triumph for British Farmers

 With Sainsbury’s announcement that all of their lamb products will be 100% sourced from British Farms from next month, this…

Hedges Team

July 3, 2017 - 1 minute read

How many gates does it take to interfere with a right of way?

In this case from April 2017 the claimant  owned farming land with the benefit of a right of way across…

Hedges Team

June 28, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Tourism is best source of revenue for farmers….

Some interesting facts and figures from John Hoy of Bidwells about revenues generated for the farming sector from tourism as…

Hedges Team

June 6, 2017 - 1 minute read

World Milk Day

Today, 1st June is a day to celebrate all things milk! World Milk Day recognises the importance of what many…

Hedges Team

June 1, 2017 - 1 minute read

How Your General Election Vote Could Affect Your Employment Rights

The 8th June 2017 will come upon us all a lot quicker than we may realise. Between now and then,…

Hedges Team

May 17, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Open Farm Sunday – have you done your risk assessment?

Open Farm Sunday was introduced in 2006 as a way of connecting farms with their local communities. It’s essentially an…

Hedges Team

May 8, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Oxfordshire Farming Conference 2018

The Oxfordshire Farming Conference 2018 will be taking place between 3rd- 5th January at Oxford University and tickets will be…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

Probate fee proposal axed

Farming families can breath a sigh of relief for the time being, following recent reports that the planned probate fee changes…

Hedges Team

April 25, 2017 - 1 minute read

Your right of way. Landowners beware!

Landowners considering the installation of a gate across a right of way, may need to think again!  “Landowners are being…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

A fair slice of the fruit pie?

In what is likely to be the first of many UK court cases in which the impact of Brexit takes…

Nicola Poole

April 12, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Why Non-Court Dispute Resolution IS the Better Choice for Families

As we approach Family Mediation Week (27-31 January), it is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of mediation…

Ian Davies

January 22, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What are the Time Limits to Contesting a Will?

Losing a loved one is tough, and it can be even more stressful if the will doesn’t reflect your expectations.…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2025 - 2 minutes read

How Long Does Probate Take in the UK? Understanding the Timeline.

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, and dealing with their estate can add additional stress. One of the…

Hedges Team

January 16, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Is there a lack of knowledge and understanding about pre & post marital agreements in Family Law?

Recent research conducted by Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management reveals a significant knowledge gap surrounding the creation and implementation of…

Ian Davies

January 13, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What Do Stamp Duty Changes Mean For You?

Rebecca Reeves announced that there will be a change in the higher rate Stamp Duty Land Tax payable on the…

Hedges Team

December 9, 2024 - 4 minutes read

Debt and Divorce

This article helps clarify when a debt going to be considered a divorce. When family and friends lend money during…

Ian Davies

November 29, 2024 - 4 minutes read

Can You Get A Prenup After Marriage?

While prenuptial agreements are typically created before marriage, there may be instances where couples realise the benefits of such an…

Ian Davies

June 25, 2024 - 2 minutes read

We’re coming… to Chipping Norton! Summer 2024

We are delighted to share the news that we are opening a new branch in the centre of Chipping Norton…

Hedges Team

April 5, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Sayna Patel profile

Getting to know our trainees – Sayna Patel

We talk to trainee solicitor, Sayna Patel on International Women’s day. Tell us a bit about yourself. I live at…

Hedges Team

March 8, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Helen profile

Getting to know our trainees – Helen Spencer

We talk to trainee solicitor, Helen Spencer on International Women’s day. Tell us a bit about yourself. I now live…

Hedges Team

- 2 minutes read

Yasmine Plummer

Getting to know our trainees – Yasmine Plummer

We talk to trainee solicitor, Yasmine Plummer on International Women’s day. Tell us a bit about yourself. I live in…

Hedges Team

- 5 minutes read

NEWS: Hedges Law launches Summertown Arts Programme

Starting in November 2023, we will be running a series of events at our new office on Banbury Road, Summertown,…

Hedges Team

November 2, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Our last seminar of 2019 and we’re going out with a bang… or at least an amazing view!

“ALL THE SEMINARS THAT I HAVE ATTENDED THIS YEAR HAVE BEEN EXCELLENT AND… HIGHLY INTERESTING” (Ashley Bolton – RMA Properties)…

Hedges Team

November 24, 2019 - 1 minute read

Hedges Breakfast Seminar 8 November

It is my pleasure to invite you to the Hedges Law Property and Business Breakfast Seminar, which is to be…

Hedges Team

October 2, 2017 - 1 minute read

Shortlisted… and we’re off the the awards ceremony today!

It’s not often it’s acceptable to blow your own trumpet in this profession but today I think I’m allowed. I’m…

Hedges Team

July 13, 2017 - 1 minute read

Hedges: Small Conveyancing Firm of the Year!!

