News Feed

Charity of the Month: Norfolk & Waveney Mind

We are thrilled to be supporting Norfolk and Waveney Mind as our Charity of the Month for November 2024. Norfolk and Waveney Mind is the leading mental health charity in Norfolk and Waveney, supporting people with a variety of mental health needs.

Employee Ownership Trusts & The Budget

Alex Saunders, Partner in the LP Corporate Team explains the changes to Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) under the recent Autumn Budget announcement.

Alison Beales qualifies as a Chartered Legal Executive

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that Alison Beales has qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive last month.

Leathes Prior Solicitors Advises Stellar Global Holdings Limited on sale to Marvesting

Leathes Prior Solicitors is delighted to announce that it has acted for Stellar Global Holdings Limited in its recent sale to the Marvesting Group.

The Autumn Budget: SDLT Rates

Following the announcement of the Autumn Budget last week, Anna Jordan, Solicitor in our Residential Property Team has shared the immediate changes, and those coming into effect in Spring 2025, and what that means for residential property clients.

The Autumn Budget: What does the budget mean for your business?

After much speculation, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves has delivered her long-anticipated Autumn budget with a total of £40 billion of tax rises. Here is an overview of what this means for your business.

The Autumn Budget: A Summary

After months of speculation, today we got the answers to the Labour Government’s first budget announcement in 14 years. See Sam Poulter's summary of the key points here.

The Autumn Budget: Changes to Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax

Following today’s highly anticipated Autumn Budget announcement, Claire Woolliscroft looks at the key changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Inheritance Tax (IHT) that have been announced.

The Autumn Budget: The key highlights - Employment

Today marks the release of the first Labour budget in 14 years. So how will this budget impact the UK labour market? James Conley looks at the key headlines:

Dawn Lossau

We are heartbroken. Our colleague and dear friend, Dawn Lossau, passed away over the weekend.

What are the potential changes to Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax in the Autumn Budget 2024?

In anticipation of next week’s budget, speculation is rife as to what possible changes we might see to Inheritance Tax (IHT) and Capital Gains Tax (CGT). This article considers some of the potential changes, and what they might mean for you.

Leathes Prior Welcomes New Partner and Launches Ipswich Office

Leathes Prior expands and strengthens its Regulatory and Criminal Defence Team with the appointment of Partner Matthew Swash and the opening of a new Suffolk office in Ipswich.

Employment Rights Bill 2024

With the Employment Rights Bill landing yesterday, Dan Chapman, Head of Employment has put pen to paper to share his initial thoughts on what the most significant aspects of the new legislation will be.

The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023: Everything you need to know

On Tuesday 1 October, The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 came into force, requiring employers to allocate and distribute all qualifying tips to their workers in a fair and transparent way. Tia McAleese, Solicitor in our Employment Team explains everything you need to know around the new law.

Making a Personal Injury Claim: What to Expect

Bringing a personal injury claim can seem daunting, especially if you are also living with injuries sustained as a result of another party’s negligence. To prepare you with what to expect, Kimberley Nelson, Paralegal in our Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence Team has shared an overview of how the process works.

Renters’ Rights Bill – A door unlocked for tenants?

The highly anticipated ‘Renters’ Rights Bill’ has recently had its first reading in the House of Commons, in this article James Iron and Danny Turpin explore what changes the Bill proposes and the long-term impact of those possible changes.

Leathes Prior winners in five categories in the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey has awarded the firm winner’s badges in five categories, including the coveted top spot for Social Life and Client Contact.

Charity of the Month: Childhood Cancer Awareness - CCLG

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, so this month we are shining a light on four local charities close to our hearts. In our final article of the month, we hear from our colleague, and Mum to Maisie, Dawn, who shares her family's experiences and how to support the #bemoremaisie fund.

New Government plans for ‘day one’ unfair dismissal rights have been leaked

The Financial Times appears to have obtained documents outlining the Government’s intention to introduce much stricter protections for new employees.

