News
March 2010
Dubai delay brings British investor refund - 09.03.10
A British property investor has been partially refunded after taking the developers of a Dubai housing project to court for being two years behind schedule.
Civil servants revolt over redundancy pay - 08.03.10
As part of the biggest public sector strike since 1987, more than a quarter million civil servants are expected to rebel against planned cuts to their redundancy arrangements.
‘Overworked’ manager awarded £110,000 settlement - 08.03.10
A Staffordshire University worker has been handed £110,000 in an out-of-court settlement after raising concerns about his 65 hour working week.
Blacklisting legislation brought forward - 04.03.10
Legislation banning employers from blacklisting workers because of their affiliation with unions has been enforced a month ahead of schedule, after the government published guidance this week.
Employers struggling with training requests - 04.03.10
More than 20% of employers are oblivious to new legislation granting employees the right to request leave for training purposes, a new report has revealed.
Websites ‘outraged’ by Digital Bill amendment - 04.03.10
Website creators and internet service providers (ISPs) have attacked new amendments to the Digital Economy Bill which could see web users banned from accessing hugely popular sites such as YouTube.
Employers warned over online recruitment research - 03.03.10
New concerns have been raised over employers’ use of social networking websites to look up potential employees when they apply for a position at a company.
National statistics reveal state of commercial market - 02.03.10
The government’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) has published its comprehensive review of UK company mergers and acquisitions for the final quarter of 2009, revealing a returning interest from foreign investors.
Private rented sector ‘essential’ to current market - 02.03.10
New government figures have revealed the growing dependency amongst UK residents on the private rented sector (PRS) for their housing needs.
‘Job applicants must justify discrimination claims’ rules court - 01.03.10
Opportunists looking to financially gain from ‘unfounded’ discrimination claims must prove they have a genuine interest in a post before approaching the courts, the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has ruled.
New Year mortgage market plummets - 01.03.10
The number of residential mortgages approved in January fell to 48,000 from 58,000 within a month, as the housing market crawled into the New Year.
February 2010
Default Retirement Age ‘spiralling out of control’ - 26.02.10
Employers are using the government’s Default Retirement Age (DRA) as an alternative to redundancy during the recession, a survey by charities for the elderly has warned.
‘Employer can change contract without consent’ rules EAT - 25.02.10
The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has ruled that an employer can make ‘unilateral’ changes to employees’ contracts without getting consent if their contract makes concessions for doing so.
‘Don’t forget the little man’ urges FPB - 24.02.10
The Forum of Private Business (FPB) has urged the government to involve all businesses when drafting employment legislation, not just those with multi-million pound turnovers.
EU could extend maternity leave - 24.02.10
A committee of the European Parliament has proposed that maternity leave should be extended across Europe to 20 weeks full pay.
Soar in divorce for the over 50s - 23.02.10
As the rate for divorce across the UK fell to 130,000 a year, the over 50s are bucking the trend and approaching their solicitors for a clean break, new figures have revealed.
‘Redundancy payments based on age could be unlawful’ rules ECJ - 23.02.10
Following a landmark European Court of Justice (ECJ) German redundancy case, UK employers could leave themselves open to discrimination charges if they base their redundancy payouts on age.
New Year rise in mortgage advice - 22.02.10
Consumers seeking advice on mortgage issues rose by 50% in the New Year, compared with January 2009, according to professional advice website Unbiased.co.uk.
Full fit note guidance published - 22.02.10
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has published guidance for employers and staff on the controversial fit note system, introduced in April this year.
Directors’ failings force recruitment agency ban - 19.02.10
Directors for a series of HGV recruitment companies have been banned from recruiting for 10 years after an investigation by the Employment Agency Standards (EAS) discovered widespread inaccuracies, highlighting the dangers facing fellow agencies.
Stamp duty ‘hangover’ limits New Year lending - 18.02.10
Mortgage lending across the UK plummeted at the turn of the year as first-time buyers could no longer lessen the costs of housing with stamp duty exemptions, lenders have claimed.
‘Holiday leave lost to illness to be carried over’ rules tribunal - 18.02.10
Following two major court decisions, the first test of whether holiday leave can be carried in to the next year after illness has been agreed upon by a Yorkshire employment tribunal.
‘Fathers unsure of employment rights’ reveals survey - 18.02.10
Over 50% of fathers with children under 16 years of age claim they would look for an employer offering flexible working when choosing a job, as a government study reveals widespread misunderstandings of paternal employment rights.
Review highlights benefits of flexible working - 17.02.10
Allowing staff not to be ruled by regimental business hours can lead to better stress levels, health, rest and increased output, new research has revealed.
Loophole ‘robs’ spurned wife of husband’s assets - 16.02.10
A British woman who lived with her ex-husband in the UK for nine years has been denied access to his £1.2m pension after the court’s ruled she cannot apply for a divorce in Britain’s courts, reports the Telegraph.
British couples rejecting marriage for cohabitation - 12.02.10
Marriage rates in England and Wales have fallen for the fourth consecutive year, plummeting to the lowest levels since records began, new research has revealed.
Carers win equal pay appeal - 11.02.10
Female carers in Sheffield who have been earning up to 38% less than their male counterparts for decades are set for compensation after the Court of Appeal ruled in their favour.
‘Repossessions hit 14-year high’ claims CML - 11.02.10
Alarming figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) will reveal that the number of people who lost their homes through repossession reached a 14-year high during 2009.
‘Muslim marriages not recognised by law’ claims BBC - 10.02.10
A BBC investigation has uncovered an alarming loophole in a growing number of UK Muslims’ marriages which make the unions unrecognised by British law.
Landlords warned over criminal tenants - 09.02.10
More and more criminals are using residential, privately-rented properties to operate illegal practices at major cost to hard working landlords, according to the National Landlords Association (NLA).
Consultation on homeowner debt launched - 08.02.10
Homeowners who fall behind on their debts may soon be protected by the government as the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) announces a consultation into court action against indebted homeowners.
Bankruptcy could reach alarming high - 05.02.10
New Insolvency Service statistics have shown that the number of Britons edging towards bankruptcy will swell dramatically as borrowers fail to seek proper help from their creditors.
Government launches Private Rented Sector consultation - 04.02.10
The government has published a consultation document regarding the Private Rented Sector’s role in economic recovery.
Debt depression ‘sweeping across UK’ - 03.02.10
As the country slowly hauls itself out of the recession, businesses and employers are still feeling the effects of a widespread ‘debt depression’, a new survey has found.
‘Plummeting employment relations’ to blame for grievances - 02.02.10
Almost 40% of business HR managers believe poor relations between line managers and staff are the main reason for the increasing number of grievances lodged last year, a new survey has revealed.
Consumers ‘blind to will writing dangers’ - 01.02.10
Over 60% of the public believe that all willwriters are solicitors, a study by the Fellowship of Professional Willwriters and Probate Practitioners has revealed.
Staff could get employment rights on ‘day one’ - 01.02.10
Employees around the country could be granted flexible employment rights, such as carer’s leave, on their first day of employment under new government proposals announced this week.