It’s not often acceptable to brag about your achievements but you’ll have to forgive me this morning because Hedges won…

Hedges Team

September 15, 2016 - 1 minute read

A Clever Move or Foul Play? The ‘Deliveroo’ Judgment That’s Sparking A Call For Reform

In the latest battle within the gig economy, a tribunal last week ruled that Deliveroo riders in North London are…

Hedges Team

November 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

From Uber to Judges: You won’t have thought this crowd would be fighting for ‘worker’ status

Uber, Deliveroo, Hermes… The list goes on in terms of those cases which have been in the spotlight of wanting…

Hedges Team

October 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Microchipping – To be or should not be?

The Wisconsin based tech company Three Square Market made headlines a few weeks ago when they became the first company…

Hedges Team

August 25, 2017 - 3 minutes read

How Voluntary Overtime Affects Holiday Pay

The Case Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council v Willetts and ors The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) upheld a tribunal’s decision that…

Hedges Team

August 8, 2017 - 3 minutes read

Getting clever with coffee

As a total and utter coffee addict -and a bit of a coffee snob to boot- I was fascinated by…

Nicola Poole

June 28, 2017 - 1 minute read

Businesses: Avoid reputational damage with this 3 measures

In this Internet age, news travels fast. Bad news travels even faster.  Protecting your business’ reputation is therefore ever the…

Hedges Team

June 26, 2017 - 2 minutes read

New easyHotel for Summertown

A new easyHotel is set to open in Summertown in 2019. Quite what nearby residents feel about this I don’t…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

Penguins: new lessons to be learned about the importance of mediation

Ok so this is not really about penguins, but I like the picture as it (clearly) depicts one penguin mediating…

Hedges Team

June 20, 2017 - 1 minute read

TUPE: Why Talking is a Good Thing

The TUPE regulations place an onus on outgoing employers to fulfill its duties to inform and consult its employees during…

Hedges Team

June 6, 2017 - 1 minute read

Employer ordered to pay £2 for breaching employee’s right to be accompanied

Yes.  £2!  It is not a typo. The Law Employees have a statutory right to be accompanied to a grievance…

Hedges Team

May 15, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Dealing With the Hippo in the Room

Some employees find themselves worried and anxious mid-meeting as they consider how to deal or respond to the hippo in…

Hedges Team

April 26, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Labour and the £10 NMW Pledge

Labour Party leader, Jeremy Corbyn has pledged a £10 minimum wage if Labour wins the 2020 general election. Here’s a…

Hedges Team

April 18, 2017 - 1 minute read

Are you ready? Employment Changes Set For April 2017

Along with all manner of financial year deadlines and planning, businesses have more than enough things in their diaries to…

Hedges Team

March 15, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Brexit Related Promises by the Brexit Secretary to the Hospitality Sector

Mr David Davis, the Brexit Secretary has offered more glimmers of hope for EU citizens currently working in the UK.…

Hedges Team

February 27, 2017 - 1 minute read

How To Deal With A Toxic Boss

So after my post about dealing with toxic employees, I have been asked to write a post on how to…

Hedges Team

February 22, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Back to work after 3 days following a bereavement? Employers, Pay Attention!!

Facebook has recently increased its bereavement leave allowance for its staff. Their employees can now take up to 20 days…

Hedges Team

February 20, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Get those Valentine’s bookings in now….

Wise words from Oxford City Council to diners wishing to take advantage of the thriving Oxford restaurant scene this Valentine’s…

Hedges Team

February 9, 2017 - 1 minute read

3 Simple Hospitality Tips to Achieve Top Rated Customer Satisfaction

Whilst Brexit, Trump, and all manner of post-recession tremors are in the cauldron of live matters for most businesses, the…

Hedges Team

February 1, 2017 - 2 minutes read

4 ways to reduce ‘no shows’ in your restaurant

Most of us will have been in the position where we have booked a table at a restaurant, and have…

Hedges Team

January 25, 2017 - 2 minutes read

The top ten most common items stolen from hotel rooms

At a recent hotel stay I noticed a sign saying that any missing towels from my room would be presumed…

Nicola Poole

January 24, 2017 - 1 minute read

New Westgate – further retailers announced

Being based in the centre of Oxford I have been following the new Westgate centre’s progress with interest. Not only…

Hedges Team

January 23, 2017 - 1 minute read

Restaurant, Pub, food outlet and hotel owners: Beware

Beware of what exactly? Beware that hygiene matters, and that the lack thereof can have a significant effect on your…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2017 - 1 minute read

Deliveroo riders on track to follow in Uber’s footsteps

Somewhat unsurprisingly, Deliveroo riders are now demanding employment/worker rights and unionisation. This comes after the recent tribunal ruling in favour…

Hedges Team

November 9, 2016 - 2 minutes read

What’s Going on at The Restaurant Show 2016

Big Hospitality have written a great article on what to expect from the Restaurant Show 2016. We have taken some…

Hedges Team

September 15, 2016 - 3 minutes read

Zero Hour contracts soar

According to new data from the Office for National Statistics, the number of UK workers on zero hour contracts has…

Hedges Team

September 13, 2016 - 2 minutes read

Hospitality Staff to be replaced with Robots?