East Anglias Childrens Hospices Cover Image

Charity of the Month: Childhood Cancer Awareness - EACH

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, so this month we are shining a light on four local charities close to our hearts. East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), deliver all-encompassing, lifelong care that includes a comprehensive range of services to support both bereaved and non-bereaved families.

Leathes Prior welcomes four new Trainee Solicitors to the firm

Leathes Prior Solicitors is delighted to welcome four new Trainee Solicitors to the firm, Charlie Watkins, James Iron, Rose Woolterton, and Lily Stagg.

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce three Trainee Solicitors qualify at the firm

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce three Trainee Solicitors qualify at the firm: Anna Jordan, Kate Wheeler, and Milan Pandit.

Charity of the Month: Childhood Cancer Awareness - Jesse’s Anchor

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, so this month we are shining a light on four local charities close to our hearts. Jesse’s Anchor is a children’s charity that has been set up by Michelle and Anneka in memory of their little boy Jessie. They aim to offer support to families with a child under the age of four, who has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.

Charity of the Month: Childhood Cancer Awareness - Amber’s Army

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, so this month we are shining a light on four local charities close to our hearts. Amber’s Army is a Norfolk-based family charity, aiming to ‘Create Rainbows in the Darkest of Days’ for Norfolk families who have a child with a terminal cancer diagnosis.

Corporate Transactions Article Cover Image

Corporate Transactions FAQs - The Disclosure Process

The disclosure process is a complex and often time-consuming part of a corporate transaction, to help those new to the process understand more about what disclosure is, and why it is so important to be done correctly, Milan Pandit, Trainee Solicitor in our Corporate & Commercial Team discusses the disclosure processes and our most frequently asked questions.

Charity of the Month: Nelson’s Journey

We’re delighted to be supporting Nelson’s Journey as our Charity of the Month for August 2024. Nelson’s Journey is on a mission to bring back smiles to children and young people in Norfolk by supporting them with the death of a loved one.

A new Olympic legacy? BBC coverage, UK employment law & the French connection

The Olympics are set to officially get underway this evening (26/04/2024) with the opening ceremony in Paris, Alex Robinson looks into what the French employment laws, the European Union’s Working Time Directive and the Olympics might mean for the UK.

Leathes Prior are delighted to announce two new additions to the firm

We are delighted to announce Solicitors Tia McAleese and Joanne Henderson have joined the firm's Employment and Regulatory & Criminal Defence Teams respectively.

Charity of the Month: The Feed

We are thrilled to be supporting The Feed as our Charity of the Month for July 2024. Through the power of food, The Feed’s mission is to empower communities in Norwich, ensuring every person has the support to eat well, live well, and feel connected.

What does the new Labour government mean for employment law?

With the outcome of the general election being a win for the Labour Party with a significant majority, attention now turns to what the new government plans to do with the mandate it has been given. Dan Chapman, Head of Employment discusses what that means for employment law.

Martha’s Rule Update - NNUH

In a follow-up to our previous articles on the progress of 'Martha's Rule', the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital has confirmed it has adopted Martha's Rule and introduced the 'Call for Concern Service' this week.

Commercial Leases: What should you look out for as a tenant?

Are you considering taking on a commercial lease? Kate Wheeler discusses what you should look out for as a commercial property tenant.

Education: Harassment in schools

There are some upcoming changes to the law around harassment, along with further reform which has been promised by the Labour Party, that will place additional duties and responsibilities on employers. These changes will have a particular impact on the education sector.

Mental health in the workplace

Given the rising numbers of people suffering from poor mental health, it is more important than ever for employers to be aware of the signs that an employee’s mental health is declining, and to take proactive steps to reduce the chances of their employees developing mental health problems.

Changes to the Probate Registry

With the Probate Registry experiencing a significant backlog of cases since COVID-19, new probate processes were introduced earlier this year which we are now starting to see the effects with the online application process.

