Sarah O'Sullivan, Author at Tees Law

What next for equal pay?

Posted on 6 September 202426 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Landmark legal victory for next employees in equal pay case

Following a six-year legal battle, over 3,500 current and former Next employees have secured a major win in their Employment Tribunal complaints for equal pay. The ruling may result in Next paying up to £30 million in back pay. Despite the retailer’s intention to appeal, the decision could have wide-reaching consequences for other UK employers.

The wider impact on major retailers

This legal victory marks the first of its kind against a national UK retailer. Other major supermarkets, including J Sainsbury’s Plc, Tesco Plc, W Morrison Supermarkets Ltd, Asda Group Ltd, and Co-operative Group Ltd, face similar claims from 112,000 workers. If these claims succeed, the financial ramifications could amount to billions of pounds.

The basis of the claim: Pay disparity between shop and warehouse staff

The central issue in this case was the pay gap between predominantly male warehouse staff and mostly female shop staff. Next argued that wider market forces justified the disparity, maintaining that warehouse operators earned higher salaries due to industry standards. However, the Tribunal rejected this defense, stating that cost-saving measures did not justify the discriminatory effect.

Equal pay and the concept of equal value

A critical element in the case was the determination of whether shop and warehouse staff performed work of equal value. The Tribunal concluded that retail staff work was of comparable value to that of warehouse employees, leading to the decision that Next was required to provide equal pay.

Key factors in establishing equal value

Gender disparity: 77.5% of retail consultants were female, compared to 52% of warehouse employees being male.
Independent assessment: Equal value is determined through independent expert analysis, comparing the responsibilities, effort, and skill of both roles.
Tribunal’s role: Even minor differences in tasks can be disregarded if they are deemed insignificant in the overall comparison.

Lessons for employers: Mitigating equal pay risks

This ruling serves as a stark reminder for employers to assess their pay structures. Companies should ensure that roles of equal value receive equal pay, preventing the risk of costly litigation.

Practical steps for employers

Conduct regular pay audits: Review and compare salaries across different roles to identify disparities.
Ensure transparency: Maintain clear documentation on how pay decisions are made, using objective criteria.
Provide justifiable explanations: Base pay differences on legitimate factors such as experience, qualifications, and market rates.
Promote equal opportunities: Encourage career development for all employees, removing barriers to advancement.
Seek legal guidance: Consult legal professionals to ensure compliance with equal pay regulations.

The ongoing battle for Next employees

While the ruling is a significant milestone, the journey is far from over. With Next pursuing an appeal, employees face further delays and legal complexities. The case underscores the challenges of achieving equal pay justice and the importance of robust legal support.

Employers should view this ruling as a wake-up call to proactively address pay equality. Taking preventative measures now can mitigate legal exposure and foster a fairer, more equitable workplace.

For tailored legal advice on equal pay compliance, contact our team of experts today.

Hospital eventually settles after causing lifetime birth injury

Posted on 3 September 202418 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

A wrongly sited episiotomy and prolonged second stage of labour caused Lara* lifetime faecal incontinence issues, for which the trust responsible denied liability.

Background

Lara was a first-time mother who had an uneventful pregnancy. She arrived at hospital and was found to be in established labour. She then got to a point where her labour was not progressing as expected, and was given oxytocin to augment labour.

Prolonged second stage of labour

When the cervix becomes fully dilated, it is common practice to allow at least an hour for the baby to descend passively down the birth canal before the mother starts active pushing. Due to an error by the medical and midwifery staff, Lara was left in the second stage of labour for six hours before starting to actively push. She was unable to push the baby out and it was decided to use forceps.

The episiotomy and initial outcome

An episiotomy was carried out to facilitate delivery. Once her baby was born, her perineum was examined and sutured. She was discharged having been told everything had gone well.

Post delivery complications

A few days later, Lara noticed she had no control over passing urine, followed by a lack of control over passing wind and stool. This persisted for weeks before she was referred to a colorectal clinic. Tests confirmed a defect in her anal sphincter area. Despite undergoing therapies, her faecal urgency and inability to control flatus persisted.

Seeking legal support

At this point, Lara contacted Tees for legal support. She filed a formal complaint with the NHS Trust, which responded with an apology, acknowledging the episiotomy had been wrongly sited. Experts were instructed, and a Letter of Claim was sent to the Defendant NHS Trust.