Big Hospitality gives an interesting insight into the ways in which developments in technology will impact on the hospitality industry..…

Hedges Team

September 12, 2016 - 1 minute read

Legal reform: what pubs and clubs need now?

In the week when London’s iconic and arguably greatest nightclub, Fabric, had to close its doors due to the revocation…

Nicola Poole

September 8, 2016 - 1 minute read

Capturing Customers aka #pokemonmadness

I wrote last week about a number of coffee venues that have seen sales sky rocketing as Pokemon Go hunters…

Nicola Poole

August 1, 2016 - 1 minute read

Pokemon: Go: Profits!

No big surprise that the mad, forest-fire of a trend that is raging around the world this month is leaving…

Nicola Poole

July 22, 2016 - 1 minute read

6 years behind bars for negligent curry house owner

This story caught the eye of the national media yesterday: a sobering tale for hospitality owners right across the industry.…

Nicola Poole

May 24, 2016 - 1 minute read

London’s first naked restaurant: Careful with those steak knives….

Revealing news in Big Hospitality this week…the opening of London’s first naked restaurant. It continues a growing trend for ‘themes”…

Nicola Poole

April 27, 2016 - 1 minute read

Survey Reveals 22.5% of Hospitality Employers Could Hire Under-25s to Offset NLW Costs

According to the results of the survey referred to in this article, almost a quarter of the hospitality employers surveyed…

Hedges Team

March 21, 2016 - 1 minute read

Happy families = happy business: 5 top tips to bring families in to your eateries

Big Hospitality reports on the results of a survey by Peter Lugosi at Oxford Brooke’s School of Hospitality Management into…

Nicola Poole

March 16, 2016 - 1 minute read

Sticky tax issues….a load of old fizz?

I’m wondering what the hospitality industry will make of today’s budget news of the ‘sugar tax’? Could this mean cafes…

Nicola Poole

- 1 minute read

Oxford Wine Cafe interview

As we’re such big fans of the new Oxford Wine cafe in Jericho I couldn’t let this interview with owner…

Hedges Team

February 23, 2016 - 1 minute read

Fake review in the news again. What can you do?

A new Twitter campaign to deal with the growing problem of fake reviews is gaining momentum after users have been…

Hedges Team

October 27, 2015 - 2 minutes read

TripAdvisor launches review performance report for businesses

TripAdvisor have come up with an easy to use facility which enables businesses to monitor their performance and engage better…

Hedges Team

October 20, 2015 - 1 minute read

Spending in pubs and restaurants is on the up…

According to the Barclaycard Consumer Spending Report for 23 August to 26 September 2015 the pub and restaurant industry has…

Hedges Team

October 13, 2015 - 1 minute read

Trading with consumers? What you need to know to comply with the new ADR Regulations

This article by Elizabeth Reppe – Barrister at Keating Chambers – examines who needs to comply with the Regulations, what…

Hedges Team

October 6, 2015 - 1 minute read

Dealing with negative reviews

It might just be common sense but Trip Advisor has confirmed it’s advice on dealing with negative feedback – don’t…

Hedges Team

October 1, 2015 - 1 minute read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What are the Time Limits to Contesting a Will?

Losing a loved one is tough, and it can be even more stressful if the will doesn’t reflect your expectations.…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Why appointing a professional executor could be right for you

Although most people choose a family member to be the executor of their estate, it is not always your best…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

December 13, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Inheritance tax planning and rental properties

Official statistics show that more than 2.5 million individuals own a rental property in the UK. The freezing of the…

Daniel Boyle

September 18, 2023 - 4 minutes read

What do you want to happen when you die? Tips for having THE conversation with your family.

We should all be encouraged to talk about death – it is an inevitable part of life. But recent studies…

Maryam Sultana

July 18, 2023 - 4 minutes read

woman looking at phone, worried expression

FAQs: Professional Negligence Claims

It can be incredibly stressful if you receive poor advice from a professional you have hired. If you are lucky,…

Matthew Cotton

April 3, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Is there a lack of knowledge and understanding about pre & post marital agreements in Family Law?

Recent research conducted by Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management reveals a significant knowledge gap surrounding the creation and implementation of…

Ian Davies

January 13, 2025 - 4 minutes read

How To Ask For a Prenup Without Upsetting Your Fiancé(e)

Discussing a prenuptial agreement with your fiancé(e) can be a delicate matter, but it doesn’t have to be a source…

Alexandra Baggallay

June 25, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Can You Get A Prenup After Marriage?

While prenuptial agreements are typically created before marriage, there may be instances where couples realise the benefits of such an…

Ian Davies

- 2 minutes read

What Is A Pre Nuptial Agreement?

