Blog: COVID-19 – Advice for commercial landlords and tenants

In this article we provide advice for commercial landlords and tenants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic which has affected almost every industry in the UK, with many businesses experiencing a severe strain on their cashflow as a result. While commercial tenants may be struggling to pay rent in full and on a regular basis, their landlord could also be under pressure if they rely on these payments to maintain their own cashflow. Both parties to a commercial lease contract should understand how their liabilities and obligations have been affected by…

Blog: Non-payment of child maintenance: What happens if a parent does not pay?

Under a child maintenance arrangement, child support is usually paid by the parent who does not have day-to-day care of the child or does not usually live with the child. In cases of non-payment of child maintenance, the receiving parent could launch a civil legal claim. However, this option is expensive and still leaves the issue of ensuring the paying parent complies with the judgment. Instead, where possible, you, as the receiving parent, can approach the Child Maintenance Service (CMS), which has wide-ranging powers of enforcement. What measures can the…

Blog: Homeworking and the importance of cybersecurity risk management

Having staff working remotely has presented significant challenges for many businesses, but one of the most difficult to address is the increased cybersecurity risk. As many companies did not have sufficient opportunity to prepare for the transition to homeworking, they may not have identified potential cybersecurity issues. Moreover, it is now much harder to monitor staff and ensure they are following safe practices. Cybercriminals have wasted no time in exploiting these weaknesses, and businesses are encountering threats regularly. Here we look at the cybersecurity risks that homeworking may present to…

Blog: Why is inheritance tax planning still important?

The inheritance tax threshold is frozen until 2026 – but why is inheritance tax planning still important? If you intend to leave savings, property or other assets to family or friends after you die, you need to consider inheritance tax (IHT). It could cost your heirs up to 40% of their inheritance. By planning ahead, you can minimise IHT and ensure as much of your estate as possible reaches your loved ones. Understanding the tax-free allowance The tax-free inheritance allowance, known as the nil-rate band, allows your beneficiaries to inherit…

News: Bowling ‘dress up’ to support SSAFA Armed Forces Charity

Bowling & Co 'dress up' to support SSAFA Armed Forces Charity. A huge thank you to our clients, friends, and staff who ‘dressed up' in their best business attire to support Strettons, Ashfords LLP, and Nyman Libson Paul with their Tailored Tuesday launch day on 23 March in aid of SSAFA, The Armed Forces charity. For many of us, it was the first time in a while we dressed in full business attire, and for some, it appears lockdown has had a small impact on our waistlines! Nonetheless, we did not let that daunt us for…

Blog: Dealing with inheritance disputes

Dealing with inheritance disputes may have arisen in response to soaring property prices, second marriages, and blended families, with relatives more likely to feel they are missing out, but the courts are pushing back on frivolous claims and obstructive family members.  Such disputes once seemed the preserve of celebrities and the wealthy, such as the former lover of singer George Michael who was reported to be planning a claim against the singer’s estate recently, but research carried out by Direct Line found that a quarter of people would be prepared…

Blog: Bullying and racism in the workplace during lockdown

Dealing with bullying and racism in the workplace, particularly with many staff working in different environments during lockdown. Bullying and racism affect everyone involved, and harassment hits hard at every level.  Bullying or racism may seem the fate of the underdog, but recent headlines have shown how it may affect anyone at any level, including royalty and high-flying civil servants.  Seniority and titles do not confer special protection. Companies are being encouraged to review their employment policies. Most recently, the Duchess of Sussex has talked about the impact of racism…

News: Covid-19 – Business interruption insurance

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to widespread disruption and economic volatility which had a significant impact on businesses. Particularly, the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have suffered a significant level of financial loss.  A large number of affected businesses have made claims for the losses under their business interruption insurance policies. However, there is uncertainty over the business interruption (BI) insurance policies’ cover in the context of Covid-19 claims. Recently, the Newcastle Circuit Commercial Court (Court) has struck out a BI losses claim in consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic where…

Blog: Why cohabiting couples must consider estate planning

Millions of couples across the UK are choosing to forego marriage and live as cohabitees. Why must cohabiting couples consider estate planning? Without proper estate planning, they could be putting their finances at risk. Unlike their married counterparts, unmarried couples have no automatic right to inherit from each other. However, with proper estate planning, you can ensure your cohabiting partner is properly provided for should you pass away. This article looks at some of the important estate planning matters all cohabiting couples should consider. Write a will The most straightforward…

Blog: Caring responsibilities during furlough and your rights

The rules concerning furlough, schools, and workplace restrictions continue to change frequently, and it can be difficult for both employers and employees to keep up. However, if you are affected by furlough or there has been a change in your caring responsibilities, it is essential that you understand your rights under UK employment law. Government guidance on the furlough scheme, issued in November, confirmed that furlough is available to employees who must stay home because they have caring responsibilities as a result of coronavirus. In this article, we look at…