News & Blogs

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 run…

10 Tips for Divorced Couples Handling applications for  Secondary School places

The application for the transition to secondary school is a significant milestone in any child’s life, but it can be…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

The cost of justice

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

“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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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’!…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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’…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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,…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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,…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

5 ways to avoid an inheritance claim after your death

Worried about your heirs arguing over what happens after your death? From what will happen at your funeral, to who…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Groom with cufflinks

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…

‘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…

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…

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…

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)…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

The cost of justice

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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 run…

What is Spousal Maintenance?

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

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.…

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…

10 Tips for Divorced Couples Handling applications for  Secondary School places

The application for the transition to secondary school is a significant milestone in any child’s life, but it can be…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

#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…

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…

Celebrating Employee Ownership Day

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

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…

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…

Fairness in flexible working

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

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…

Celebrity support continues

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

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…

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…

#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.…

Gender diversity in the law

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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 run…

What is Spousal Maintenance?

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

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.…

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…

10 Tips for Divorced Couples Handling applications for  Secondary School places

The application for the transition to secondary school is a significant milestone in any child’s life, but it can be…

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…

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…

What is Family Mediation?

Family mediation helps separated couples make decisions that need to be made after separation such as arrangements for their children…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

What is Family Mediation?

Family mediation helps separated couples make decisions that need to be made after separation such as arrangements for their children…

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…

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…

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…

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…

“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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

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…

Buying and Selling Agricultural Land

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

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…

Educating Britain on farming

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Open Farm Sunday

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

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…

World Milk Day

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

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. …

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,…

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…

Oxfordshire Farming Conference 2018

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

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…

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…

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…

Debt and divorce

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

person sitting at a desk with house keys in the foreground

We’re making a difference with every house move you make

When you ask anyone in our property team what they love about their job, they will invariably tell you it’s…

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 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…

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…

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 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 Breakfast Seminar 8 November

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

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…

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: 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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Getting clever with coffee

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

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…

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…

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…

Employment Fair…? Employers beware!

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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)…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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:…

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…

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…

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…

Zero Hour contracts soar

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

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..…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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,…

Rebecca Kashti

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

person sitting at a desk with house keys in the foreground

We’re making a difference with every house move you make

When you ask anyone in our property team what they love about their job, they will invariably tell you it’s…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Neighbours at war

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

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

“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…

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…

“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…

“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…

Tenants from hell

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

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…

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,…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Party Wall Agreements

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

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,…

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…

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…

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,…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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)…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

5 ways to avoid an inheritance claim after your death

Worried about your heirs arguing over what happens after your death? From what will happen at your funeral, to who…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Groom with cufflinks

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…

‘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…

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…

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)…

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…

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.…

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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…

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,…

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…

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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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Rebecca Kashti

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…

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…

War of the Wives…

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

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…

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…

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…

Charitable legacies

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

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…

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)…

A stark warning for those willing to lie in litigation…

Louise Reeves was accused by her brother of bullying their father into changing his will to cut him out. The…

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…

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…

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…

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…

Life interest CAN be reasonable financial provision in 1975 Act claims

Ramus v Holt makes for very interesting reading, the article below is a great summary. Husband and Wife, both wealthy.…

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.…

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…

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…

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…

Will Wars on the increase !

Some really insightful statistics published – I was surprised to read that 3 out of 4 people will be involved…

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…

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…

Popstar wins battle against Executor brother

This is a clear case of poor conduct on the part of the Executor. When Lady Rosamund, the former Countess…

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,…

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…

A word of caution to Will Writers

As a litigator, I am always mindful of protecting our firm from claims, especially with the prices of PII soaring. …

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…

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