It was extremely sad to hear that iconic music legend Shane MacGowan passed away recently. What possibly made it worse was that he died during the run up to Christmas, when Fairytale of New York gets its annual airing on radio stations and Christmas music selections. This brings into focus the intricacies of estate planning, especially in understanding how royalties pass under a Will.

You cannot hear a headline or read a newspaper without mention of terrible birth experiences suffered by expectant mothers, often sadly ending in catastrophic consequences. A report has been published detailing spiraling issues in NHS maternity services, including dangerously low staffing levels.

It will come as no surprise to hear that NHS cancer services are under increasing pressure. New figures released in September 2023 confirm that NHS targets for urgent suspected cancer referrals continue to be missed.

The Office for Veterans Affairs (OVA) is part of the Cabinet Office and is intended to lead the UK Government efforts to ensure that “the UK is the best place to be a veteran anywhere in the world, helping the nation fulfil its lifelong duty to those who have served in the Armed Forces.”

Last week, the UK Government responded to consultations on retained EU employment laws, seeking improvements post-Brexit.

A premature birth can be an emotional whirlwind — filled with concern and anxiety. For families navigating premature birth, it's crucial to understand that support is there for you, both medically and legally.

Frequently I am asked whether a parent has rights in respect of their child and what this means for them as a parent. Simply, there will be a question about whether the parent has Parental Responsibility and if they don’t, how they can get it.

Are you dreading making arrangements for Christmas contact with your former partner? As the festive spirit approaches, Gemma Stevens shares how making plans early can help reduce the risk of conflict ruining the holiday periods.

A Notary’s services aren't just reserved for the boardroom or corporate deals. They play an integral role in our personal lives, safeguarding our most significant decisions and milestones. It’s always wise for families and individuals to know when to seek out their essential services.

Navigating the vast world of business operations often requires a deft touch, especially when legal intricacies intertwine with everyday affairs. One such intersection involves the specialised services of a Notary Public.

In simple terms, a Notary Public is an internationally recognised legal professional responsible for the preparation, authentication, and certification of documents, transactions, and other assurances.

When considering whether you are able to make a claim for clinical negligence it is always important to contact a specialist lawyer who should, in the first instance, let you know whether your enquiry relates to poor medical care, or whether there has potentially been a negligent act or omission.

Common hazards in the Construction industry can result in severe injury, including head injuries, spinal injuries, psychological injuries, and even death. Workers suffering from an accident at work can feel concerned about making a claim against their employer, and worry about being disciplined or sacked.

In the years 2022/23, 135 workers were killed in work-related accidents according to RIDDOR. That means that every 3 days, somebody is killed at work in the UK.

The medical field is constantly under pressure to maintain impeccable standards. With an increase in patient loads and varied complexities, the healthcare sector faces immense challenges.

Domestic abuse can take many forms and it is not always physical. Various different forms of abuse can be in the form of emotional, psychological, financial or sexual abuse. There are different charitable organisations who are able to support victims of domestic abuse, one organisation being Refuge, who offer a free 24/7 helpline to those who need support.

Following a committed relationship, the next stage for a couple is usually to move in with one another. Whilst they have not yet tied the knot, it is important to ensure that their assets and future are protected should the worst happen, and the relationship ends. This is where cohabitation agreements come into play.

Whilst it may not be possible to have a ‘good’ divorce, it is certainly possible to have a bad one. Fortunately, there are steps that both parties can take to make the divorce and separation process as painless and as amicable as possible.

The transgender community face many unique legal challenges. One challenge that you may face as a transgender person is ensuring that your financial and personal affairs are properly managed, taking into consideration your gender identity, in the event that you become unable to make decisions for yourself. A Lasting Power of Attorney can be essential to ensure that your interests are protected, and your wishes heard.

With marriage rates dropping to the lowest levels on record, society is seeing more couples than ever residing together, sharing assets, building a life together, but not taking the traditional step of marrying or entering a civil partnership.