According to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) almost one quarter of firms do not adequately explain leasehold tenure and the associated issues. Accordingly, By Lawyers have reviewed the precedent Report on title – Leasehold in an effort to provide clients with a much clearer understanding of the implications of purchasing a leasehold estate. Plain language communications, particularly with clients, is a primary focus for By Lawyers.

Japanese knotweed has been highly problematic for sellers, buyers and lenders for many years. Its invasion can affect not only the structure of a property but also its value. Thanks to the success of specialist treatments and the availability of indemnity insurance fewer purchasers are withdrawing from sales due to its presence, and the reduction in purchase price sought has significantly reduced. It is believed that Japanese knotweed will be under control by 2040.

From 1 March 2019 the time limit for filing stamp duty land tax returns and making payments was reduced from 30 days to 14 days. This affected residential and commercial properties. Please note the 30-day limit continues to apply where a further return is required.

By Lawyers is pleased to release a major update to its forward-looking briefing, Looking to the Future – a comprehensive, practice-wide resource detailing the key legislative and regulatory developments that will shape the legal landscape across 2025 and beyond.

The rise in later-life divorce – often referred to as silver splitters – is an increasingly visible trend in family law. This article explores key legal issues and practical considerations for practitioners handling later-life divorce, particularly in high-net-worth cases. Read more…

The Family Procedure Rules have been updated to allow all family courts to issue transparency orders.

While the Autumn budget delivered this week by the first female Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, was arguably a step forward for feminism, it was more notable for the significant changes to tax. Read more…

Following user feedback, we have included new sections on contact with children in local authority care, placement orders and their revocation, and adoption orders. Read more...

The Court of Appeal decision reminds judges to consider the sentencing guidelines for minors.

The landmark decision defining damages-based agreements.

Part of our series of common legal questions and their answer, we look at the rights of an employee. Read more...

Part of our series of common legal questions and their answers, we look at how to apply for a standard grant of representation. Read more...

The prorogation of parliament in preparation for a general election on 4 July 2024 had a dramatic effect on legislation currently passing through the houses. Some bills were rushed through, and some have fallen. Read more…

The Immigration Rules have been amended to reflect the Government’s ongoing policy to reduce net migration to the UK. Changes involve health and care workers, skilled workers, illegal workers, and employers. Read more…

Carer’s leave was introduced on 6 April 2024, and changes were made to redundancy protection for pregnant employees and new parents. Paternity leave entitlements were also amended. Read more…