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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

Death of a Loved One

Probate

Wills, Probate, Trusts & Inheritance - 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

Wills, Probate, Trusts & Inheritance - 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

Death of a Loved One

Probate

Wills, Probate, Trusts & Inheritance - 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

Family

Pre & Post Nuptial Agreements - 2 minutes read

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

What is it? The Renters (Reform) Bill is the new proposed legislation that details the government's plans to reform the…

Matthew Cotton

Dispute Resolution

Property Disputes - 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

Arrangements for Children

Divorce & Separation - 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

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

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

Ignore cyber security at your peril

Last month, a number of conveyancing firms trading under the Simplify group were subject of a ‘security incident’, which is…

Hedges Team

December 16, 2021 - 1 minute read

Take legal advice before you put pen to paper

Would you contemplate signing a contract if you had not read the terms and conditions? The case of Fraine v…

Hedges Team

November 29, 2021 - 1 minute read

Too good to be true?

We’ve all been there. You find something you like – could be a car, a house, double-glazed windows, or in…

Hedges Team

November 8, 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

A prime time to change employment law?

Amazon delivery drivers are set to pursue a group action to determine their employment rights. Drivers who make deliveries on…

Hedges Team

October 19, 2021 - 1 minute read

Employee Ownership hits the headlines

Hedges Law are proud to have joined the growing amount of businesses who are recognising the enonormous benefits of Employee…

Claire Cox

August 23, 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

Social enterprise and business growth in Oxford

Last week the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership announced the details of its exciting new Escalate programme to support social enterprise…

Hedges Team

November 25, 2019 - 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

“Gay cake” row to go to Europe

The United Kingdom is being taken to the European Court of Human Rights over a decision made by the Supreme…

Hedges Team

August 19, 2019 - 2 minutes read

Battle of the Bands – TTC 2020 here we come (in our glam rock outfits)

We are so pleased to be associated with this amazing Twin Town Challenge charitable event and are already making plans…

Hedges Team

August 12, 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

Is mandatory mediation the answer?

I’ve just read this article in the Gazette, and thought it a good place as a starting point for some…

Hedges Team

October 23, 2017 - 1 minute read

Its all about the experience

Its less than 24 hours until the long awaited (at least two and half decades!) Westgate Centre opens in Oxford.…

Nicola Poole

- 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

Welcome to the final instalment of my Mediation blog as we see the end of Mediation Awareness week! Today I…

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 3 – An independent helper

Its Day 3 of Mediation Awareness Week and I’m looking at the importance, and significant benefits, of having an independent…

Hedges Team

October 18, 2017 - 2 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

Uuu-boy. Here We Go Again…!

Uber have had the displeasure of another claim again them. Not to do with the ever growing drama on the…

Hedges Team

July 24, 2017 - 2 minutes read

Gender Pay Gap in BBC

More information on pay disparity between the sexes will come to the fore next April when businesses are required to…

Hedges Team

July 19, 2017 - 1 minute 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

Maternity leave cut short over job loss fears

Thousands of working mothers are cutting short their maternity leave over fears that taking ‘more time off than absolutely necessary’…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute 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

Social media misconduct; dismissal harsh but fair

Social media can play a big part in our day to day lives; however do we ever stop and think…

Hedges Team

July 6, 2017 - 2 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

- 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

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

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

When inheritance disputes turn criminal

Janice Johnson faked letters and will documents, which she purported to be witnessed by people who had since died, to…

Claire Cox

August 25, 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

Unfair, but not irrational…

Norman Gill hired a hitman to kill his wife in 1979 and went on to leave his children only £5,000…

Claire Cox

August 21, 2023 - 1 minute read

The importance of having your Will professionally prepared

Cases such as this one, Ingram and Whitfield v Abraham [2023] EWHC 1982 (Ch), really demonstrate how crucial it is to…

Claire Cox

August 16, 2023 - 2 minutes read

How new reforms are using mediation to free up the courts

On the 25th July 2023, the Ministry of Justice UK introduced new reforms to free up court capacity. Following consultation…

Matthew Cotton

July 27, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Don’t keep it in the family: Chef left £5M wins battle to keep it after a claim was raised by the sister of the deceased

Businessman David Turner left his £5m fortune to a burger bar chef (Mr Jones) whom he had befriended. Mr Turner…

Claire Cox

July 20, 2023 - 1 minute read

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

Did you know that, in England and Wales, marriage revokes a Will?