Expert insight

Gwyneth Munjoma, Medical Negligence Senior Associate with Tees, said: “If injury to the anal sphincter is not recognised and appropriately repaired immediately following delivery,repair at a later date is rarely curative. The result is that the woman has to live with an injury which physically impacts on her womanhood, family life, social life and employment. In addition, these women’s entire lives are psychologically affected by the injury of such a sensitive and intimate part of the body.”

Legal challenges and resolution

Despite the letter of apology, the Defendant NHS Trust initially denied liability, further impacting Lara’s psychological well-being. However, the Trust later made a settlement offer. Following negotiations, a six-figure settlement was reached, successfully concluding the case.

Client-centred approach

Reflecting on the case, Gwyneth Munjoma stated:

“As well as my legal training, I have a background in midwifery. With that knowledge, I am able to effectively partner the client bringing in a great deal of knowledge, empathy and understanding throughout the journey of her claim.”

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of our clients.

Navigating surrogacy: Current laws, challenges, and future reforms

Posted on 2 September 202418 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

What are the current laws governing surrogacy in the UK?

In the UK, surrogacy is primarily governed by the Surrogacy Arrangements Act 1985 and certain provisions within the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 2008. Under these laws, the surrogate mother is legally considered the child’s parent at birth. Legal parenthood can then be transferred through a Parental Order or Adoption after the child’s birth, typically taking anywhere from six months to a year. This process may take longer if the Court’s schedule is full.

To apply for a Parental Order, you or your partner must be genetically related to the child, the child must live with you, and you must permanently reside in the UK, Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man. If there is a dispute over who should be the child’s legal parents, the court will decide based on the best interests of the child. While surrogacy agreements can be made between the intended parents and the surrogate prior to birth, they are not legally enforceable in the UK, even if the intended parents and surrogate have signed an agreement and the intended parents have covered the surrogate’s expenses. It is also illegal for solicitors to advise on such agreements.

What Problems Does the Current Surrogacy Law Cause?

The current surrogacy laws in the UK are outdated. Most of these laws were established over 30 years ago, and have not kept up with changes in society and advancements in fertility treatments. These outdated laws do not fully support the diverse family structures that exist today, including same-sex couples, single parents, and blended families.

One of the main issues with the current system is the lengthy process to establish legal parenthood after the child is born. Since the surrogate mother is considered the legal parent, intended parents must wait until a Parental Order is granted, which can take months to a year. During this waiting period, intended parents have limited legal rights over the child, and in some cases, a surrogate could even decide to keep the child. This creates vulnerability for both the intended parents and surrogates and raises concerns about the best interests of the child.

What Does the New Surrogacy Bill Propose?

The Law Commission of England and Wales, in collaboration with the Scottish Law Commission, has proposed a new framework to modernize surrogacy laws. This proposal aims to better protect children, surrogates, and intended parents. Key features of the proposed reforms include:

Immediate parental rights for intended parents from the moment of birth, eliminating the need to wait for a Parental Order.
Introduction of safeguards and screening processes, including criminal and medical background checks, and independent legal advice and counseling.
Regulation of surrogacy arrangements by Regulated Surrogacy Organisations (RSOs), which would be monitored by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).
Reform of parental orders to allow courts to make decisions even if the surrogate does not consent, provided it is in the child’s best interest.
Enhanced rights for children born via surrogacy, better employment rights for intended parents, and more comprehensive guidance on nationality and immigration matters.

These reforms aim to ensure legal, physical, and emotional protection for all parties involved, bringing surrogacy laws in line with other areas of family law.

What Are the Prospects for Government Action on Surrogacy Law Reforms?

The final report and draft legislation were published on 29 March 2023. The Government is currently reviewing the report’s recommendations, but no formal action has been taken yet. Due to limited parliamentary time, changes are unlikely to be implemented immediately. However, surrogacy law reform is likely to become a priority for the new government in the future.

By modernizing surrogacy laws, the UK could create a more inclusive, supportive, and legally sound framework for all parties involved in surrogacy arrangements.

Bank of England cuts interest rate for first time in four years

Posted on 2 September 202421 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

The Bank of England has reduced Bank Rate for the first time in more than four years.

The rate is now 5%, having been held at 5.25% since August 2023, after 14 consecutive increases. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) marginally voted in favour of reducing Bank Rate, by 5 votes to 4. Many major mortgage lenders had already reduced their rates in anticipation of the cut and more are expected to follow suit. Despite this, the reduction is not expected to make a significant difference to mortgage affordability overall, however it is hoped to be the first of more cuts which should alleviate some of the financial pressures on homebuyers.