January 2010
New paternity rights for fathers - 29.01.10
The government has unveiled new plans to increase paternity rights for new dads. The legislation will be passed in April this year and parents of children due on or after 3 April 2011 will benefit from the proposals.
Nationwide optimistic for house prices in 2010 - 29.01.10
Nationwide has said that the rate of house prices could rise by as much as ten per cent this year.
Mourning father calls for bereavement pay - 28.01.10
A father has called for families of soldiers killed in action to be given the legal right to paid compassionate leave after being told he could only take one day off to grieve for his fallen son.
UK failing across equality spectrum - 27.01.10
Different genders, ages and ethnicities across the UK are still feeling a lack of equality when it comes to their annual wages as the country falls behind rival democracies, a government commissioned report has revealed.
Employment lawyers ‘could enter disciplinary hearings’ - 26.01.10
Public sector employees may soon be allowed legal representation at internal disciplinary meetings following a landmark ruling by the Court of Appeal.
‘Property purchases more stressful than childbirth’ - 26.01.10
House buying has become the most stressful activity for the British public, with one in four homeowners claiming it was their most difficult experience in life, new research has revealed.
Intestacy forcing bereaved out of homes - 25.01.10
Widowed spouses and relatives of loved ones are being forced out of family homes after their partners failed to make a will, City law firms have revealed.
Rental market suffering from supply deficit - 25.01.10
The financial stability of the rental market has been rocked by a surge in demand at a time when supply is limited, new research has suggested.
Agency workers to be granted equal pay - 22.01.10
Agency workers and regular staff will soon share the same pay cheques and employment rights under new government legislation.
Equality Bill to terminate pre-employment health questionnaires - 21.01.10
The government has announced that UK employees will no longer need to disclose illnesses or disabilities during pre-employment questionnaires under new Equality Bill proposals.
MoJ launches in-depth family law review - 21.01.10
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has launched a thorough review into the current family justice system as it hopes to reduce confrontational court appearances and push more families into mediation.
Grandparents granted quicker access to ‘split’ children - 20.01.10
Grandparents will be allowed to contact their grandchildren more easily following family divorces and splits as the government announces changes to the ‘lengthy’ legal process currently controlling child access.
‘Wrong colour’ Cumbrian doctor given £115,000 compensation - 20.01.10
An NHS Nursing Boss who was denied a promotion due to underlying racism has been awarded £115,000 in compensation after a tribunal ruled that she was unfairly dismissed and discriminated against on racial grounds.
EAT clarifies holiday pay requirements - 20.01.10
A prominent employment dispute has been clarified by the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) after it ruled that employees must comply with annual leave guidelines discussed in their contracts or face losing entitlement at the end of the year.
Kraft deal ‘too sweet’ for Cadbury to resist - 19.01.10
American food retailer Kraft has finally purchased Britain’s leading chocolate company, Cadbury, for a reported £12bn, marking the end of drawn out negotiations and Britain’s largest commercial takeover since the onset of the recession.
Right to train requests clarified - 18.01.10
Prior to its introduction in April this year, the government has published full guidelines for the new right to request ‘time to train’.
Homeowners told: ‘Keep properties safe from squatters' - 15.01.10
Commercial and residential property owners have been told to watch out for opportunist squatters and ensure they are fully covered in the event of unwanted guests entering vacant properties.
NHS porter handed £35,000 after years of racial abuse - 14.01.10
A hospital porter has been awarded £35,700 by an employment tribunal after proving he was continuously abused and unfairly dismissed by bosses at an NHS contractor.
Rapid increase in people contesting inheritance - 14.01.10
Court cases challenging the levels of inheritance left to disappointed claimants have increased by nearly 1000% in the last 3 years with many more being settled before reaching court, according to High Court figures.
Landlords fearing regulations in 2010 - 13.01.10
A list of landlords’ worries for the year ahead has highlighted existing regulations as a number one concern, and, with more regulations possibly on the way, 2010 could be a cautious year for the letting market.
‘Watch your will writer’ urges Law Society - 13.01.10
With New Year’s resolutions springing up across the nation, the Law Society has called for one resolution to become universal; make sure your will is lawful.
‘Scrap default retirement age’ urges senior MP - 12.01.10
Labour Deputy Leader Harriet Harman has called for the “arbitrary” default retirement age to be abandoned as the public’s opposition to the scheme begins to swell.
TUPE ‘affected employees’ clarified - 11.01.10
An Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has become the first to detail and clarify ‘affected employees’ that must be informed during TUPE transfers.
House prices rise for sixth consecutive month - 08.01.10
UK house prices were 1.1% higher in December than the previous year, marking the sixth consecutive monthly rise in property value and the first annual rise in almost two years, Halifax has revealed.
Commission urges employers to grasp flexible working - 07.01.10
A new report into employers’ use of flexible working has found that most are fearful of the practice as they do not understand rights and responsibilities to their workforce.
Debt management a priority in 2010 - 07.01.10
Consumers are being urged to control their debts and concentrate on budgeting as the New Year brings further economic woes.
Will research uncovers public generosity - 07.01.10
Almost a quarter of the general public planning to create a will are deciding to leave money to charities, new research has revealed.
Workplace bullies becoming more common - 06.01.10
Employment law cases regarding bullying in the workplace have more than doubled in the last six months, with the recession being blamed for increasing psychological harm.
Seek expert legal advice for New Year divorce, says Law Society - 06.10.10
With January 4th inauspiciously labelled as ‘Divorce D-Day’, the Law Society has called for unhappy spouses considering a life of separation to seek out expert legal advice from specialist family law solicitors.
Government dynamic to tackle poor wages - 06.01.10
The government has announced a New Year’s assault on employers refusing to recognise minimum wage standards with the creation of a “dynamic response team”.
December 2009
Facebook: ‘the modern cause of divorce’ - 23.12.09
Social networking site Facebook, which has more than 390m users worldwide, is the main reason for divorce in almost 20% of modern cases, lawyers have revealed.
‘Further house price gains expected in 2010’ say experts - 23.12.09
House prices are expected to rise by between 1% and 2% over the next year, in line with increases seen in 2009, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has predicted.
Unfair dismissal award to fall by spring - 18.12.09
The maximum award for an employee unfairly dismissed will be reduced next April in order to reflect the retail price index (RPI), the government has announced.
2009 brings profits back to letting landlords - 17.12.09
The re-emergence of the buy-to-let market has brought welcome profits back in to the hands of landlords struggling to recuperate the losses of last year, new figures have suggested.
Boundary dispute costs £160,000 for six-foot of shrub - 15.12.09
Two neighbours that have squabbled over six-foot of front garden for years have finally had their case settled by the Court of Appeal, leaving one with a £160,000 legal bill.
Firm ‘hides behind new name’ to avoid damages - 15.12.09
A Welsh mother who was unfairly dismissed after becoming pregnant has been told by her former employers that she will not receive her damages after claiming they are now a ‘different company’.