Did you know that, in England and Wales, marriage revokes a Will? There has been a lot of discussion about…

Claire Cox

- 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…

Claire Cox

June 8, 2023 - 2 minutes read

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

Ignore cyber security at your peril

Last month, a number of conveyancing firms trading under the Simplify group were subject of a ‘security incident’, which is…

Hedges Team

December 16, 2021 - 1 minute read

Take legal advice before you put pen to paper

Would you contemplate signing a contract if you had not read the terms and conditions? The case of Fraine v…

Hedges Team

November 29, 2021 - 1 minute read

Too good to be true?

We’ve all been there. You find something you like – could be a car, a house, double-glazed windows, or in…

Hedges Team

November 8, 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

A prime time to change employment law?

Amazon delivery drivers are set to pursue a group action to determine their employment rights. Drivers who make deliveries on…

Hedges Team

October 19, 2021 - 1 minute read

Employee Ownership hits the headlines

Hedges Law are proud to have joined the growing amount of businesses who are recognising the enonormous benefits of Employee…

Claire Cox

August 23, 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

Social enterprise and business growth in Oxford

Last week the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership announced the details of its exciting new Escalate programme to support social enterprise…

Hedges Team

November 25, 2019 - 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

“Gay cake” row to go to Europe

The United Kingdom is being taken to the European Court of Human Rights over a decision made by the Supreme…

Hedges Team

August 19, 2019 - 2 minutes read

Battle of the Bands – TTC 2020 here we come (in our glam rock outfits)

We are so pleased to be associated with this amazing Twin Town Challenge charitable event and are already making plans…

Hedges Team

August 12, 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

July 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

- 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

Is mandatory mediation the answer?

I’ve just read this article in the Gazette, and thought it a good place as a starting point for some…

Hedges Team

October 23, 2017 - 1 minute read

Its all about the experience

Its less than 24 hours until the long awaited (at least two and half decades!) Westgate Centre opens in Oxford.…

Nicola Poole

- 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

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

10 steps to take once you have your Final Order of divorce or dissolution

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 - 5 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 (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

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

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

Every little helps – fire and rehire

“Fire and rehire” is a practice where an employer terminates a contract of employment and re-engages the member of staff…

Hedges Team

March 15, 2022 - 1 minute read

Fairness in flexible working

The UK government has launched an open consultation on their proposals to make flexible working the default. However, new research…

Hedges Team

November 22, 2021 - 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

Uber – The EAT ruling we were all waiting for

The Employment Appeal Tribunal has just ruled that two drivers who provide services via Uber are ‘workers’ within the meaning…

Hedges Team

November 10, 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

Working when the clocks go back: Employers – how should you handle the extra hour?

On 29 October 2017, the clocks go back at 2am. For staff who are working a night shift, what does…

Hedges Team

October 27, 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

The Worker and the 13 years of untaken annual leave

Now we all from time to time are in positions where, for one reason or another, we are unable to…

Hedges Team

October 9, 2017 - 2 minutes read

This teacher was suspended. She resigned. Then this happened…

The Background In Agoreyo v London Borough of Lambeth, a teacher was suspended because of allegations of ‘force’ used against…

Hedges Team

October 2, 2017 - 1 minute 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

Worker whose messages were monitored has human rights breached

Privacy is something rather sought after nowadays, as advances in technology and a constant connectivity to online resources mean that…

Hedges Team

September 7, 2017 - 2 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

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

3 Employment cases which could affect your business sooner than you think

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Aslam and others v Uber BV and others Excel, CitySprint, Addison Less, eCourier and Hermes have all fallen…

Hedges Team

January 14, 2017 - 2 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

10 steps to take once you have your Final Order of divorce or dissolution

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 - 5 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

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

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

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

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

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

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West settle their matrimonial finances!