Matt Smith, Rightmove’s mortgage expert, commented, “While those looking to take out a mortgage soon shouldn’t expect to see drastically lower mortgage rates, we would expect the downward trend we’ve started to see continue.”

Renters’ Rights Bill – what’s in it

The government has released notes on what to expect in the Renters’ Rights Bill, which is due to introduced in the autumn.

As promised in Labour’s manifesto, the Bill will include the end of ‘no fault’ evictions but will have clear possession grounds for landlords needing to reclaim their properties. Renters will also have improved rights enabling them to challenge rent increases. Plus, the government plans to end ‘bidding wars’ on rental properties, although property experts Rightmove commented that this may be difficult as there are currently 15 prospective tenants for every rented property.

Tenants will gain the right to request a pet, which the landlord must consider and cannot unreasonably refuse, however they can request appropriate insurance is purchased to cover any accidental damage. A Decent Homes Standard is also expected to be applied to the Private Rented Sector to improve the quality of rental properties.

The UK’s fastest selling homes

Research by Zoopla has revealed the homes that sell the fastest in the UK.

In England and Wales, almost half (49%) of homes find a buyer within 30 days of going on the market. This figure increases to 75% in Scotland where properties are valued and surveyed upfront, thus speeding up the homebuying process.

In Q2 of this year, the fastest-selling property type on Zoopla was two-bed terraced houses, which took an average of 27 days to sell. It then usually takes another four months for the transaction to be completed. These properties appeal to a range of buyers, from first-time buyers to empty-nesters looking to downsize. Notably, there is also more competition for this kind of home due to limited supply, as they made up only 7% of new properties listed in the last three months.

Interestingly, the slowest-selling properties are detached homes with at least four bedrooms, taking an average of 40 days before a sale is agreed. This is probably due to associated higher mortgage costs combined with a spike in supply of larger homes.

All details are correct at the time of writing (19 August 2024)

It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice and the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. It does not provide individual tailored investment advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are those currently applying or proposed and are subject to change; their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor. No part of this document may be reproduced in any manner without prior permission.

All details are correct at the time of writing (19 August 2024)

Divorce and your business: Steps to protect your assets

Posted on 12 August 202418 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Getting divorced is almost always a stressful experience. – Relationships end, arguments ensue, assets get divided up, and there can be the welfare of children to think about. Now add to that the thought that your livelihood is threatened too. This is the situation business owners can face when they consider divorce.

Will their ex-partner get half the business? Will the business have to be sold? What if you both work in the business? Will we all lose our livelihoods? What will be left as an inheritance for my children?

These are the kind of stressful questions we are here to answer – and help resolve for you.

Caroline Andrews, Senior Associate in the Tees Family law team, considers the challenges and sets out what can be done. As a business owner planning to divorce, you have options. It’s vital that you get specialist legal advice to make sure you choose the right route to go down.

How are assets divided in divorce?

In a divorce, the first challenge is establishing each party’s needs and how they can be met. Consideration is also given to the principle of sharing and dividing assets in an objectively fair way—but that does not necessarily mean equal.

The courts have a very wide discretion to reallocate assets within a marriage. If one of you owns a business, that business’s assets (or liabilities) will be considered when assessing the ‘pot’ that will be distributed between you.

The Impact of Divorce on Different Business Structures

The impact of divorce on a business can vary depending on its structure.

Limited companies vs. sole traders: If you are a sole trader, your business assets and liabilities are considered personal assets and may be subject to division during a divorce. This means that your spouse could potentially claim a share of your business. On the other hand, limited companies are separate legal entities, and your spouse is less likely to have a claim on the business itself. However, they may still be entitled to a share of any dividends or salary you receive from the company. So, is a limited company protected from divorce? The answer can be complex and depends on various factors. Tees specialist solicitors understand the complexities of business structures and can help protect your interests during a divorce.

Partnerships and family-owned businesses: Divorce can have significant implications for partnerships and family-owned businesses. In a partnership, your spouse may become entitled to a share of the business unless a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement specifically addresses the business. Family-owned businesses can also face challenges, as the division of assets may require valuing the business and negotiating how to divide its value.

In general, the court will try not to order the sale of a business if one of the parties is against this. Instead, the outcome is more likely to be that the business is retained by offsetting against other resources or there is a series of ongoing payments funded by the business profits. This arrangement tends to work well when one person is only interested in the business for the money it generates, not for the business itself. This has the benefit of keeping the business going for the future.