Redundancy changes set for April 2010 - 14.12.09
Redundancy payment calculations for civil service workers will be overhauled in the Spring of next year, as Cabinet Office Minister, Tessa Jowell, claims the current system is “inappropriate for the modern civil service”.
House purchase loans hit two year high - 11.12.09
The number of loans for house purchases has reached the highest level seen since December 2007 as 55,000 deals are agreed, according to new research.
National insurance increase to damage employment - 10.12.09
The pre-budget report has announced that National Insurance (NI) payments for employees earning over £20,000 a year will rise by 0.5% from April 2011.
Inheritance tax threshold frozen - 10.12.09
Plans to increase the inheritance tax threshold to £350,000 next April have been halted by Alistair Darling’s pre-budget report, meaning anyone inheriting more than £325,000 will still have to pay inheritance tax.
Possible paid leave for workers caring for relatives - 09.12.09
Workers who care for their sick relatives could soon be entitled to claim paid leave under new proposals being considered by the government.
Employers warned on ‘staff poaching’ - 08.12.09
Employers looking to strengthen their workforce by headhunting from rival firms should be wary of the legal risks, employment experts have warned.
Loan breaches double in commercial property market - 07.12.09
New figures reveal that the amount of borrowers in the UK commercial market, in breach of their financial agreements, have more than doubled in the early months of 2009.
‘Overnight allowances can count towards minimum wage’ says EAT - 04.12.09
The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has ruled that allowance payments, made to employees who have spent the night at their place of work, can be taken into account when calculating their minimum wage.
Generational divide over inheritance - 03.12.09
With almost 11m people looking to leave their relatives a combined £2.15 trillion in their wills, research has found that only 41% of ‘children’ actually expect inheritance.
Parental leave to get one month extension - 03.12.09
EU proposals to increase unpaid parental leave from three to four months have been accepted in Brussels this week, but employees may not endorse the change.
50,000 repossessions predicted for the New Year - 03.12.09
As the year’s financial woes draw to a close, those homeowners that have managed to navigate the peaks and troughs of 2009 will still have to hold-on tight for the year ahead, new figures have warned.
‘Rents to start rising’ says RICS - 02.12.09
Residential rents are expected to rise in the New Year as the number of rental properties available fell for the first time in almost two years, says the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
‘Potty mouth’ staff leave SMEs open to court action - 01.12.09
The level of swearing, sexism, shouting and sexual innuendo in the UK’s work force is reaching alarming levels, and businesses could face lengthy court actions if they cannot curb their employees, according to new research.
November 2009
‘Equality laws letting down working mothers’ says NCT - 30.11.09
Employers are still failing to show mothers the adequate level of support after returning from maternity leave, new research has found.
Employment protection to abandon junior doctors - 27.11.09
From the New Year, junior doctors will lose a vast amount of employment protection rights as the government grants an exemption to postgraduate deaneries.
Buy-to-let market regaining confidence - 27.11.09
The trials and tribulations of the buy-to-let market seem to be alleviating over past months, as portfolio expansions and reductions in remortgages bring confidence back to the dented sector.
Writing on the wall for debt-ridden Borders - 26.11.09
National bookshop Borders is expected to appoint new administrators over the coming days as publishers and customers abandon its stores.
Council worker blows whistle to £400,000 tune - 25.11.09
A council Equalities Officer proved her training was worthwhile this week after blowing the whistle on her employers’ breach of equal opportunities policy, claiming £440,000 in the process.
Bullied reporter fights back with court reward - 24.11.09
A former sport reporter has won more than three quarters of a million pounds in damages after the courts accused leading tabloid newspaper management of widespread bullying.
Daughter forges will for father’s fortune - 24.11.09
A daughter has been found guilty of falsely trying to inherit her father’s £100,000 estate with the help of her mother and a forged will.
MP pledges support for repossessed tenants - 23.11.09
A Labour MP has vowed to amend the Financial Services Bill after it failed to include protection for tenants whose properties are repossessed due to failing buy-to-let landlords.
Financial anxiety damaging work and relationships - 20.11.09
The poor health of the UK’s economy is making more than a few workers feel under the weather as 1.4m employees have taken time off work due to financial anxiety in the past year, new research has found.
Employers welcome Abbey’s discrimination appeal - 19.11.09
The Court of Appeal has forced an Employment Tribunal to reassess the damages awarded in a high-profile discrimination case.
‘Modder’ case clarifies video game copyright - 19.11.09
The Court of Appeal has clarified video game copyright protection following a landmark case and increased pressure from the gaming industry.
Commercial property growth being hampered by rental market - 18.11.09
October saw the commercial property market grow for the third month in a row, according to yet more positive research into the sector.
Border staff to ‘takeaway’ foreign workers - 17.11.09
Two Suffolk takeaway restaurants could face heavy fines after illegal foreign workers were found on their premises.
Commercial boom reignited as major firm boasts profits - 17.11.09
The commercial property market is gradually finding its feet after a turbulent few years, as the country’s biggest landlord and developer sees its empire begin to rise in value.
‘Children the real cost of divorce’ - says research - 16.11.09
The ‘vindictive methods’ of divorcing couples are severely affecting the children left behind, new research has suggested.
Buy-to-let is ‘here to stay’ - says CML - 16.11.09
Gross lending in the buy-to-let mortgage market grew in the third quarter for the first time in two years, according to data published by the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).
Online bankruptcy application may be introduced - 13.11.09
The Government has outlined proposals to allow individuals to submit a bankruptcy application online or through the post, rather than in a court.
First time buyers ‘stamping’ for joy over tax savings - 12.11.09
According to data released by the Council of Mortgage Lenders, one third of first-time buyers escaped paying stamp duty in September.
Volunteer workers unable to claim for discrimination - 12.11.09
A disabled individual has lost her appeal for discrimination on the grounds that she was a volunteer and not technically ‘employed’.
Roommates need new rates - 11.11.09
The ‘Rent a Room’ scheme allows you to receive a certain amount of tax-free 'gross' income from renting accommodation in your main home.
Cohabiting couples to have better rights - 10.11.09
The Law Commission has suggested that unmarried or cohabiting couples should be able to benefit financially if their partner dies without leaving a will.
Inheritance is still ‘taxing’ - 10.11.09
AXA Wealth International has warned that inheritance tax reforms implemented by the Finance Act 2008 only apply to married couples and not their family members.
Increase in divorce and care proceedings cases - 09.11.09
Figures released today suggest that there has been a rapid rise in the number of divorces and separation cases as well as an increase in the number of child care proceedings.
‘Cash-strapped’ Brits the most insolvent for 50 years - 06.11.09
Figures from The Insolvency Service have revealed a 28% rise in the number of people declaring themselves insolvent in the past few months.
‘NICE employers’ could save money - 05.11.09
According to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), work related mental illness accounts for £28bn each year, a quarter of the UK’s total sick bill, with bad managers the single biggest problem affecting employees.
Demand for space driving commercial market - 04.11.09
The commercial property market may be ready to haul itself out from one of the bleakest climates ever seen, two new studies have suggested.