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West have now reportedly settled their financial dispute outside of Court. Perhaps this is evidence that…

Lauren Pilcher

December 8, 2022 - 1 minute read

Arbitration: Another Option

For Good Divorce Week, we are highlighting all the ways separating or divorcing couples can resolve disputes away from court,…

Hedges Team

December 1, 2022 - 3 minutes read

Family Mediation FAQs

During this week’s good divorce week we are focusing on how separating couples can avoid going to Court. This blog…

Hedges Team

November 28, 2022 - 2 minutes read

How Private Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) can help you reach agreement out of court

For Good Divorce Week, we are highlighting all the ways separating or divorcing couples can resolve disputes away from court,…

Lauren Pilcher

- 4 minutes read

How can you have a “good” divorce?

The makers of Love Island are reportedly creating a new TV show called “The Good Divorce Club”, described as a…

Lauren Pilcher

November 22, 2022 - 3 minutes read

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

Government disappoints with their response on Cohabitation Law reform

In case you missed it, the Government has now issued their response to The House of Commons Women and Equalities…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute read

No place to hide: The importance of honest financial disclosure on divorce.

A recent case has been published anonymously by family judge, His Honour Judge Hess, to highlight the importance of providing…

Lauren Pilcher

November 1, 2022 - 2 minutes read

What’s a fair divorce settlement when one party has £80 million?

The son of Screwfix founders has reportedly been involved in Court proceedings to determine how much his ex wife should…

Hedges Team

October 21, 2022 - 1 minute read

Handbags and Rolexes: how to win the Chattels War.

Former Italian football player Francesco Totti’s separation has hit headlines again this week. Totti has accused his ex-wife Ilary Blasi…

Lauren Pilcher

October 18, 2022 - 2 minutes read

What’s right for me? Understanding a joint divorce application.

With the introduction of ‘no fault divorce’ in April this year, came the new concept of a joint divorce application.…

Lauren Pilcher

October 13, 2022 - 3 minutes read

Joint divorce applications not as high as anticipated

The big family law news in April this year was that couples no longer had to blame each other if…

Hedges Team

September 20, 2022 - 1 minute read

Minimum age of marriage to rise to 18 in February

Currently in the UK people can get married at age 16 or 17 with parental consent. This is set to…

Hedges Team

September 2, 2022 - 1 minute read

45 to 49 is the most common age to divorce apparently

As a divorce lawyer and mediator I hear all sorts of reasons for people getting divorced. I’m no expert on…

Hedges Team

August 30, 2022 - 2 minutes read

An inappropriate way to start custody proceedings

Olivia Wilde was served custody papers while on stage talking about her new film. Now, if there is a bad…

Hedges Team

August 25, 2022 - 1 minute read

Cohabitation law (or the lack of!) – is change finally coming?

It’s really exciting to see that cohabitation law reform is back on the agenda after a 15 year hiatus. Little…

Hedges Team

August 10, 2022 - 1 minute read

The Law Commission’s recommendations for wedding law reform and what it means for couples in England and Wales

Guest blog from Guides for Brides. The Law Commission’s recommendations for wedding law reform and what it means for couples…

Hedges Team

August 4, 2022 - 4 minutes read

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

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

Hedges Team

August 3, 2022 - 2 minutes read

A little children law glossary

Sometimes, clients come to a first meeting already aware of a the legal terms and principles that might apply in…

Hedges Team

August 1, 2022 - 6 minutes read

Divorcing amicably? Don’t confuse no fault with no advice!