Call our specialist solicitors on 0808 231 1320

Divorce and business valuation

Valuing the business is often the first step which gives vital clarity. A valuation can also report on business debts and liabilities, as well as cash flow and liquidity. Take care to consult a legal team that has access to business legal expertise, as well as family law expertise.

It will of course help if you have kept accurate financial records and have avoided mixing business and family funds together, to understand the valuation of the business and how it operates. There are occasions of course where business and family funds are mixed – which potentially makes the task harder, but not impossible.

It’s important you don’t attempt to move money out of the business if you think you might be headed for divorce. The courts require full financial disclosure as they strive towards a fair resolution and if you’re caught having done this, it will not do you any good in the eyes of the court.

The valuation process should identify:

the business structure – a partnership, limited liability partnership or company, or are you a sole trader?
whether it’s possible to take funds out of the business without damaging its future prospects
information about the shareholdings arrangements: who has shares, to what value and what are the relative percentage shares that people own, and are they family members?
the tax liabilities – both for individuals and the tax that the business itself owes
Is there a parent company, with additional companies with value (or debts and liabilities) to consider?

The history of the business

It’s important to gather evidence to establish how and when the business began and who has contributed what to its development. This is because the respective roles of both parties in the development of the business over time will impact the negotiations when it comes to deciding who gets what.

When did it start trading? Has it been in the wider family for many years? Or was it built up by one or both of you during the marriage, or started by one of you before you married?

The people running the business

You need to establish the facts around the running of the business. This is also important if you don’t plan to sell the business, but it will provide income going forwards to the person who doesn’t keep the business. You need to clarify:

who is pivotal to the running of the business? Who are the other key players?
are any of them family members?
does the business employ your partner? This can be tempting for tax reasons, but it could allow them to claim a bigger share, claiming they have contributed more than they may have actually done
are there adult children involved in the business?
does anyone in the family live on the business premises?
is the business run from the family home?

The vision for the business

If the business has significant value and the plan is not to sell it, the two parties to the divorce may need to discuss whether there are sufficient other assets in the marriage (such as property or investments) to ‘offset’ the value of the business by giving one party more non-business assets to allow the other party to continue the business.

It might be intended that the business is sold at some point in the future, for example at the point of retirement, in which case a balance in a settlement could be finalised at a future date.

Succession planning

If you put in place clear plans for your children to inherit the business and be involved in its running, this can help sway the court that selling it to release funds, is not in the adult children’s interests.

Farming businesses

When the business is a farming business, things can be even more intertwined because the family home is often standing on the land and farming is an all-encompassing way of life. At Tees, our heritage and culture has been rooted in the local farming community in the East of England for well over one hundred years. Find out how we can help you protect your farming business from divorce.

Is going to court inevitable?

No. Going to court is the last resort and should be avoided where possible by engaging in non-court dispute resolution wherever possible. The courts are placing more and more emphasis on non-court dispute resolution as a means of solving disputes because of the significant delays and expense that come with court proceedings.

You should therefore first consider mediation, collaboration and arbitration as alternatives to court proceedings, to try and get matters resolved as efficiently, cost-effectively and amicably as possible.

Protect your business in advance

By taking professional advice and taking time to plan, you can put in place measures to create a structured settlement to protect the business. If you are thinking ahead you should consider a prenuptial agreement (or post-nuptial agreement if already married) as this is another effective legal device for protecting assets, such as businesses, for the long-term

Tees advises on sale of GTES Holdings to STS Aviation Group

Posted on 6 August 202426 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Tees has advised long-standing client Greg Macleod on the sale of GTES Holdings Limited to STS Aviation Services, part of the STS Aviation Group.

GTES Holdings Limited is the holding company of GT Engine Services Limited (GTES), a jet engine care business based at Stansted Airport. GTES offers a wealth of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services and is one of the world’s leading aircraft repair and engine maintenance companies. GTES works with some of the biggest names in global aviation and seeks to provide engine management services in accordance with current Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) quality standards.

STS Aviation Services (STS), part of the STS Aviation Group, provides aircraft MRO services globally. STS is now the largest independent MRO in the United Kingdom and has an expanding footprint in Europe. The acquisition of GTES by STS builds on its strategy of being a single point solution for MRO services and further promotes STS’ growth ambitions.

Greg Macleod, former CEO of GTES, said: “The team at Tees worked tirelessly to put this deal together, offering valuable advice and support, their communication was top class even when we were faced with dealing with parties across several time-zones. I am delighted with the result and would thoroughly recommend their services.”