Royal Mail to face legal action over agency plans - 03.11.09
Under fire Royal Mail executives have been told they will face a date in the High Court this week, as unions seek an injunction against the 30,000 agency workers used to clear strike backlogs.
Age discrimination for ‘sweet sixteen’ - 02.11.09
Sixteen council workers are suing their employer, the London Borough Council of Barking and Dagenham.
October 2009
Debtors ‘call time’ on alcohol retailer - 30.10.09
First Quench Retailing, owners of renowned retailers Threshers and Wine Rack, has gone into administration this week, threatening the 1,300 stores across the country and their employees.
Mandelson reveals ‘copyright crackdown’ schedule - 29.10.09
Business Secretary, Lord Mandelson, has revealed the government’s timetable for tackling internet copyright abuse, with total bans expected for regular offenders.
Un-wed to get marriage rights upon death - 29.10.09
Unmarried couples, who live together for two years, will be entitled to the same intestate rights as married couples, under new proposals from government law advisers.
Country’s capital ‘leading commercial turnaround’ - 28.10.09
The London commercial property market is the forerunner in the country’s turnaround in tenant activity, with retail and office demand expanding at the fastest pace.
Employees ‘in the dark’ over their rights - 28.10.09
More than one fifth of the country’s workforce is unaware of basic employment rights, such as minimum wage and discrimination, new research by the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) has revealed.
Illegal lodger boom brings homeowner dangers - 28.10.09
Financially strained homeowners are increasingly allowing unregistered lodgers to dwell in their properties without considering the dangers attached, new research by insurers, Halifax, has revealed.
‘Most employees fear mental health disclosure’ - 27.10.09
An alarming number of workers fear they will not be employed due to mental health problems, new research has found.
Credit companies to help consumers, as debt disputes increase - 26.10.09
Credit card companies will be forced to help their consumers tackle mounting debt problems under new rules proposed this week, as the government looks to end “sharp practices”.
Write a Will Week launches - 26.10.09
New figures reveal almost 28m Brits are living without wills as the country enters national Write a Will Week.
Draft Agency Workers Regulations announced - 23.10.09
A draft of the Agency Workers Regulations (AWR), published by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), was published this week and, despite being postponed until October 2011, employers have been warned not to get complacent.
Landlords spreading their portfolio wings - 22.10.09
Landlords are taking maximum advantage of falling property prices by widening their portfolios, new research from the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) has found.
‘Cowboy will writers’ shooting up legal service market - 22.10.09
Consumers are being warned about an influx of unregulated will writers attempting to invade the country’s legal service market.
‘UK Companies in the eye of the storm’, warn specialists - 20.10.09
Britain is in danger of a ‘deluge’ of businesses going under through insolvency in the next year, an expert report has warned.
Housing market recovery ‘in the hand of auctioneers’ - 19.10.09
The UK housing market is clawing its way to a recovery, as more and more prospective owners are heading to auction houses to find their ‘dream home’.
Research shows ‘prenups’ on the horizon - 16.10.09
There may be an increase in ink-stained paper before couples utter “I do”, as two thirds of solicitors have predicted an increase in prenuptial agreements, new research has found.
EU choice over inheritance tax laws - 15.10.09
New laws being proposed by the European Commission will allow Europeans greater choice over which country’s inheritance tax laws they wish to be governed by.
Fall in UK business collapses - 14.10.09
The number of UK businesses being made insolvent or collapsing eased in recent months; further fuelling claims that the worst of the recession is behind owners.
‘Self employed’ employment rights to be secured - 13.10.09
The Court of Appeal has handed down a landmark ruling this week, meaning it will be more difficult for employers to take away workers’ rights by labeling them as “self employed”.
‘Jump off the renting bandwagon and buy!’ shouts Abbey - 09.10.09
First time buyers will be better off if they shut the door on their renting dreams and buy, new research by Abbey Mortgages has suggested.
‘Mother was not fit to sign will’, argues spurned daughter - 09.10.09
An only child has contested the validity of her parents’ will after their entire £2.34m estate was left to the RSPCA.
Homeowners to challenge banks over ‘unfair mortgage’ - 07.10.09
Over 300 homeowners, who claim their mortgage product is “unfair”, have been given the right to bring action against two of the UK’s biggest banks.
Royal Mail issues legal threat against postcode feeds - 07.10.09
Websites detailing the whereabouts of hospitals or fire services are disappearing overnight, amidst fears of a battle with Royal Mail over the intellectual property rights of UK postcodes.
Sikh policeman wins £10,000 over ‘crash turban’ - 06.10.09
A Sikh police officer, who was told he had to remove his turban during riot training, has had his case for racial discrimination granted by an employment tribunal this week.
UK buy-outs ‘hit a dry patch’ - 06.10.09
The volume of private equity-backed buy-outs in the UK fell to their lowest level in over 20 years, after only 31 deals were completed in the last three months.
‘HIP consumers currently satisfied’ - 05.10.09
Research published this week, suggests that the majority of homeowners are satisfied with the delivery of their Home Information Packs (HIPs), highlighting the need for upfront information in the home buying process.
‘No trade mark for a mark!’ says courts - 05.10.09
An exclamation mark cannot be registered as a trade mark, The European Court ruled last week, crushing the appeal claims of German Fashion house Joop! in the process.
E-mail injunction served to ‘Twitt’ - 02.10.09
Lawyers for a conservative blogger have been granted permission to issue a writ to an anonymous individual, who hacked into a conservative blogger’s Twitter account, across the internet.
House prices increase across all regions - 02.10.09
UK house prices rose across all regions in the third quarter of 2009, with areas in the South of England outperforming those further North.
Recession boosts unfair dismissal claims - 01.10.09
Unfair dismissals are now the most common employment claim, following a rise of 29% in the past year.
Companies Act comes into action - 01.10.09
The biggest ever overhaul of company law was launched this week, as the final elements of the Companies Act 2006 were brought into force.
September 2009
UK debt facts and figures released - 30.09.09
New figures, released this week, have revealed the full extent of the country’s debt worries, as the recession’s impact shows wide spread damage across the financial board.
‘Housing crash is over’ claims money spending HSBC - 30.09.09
Britain’s biggest bank has promised to reinvest in first time buyers, after deciding that the housing market is finally set for a return to the good old days.
Divorced £400m tycoon ‘faked breakdown to dodge jail’ - 29.09.09
A tycoon, who was ordered by the court to explain the disappearance of his £400m fortune, may have faked a mental breakdown to escape jail and divorce payments.
Default retirement age to stay, but for how long? - 29.09.09
The UK default retirement age of 65 is still lawful, but will be unlikely to survive upcoming reviews into its effectiveness during economic struggles, the High Court ruled this week.
250,000 houses needed to stop shortfall crisis - 29.09.09
There will be a shortage of millions of homes around the country by the end of 2010 worsening the recession’s impact on our economy, a report has claimed.
Remote working still ‘unknown to UK professionals’ - 28.09.09
A “significant proportion” of UK professionals are still unaware that they may be entitled to work remotely, following recent advances in online communications and working from home.
Pre-nups on the up and up - 28.09.09
Prenuptial agreements have become ten times more common in the UK over recent years, according to family lawyers.