With the introduction of no fault divorce in April of this year, many couples are now choosing the DIY route…

Lauren Pilcher

July 28, 2022 - 3 minutes read

Big tax news for divorcing couples

I was really pleased to read the news that the government intends to change capital gains tax rules for divorcing…

Hedges Team

July 22, 2022 - 3 minutes read

Women’s Aid call out abuse by Love Island Males

Love it or hate it, Love Island’s male contestants are yet again teaching us all some important lessons about red…

Hedges Team

July 20, 2022 - 1 minute 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

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

It’s back and on live stream… Oxford Farming Conference 2020

Amazing to think that the first Oxford Farming Conference was held in 1936 and is now back for its 84th…

Hedges Team

January 7, 2020 - 1 minute read

Don’t miss my slot at the Farm Business Innovation show next week!

Next week (6th and 7th November) the Farm Business Innovation show is on the NEC and I will be speaking…

Hedges Team

October 28, 2019 - 1 minute read

Cows or Cars? High Court rules that promises to son were conditional on devotion to the farm

Its been an interesting year for farming family disputes. The case of Shaw V Shaw [2018] EWHC 3196 (Ch) involved…

Hedges Team

July 22, 2019 - 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

Godparents and guardians – all you need to know

It would have been hard to miss the coverage of the Royal christening at the weekend but amongst all the…

Hedges Team

July 8, 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

Here’s hoping for a little sun on Open Farm Sunday – 9th June

Wishing all our farming clients who are opening their doors to the public the very best of luck this Sunday.…

Hedges Team

June 7, 2019 - 1 minute read

Illegitimate son inherits country estate

A DNA test proved that Jordan Adlard Rogers was a child of Charles Rogers (deceased) and therefore his heir. …

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

Women in wellies – watch out 2018!

This year has already marked one hundred years since women were given the right to vote but it doesn’t stop…

Hedges Team

February 22, 2018 - 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

What does the agriculture sector have in store for 2018?

With January now a distant memory, what does the agricultural sector have to look forward to over the next few…

Hedges Team

February 2, 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

Oxfordshire farm overall winner at the Bayer Farming and Countryside Education (Face) Awards

Greatworth Hall, a 200 hectare arable farm in Oxfordshire has recently been announced the overall winner of the Bayer Farming…

Hedges Team

September 26, 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

Drones- The new way to tackle rural crime?

Police forces across the Country are beginning to report on the difference drones are making to policing in rural areas.…

Hedges Team

September 18, 2017 - 1 minute read

Oxfordshire farms, the perfect staycation destination!

Oxfordshire, a beautiful area that many of us take for granted, is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination. With many…

Hedges Team

August 17, 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

Open Farm Sunday

LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) is the charitable organisation behind the promotion of sustainable agriculture, food and farming. LEAF manages…

Hedges Team

June 6, 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

- 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

Oxfordshire Farming Community brought together for County Show!

This weekend will see the annual Oxfordshire Young Farmers County Show taking place at the Earth Trust Centre, Little Wittenham. …

Hedges Team

May 25, 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

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

Hedges launches essay competition for school students in Oxfordshire

Now in its 9th year, this year’s competition provides an opportunity for those interested in a career in law to…

Tanya Swain

March 23, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Shortlisted Law Firm Innovator - Hedges Law

Hedges property team shortlisted for National Conveyancing Award

We're delighted that our fantastic property team have been shortlisted in the Law Firm Innovator of the Year category in…

Tanya Swain

February 16, 2023 - 3 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 take on Twin Town (Zombie) Challenge!