Charity of the Month: MensCraft

Leathes Prior are delighted to be supporting MensCraft as our Charity of the Month for May 2024. MensCraft is the leading organisation in Norfolk for focusing exclusively on men's health and well-being, and supports men across Norfolk in managing life's challenges.

Leathes Prior announce the promotion of eight key staff

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce the promotion of eight key members of the firm, effective from 1 May 2024 including two new Partners, Harriet Howes, and Gareth Stevens. Jack Horwitz, Patrick Gibney, Chris Goodwin, and Julia Routledge have been promoted to Senior Associate, and Jordan Walker and Shaun Taylor have been promoted to Associate.

Leathes Prior acquire new offices in Norwich

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that we have agreed terms on the lease of 15 The Close. Whilst we will be saying goodbye to No.23 Tombland, the new location in Cathedral Close will allow for further growth of the firm.

Charity of the Month: Pathmakers

Leathes Prior are proud to be supporting Pathmakers as our Charity of the Month for April 2024. Pathmakers work with organisations and communities in Norfolk to help run, facilitate, and support walking projects that improve countryside access.

New: No Fault NHS Compensation System

As part of the Times Health Commission Report, a no-fault compensation scheme has been recommended to allegedly reduce the NHS’ bills. Kate Smith, Associate in our Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence Team explains...

Record award of £4.6 million made in discrimination and harassment claim

Former council employee Rachael Wright-Turner was dismissed from her position at the Council of London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham in 2018 after taking sick leave due to suffering PTSD symptoms following the Grenfell Tower fire. The Employment Tribunal has now granted Ms Wright-Turner £4.6 million in compensation for disability discrimination and harassment.

Is your business ready for the new law regarding payment of tips to staff?

On 1 July 2024, the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 comes into force, requiring businesses to allocate and distribute all qualifying tips, gratuities, and service charges to their workers in a fair and transparent way.

Charity of the Month: The Benjamin Foundation

Leathes Prior are delighted to be supporting The Benjamin Foundation as our Charity of the Month for March 2024. As a local charity, supporting young people across Norfolk & Suffolk on their journey to independence, we are shining a spotlight on this fantastic charity to raise awareness of the work they do to support young people in our community.

Leasehold vs Freehold Properties

When it comes to purchasing a property, one of the crucial decisions you can face is whether to opt for a freehold or leasehold property. Jake Mowatt, Associate in our Residential Property Team discusses the key differences and considerations for choosing between the two types of ownership.

Grandparent’s Rights in Private Child Proceedings

With grandparents often playing a crucial role in a child's life and development, the potential for their relationship to be impacted during a separation or divorce is often overlooked. Solicitor, Ellie Davies discusses what rights grandparents have and what steps they can take.

Spring Budget 2024 - A Summary

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has today announced the Spring Budget 2024. Sam Poulter looks into the budget here:

Cohabiting Couples – Three reasons why you should consider entering into a Cohabitation Agreement

With cohabitation becoming increasingly common in modern relationships, Ellie Davies, Solicitor in our Family Team sets out three reasons why entering into a Cohabitation Agreement is so important for couples choosing to live together.

Cohabiting Couples - Three reasons why you need a Will

Around a quarter of all couples living together in the UK are unmarried. Unfortunately, the law does not recognise the rights of cohabiting couples in the same way as married couples; Wills, Trusts, and Probate Solicitor, Hannah Griffin explains the importance of having a Will.

‘Martha’s rule’ to be introduced in NHS hospitals after funding agreed

Following our article last year outlining Health Secretary, Steve Barclay’s, announcement that the Government was committed to introducing ‘Martha’s rule’, we are pleased to learn that it will be introduced in NHS Hospitals from April 2024.

More Robust Checks for Online Prescription Drugs

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has called for extra checks to be carried out by online pharmacies before providing medication to patients. Kimberley Nelson from our Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence Team explains...

Residential Property: FAQ’s for First Time Buyers

Buying a property for the first time can be an equally exciting and overwhelming experience, to make it a little less daunting we've put together some of our most frequently asked questions along with answers from the LP Residential Property Team.