Weddings and civil partnerships are brimming with joy, hope, and promises of forever. But amidst the cake tastings and venue…

Hedges Team

June 3, 2024 - 3 minutes read

post nup agreement

How To Get A Post Nuptial Agreement

Marriage is a wonderful journey, but even the strongest relationships can encounter unexpected bumps. While prenuptial agreements (prenups) are a…

Alexandra Baggallay

May 31, 2024 - 4 minutes read

close up of branch with wedding rings

Is a prenuptial agreement something I should consider?

This Valentine’s Day, Zoe Rose and Yasmine Plummer explain what a prenuptial agreement is, what they do, and why everyone…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2024 - 4 minutes read

Does a declaration of trust survive a marriage or civil partnership?

If you own property with someone but are not married or in a civil partnership then having a Declaration of…

Yasmine Plummer

November 20, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Do you need a pet-nup? How the law views your fur-babies.

Today is international pet day; a day to celebrate our much loved family pets. With pet ownership on the rise…

Lauren Pilcher

April 11, 2023 - 3 minutes read

post nup agreement

Beyond the rich and famous: Why more couples are choosing to enter into prenuptial agreements

If your knowledge of prenuptial agreements comes mostly from the media and movies then you’d be forgiven for thinking that…

Lauren Pilcher

March 22, 2023 - 3 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

How Long Does Probate Take in the UK? Understanding the Timeline.

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, and dealing with their estate can add additional stress. One of the…

Hedges Team

January 16, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Understanding your role as an executor

At one point or another, many of us will be given the task of being responsible for the administration of…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

November 28, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Why it pays to get support from a probate solicitor

You don’t have to work with a probate solicitor to administer someone’s estate. As the Personal Representative, it is perfectly…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

November 22, 2023 - 4 minutes read

What to do when a loved one dies

The time following the death of somebody close to you can often be very difficult. We specialise in bereavement matters…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

April 4, 2023 - 3 minutes read

The Hidden Dangers of Non-Disclosure: The Moth-Infested Mansion

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

James Overton

February 14, 2025 - 5 minutes read

What Do Stamp Duty Changes Mean For You?

Rebecca Reeves announced that there will be a change in the higher rate Stamp Duty Land Tax payable on the…

Hedges Team

December 9, 2024 - 4 minutes read

keys held up outside of house

The Risks Of Property Fraud And What You Can Do To Protect Yourself

Buying a home is a huge achievement, but imagine the horror of discovering someone has stolen the legal title to…

Hedges Team

June 17, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Navigating Property Law with Clarity and Confidence

At Hedges, we understand the inherent stress that can accompany property matters. Unfamiliar legal jargon, complex procedures, and a perceived…

Hedges Team

May 31, 2024 - 3 minutes read

family moving into a house

How we make your move faster and smoother

Moving house can be a stressful experience. There are lots of different people involved and much of the process is…

Hedges Team

March 27, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Legal battle puts dream home at risk

A change of use of land can impact upon the use and extent of easements. In this case reported in…

Hedges Team

April 13, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Court of Appeal ruling on Japanese Knotweed

A recent landmark ruling from the Court of Appeal could pave the way for waves of compensation to homeowners who…

Hedges Team

February 16, 2023 - 1 minute read

Here’s looking at you!

The Supreme Court has ruled that the viewing gallery at the London Tate Modern is a nuisance to neighbouring luxury…

Hedges Team

February 7, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Get off the fence: How not to fall out with your neighbours

You might wonder why a TikTok clip of a fence being dismantled has been viewed almost 20 million times this…

Hedges Team

November 8, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Left in a halfway house? Construction disputes are on the rise…

According to a recent report from Arcadis, construction disputes in the UK rose by a whopping 117% in 2020. With…

Hedges Team

November 1, 2022 - 1 minute read

Expected increased activity in the property markets following announcement

As had been rumoured in the press this week, the Chancellor has now made the formal announcement of a cut…

Hedges Team

September 23, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Neighbours from Hell: how to wake up from a living nightmare

Loud music.  Shouting abuse.  High leylandii hedges.  Parking issues.  Boundary disputes. These are just some examples of neighbour disputes which…

Hedges Team

August 3, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Japanese Knotweed infestation: how to avoid getting tied up in legal knots

Japanese knotweed was introduced into the UK in the mid 19th century and is now the most common of four…

Hedges Team

July 26, 2022 - 1 minute read

Help! What if the seller of their home dies between exchange and completion?