London no longer commercial property’s leading city - 28.09.09
Europe’s real estate leader board has a new champion, as London was knocked from its perch for the first time since 2005.
BA Christian employee loses legal cost protection - 28.09.09
A British Airways (BA) employee, sent home for wearing a cross at work, has been told she will bear the full costs of future legal action against her employers.
Civil partnership’s getting ‘younger with age’ - 25.09.09
New research has revealed that the average age of same sex couples entering civil partnerships has dramatically dropped since the Civil Partnerships Act was introduced in 2005.
‘Drug dabblers’ should heed employment warning - 25.09.09
A Warwickshire road worker, who was sacked following a random drugs test, has lost his compensation claim for unfair dismissal.
Businesses warned over website liability - 24.09.09
Poor wording of a site’s Terms and Conditions of Use can lead to liability for statements read by users, and, without properly enforced disclaimers, owners may soon find themselves in court.
Internet figures show rental prices rise across UK - 24.09.09
Rental prices have risen for the first time since 2007, as the first signs of recovery hit the market following a fierce downturn last year.
Mixed news for first time buyers - 23.09.09
Property market virgins have been handed conflicting news in abundance recently, and the trend looks set to continue as new figures reveal first time homes are cheaper, but mortgage availability is still declining.
Professional landlords ‘contracting in a mortgage maze’ - 22.09.09
Despite increases in credit availability, professional landlords are concerned about the lack of buy-to-let options available in the current market, a survey has found.
Law maker fined over foreign employment - 22.09.09
Gordon Brown’s chief legal adviser, Baroness Scotland, has been fined £5,000 for breaking employment laws she helped create, regarding the illegal use of a foreign worker.
Cross bearing nurse to seek damages - 22.09.09
A Christian nurse, who faced disciplinary action for wearing a cross necklace, has accepted an offer of redeployment “under duress”, and instructed her lawyers to pursue discrimination damages from her employers.
Companies Act 2006: the final instalment
1 October 2009 sees the implementation of the remaining provisions of the Companies Act 2006 (the “Act”). The Act, once it is fully in force, will govern the entire life cycle of a company, from the cradle to the grave. In this article I look at the effect of the Act on the contents of the documents which make up a company’s rule book, its Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Right-to-buy could be nearing its final payment - 21.09.09
As the popularity of renting goes through the roof, fewer than one-in-eight council and housing association tenants would like to own their own home, new research has found.
Tesco and Next in clothing row - 21.09.09
Two of the UK’s largest retailers are set to meet in court after arguments over the theft of clothing designs reached fever point.
Skype founders to sue eBay over copyright - 18.09.09
The founders of internet telephone service Skype are suing current owners eBay Inc, over the theft of their peer-to-peer (P2P) technology.
Banker demands ‘fair’ divorce payout - 18.09.09
A former investment banker has appealed against his wife’s divorce settlement, after being left with less than a third of the couple’s liquid assets.
Billions a year spent on employment law queries - 18.09.09
UK small businesses are spending more that two billion pounds a year in administrative costs, due to a rapidly increasing number of employment issues.
Harry inherits his ‘Princely sum’ - 17.09.09
Prince Harry turned 25 this week, becoming a multi-millionaire from his mother’s estate in the process.
‘Out-of-date’ dismissal case granted - 17.09.09
An employee forced into redundancy has successfully launched an unfair dismissal claim, despite presenting it over three months after termination of her employment.
RICS in ‘shootout with cowboy agents’ - 17.09.09
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has teamed up with trade associations, redress schemes and consumer groups in an attempt to improve standards in residential property.
Entrepreneurs -Your recession needs you! - 16.09.09
Entrepreneurs are more likely to lead the country out of recession than the government, according to research by The Entrepreneurs Board.
Paternity leave to reach six months - 15.09.09
New fathers look set to take six months’ paternity leave, despite growing concerns about the impact on company finances during the recession.
1.7m unwanted birthday presents for the CAB - 15.09.09
The Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB) celebrates their 70th birthday this year, but instead of blowing out the candles they had to deal with a record number of worried callers, panicking amid a worsening recession.
Holiday ‘sickies to be claimed back’ - 14.09.09
Employees who fall sick during holiday leave should be allowed to take their holidays again, even if it means carrying days over into a new employment year, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled.
Commercial property ‘back in bed’ with private investors - 14.09.09
The worst of the commercial property downturn may be over, as increasing appetite from private investors may signal a return to the boom of yester years.
Employees ‘in the know’ about their rights - 14.09.09
Figures released by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) show that more than 75% of employees feel they are “well informed” about their employment rights.
‘Ageist’ council facing record payout - 11.09.09
An East London council are set to give a former employee a record breaking payout, after sacking him months before his 50th birthday.
Boundary row over 30-year-old order - 11.09.09
A businessman has bumped heads with a Northern council, as a new road looks set to pierce his family garden.
Divorce renegotiations, yet another recession impact - 10.09.09
The drop in property and investments values has increased the amount of solicitors being asked to renegotiate divorce settlements, as partners look to reassess what they are currently worth.
Sacked executives win unfair dismissal payout - 09.09.09
Three former executives, who accused their employers of doctoring board room discussions, have won their unfair dismissal case despite a tribunal ruling their ‘whistleblowing’ was not the reason for their sacking.
Mortgage market ‘going steady’ - 09.09.09
Confidence in the property market appears to be increasing as new figures reveal mortgage seekers finally starting to outweigh those homeowners suffering remortgage pains.
North and Midlands ‘repossession hotspots’, says government - 08.09.09
Housing Office figures have highlighted homeowners in the North West and West Midlands, including Manchester and Liverpool, as higher risk candidates for repossessions than those dwelling in the South.
Remortgages rising as consumers abandon variable rates - 07.09.09
Bank of England figures, published last week, show the number of people taking out remortgages has risen, despite low standards variable rates (SVRs) available to homeowners.
Celebrity photographer hit by copyright headaches - 07.09.09
Celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz is the subject of a $300,000 (£183,000) lawsuit after an Italian photographer claimed she stole his pictures for an international advertising campaign.
Company challenges climate sympathiser ruling - 07.09.09
A landmark employment tribunal decision, claiming discrimination against a climate change ‘believer’, is set to be challenged in the courts.
Property millionaire forced to sell £42m estate in divorce - 07.09.09
A city tycoon says he is being pushed into selling his family’s £42m country manor due to a bitter divorce from his wife of 24 years.
Separating couples could be pushed into mediation - 04.09.09
Divorcing and separating couples may be forced to consider mediation before taking their case to court, if new Ministry of Justice (MoJ) plans being discussed are eventually enforced.
Welsh women ‘short changed on equal pay’ - 04.09.09
Welsh councils have been accused of lagging well behind the rest of the UK in achieving equal pay for female workers.
TV millionaire ‘swallowed by recession’ - 04.09.09
Property developer, Chek Whyte, has declared himself bankrupt after applications for an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA) were refused by his creditors.