To Scoot or Not To Scoot: That is the question!

Following the launch of ‘Beryl’ bikes in Norwich in March 2022, a fleet of 100 e-scooters were added later that year, as part of the Department for Transport’s pilot scheme. Kate Smith discusses the differences between hire and private e-scooters and what they can mean if you're injured by one.

Not So Fantastic Mr Fox

Actor, Laurence Fox is in a High Court battle against Simon Blake and a drag performer Crystal, after a defamation claim was brought by Blake and Crystal, centering around tweets by Fox. Chris Goodwin, Associate in the Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team looks at the case and compares to similar across the pond involving X (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk.

Changes to the Online Safety Act 2023 come into force 31 January 2024

Part 10 of the Online Safety Act 2023 comes into force on 31st January 2024 and introduces six new offences. Designed to enhance the safety of internet services for individuals, Criminal Defence Team's Kirsty Chaplin explains...

Are Employment Tribunal fees about to come back?

The Ministry of Justice has today launched a consultation on reintroducing fees in employment tribunals and EAT appeals. Dan Chapman, Head of Employment explains…

What You Need To Know About Lasting Powers of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document enabling you to appoint attorneys to assist you with your affairs and finances should you lose mental capacity. Jordan Walker explains everything you need to know about a LPA and why they're so important.

Leathes Prior announces the expansion of the LP Agriculture Team

Leathes Prior announce the addition of Property Executive, Alison Beales to the firm's Agriculture Team.

Leathes Prior bolsters property teams with new additions to the commercial & residential property teams.

Leathes Prior is delighted to announce that Rachel Appleton has joined the firm's Commercial Property Team and Leanne Riches has joined its growing Residential Property Team.

Christmas Party Claims: Shelbourne v Cancer Research UK

With the festive season behind us, you may have reminisced about tales from the work’s Christmas party on your return to the office, but in 2019 Cancer Research UK’s Christmas party unfortunately resulted in a claim for personal injury when one of its employees sustained a spinal injury on the dance floor, Personal Injury Specialist, Kate Smith explains...

Employment Law: What to expect in 2024

Whilst 2023 saw numerous developments in employment law within the UK, it would be fair to say that 2024 promises to be much busier! As we welcome the new year in, here is Dan Chapman's summary of what we can expect to see in 2024 which will affect both employees and employers.

Norfolk Police Christmas drink / drug driving campaign 2023

Throughout their month-long campaign officers from Norfolk’s Roads and Armed Policing Team have been breathalysing ‘every driver they speak to’ throughout the festive period according to norfolk.police.uk.

Clinical Negligence Claims: Frequently Asked Questions

Making a clinical negligence claim is a complex process and often requires the input of numerous medical experts, it can therefore feel daunting making a claim. If you think you have a clinical negligence claim, here are some of our most frequently asked questions answered by our expert, Kate Smith.

New regulations set to cut migration

On 4 December 2023 the Home Secretary, James Cleverly, unveiled a comprehensive package of measures aimed at achieving the largest-ever reduction in net migration to the UK, taking effect in Spring 2024. The plan addresses various aspects of the immigration system, these changes will have a significant impact on foreign workers and their ability to work in the UK, Zanthe Meijer explains...

Join the resistance or fight the resistance?

The return to the office dilemma... Organisations must decide what the new normal looks like for them post-Covid, and whether this is working from home, hybrid working, or a complete return to the office. Gareth Stevens, Senior Associate in our Employment Team discusses...

Resolution’s Reform Proposals for Cohabiting Couples

In November 2022, Resolution asked its members share their views about the changes they would like to see to the family justice system. The vast majority responded that cohabitation reform should one of be the priorities. In a recent publication, Resolution explained its proposals for reforming the law relating to cohabitating partners, Maggie Berry explains more in this article.

Vision for Family Justice by Resolution

This week, on their 40th Anniversary, Resolution is using Awareness Week 2023 (27 Nov – 1 Dec) to launch their Vision for Family Justice campaign. The campaign highlights key changes its members want to see, to ensure a legal system for family law that is fit for the future. Read on to learn more about their aims.