On 25th to 28th May 2018 we’re taking part in the Twin Town Challenge; travelling (hopefully!) from Witney to Le…

Hedges Team

May 2, 2018 - 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

How great leaders inspire action – TEDx Oxford sponsored by Hedges

Ok so picking a talk that has been viewed 29,960,635 times (when I wrote this) as one of my favourites…

Hedges Team

January 12, 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

Social media misconduct; dismissal harsh but fair

Social media can play a big part in our day to day lives; however do we ever stop and think…

Hedges Team

July 6, 2017 - 2 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

Muddy Stilettos all over this Oxford Hotel

Congratulations to our neighbour just a few streets away The Vanbrugh Hotel who have been awarded the Best Boutique Stay…

Nicola Poole

June 25, 2017 - 1 minute read

Employment Fair…? Employers beware!

Having given a talk with Prisca Bradley, our Head of Employment, on top tips for hiring an employee, I was…

Hedges Team

June 22, 2017 - 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

What do law and fine wine have in common?

Not much, you might be forgiven for thinking.. I took a trip to the Restaurant Congress today in London. Amazing…

Hedges Team

June 12, 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

Barista Visa or Asta la Visata EU migrant workers?

Would any foreigner relish coming to the UK strictly for the purposes of working as a barista for 2 years…

Hedges Team

April 18, 2017 - 1 minute 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

- 1 minute read

Going Through ACAS? Get Your Timings Right!

As a general rule, claimants are only allowed to bring Employment Tribunal claims after submitting an ACAS Early Conciliation (EC)…

Hedges Team

April 11, 2017 - 2 minutes 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

EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE: New Compensation Limits From 6 April 2017

The new Employment Rights (Increase of Limits) Order 2017 SI 2017/175 (link below) will increase the compensation limits and minimum…

Hedges Team

February 23, 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

Uber challenges Deliveroo with its new on-demand meal delivery service

Expansion is on Uber’s mind, and this time, it does not concern taxi services. Uber has launched its on-demand meal…

Hedges Team

February 10, 2017 - 1 minute 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

How Social Media Can Get You Fired

With current surveys stating that we spend 1 hour 40 minutes on average on social media, it comes as no…

Hedges Team

February 3, 2017 - 2 minutes 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

How Brexit can help the hospitality sector

Guess what word is back… Back again… Brexit. Yes – and the news that flowed from the Supreme Court ruling…

Hedges Team

- 1 minute 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

Which Post-Brexit Government proposal has the hospitality sector rightly concerned?

With a recent survey concluding that approximately 43% of workers in the hospitality industry (e.g. restaurants, hotels and pubs) are…

Hedges Team

January 16, 2017 - 1 minute read

The Autumn Statement and the Hospitality Sector

What are key people’s thoughts on the effect of the Autumn Statement 2016? Ufi Ibrahim, Chief Executive of the BHAsaid:…

Hedges Team

November 24, 2016 - 1 minute read

Shortage of chefs to worsen this Christmas and thereafter

The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) recently conducted a survey which concluded that 61% of hospitality recruitment agencies are of…

Hedges Team

November 16, 2016 - 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

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

In the News: Why a DIY business LPA would cost your company dearly

Unfortunately, there are lots of businesses out there that have no legal documentation in place to ensure that if an…

Rebecca Kashti

May 19, 2023 - 1 minute 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

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

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

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

Hedges property team shortlisted for National Conveyancing Award

We're delighted that our fantastic property team have been shortlisted in the Law Firm Innovator of the Year category in…

Tanya Swain

February 16, 2023 - 3 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

- 1 minute read

To buy or not to buy – that is the question!

In the case of Aviva Investors Ground Rent GP Ltd and another v Williams and others [2023], the Supreme Court…

Hedges Team

February 9, 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

My right, or yours?

Issac Newton once said “we build too many walls, and not enough bridges”. But he didn’t comment on the legal…

Hedges Team

February 2, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Getting tangled in knots… The curse of Japanese Knotweed

When selling your property, you must complete the Law Society Property Information Form (TA6), providing the buyer with important information…

Hedges Team

January 26, 2023 - 1 minute read

Will you keep it down please?