Corporate Partners Lucy Folley and Baljeet Kaur led the transaction on behalf of Tees, overseeing a diverse team of experts who provided comprehensive support. The team included professionals from Tees commercial property team, led by Partner Daniel Fairs, who advised on the real estate elements for the various units occupied at Stansted Airport.

Lucy Folley said: “Working alongside Greg for many years, we have seen GT Engine Services achieve considerable growth. When Greg decided it was the right time to realise the value of his many years’ hard work and sell his shares in GT Engine Services, we were delighted to assist him. It was a pleasure to guide Greg through the legal process involved and we wish him and the STS team every success in the future.”

Mr Macleod will remain a key member of the senior leadership team at GTES in the role of Managing Director, Engine Services.

Tees worked closely with Rob Dukelow-Smith and Amie Goodlad of Forward Corporate Finance, who advised on the tax and financial components and assisted in constructing the deal. Peters Elworthy & Moore (PEM) advised on the tax and accounting aspects

Grandparents’ rights to see grandchildren

Posted on 1 August 202418 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

One of the common misconceptions surrounding family law is that grandparents have an inherent or automatic right to see or spend time with their grandchildren – in other words, have grandparents’ rights. There is nothing enshrined in law to grant grandparents automatic rights based on their biological connection alone. However, the happy fact is that a court would rarely deny grandparents access to their grandchildren unless there is a specific reason to do so.

Here, we outline the different legal avenues open to grandparents to get access to their grandchildren:

Child Arrangements Order to spend time with your grandchildren

If, for any reason, a person with parental responsibility were to object to or try to prevent you from seeing your grandchild, and you cannot reach an agreement with them, you will need to apply to the court for a court order.

Because there is no automatic legal right to contact grandparents, the Child Arrangements Order would be the document that enshrines your legal rights and responsibilities as a grandparent. The court application is a two-step process:

apply for permission to apply for a Child Arrangements Order
apply for a Child Arrangements Order.

What is a Child Arrangements Order?

A Child Arrangements Order (CAO) is an order regulating arrangements relating to either of the following:

with whom a child is to live, spend time or otherwise have contact, and
when a child is to live, spend time or otherwise have contact with any person.

Getting permission to apply for a Child Arrangements Order

The court will consider a number of factors before granting you permission to apply for a CAO, as follows:

your history of contact with your grandchild
what you are seeking by way of contact – times, locations, etc and
whether what you are seeking would be beneficial for your grandchild.

Applying for a Child Arrangements Order

The court recognises the value and importance of a child spending time with their grandparents. The court has to balance this with the wishes of the children and the wishes of the parents (which are not necessarily the same), and each case has its own unique facts. These situations can be fraught with difficulty and should be carefully navigated. A skilled family lawyer may be able to guide you to mediation services to help prevent hostilities from escalating and the involvement of the courts.

The court has several principles that it considers before making a CAO. However, the paramount consideration is always the welfare of the child. For example, the court will consider:

the existing arrangements that you have in place and that the parents have in place
whether the arrangements you seek would take away time from the parents in such a way that it would not be in the child’s best interests.

What is the ‘no order’ principle?

Another key principle is the ‘no order’ principle, whereby the court will not make an order if they do not think the order would further the welfare of that child.

An example of where a CAO might not be given (or perhaps not in the terms requested) would be where there was a history or allegations of domestic abuse surrounding the grandparent. If there were allegations of this nature, the court would determine on a balance of probabilities whether these allegations were true at a fact-finding hearing and then consider whether they should make a CAO and on what terms. Even in such circumstances, the court may still determine that the children can spend time with their grandparents, but only in such a way as to protect that child’s welfare (perhaps through contact taking place remotely or being supervised).

It would only be in extreme circumstances where the court would determine that no contact should be allowed with a grandparent.

What if a parent objects to a grandparent seeing their grandchild?

If a parent objects, they may raise their reasons with the court. The court will then consider what information they require to decide on the best arrangements for the child.

What if I have a Child Arrangements Order in place, but the parents are preventing me from seeing my grandchildren?

This is an upsetting and frustrating situation that, unfortunately, many people find themselves in. The court will consider why this has happened and what can be done to facilitate the arrangements without difficulty in the future.

The court has in place several mechanisms which it can apply to the parent to enforce your CAO, including:

parenting courses
compensation to be paid (e.g. you had travel tickets that were not used because contact was prevented)
compulsory unpaid work (otherwise known as community service)
a fine
imprisonment – this is an extreme enforcement mechanism, and one the court is unlikely to use, as it would result in depriving the children of their parents. However, if they continue to breach a CAO (which by its nature is in place because it supports the wellbeing of that child), then they risk harming their children’s welfare. Therefore, repeated breaches without reasonable excuse might sometimes result in imprisonment.

