Psychiatric injury: Medical negligence

Not all injuries caused by clinical negligence are visible. While physical injuries may be evident through scans and tests, psychiatric injuries like depression, anxiety, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are often harder to detect. These psychological impacts can be life-altering and sometimes even more debilitating than the physical harm itself. Recognising psychiatric injuries after clinical […]

What is informed consent for medical treatment?

Montgomery v. Lanarkshire Health Board [2015] A new Supreme Court decision regarding informed consent marks the end of the road for Sidaway. The principle of informed consent It is generally accepted that a patient has the right to make his/her own decision as to whether or not to undergo treatment having been provided with sufficient […]

Can I occupy my new house before the completion date?

In most residential conveyancing transactions, the buyer will not expect to take up occupation of the property they are is buying until the legal completion date. There are however instances when the buyer and seller may agree to the buyer occupying the property before the completion date. This might occur where a buyer has already exchanged […]

What is a remortgage?

Our residential property and conveyancing solicitors explain the process of remortgaging your property. What is a remortgage? A remortgage is when you change mortgage lender by paying off one mortgage lender with the proceeds from a new mortgage, normally secured against the same property. They are often arranged to take advantage of mortgage terms more […]

Compensation for power lines on property explained

A series of compensation awards under the Electricity Act 1989 have been made by the courts to property owners whose property hosts, or is crossed by, high voltage electricity power lines on wooden poles. Do unsightly wires running in or over your property hold a value after all? If the wires run nearby but, not […]

Can HMRC really take money straight from my bank account?

Potentially in the future, yes… but only if you haven’t paid your tax! In the budget the chancellor announced that HMRC were to be give powers to enable the direct recovery of debts (DRD) from a taxpayer’s bank accounts (including ISAs). Quite rightly this has caused much concern and been the subject of much debate […]

What you need to know about Wills

Thinking about making or updating your Will? Our wills solicitors explain why it’s so important – and how to get started. Why should I make a Will? By making a Will you ensure that the people you want to benefit from your estate, do so. You can be certain of the destination of your assets, […]

What is a lasting power of attorney?

A lasting power of attorney is a legal document which lets you pick someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf, if you’re unable to do so yourself. What is a Lasting Power of Attorney? A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document, which allows you to choose a person to make decisions […]

How to use the donation-partage (or gift with distribution)

The donation-partage (or gift with distribution) is a legal instrument under French law that allows individuals to distribute their assets among their children during their lifetime. It serves as both a lifetime gift and an anticipatory succession plan. This concept is especially relevant in France, where forced heirship rules apply, ensuring children (and in the […]

Understanding the Macron Law : Key changes

The Macron Law, passed in France in August 2015, was designed to reduce bureaucratic red tape. Named after French Economy Minister Emmanuel Macron, this legislation has significantly impacted various areas of French law, including real estate. One of its primary goals is to minimize court cases related to planning permission issues. This article outlines the […]