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The Highly Contentious ‘Non-Contentious Probate (Fees) Order 2018’

While it may appear that Brexit is the only topic of conversation in government today, at the beginning of February Parliament met to discuss The Non-Contentious Probate (Fees) Order 2018, which unlike its name has been highly contentious since its inception.

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A bonus for shared ownership buyers

First-time buyers who bought a shared ownership property in the last twelve months should check if they are due a refund on any stamp duty paid.

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Greater protection for pregnant women and new parents

New proposals to give pregnant women and new mothers returning to work greater protection from being treated unfairly were published in January by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

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Equality takes centre stage for employers

The #TimesUp campaign has captured headlines with its push for greater diversity and equality in Hollywood and the entertainment sector, but these shifting attitudes are mirrored in legislative changes in the UK which will affect employers in the coming months.

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Soaring fees set deadline for executors and estate planning

Controversial court fees which have been branded a stealth tax on bereaved families are expected to prompt a surge in probate applications before the hike hits. The new banded fee structure will see the cost of probate soar by thousands of pounds for higher value estates.

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Brexit and employment law

Whichever side of the Brexit fence you sit on, there is no doubt that Brexit has the potential for far reaching implications for the UK.

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Insight

How to protect your brand: A beginner’s guide

Trademark protection for businesses explained, including how to register a trademark in England and Wales and the key steps to protect your brand.

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Inheritance Act claims and letters of wishes: Managing risk in estate planning

This article explains who can bring a claim, the strict time limits involved, and the risks for executors and beneficiaries. It also explores how a carefully drafted Letter of Wishes can provide valuable context, demonstrate intention, and help reduce the likelihood of contentious probate proceedings.

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Transactional documents in a corporate sale: What sellers should know

Once due diligence is complete and terms are agreed, the focus turns to negotiating the transactional documents that underpin a share or asset sale. This guide explains the purpose of the key documents involved in business acquisitions and why careful drafting and negotiation are essential to achieving a smooth, dispute-free completion.

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Planning for the future: What to include in a UK shareholders’ agreement

A well-drafted agreement sets clear ground rules for how the company is run, how decisions are made, and what happens when circumstances change.

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Understanding Court of Protection applications in England and Wales

When someone can no longer make decisions for themselves and has not put a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, the Court of Protection can step in. This article explains what the Court of Protection does, when an application may be needed, and what the application process entails.

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Warranties and indemnities: Key protections in share and asset sales

An overview of warranties and indemnities in share and asset sales, explaining key differences, common protections, liability limits and risk allocation.

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