Autumn Statement 2023 - A Summary

Jeremy Hunt delivered the Autumn Statement this afternoon (22 November 2023) focusing on the cost of living, investment, tax & inflation. Sam Poulter, Solicitor in our Corporate & Commercial Team looks into the statement here.

Personal Injury Claims: Frequently Asked Questions

Making a personal injury claim can be a daunting process, particularly when your focus should be on recovering. If you think you have a personal injury claim, here’s some of our most frequently asked questions answered by our expert, Kate Smith.

Leathes Prior act for successful local business in High Court claim to stop termination of franchise agreement

Yesterday (16 November 2023), judgment was handed down in The Burke Partnership (a firm) v The Body Shop International Limited [2023] EWHC 2897 (Ch). A successful outcome for Leathes Prior client, The Burke Partnership, in regards to stopping the termination of a franchise agreement for their Norwich & Cambridge stores.

New Holiday Pay Laws finally announced

On 8 November 2023, the Government made an announcement on The Employment Rights (Amendment, Revocation and Transitional Provision) Regulations 2023, Dan Chapman explains what this will mean for the calculation of holiday pay for workers with irregular hours.

What you need to know on the promise of leasehold reform from the King’s speech 2023

On 7 November 2023, King Charles opened parliament with the annual King's speech and one topic which has been highly anticipated is leasehold reform. In this article lease expert, Jake Mowatt talks about what was discussed, what the next steps are and what the potential reforms could mean for existing leaseholders, new leasehold property and those looking to purchase leasehold property.

Reforms to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974: New opportunities for ex-offenders

On 28 October 2023, a significant amendment took place as reforms to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 came into force.

Hope for patients as NHS England plan to introduce ‘Martha’s rule’

There is new support proposed for patients and their families after the Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, confirmed the Government’s commitment to introducing ‘Martha’s rule’, to give patients in England the legal right to request a second medical opinion from a dedicated critical care team whilst in an NHS hospital.

What you need to know about leasehold properties: The Ground Rent Issue

Are you a leaseholder or potential buyer of a property with ground rent over £250? Nadine Jasinski from our Residential Property Team explains what the ground rent issue (AST trap) means, what to look out for and steps you can take as a leaseholder or potential buyer.

Leathes Prior welcomes Kate Smith to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Kate Smith to the firm’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team, specialising in Personal Injury & Clinical Negligence.

The importance of Wills for assets outside the UK

If you have assets abroad such as a holiday home or a bank account, did you know that your existing UK Will may not necessarily adequately cover those assets? Anna Jordan discusses why having multiple Wills is so important when it comes to assets abroad and what you may need to be aware of during this process.

The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 receives royal assent

On 18 September 2023, The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 received royal assent with plans to come into force in 2024. The Act will give employees and agency workers with atypical work hours a right to request a more predictable work pattern, Kate Wheeler explains...

What you need to know when taking a new commercial lease

Taking on a new commercial lease? Rebecca Millard, Associate in our Commercial Property Team discusses some of the key points for tenants to bear in mind, and the potential pitfalls for tenants who don't fully understand their obligations.

Leathes Prior winners of six categories in the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce that the prestigious Legal 500 Future Lawyers survey has awarded the firm a winner’s badge in six categories including ‘Vacation Schemes’, ‘Client Contact’, and ‘Social Life’.

UK Immigration Fees Set to Rise

On 15 September 2023, the UK government announced significant increases in immigration and visa fees. With changes set to take effect on October 4, 2023, Employment Solicitor, Zanthe Meijer explains.

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome five new Trainee Solicitors to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome five new Trainee Solicitors to the firm: Alex Robinson, Eleanor Chapman, Georgia Sartin, Kirsty Chaplin, and Maggie Berry.