‘Time for single world patent’ says Microsoft - 04.09.09
A senior lawyer at one of the world’s biggest software manufacturers has called for the creation of a global patent system, making it easier and faster for corporations to enforce their intellectual property rights internationally.
‘Stealing patents should be criminal’ says UK inventor - 03.09.09
Eccentric British inventor, Trevor Baylis, has called for a change in protection for inventors and others who file their designs under patent laws
Divorcing couples urged to find the ‘court that fits’ - 03.09.09
Divorcing couples, that fail to reach an amicable agreement when they separate, are shopping around England and Wales to find the right courts to suit their needs
Lesbian partners granted equal birth certificate rights - 03.09.09
Lesbian couples, who conceive their children through fertility treatments, can now register both their names on a child’s birth certificate, signalling a “step forward” in equality.
Student gets upgrade after four-year court action - 010909
A law student, who refused to accept the exam results of her final year, has won a four-year legal battle against Cardiff University to have her original results dismissed.
Government paper and DWP supporting mental illness - 010909
Campaigners have welcomed a new government consultation which puts the presence of mental health in the workplace, at the heart of its strategy.
August 2009
Commercial Property Rent Recovery
As we are all aware, the “credit crunch” has impacted on businesses and this has a knock on effect on those who have a working relationship with these businesses, including Landlords of their premises
Retired homeowner facing mortgage crisis - 27.08.09
Repossessions may start to escalate amongst retired homeowners after mortgage lending caps, introduced by the government, have left pensioners in a panic about the future.
HIV discrimination ‘ever present in the work place’ - 27.08.09
The first major research to be conducted into the working experiences of people living with HIV has found that 20% of employees have experienced discrimination, the National AIDS Trust (NAT) has revealed.
UK mother faces international split from children - 27.08.09
A mother from Eastbourne may have to leave her children in Bali after an ongoing custody case with their rich father has left her fighting to bring them home.
Illegal workers rife in the high street - 26.08.09
Major high street companies have been named and shamed after immigration office raids discovered more than 30 illegal workers a week.
EU investigation into patent and trade mark systems - 25.08.09
The European Commission has opened a study into the quality of patents in the European Union. The study will also focus on the concept of a Community Patent, and its effects on the future of EU patent systems.
Killed marine’s family in estate feud - 25.08.09
The family of a Birmingham soldier, killed whilst on duty in Afghanistan, are trapped in a legal battle with his girlfriend over the allocation of his estate.
Money saving tourists warned about ‘Del Boys’ - 24.08.09
UK holidaymakers hoping to load their suitcases with fake goods from the continent, have been warned to double check the label or face jail time.
‘Recession nearing end’ says survey, but not for everyone - 24.08.09
A recent study from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) predicted that the UK economy will grow by 0.5% during the next three months, but for some it’s too little too late.
Playboy boss ‘bitten by ex-bunny’ - 24.08.09
Playboy owner, Hugh Hefner, is being sued by his wife over claims he broke their prenuptial agreement.
IVAs ‘may not be the answer’ - 21.08.09
UK consumers hoping to relieve themselves from the panic of debt, have been told that Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs) are not an immediate dressing for recession scars.
Development company leaves investors ‘out in the cold’ - 21.08.09
Lancashire-based developers Dylan Harvey Residential Ltd (DHR), went into administration this month, leaving buy-to-let investors up to £20,000 out of pocket.
Payout for workers sacked over the net - 20.08.09
Workers at a nationwide chain of Christian bookshops have won “substantial” damages after being sacked by e-mail.
‘Future Plans’ questions could spell discrimination for councils - 20.08.09
Councils requesting that employees reveal their future plans could face discrimination claims, lawyers have warned.
Public ‘highly satisfied’ with solicitor services - 20.08.09
A report from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) found that an ‘overwhelming’ number of consumers were pleased with the service they received.
Anti-stalking laws used to keep banking ‘wolves at bay’ - 20.08.09
Injunctions are being issued to keep ‘greedy’ banks away from recession victims, and grant some well needed ‘breathing space’.
Energy Performance Certificates Update - 20.08.09
Previously, we reported on the introduction of the energy performance certificate (EPC) required in connection with the construction, sale or letting of a commercial building.
Cleese divorce highlights law’s shortfalls - 19.08.09
Monty Python actor, John Cleese, has been ordered to pay ex-wife Alyce Faye Eichelberger over £12million following their recent divorce.
Rally driver’s wife ‘falsified his will’ - 19.08.09
The widow of a former Bradford rally driver faces possible imprisonment after admitting she falsified her deceased husband’s will.
Government to clear up copyright plans at c&binet meeting - 18.08.09
The government is expected to use an upcoming Creative and Business International (c&binet) conference to outline the details of the International Anti-counterfeiting Trade Agreement (Acta).
Learning difficulty workforce reaches ‘disappointing low’ - 18.08.09
New NHS figures show the number of paid employees with learning difficulties is less optimistic than original government predictions.
Tenants urged to forgo rental drops - 18.08.09
Government plans to drop rental prices in conjunction with the interest rate, have been labelled “politically inept” by leading housing experts.
Crohn’s sufferer loses tribunal against Tate - 17.08.09
An employee at Tate Britain has failed to prove her managers did not support her disability when moving her between galleries.
Treasury increase inheritance tax interest by 3% - 17.08.09
New Government tax legislation will force bereaved families to rush their grieving period or face heavy interest payments.
A battle of Pimm’s and Pitchers - 17.08.09
The world’s biggest spirit group and one of the UK’s largest grocers are going head to head in a battle for middle class liquor supremacy.
LSC delays civil aid contracts - 07.08.09
The Legal Service Commission (LSC) has delayed the tender of civil legal aid contracts by six months, halting the harmonisation of advocacy fees.
‘Lack of protection for debit card users’ says consumer watchdog - 07.08.09
Consumer Focus has called for the customer’s “torn safety net” to be mended after company insolvencies reached 5,000 in England and Wales last year.
Boalloy Fastruck Bodies workers left ‘short changed’ - 07.08.09
Staff made redundant by Boalloy Fastruck Bodies claim they are owed thousands of pounds in back pay and are awaiting legal aid nine weeks after it was promised.
Policewoman seeks damages after accusations of ‘cowardice’ - 06.08.09
A Surrey policewoman is seeking £350,000 in damages after claims she showed ‘a lack of courage’ during an assault on a fellow officer.
New tribunal pilot scheme being ‘held up by government’ - 06.08.09
Research calling for ‘opt-out class actions’ to be piloted by employment tribunals, is reportedly being held up by the government.
Housing market improving but ‘not out of the woods yet’ - 06.08.09
Gloomy predictions that house prices would fall by 10% in 2009 look set to change, but homeowners have been warned that this is not a return to ‘boom time’.
OFT speaks out on ‘irresponsible’ lending - 05.08.09
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has promised to ‘take action’ against lenders that breach proposed guidance standards.
Internet torrent site heading to court - 05.08.09
Canadian based website, isohunt.com, has lost its legal battle against the Canadian Recording Industry Association (CRIA).