This is a pretty rare scenario, but nevertheless can and does happen.   So where do you stand in a situation…

Hedges Team

July 7, 2022 - 3 minutes read

Possession is nine-tenths of the law

Neighbour disagreements can be some of the most contentious type of disputes; and the possession of land is frequently an…

Hedges Team

June 14, 2022 - 2 minutes read

“An Englishman’s home is his castle”

We are all familiar with the expression that ‘an Englishman’s home is his castle’.  But can a property owner really…

Hedges Team

May 25, 2022 - 1 minute read

Property and Agricultural Land Markets Update

The continued lack of supply and increased demand in the housing market is the prevailing factor in Quarter 1 of…

Hedges Team

May 23, 2022 - 2 minutes read

“Love thy neighbour”… and let them access your land

We are now three months on from the judgment in Prime London Holdings 11 Limited v Thurloe Lodge Limited, and…

Hedges Team

May 13, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Tenants from hell

If you’re a residential landlord, undoubtedly you will have experienced the stress and financial strain over the last two years…

Hedges Team

March 18, 2022 - 1 minute read

Clarity from the Court on ‘occupation rent’ in Trust disputes

I am increasingly seeing disputes in relation to the beneficial ownership of property. The law in this area is complex,…

Claire Cox

February 11, 2022 - 1 minute read

Are you buying in to the proposed leasehold reforms?

On 11 January 2022, the UK government released a consultation on a number of proposed reforms which are designed to…

Hedges Team

January 25, 2022 - 1 minute read

Estate agents’ shelves remain bare as agricultural land values continue to climb: not just a coincidence?

An unexpected increase this year in demand for farmland in the South of England has contributed significantly towards steadily rising…

Hedges Team

January 21, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Party Wall Agreements

When considering any structural work which affects a shared wall, the Party Wall Act (1996) comes into play. This guide…

Hedges Team

November 23, 2021 - 1 minute read

Traditional Conveyancing: The Future of Real Estate Transactions

Conveyancing is a specialist and technical legal practice which requires a great deal of reason, complex problem solving, data handling,…

Hedges Team

August 25, 2021 - 2 minutes read

Record numbers quit cities for the ‘good life’ in the countryside

The property market is an extremely hot topic of conversation at the moment, given the Stamp Duty Holiday and the…

Hedges Team

July 19, 2021 - 2 minutes read

Love thy neighbour …?

I’m delighted to live next-door to so-called “problem-free” neighbours but unfortunately my day-to-day work demonstrates that this may be the…

Hedges Team

April 30, 2021 - 2 minutes read

The Courts would prefer that neighbours become good friends….(and didn’t darken their door with their disputes!)

A clear push towards ADR for neighbour disputes. I suspect this reflects the enormous pressure on the system at present,…

Claire Cox

December 15, 2020 - 1 minute read

Love thy neighbour? Getting disputes out of all proportion…

Sometimes in litigation there is no winner. This case, widely reported by the press for its warning tale, reinforces just…

Claire Cox

November 21, 2020 - 1 minute read

Residential landlords, facing disastrous loss of rent, need to consider court delays

The National Residential Landlords Association report an increasing number of landlords calling to say their tenants are under the impression…

Hedges Team

April 6, 2020 - 2 minutes read

High Court invites parties to be imaginative about trials in which no parties can attend

The Defendant in High Court proceedings,  Conversant Licensing SARL v Huawei Technologies Co Ltd and others [2020] EWHC 741 (Pat)…

Hedges Team

April 2, 2020 - 1 minute read

Solicitors must work with the courts to protect their clients from chaos and delay

Getting a speedy response from the courts is difficult at the best of times.  But there is a looming crisis…

Hedges Team

March 26, 2020 - 2 minutes read

Are you fed up with unproductive meetings? This is for you…..

I can’t be alone in experiencing a sinking feeling some Monday mornings when I look at my diary and see…

Hedges Team

November 4, 2019 - 1 minute read

Is everybody off to Cambridge?

It’s a real shame that, statistically speaking, commercial property investors are more likely to invest in Cambridge. However, let us…

Hedges Team

October 28, 2019 - 1 minute read

Council to focus on Airbnb type lets

With Oxfordshire tourism forever on the rise , the need for short-term holiday lets are also on the increase  to…

Hedges Team

October 24, 2019 - 1 minute read

Who makes the final decision when unmarried couples separate and argue over property?

The Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) recently made it clear that it was not up to the First Tier Tribunal (Property…

Hedges Team

September 17, 2019 - 2 minutes read

Should I delay buying property to take advantage of potential changes to the SDLT regime?

When he hasn’t been busy stirring the Brexit pot Boris Johnson has managed to find time in recent weeks to…

Hedges Team

September 10, 2019 - 1 minute read

New PM plans to change Stamp Duty

As the Prime Minister of the UK changes this week, an overhaul of the property market could also be ignited.…

Hedges Team

July 26, 2019 - 1 minute read

Can it be a mistake to transfer the family home to your children?

The incentive of avoiding inheritance tax or the persuasion of adult children sometimes leads older home owners to transfer their…

Hedges Team

July 23, 2019 - 2 minutes read

“YOUR RESERVATION FEE IS NOT REFUNDABLE, I’M AFRAID!!”

There you are, after endless time and effort you finally find your ideal off-plan state of the art pad.  You…

Hedges Team

July 15, 2019 - 2 minutes read

In Oxford, £1,000 a month will get you….?