Leathes Prior congratulates Hannah Griffin as she qualifies into the firm’s Wills, Trusts and Probate Team

Leathes Prior is thrilled to announce that Hannah Griffin has been admitted to the roll of solicitors and has accepted the offer to continue her career here at the firm within the Wills, Trusts, and Probate Team.

Pensions in Divorce Settlements - Why do some people fail to claim them?

With around 7 in 10 not including pensions in financial settlements during a divorce, Ellie Davies, Solicitor in our Family Team looks at why this is and what the repercussions could be.

Key Considerations When Investing in Commercial Property

Thinking of investing in commercial property? Whilst a relatively stable investment type, Rebecca Millard, Associate in our Commercial Property Team discusses key considerations to navigate the complexities of becoming a commercial property landlord and how to protect your investment.

Formalities of a Valid Will Explained

Jordan Walker from the LP Wills, Trusts and Probate Team discusses what formalities are needed for a Will to be valid and what happens should these not be observed.

Navigating Your Exit: Evaluating the Most Common Exit Options for Shareholders

Jack Horwitz, Associate in the Leathes Prior Corporate Team discusses the most common exit options for shareholders and their advantages and disadvantages.

Kicked on the way down; relegated Foxes fined for breach of Competition Law

Leicester City FC, fresh from Premier League relegation, on 31 July, the Foxes were fined £880,000.00 for their alleged collusion with JD Sports Fashion Plc in the sale of club merchandise. Chris Goodwin, Associate from LP Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team explains...

Test Match Cricket: A Business in Motion?

Dan Chapman, Head of Sport, reflects on an Ashes summer and draws parallels with business life.

Harsher punishments for animal cruelty offenders

From 1 July 2023 updated sentencing guidelines will apply for offences committed in contravention of the Animal Welfare Act 2006, Kirsty Chaplin explains the new and updated guidelines.

Unlocking talent: The power of a sponsor licence

Since the UK's departure from the EU there has been increasing demand for foreign skilled workers. Zanthe Meijer from the LP Employment Team discusses unlocking talent with a sponsor licence & the benefits of doing so.

Leathes Prior advise on the sale of ABC Power to landfill operator Enovert

We are pleased to announce that Richard Guthrie and Jack Horwitz of the Leathes Prior Corporate & Commercial Team have acted for Ronnie Blyth and Steve Carter on the sale of ABC Power to landfill site operator Enovert.

Lease Extensions and The Building Safety Act 2022

With growing concerns of leaseholders and pending reform, Jake Mowatt, Lease Extension Specialist explores the current issues with the Building Safety Act and when we can expect to see reform.

Leathes Prior welcomes Danny Turpin to the firm

Leathes Prior is delighted to welcome Danny Turpin to the firm’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution Team specialising in commercial disputes.

Lasting Power of Attorney: When you might need one

An often misconception about a Lasting Powers of Attorney, is that we won't need them until later in life. This article looks at some of the circumstances in which you may want to have an LPA in place and why to consider putting them in place before it's too late.

Leathes Prior advises Canham Consulting on becoming Employee Owned

We are pleased to announce that Alex Saunders & Jack Horwitz of Leathes Prior's Corporate Team have advised Canham Consulting on it's transition to an employee-owned business under an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) structure.

Seeking Seed Investment: Three key legal considerations for a company and its founders

For startup businesses and their founders, raising a seed investment round is often an exciting and crucial stage to kickstart growth and secure the necessary resources for success, but what do you need to consider when taking this step?

Employee ownership trusts (EOTs) on the rise

With a rise in popularity for Employee ownership trusts in recent years, Partner, Alex Saunders explores this and whether it could be the right option for your business.

Luke Browning Signs with Williams Formula One Racing Driver Academy

Williams Formula One Team has today announced the signing of young racing driver and Leathes Prior client, Luke Browning, to its Driver Academy.

Building Safety Act: Registration of higher risk buildings goes live

Today, 6 April 2023, the registration of higher risk buildings goes live under the Building Safety Act. In this article Danny Turpin tells you what you need to know...

Categories