BIOT v HMRC: Second VAT Appeal Allowed After Procedural Strike-Out
This is a First-tier Tribunal case. The key dispute was whether HMRC could stop the British Institute of Technology Ltd (BIOT) from bringing a second appeal before the Tribunal while an earlier appeal had already been struck out. Written by Yitong Guo, Senior Associate Solicitor Background The claim centred around an underlying VAT dispute. […]
New Opportunities for Scale-ups and Overseas Businesses Under Latest UK Immigration Initiatives
The UK Government has announced a new package of measures designed to support high-growth businesses in establishing, expanding, and retaining operations in the UK. The initiative includes a visa fee reimbursement scheme for qualifying scale-up businesses and a fast-track sponsor licence referral process for certain overseas companies seeking to expand into the UK. Written by […]
The UK Government’s Family Law Consultation Has Launched: What You Need to Know
The Government has recently announced the launch of a family law consultation which could see millions of unmarried couples get stronger rights. Designed to level the playing field between cohabiting couples and those who are married or in civil partnerships – while maintaining a distinct set of rights for each – it is one of […]
Why Is My House Purchase Taking So Long?
Buying a property is an exciting milestone, but many buyers are surprised by how long the process can take. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Why is my house purchase taking so long?” While every transaction is different, there are several common reasons why conveyancing can take longer than buyers expect. Understanding […]
British Citizenship Granted Despite a Past Criminal Conviction
Recently, we were successful in obtaining British citizenship for our client despite them having criminal convictions. This is a contentious topic and many are sceptical about applying for British Citizenship should they have a criminal record, due to the mandatory grounds for refusal and the Home Office assessing a person’s application against the strict good […]
McDaniel v Talbot: Adult Child Claims, Reasonable Financial Provision and Key Factors
Claims by adult children under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (“the 1975 Act”) can be difficult to succeed, as the courts generally expect adults to support themselves financially. However, a recent High Court decision demonstrates that where the circumstances are exceptional, an adult child may still be entitled to financial provision […]
Welcome Maria
We are delighted to welcome Maria Li, who joins us as a legal assistant specialising in residential and commercial property conveyancing. Maria joins our conveyancing team at a time of consistent growth, adding to the arrivals of Julie and Sabina earlier on in May. Maria holds an LLB from the University of Southampton and previously […]
Heathrow Third Runway Expansion: Legal and Property Implications for Homeowners
Recent developments have once again brought the proposed expansion of Heathrow Airport into the spotlight, particularly the long-debated third runway project. New research suggests that thousands of households in surrounding areas may face prolonged uncertainty, with some properties potentially at risk of demolition. Potential Impact on Over 5,000 Homes Currently operating with two runways, Heathrow Airport is […]
Can an Employee Keep a Personal Messaging Account Used for Work? Legal Risks of WhatsApp and Similar Business Communication Accounts in the UK
Workplace dispute involving personal messaging accounts used for business We recently received an enquiry regarding a workplace dispute involving the ownership of personal messaging accounts used for business purposes, employee exit disputes, and control over client communication channels such as WhatsApp or similar messaging platforms. Background of the case In this case, an individual […]
Starting a Restaurant in the UK: Legal Requirements, Licences & Compliance Guide
Starting a restaurant in the UK is a popular business choice, but it involves far more than food preparation and interior design. Restaurant entrepreneurs must comply with strict UK laws covering licensing, food safety, employment, and commercial property. This guide explains the legal requirements for opening a restaurant in the UK, including essential licences, business […]