Not very much according to the latest research published by the Daily Mail! £1,000 a month will probably get you…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

The Hidden Dangers of Non-Disclosure: The Moth-Infested Mansion

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

James Overton

February 14, 2025 - 5 minutes read

a man and a woman gardening happily

Navigating Neighbour Disputes this New Year

The start of a new year often brings a sense of fresh beginnings and resolutions. Unfortunately, for some, this can…

James Overton

February 5, 2025 - 3 minutes read

a man and a woman gardening happily

Time to get back out in the garden? What you need to know about the most common garden disputes.

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

Matthew Cotton

April 12, 2024 - 3 minutes read

keys held up outside of house

Joint property ownership disputes: What happens when you can’t agree

Unfortunately, life doesn’t always go to plan. Relationships can break down and disputes can arise. When parties to a dispute…

Matthew Cotton

February 8, 2024 - 3 minutes read

sunset setting on an agricultural field

Understanding Agricultural Boundary Disputes

Agricultural Boundary disputes can be complex and emotionally charged, often causing tension between farmers, neighbours and landowners alike. Agricultural land…

James Overton

- 2 minutes read

How a Title Deeds Health Check can help you understand more about your property

Whether you’re a landlord, seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, understanding your property’s legal landscape is crucial. Land registry title…

James Overton

February 2, 2024 - 2 minutes read

10 things landlords need to know about the new Renters (Reform) Bill

The Renters (Reform) Bill is the new proposed legislation that details the government's plans to reform the private rental sector…

Matthew Cotton

November 15, 2023 - 3 minutes read

How two inches extra on your home extension can cost you £200,000

Did you know: Two inches extra on your home extension could cost you £200,000? Sometimes the little things in life…

Matthew Cotton

April 28, 2023 - 2 minutes read

The Hidden Dangers of Non-Disclosure: The Moth-Infested Mansion

As the arrival of spring brings everyone outdoors to enjoy their gardens after a cold stretch indoors, it's a wonderful…

James Overton

February 14, 2025 - 5 minutes read

Navigating Property Law with Clarity and Confidence

At Hedges, we understand the inherent stress that can accompany property matters. Unfamiliar legal jargon, complex procedures, and a perceived…

Hedges Team

May 31, 2024 - 3 minutes read

family moving into a house

How we make your move faster and smoother

Moving house can be a stressful experience. There are lots of different people involved and much of the process is…

Hedges Team

March 27, 2024 - 3 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

We’re proud to support Update Your Will Week 2025

This week is Update Your Will Week (4th – 10th March), an annual campaign hosted by The Association of Lifetime…

Alicia Roscoe

March 4, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Ski with Peace of Mind: Express Wills Service

The ski season is upon us! If you are lucky enough to be heading to the slopes this year, we…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Jet Off with Peace of Mind: Express Wills Service for Your Summer Holiday

As the summer holidays quickly approach, it’s essential to ensure that your family and assets are protected while you’re away.…

Rebecca Kashti

July 2, 2024 - 2 minutes read

mother and child walking in woods

We’re proud to support Update Your Will Week 2024

This week is Update Your Will Week (4th – 10th March), an annual campaign hosted by The Association of Lifetime…

Hedges Team

March 4, 2024 - 2 minutes read

Why appointing a professional executor could be right for you

Although most people choose a family member to be the executor of their estate, it is not always your best…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

December 13, 2023 - 3 minutes read

It’s not just about your money… 7 things to consider when preparing your Will

When people start to think about writing their Will, their first thoughts are usually about who will be the beneficiaries…

Kristina Dunne

August 8, 2023 - 5 minutes read

What do you want to happen when you die? Tips for having THE conversation with your family.

We should all be encouraged to talk about death – it is an inevitable part of life. But recent studies…

Maryam Sultana

July 18, 2023 - 4 minutes read

Why updating your Will should be at the top of your to-do list.

This week is Update Your Will Week (23rd-29th January 2023), an awareness campaign hosted by Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE)…

Carli Colby

January 22, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Empty notepad ready for someone to make some notes for writing their will with a solicitor

FAQs on making an updating Wills

We’ve answered some of the most common questions people have about making and updating a Will. If you have a…

Carli Colby

November 3, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Family looking lovingly at a new born and considering reviewing or writing their will

10 Reasons Why You Should Review Your Will & Estate Planning Documents

A large proportion of the population have no Will. Many people either just don’t want to think about the possibility…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

- 4 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What are the Time Limits to Contesting a Will?

Losing a loved one is tough, and it can be even more stressful if the will doesn’t reflect your expectations.…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Challenging a Will: Who Can Do It?

The death of a loved one is a deeply emotional experience. However, in some cases, disagreements may arise regarding the…

Hedges Team

June 25, 2024 - 3 minutes read

woman hugging an older woman whilst looking out onto a beach

What should I do if an attorney is not acting in a person’s best interests?

