This International Women's Day, we're highlighting the journeys, challenges, and experiences of our female lawyers. Their stories show the importance of diversity, resilience, and empowerment in shaping an inclusive legal community. We’re starting with Eleanor Barber, who heads up our Family Team.

This International Women's Day, we're highlighting the journeys, challenges, and experiences of our female lawyers. Their stories show the importance of diversity, resilience, and empowerment in shaping an inclusive legal community. We’re joined by Chelsea McVicker, a Chartered Legal Executive in our Family team.

This International Women's Day, we're highlighting the journeys, challenges, and experiences of our female lawyers. Their stories show the importance of diversity, resilience, and empowerment in shaping an inclusive legal community. We’re joined by Rhianna Greenley, a Solicitor in our Family team.

This International Women's Day, we're highlighting the journeys, challenges, and experiences of our female lawyers. Their stories show the importance of diversity, resilience, and empowerment in shaping an inclusive legal community. Claire Thompson, Solicitor in our Wills, Trusts,sTax and Probate team, shares her thoughts below.

This International Women's Day, we're highlighting the journeys, challenges, and experiences of our female lawyers. Their stories show the importance of diversity, resilience, and empowerment in shaping an inclusive legal community. Rebecca Brisley, Associate Solicitor in our Personal Injury and Medical Negligence teams, shares her thoughts below.

This International Women's Day, we're highlighting the journeys, challenges, and experiences of our female lawyers. Their stories show the importance of diversity, resilience, and empowerment in shaping an inclusive legal community. Amy Paterson, Associate Solicitor in our Residential Conveyancing Team, has shared her thoughts about the importance of work-life balance in the blog below.

In 2022, we saw an overhaul of the divorce process, which saw the end of “fault-based” divorces, so that neither party could blame the other for the end of the marriage. It was hoped the new terms would remove outdated phrases and simplify the different stages and the process.

Separating from your partner can be a difficult time, filled with emotional and logistical challenges, especially when children are involved. Navigating the complexities of child arrangements can be daunting, making it difficult to find common ground.

The breakdown of a relationship is invariably a challenging time for all involved, particularly when there are children involved. This is where a well-considered Parenting Plan comes into play, providing a structured approach to addressing any issues that may arise and facilitating a collaborative co-parenting environment.

It is a common misconception that when you divorce, the financial links you have with your spouse come to an end. Until you have a Financial Order, either by consent or at the end of Court proceedings, you remain financially linked to your former spouse. You do not have to have a lawyer to assist you but not using one could mean that you end up with unresolved financial claims or a Financial Order that does not do what you thought.

A recent BBC article, published late last week, sheds light on the situation, revealing that cancer treatment waiting times in England have reached their highest levels ever recorded. The statistics are alarming, with nearly 100,000 patients waiting more than the two-month target for starting treatment. This represents a significant escalation from historical data, driven by a complex interplay of factors that demand a closer examination. It’s also obviously a real worry for patients and their survival rates.

Dr. Henrietta Hughes, the Patient Safety Commissioner, has today released an important report that looks into the serious effects of sodium valproate on patients and their families. This report, known as the Hughes Report, not only highlights the failures in healthcare and regulation related to valproate use but also suggests a detailed plan for sodium valproate compensation and supporting those who have been harmed.

Sodium Valproate Syndrome is a serious issue that seriously affects children and their families, when the mother has taken sodium valproate drugs during pregnancy. We're committed to helping everyone understand more about it, showing how it impact the child and their family, and helping to guide those affected through their legal options.

Whilst there has been a lot of publicity recently about the use of Sodium Valproate in epilepsy sufferers, and the effects that this medication can have on an unborn baby, is it less well known that this medication can also be prescribed to patients suffering from Bipolar Disorder and migraines.

Thousands of women with epilepsy have given birth to babies with disabilities. Despite guidelines to the contrary, many women of childbearing age have been prescribed Sodium Valproate, (otherwise known as Epilim) resulting in babies born with autism, congenital anomalies and neurodevelopmental difficulties which can lead to cognitive and social impairments. The umbrella term for this is Fetal Valproate Syndrome (FVS) and can be used to describe a number of different impairments.

The passing of a cultural icon such as Prince leaves the world wondering about his legacy. Many expected that Prince would be remembered for his songwriting and unique style. Few would have guessed that Prince’s legacy would be caught up in a protracted legal battle over his estate which, nearly eight years after he passed away, is still making headlines.

The short answer is no, you do not. It has never been a legal requirement to instruct a solicitor to be divorced and many people do complete the process without a lawyer.

For unmarried or remarried couples in the United Kingdom, the significance of drafting a will cannot be overstated. While marriage is commonly associated with the creation of wills, unmarried and remarried couples must recognise the importance of this legal document in securing their assets, ensuring their wishes are met, and providing for their loved ones in the event of their passing.

As we usher in the New Year many of us focus on what we plan to achieve in the next few months, that might be confronting our fears with an extreme sport or, maybe, preparing a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). Just as extreme sports enthusiasts prepare for the unknown, why not embark on the adventure of securing your future through a LPA?

As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, it marked the end of one year and the beginning of new possibilities. Many people set resolutions and goals, aiming to transform their lives. Whether it’s tying the knot, moving overseas to work or expanding your business globally, the new year is a time to dream big. A Notary Public can play an important role in turning these dreams into reality.