Noise is one of the top causes for neighbour disputes, but what do you do if your neighbour’s steamy sex…

Hedges Team

November 29, 2022 - 1 minute read

Neighbours at war

How does the theme tune go? “Neighbours, everybody loves good neighbours. With a little understanding, you can find the perfect…

Hedges Team

November 17, 2022 - 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

Neighbour disputes – a call to prayer?

The national media has reported with some apparent glee the news that former Stephen Bett, former Police & Crime Commissioner…

Hedges Team

July 29, 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 this…

Hedges Team

July 7, 2022 - 2 minutes read

500 new homes proposed near Oxford Airport: what’s your view?

New-build homes and housing developments have, for some considerable time, been dubbed unattractive, devoid of character and charm and inconveniently…

Hedges Team

June 29, 2022 - 2 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

“Let there be light…” – new guidance for homeowners left in the shadows

UK property agents, Savills, recently reported that nearly 250,000 home extensions were granted permission for the year up to September…

Hedges Team

April 27, 2022 - 1 minute 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

Biodiversity and New Build Developments – What’s the score?

“New build housing developments in the countryside *cue gasps and outrage* are a necessity, a fundamental infrastructure to service a…

Hedges Team

February 14, 2022 - 2 minutes 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

Peace on Earth and Goodwill to All Neighbours

HM Land Registry and the Citizens’ Advice Bureau have adopted advice from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) which…

Hedges Team

December 23, 2021 - 1 minute read

Adverse possession and the interaction with legal privilege

If the ownership of land is unknown and parties use the land as their own, this can often lead to…

Hedges Team

November 24, 2021 - 1 minute 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

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 importance of having your Will professionally prepared

Cases such as this one, Ingram and Whitfield v Abraham [2023] EWHC 1982 (Ch), really demonstrate how crucial it is to…

Claire Cox

August 16, 2023 - 2 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

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

When inheritance disputes turn criminal

Janice Johnson faked letters and will documents, which she purported to be witnessed by people who had since died, to…

Claire Cox

August 25, 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

Unfair, but not irrational…

Norman Gill hired a hitman to kill his wife in 1979 and went on to leave his children only £5,000…

Claire Cox

August 21, 2023 - 1 minute read

The importance of having your Will professionally prepared

Cases such as this one, Ingram and Whitfield v Abraham [2023] EWHC 1982 (Ch), really demonstrate how crucial it is to…

Claire Cox

August 16, 2023 - 2 minutes read

Don’t keep it in the family: Chef left £5M wins battle to keep it after a claim was raised by the sister of the deceased

Businessman David Turner left his £5m fortune to a burger bar chef (Mr Jones) whom he had befriended. Mr Turner…

Claire Cox

July 20, 2023 - 1 minute read

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

Did you know that, in England and Wales, marriage revokes a Will?

Did you know that, in England and Wales, marriage revokes a Will? There has been a lot of discussion about…

Claire Cox

- 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…

Claire Cox

June 8, 2023 - 2 minutes read

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

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

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

The importance of having your Will professionally prepared

Cases such as this one, Ingram and Whitfield v Abraham [2023] EWHC 1982 (Ch), really demonstrate how crucial it is to…

Claire Cox

August 16, 2023 - 2 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

In the News: Why a DIY business LPA would cost your company dearly

Unfortunately, there are lots of businesses out there that have no legal documentation in place to ensure that if an…

Rebecca Kashti

May 19, 2023 - 1 minute 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

War of the Wives…

Another day another inheritance dispute in the High Court. I am very much looking forward to reading the Judgment on…

Claire Cox

March 23, 2023 - 1 minute 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

Spy camera undue influence victory

Yet another headline this week concerning a litigated inheritance dispute. Undue Influence is one of the most difficult challenges to…

Claire Cox

February 24, 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

Digital Assets After Death

Interesting article in Today’s Wills & Probate regarding access to a deceased’s digital assets. Apple devices with the latest update…

Rachel Carrington-Matthews

January 23, 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)…