An attorney must make decisions based on the best interests of the person they are representing. If you feel that…

Claire Cox

February 23, 2024 - 3 minutes read

5 tips for cohabitees who want to protect each other

Claire Cox, Head of Inheritance Disputes, shares her top tips on protecting yourselves as an unmarried couple or cohabitees who…

Claire Cox

February 2, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Murderer ordered to pay victims family compensation

Ben Field was a church warden in Buckinghamshire who devised a sinister plot to dupe the vulnerable by manipulating them…

Claire Cox

September 8, 2023 - 1 minute read

Undue influence and the burden of proof

Undue influence is probably the most common suggestion made to me by clients as an explanation for a family member's…

Claire Cox

August 31, 2023 - 1 minute read

A court bill that will leave you cold

A widow is facing a court bill in the hundreds of thousands after losing a battle against her husband's first…

Claire Cox

August 22, 2023 - 1 minute read

farm

Latest farming inheritance dispute

Simon Morton worked long hours farming on the farm all his life for "modest pay" while his sister pursued a…

Claire Cox

June 30, 2023 - 1 minute read

‘My nephew stole my £750k inheritance’ – Why lockdown Wills are leading to family fallouts

I am seeing increasing numbers of cases which arise from lockdown Wills. This case, reported by The Times, involved a…

Hedges Team

June 8, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Q&A with Claire Cox Head of Inheritance Disputes

Q&A with Claire Cox, Head of Inheritance Disputes

There has been a huge increase in inheritance disputes in recent years. This might involve a person contesting the validity…

Claire Cox

June 2, 2023 - 5 minutes read

Why updating your Will should be at the top of your to-do list.

This week is Update Your Will Week (23rd-29th January 2023), an awareness campaign hosted by Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE)…

Carli Colby

January 22, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Wills, Inheritance, Trusts & Probate Dispute Questions and Answrers, FAQ

FAQs – Wills, Inheritance, Trusts & Probate Disputes

Disputes involving Wills, inheritance, trusts and probate can be complex and confusing. As a specialist contentious probate litigator, I have…

Claire Cox

December 20, 2022 - 6 minutes read

How to Prevent Someone Contesting a Will

Creating a Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your desires after your passing. Unfortunately, disgruntled family members or…

Edward Capstick

March 24, 2025 - 3 minutes read

How to Remove a Trustee – Taking Control When Inheritance Goes Wrong

Inheritance disputes can be emotionally charged, especially when trust in the person managing the estate, the trustee, is called into…

Edward Capstick

March 7, 2025 - 4 minutes read

We’re proud to support Update Your Will Week 2025

This week is Update Your Will Week (4th – 10th March), an annual campaign hosted by The Association of Lifetime…

Alicia Roscoe

March 4, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Ski with Peace of Mind: Express Wills Service

The ski season is upon us! If you are lucky enough to be heading to the slopes this year, we…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2025 - 2 minutes read

Can estranged children claim against their parent’s estates?

It is the unfortunate reality that not all families are harmonious and it is often the case that when children…

Edward Capstick

January 30, 2025 - 4 minutes read

What are the Time Limits to Contesting a Will?

Losing a loved one is tough, and it can be even more stressful if the will doesn’t reflect your expectations.…

Hedges Team

January 20, 2025 - 2 minutes read

How Long Does Probate Take in the UK? Understanding the Timeline.

Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, and dealing with their estate can add additional stress. One of the…

Hedges Team

January 16, 2025 - 4 minutes read

Jet Off with Peace of Mind: Express Wills Service for Your Summer Holiday

As the summer holidays quickly approach, it’s essential to ensure that your family and assets are protected while you’re away.…

Rebecca Kashti

July 2, 2024 - 2 minutes read

a coupel walking along the beach

Safeguarding Your Legacy: Considerations for Protecting Generational Wealth in England

At Hedges Law, we understand the importance of family. Part of that commitment extends to helping you protect the financial…

Nicola Poole

May 9, 2024 - 3 minutes read

older hands holding

What should I do when a loved one loses capacity?

What should I do when a loved one loses capacity? It can be worrying when a loved one loses capacity,…

Hedges Team

March 11, 2024 - 2 minutes read

mother and child walking in woods

We’re proud to support Update Your Will Week 2024

This week is Update Your Will Week (4th – 10th March), an annual campaign hosted by The Association of Lifetime…

Hedges Team

March 4, 2024 - 2 minutes read

woman hugging an older woman whilst looking out onto a beach

What should I do if an attorney is not acting in a person’s best interests?

An attorney must make decisions based on the best interests of the person they are representing. If you feel that…

Claire Cox

February 23, 2024 - 3 minutes read

Why appointing a professional executor could be right for you

Although most people choose a family member to be the executor of their estate, it is not always your best…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

December 13, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Understanding your role as an executor

At one point or another, many of us will be given the task of being responsible for the administration of…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

November 28, 2023 - 2 minutes read

What can I do if I think someone was coerced into changing their Will?