Redundancy no excuse for sex discrimination - 04.08.09
The website employeebenefits.co.uk has warned firms needing to make redundancies that they must be careful who they target.
NHS workers to receive legal aid - 04.08.09
NHS doctors and dentists are to be allowed legal representation at internal disciplinary hearings following the landmark case of Dr Kulkarni v Milton Keynes Hospital NHS Trust.
Lawyers call for change in divorce law - 04.08.09
Divorce law on the Channel Islands is being challenged by Jersey based law firm Hanson Renouf.
Ethnic minorities non-existent in construction industry - 04.08.09
Ethnic minorities make up just 3.3% of the construction industry workforce according to a new report from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
Construction deaths highlight lack of safety - 04.08.09
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has told construction companies to carry out full risk assessments and staff training or face severe financial penalties.
Age discrimination case settled - 03.08.09
An Edinburgh based medical receptionist has settled her claim for age discrimination following an out of court agreement.
Marks & Spencer joins Face Equality at Work campaign - 03.08.09
Marks & Spencer has joined forces with Face Equality at Work in an effort to prove its commitment to treating staff with disfigurements both fairly and equally.
July 2009
Musician wins royalties case after 40 years - 31.07.09
The organist who wrote the organ riff in the 1967 hit song A Whiter Shade of Pale is entitled to future royalties, the House of Lords has ruled.
New parking tax to hit commuters - 31.07.09
People who drive to work may face a £250 parking tax under a new government scheme
Don't ignore your debt, expert warns - 30.07.09
Many Britons could be burying their heads in the sand when it comes to debt, a leading price comparison website has suggested.
Mortgage approvals hit 14-month high - 30.07.09
Hopes for signs of the green shoots of recovery in the property market have been boosted by the latest data from the Bank of England, which today revealed that the number of mortgages for home purchases reached a 14-month high in June.
Commercial Property Rent Recovery
As we are all aware, the “credit crunch” has impacted on businesses and this has a knock on effect on those who have a working relationship with these businesses, including Landlords of their premises.
A bit of positive property news - 29.07.09
The Land Registry has reported house prices in England and Wales have risen slightly for the first time this year. June saw a 0.1% rise and the value of the average home in Britain is now £153,046.
Fawcett’s partner excluded from Will - 29.07.09
The late Farrah Fawcett is believed to have left her £3.65 million fortune to her son Redmond O'Neal and has entirely excluded his father and her partner Ryan O'Neal. Fawcett’s wishes may come as a surprise to O’Neal, who she was involved with for 15 years.
Sikh constable compensated for racist humiliation - 29.07.09
A female Sikh police officer has taken the Metropolitan police to an employment tribunal after suffering racist and religious humiliation whilst at their training school in Hendon.
Brits 'working overtime to avoid debt' - 28.07.09
Five million Britons, a fifth of the nation's workforce, are earning extra money by working overtime amid the recession, a price comparison website has predicted.
Divorce bad for your health - 28.07.09
Legal assistance from a good solicitor may limit the financial damage suffered after a marriage breakdown, but a new study says that the emotional impact of a divorce can prove much more detrimental in terms of stress and upset than any monetary payouts you have to make.
Enquiry needed on housing equity, SHIP says - 28.07.09
An investigation into how equity release can assist funding for retirement is one of the proposals recommended today by SHIP, the equity release trade body.
Lack of mortgages 'blocking' landlords from improving yields - 28.07.09
Cash-ready property investors who can afford to access buy-to-let mortgage finance in the current economic climate stand to benefit from increasing yields, a study has shown.
Poverty levels among UK's elderly "shocking" - 27.07.09
A charity has described European Commission figures revealing high poverty levels among over-65s in the UK as "shocking".
'Empowered consumers' target consumer electronics - 27.07.09
Complaints about laptops and TVs increased in the six-month period to the end of June 2009 ahead of the launch of a Government campaign to improve people's awareness of their consumer rights.
Jordan faces lawsuit after questioning Peter's fidelity - 27.07.09
Peter Andre, the estranged husband of glamour model Katie Price, is taking legal action against his former partner after she appeared to question his fidelity live on television.
Tracker mortgage market 'in meltdown' - 24.07.09
Despite recent claims that the mortgage market is showing signs of recovery from the economic downturn, the number of tracker mortgage products has plummeted, figures from price comparison website moneysupermarket.com have revealed.
Thousands receive refunds after airline price-fixing scam - 24.07.09
More than 200,000 consumers who bought flights with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic could receive refunds after a price-fixing scandal involving the companies was exposed.
Study finds surge in unfair dismissal claims - 24.07.09
Unfair dismissal claims against employers surged by 22 per cent over the last year, a study has found.
Swine flu victims 'could sue' employers - 23.07.09
Employees who are unfairly put at an increased risk of contracting swine flu through their work could win thousands of pounds through legal action, a lawyer has claimed.
Law loophole 'forces drivers into longer night shifts' - 23.07.09
A legal loophole means HGV drivers with less than a year's experience for a company can be fired if they refuse or complain to working extended night shifts.
Worker spied on by council suffered breach of privacy – judge - 23.07.09
A council employee who was subjected to an investigation by private detectives because his managers thought he was skiving work while at home has been told by an employment judge that his right to privacy was breached.
Consumers cling on to credit 'lifeline' - 23.07.09
Some 38 million credit card accounts are serving as a life line for consumers worried about debt, it has been suggested.
IHT charges 'nasty surprise' for families - 23.07.09
A leading insurance firm has warned families of the "nasty surprise" inheritance tax (IHT) charges can bring to annuity holders.
'Strong case' for greater enforcement of maternity and discrimination laws - 23.07.09
A union official believes there is a "strong case" for greater enforcement of employment laws to protect women employees who have children.
Over 50s happy to live in care homes, study shows
Sixty-two per cent of Britons over the age of 50 are happy to live in a care home later in life, according to a study.
Landlords 'losing £324m a day'
Properties owned by private landlords saw £324 million a day wiped off their collective value in the first three months of 2009 compared with the same period last year, according to new research.
British professions have 'closed shop mentality'
A report revealing potential discrimination in access to top professions such as medicine and law in Britain is evidence of a "closed shop mentality" in recruitment, a former minister has said.
Lawyer's damages claim upheld by tribunal
A city lawyer's claim for a record £12 million compensation award for sex discrimination and harassment remains on track after an employment tribunal has quashed an appeal from her former employer.
Landlords urged to 'think' before making a claim
The National Landlords Association (NLA) has warned that a recent ruling by the High Court – which judged the renewal fees charged to landlords by a lettings agency as being unjustified – does not give the green light for all landlords to submit claims for refunds on fees.
Be 'vocal' with your will, expert says
People should make sure they inform their family when they draw up a will, an expert has said.
Mortgage lending picks up in June – CML
New data from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) has revealed that gross mortgage lending increased by 17 per cent during May, with 'seasonal factors' cited as a reason for increased activity in the property market.
First Time Buyers warned not to use loans to fund deposits
Using a bank loan to fund a deposit on a property purchase is effectively taking out a 100 per cent mortgage 'through the back door' and will not be accepted by lenders, a mortgage expert has warned.