Sometimes, the details of someone's Will upon their death can come as a complete surprise. You may not understand their…

Claire Cox

November 27, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Why it pays to get support from a probate solicitor

You don’t have to work with a probate solicitor to administer someone’s estate. As the Personal Representative, it is perfectly…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

November 22, 2023 - 4 minutes read

Inheritance tax planning and rental properties

Official statistics show that more than 2.5 million individuals own a rental property in the UK. The freezing of the…

Daniel Boyle

September 18, 2023 - 4 minutes read

It’s not just about your money… 7 things to consider when preparing your Will

When people start to think about writing their Will, their first thoughts are usually about who will be the beneficiaries…

Kristina Dunne

August 8, 2023 - 5 minutes read

What do you want to happen when you die? Tips for having THE conversation with your family.

We should all be encouraged to talk about death – it is an inevitable part of life. But recent studies…

Maryam Sultana

July 18, 2023 - 4 minutes read

What to do when a loved one dies

The time following the death of somebody close to you can often be very difficult. We specialise in bereavement matters…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

April 4, 2023 - 3 minutes read

Theft of inheritance leads to 3 year prison sentence

It is always staggering to read cases such as this, but in my experience they are becoming more common. This…

Claire Cox

March 17, 2023 - 1 minute read

Widow wins 1975 Act claim and obtains half of estate

After a 66 year marriage, a woman whose husband’s will left everything to their two sons (to “prioritise the male…

Claire Cox

February 17, 2023 - 1 minute read

Charitable legacies

It has been reported that a record 16% of death Wills processed by Smee & Ford in 2022 included a…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

February 9, 2023 - 1 minute read

Why updating your Will should be at the top of your to-do list.

This week is Update Your Will Week (23rd-29th January 2023), an awareness campaign hosted by Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE)…

Carli Colby

January 22, 2023 - 2 minutes read

The astronomical costs of the homemade will…

This is going to be an absolutely fascinating case when it is heard next year. An astronomer has left his…

Claire Cox

December 2, 2022 - 1 minute read

Empty notepad ready for someone to make some notes for writing their will with a solicitor

FAQs on making an updating Wills

We’ve answered some of the most common questions people have about making and updating a Will. If you have a…

Carli Colby

November 3, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Family looking lovingly at a new born and considering reviewing or writing their will

10 Reasons Why You Should Review Your Will & Estate Planning Documents

A large proportion of the population have no Will. Many people either just don’t want to think about the possibility…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

- 4 minutes read

Great Expectations: ‘One day, all this will – or maybe won’t – be yours’?

A long-awaited decision was announced yesterday in the Supreme Court, on the very thorny issue of family inheritance disputes. In…

Hedges Team

October 19, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Wills. When DIY is NOT a good idea…

As an inheritance solicitor practising in the area of inheritance disputes, I can very much resonate with the stats below.…

Claire Cox

August 12, 2022 - 2 minutes read

Inheritance disputes are rising – what can you do to protect your estate?

As you can see from the Telegraph article, inheritance disputes are on the rise. With more money at stake, parties…

Claire Cox

July 15, 2022 - 1 minute read

A warning to Will writers – always follow the Golden Rule

This case is rather staggering. A solicitor accepted instructions to prepare a Will, from a 94 year old, suffering from…

Claire Cox

July 1, 2022 - 1 minute read

A costly reminder of the uncertainty of litigation

It seems that, unhappy with her share of the estate after the death of a loved one, Diane Coad brought…

Claire Cox

May 26, 2022 - 1 minute read

The drip, drip of poisonous lies…

Fraudulent calumny occurs when the beneficiary of a Will changes the testator’s perception of a potential beneficiary by making a…

Hedges Team

May 3, 2022 - 1 minute read

Life interests in inheritance dispute settlements

If an application under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 is successful, the Court can order a…

Hedges Team

April 22, 2022 - 1 minute read

Should you agree to be Executor?

The role of Executor is not something to be undertaken lightly. As this article sets out, it comes with risks,…

Claire Cox

February 17, 2022 - 1 minute read

The latest drama in the High Court as family feuds over Will

A rather staggering case where the Will writer (Mr Curnock) insisted that because Mr Reeves had negotiated a fixed fee…

Claire Cox

February 1, 2022 - 1 minute read

Burden of proof in capacity cases – a reminder of where it lies

This case of Lonsdale v Teasdale & Ors illustrates the complexities in the area of capacity. A District Judge had…

Claire Cox

December 3, 2021 - 1 minute read

Inheritance disputes rising – how can you protect your estate?

The answer is simple. Instruct a professional to prepare a Will for you, and consider also having Lasting Powers of…

Claire Cox

November 12, 2021 - 1 minute read

The 1975 Act – bringing property back into the estate

This case shows the scope of the Court’s powers when it comes to claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family…

Claire Cox

October 15, 2021 - 1 minute read

Keeping your house in order

This case illustrates the importance of documenting the basis of joint ownership of a property (i.e. joint tenants or tenants…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

Sorry, no posts match your search, please try again or try the filter 'By category' instead.