'Desk-tied woman' awarded compensation for blood clot
A woman who suffered a potentially fatal blood clot after her work routine left her 'tied to her desk' has been awarded compensation.
Banning default retirement age could lead to discrimination claims
Ending the Government's compulsory retirement age of 65 could create a "costly administrative nightmare" for firms, an expert has said.
Rape accused seeks damages after jail term
A traffic warden who was jailed for four years in 2003 is seeking legal damages from his accuser after his conviction was quashed two years later.
Woman prison officer deemed 'too pretty'
A former prison officer is claiming for constructive dismissal after she was forced out of her job for being 'too pretty'.
Twitter taking legal advice over stolen data
Microblogging web service Twitter is considering legal action after a French hacker illegally accessed company data.
'Secret millionaire' is £30m in debt
Property developer Chek Whyte, who starred in Channel 4's The Secret Millionaire in 2007, is facing debts of more than £30 million as he seeks to avoid bankruptcy.
Fixed mortgage rates 'starting to look expensive'
Economic activity in the US and anticipation of future interest rate increases are meaning that many fixed-rate mortgages are starting to look expensive, an expert has said.
Businesses offered credit rating tool
Credit crunched firms are being offered a free tool to assess the finances of customers before they agree to a business deal.
Charities in legal battle to 'stamp out' forced retirement
Forced retirement for people reaching 65 years of age is a discriminatory practice the Government must end as soon as possible, according to two charities.
UK unemployment climbs to 14-year high
More Britons are unemployed than at any time in the last 14 years, data published by the Office for National Statistics has revealed today
Why Jackson's death demonstrates the importance of making wills
The sudden death of Michael Jackson demonstrates the huge importance of having a will in place – whatever your age, a senior lawyer has said.
German heiress claims landmark pre-nuptial victory
Katrin Radmacher, a German heiress with a fortune of about £100 million, has earned a legal victory today in her efforts to get a pre-nuptial agreement with her former husband recognised in the UK.
June 2009
‘Fit Note’ To Replace ‘Sick Note’ – April 2010
Following Dame Carol Black’s report in March 2008, unveiling the health of Britain’s working population, the Government has announced its intention to replace the current MED3 medical certificate used by doctors to sign an employee off work due to illness with a new ‘fit note
Costs Ordered Against Claimant Who Lied
The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has held in Daleside Nursing Home Limited v Mathew that as an Employment Tribunal had found that the Claimant had lied, this was unreasonable conduct and an award that the Claimant therefore pay some costs should have been made.
Length of Service Acceptable Criterion in Redundancy Selection
Under the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 it is unlawful for an employer to discriminate directly against an employee by treating them less favourably than others because of their age, where it cannot be justified.
National Minimum Wage to Increase
Increases to the hourly minimum wage will take effect on 1 October 2009
May 2009
Business failure figures put spotlight on effective debt collection
With the latest figures1 from the Government’s Insolvency Service showing a 56 per cent increase in company liquidations compared to last year, successful debt collection procedures have raced up the business survival agenda.
Day-To-Day Activities Carried Out During Night Shift
The Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) has held in Chief Constable of Dumfries & Galloway v Adams, duties carried out during a night shift constitute day-to-day activities for the purposes of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
Redundancy Payments to Increase
As announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the recent budget, the weekly maximum for the purpose of calculating a statutory redundancy payment is set to increase from £350 to £380.
No agreement reached on amendments to Working Time Directive
Negotiations between the European Council of Ministers and European Parliament on 1 April 2009 mirrored earlier unsuccessful attempts in December 2008, to agree proposed amendments to end the opt-out under the European Working Time Directive EWTD within the next three years.April 2009
Tenant Insolvency – Options For A Landlord
The downturn in the economy is having a dramatic effect on the cash flow of businesses.
Start or Grow Your Business
By attending the Banbury in Business Exhibition
It’s countdown time until the Banbury in Business Exhibition on 12th May 2009, so if you are thinking about either attending or exhibiting then you will need to get in touch with the event organisers and sponsors by giving them a call now.
The Banbury in Business Exhibition is an annual event which provides expert help and advice so that Banbury people can start and run their own business efficiently. Guests on the day will receive topical advice on accountancy, legal, marketing and technology issues, together with business support and help with finance.
Home Information Packs - Latest News
From 6th April 2009 you will not be able to start marketing your property to the general public until a Home Information Pack is complete, so the speed at which it is compiled is our primary concern on your behalf.
March 2009
End Of Statutory Dismissal And Disciplinary Grievance Procedures – Not Quite!
The Employment Act 2008 due to come into force on 6 April 2009 will repeal the Statutory Dispute Resolution Procedures (dismissal and disciplinary procedures and grievance procedures), marking the implementation of a new ACAS Code of Practice.
Disclosure in Litigation
If you are a party to litigation, you will be required by the court to make a reasonable search for and disclose to the other party all paper and electronic documents which are or have been in your control (including deleted documents and those saved onto servers).
February 2009
European Court Of Justice Ruling On Accrual Of Annual Leave During Sick Leave
Following a referral from the House of Lords, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has ruled that a worker on long term sick is entitled to accrue annual leave. Accordingly, it will not be necessary for workers to have worked during the leave year in order to qualify for their leave entitlement.
January 2009
It’s all in the name!
September’s article outlined the new laws controlling opportunistic company name registrations. A little over 2 months later, the Company Names Tribunal issued its first ruling.
December 2008
Dedicated Property Recoveries and Litigation unit is launched to support landlords and managing agents
Law firm Spratt Endicott has developed a specialist Property Recoveries and Litigation unit to support landlords, managing agents, property investment companies and developers with the legalities of property management, possessions and repossessions, from start to finish.
November 2008
Divorce in the Credit Crunch
Whilst it is true that, historically, an unhappy wife married to a wealthy man would divorce in a good financial climate, it may similarly be tempting for a wealthy man in an unhappy marriage to consider a divorce when his financial position is not so good
Landlords - Are You Aware Of Your Obligations?
Most experienced landlords will have a written tenancy agreement in place when letting a property to tenants. The tenancy agreement will usually clearly state the landlord’s contractual obligations. However, landlords should also be aware that they are subject to certain statutory obligations even if these are not included within the contractual provisions of the tenancy agreement.
October 2008
Changes to National Minimum Wage
Increases to the hourly minimum wage took effect on 1 October 2008.
September 2008
Opportunistic Company Name Registrations Restricted by Companies Act 2006
Cyber squatting, where individuals register web domain names similar to existing businesses in the hope of selling the name to the business concerned for an inflated price, is a well known problem.August 2008
Spratt Endicott Wins High Court Victory for Sole Trader Against International Franchise Network
Law firm Spratt Endicott is celebrating a High Court victory on behalf of sole trader client Errol Kerr, against international franchising network ChipsAway International.
Under the Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007, there is now a requirement that air-conditioning units with an output of more thank 12kW are inspected by an energy assessor on a regular basis, and at least once every 5 years.
News and articles from previous years >>