In the first instance, the court will look at trying to resolve the issues rather than move to enforcement.

Special guardianship order

This is usually intended for situations when the children cannot live with their birth parents and require secure accommodation. Often the court will look to blood relatives in such a situation and this includes grandparents. A Special Guardianship Order confers parental responsibility for the child subject to the application to the applicant, for example to the grandparent.

The SGO, therefore, allows the special guardian to make day-to-day arrangements for the child and decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as schooling.

To apply for a Special Guardianship Order, as a grandparent, you need to have one of the following:

have in place a CAO
have lived with the child for 3 out of the last 5 years, or because you are a relative of the child, have had the child live with you for the year immediately before application
have consent of the local authority (if the child is in care)
have consent of those with parental responsibility (usually the birth parents but also anyone else with a CAO)
have permission of the court.

Unlike adoption (see below), a Special Guardianship Order does not cut the legal tie of automatic parental responsibility between a child and their birth parents. However, the parental responsibility of the special guardian can be exercised to the exclusion of others with parental responsibility, effectively overriding the parental responsibility of the birth parents. However, there are limits to an SGO which are:

you cannot change the child’s surname or
remove them from the jurisdiction (of England and Wales) for three months or more without the consent of all those with parental responsibility.

Adoption of grandchildren by grandparents

Adoption is a draconian but sometimes necessary measure that will completely sever the legal link between a child and their parents. If the child is not in care and both of their parents are alive, an adoption order will rarely be appropriate. However, it can happen, and an example of where adoption by a grandparent might be appropriate would be where a single mother decides that she does not want to raise her child.

Parents can consent to their child being adopted or generally placed for adoption. The child will need to be six weeks old or older for parents to give such consent. If a child is placed into adoption, the courts will prefer adoption by a blood relative over a stranger.

However, every situation is different, and the starting point is taking specialist legal advice. At Tees, we are here to help you navigate your options and decide which avenue is right for you.

A new Labour government – what’s next for housing?

Posted on 31 July 202421 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Residential property review June 2024 – The UK housing market continues to show modest signs of recovery, according to the latest data from Savills.

Despite some house price growth, a significant upturn is unlikely until mortgage affordability improves.

Buyer activity continues to improve, as the number of sales agreed in May was 10% higher than the 2017-2019 average, according to TwentyCI.

The rental market remains relatively consistent. Data from Zoopla shows that, in April, annual UK rental growth was 6.6% – slightly lower than the 6.7% recorded in the previous month. The region with the strongest annual growth was the North East (9.5%), followed by Scotland (9.3%). Rental growth is accelerating in locations close to large cities, such as North Tyneside and Midlothian – more evidence that the pandemic’s ‘race for space’ appears reversed.

New homes in the capital – demand outstrips supply

Demand for new buildings in the capital is increasing, but supply is limited due to high development costs.

Knight Frank data indicates confidence is picking up among London buyers. In April, the number of offers placed on new homes increased 9% year-on-year, while viewings rose 17%. Similarly, for mid-to-upper markets, the number of prospective buyers interested in purchasing a new build was 15 to 20% higher than the previous year.

Despite this growing demand, building costs in the capital have put off some developers. As a result, new starts fell by 20% over a 12-month period, and about 35,000 new homes are being delivered per year – over 30% lower than the Mayor of London’s target of 52,500.

How will the General Election affect the housing market?

Ahead of the 2024 General Election, new homes are the unanimous focus of the manifestos regarding housing.

If the Conservatives remain in government, Rishi Sunak aims to build 1.6 million new homes over the next five years – slightly more than the Labour Party’s target of 1.5 million and less than the Liberal Democrat’s promise of 380,000 new builds per year. Ed Davey stated that 150,000 will be social housing; Keir Starmer prioritises building new social rented homes.

The Labour, Liberal Democrat and Conservative manifestos pledge to fully abolish Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. Davey also pledged to create a national register of licensed landlords and make three-year tenancies the default.

If the Labour Party comes to power, they propose increasing the Stamp Duty rate for non-UK residents. Meanwhile, the Conservatives would abolish Stamp Duty for first-time buyers (FTBs) on homes up to £425,000. To further support FTBs, Sunak promised a new and improved Help-to-Buy scheme. Similarly, the Labour manifesto pledged a permanent mortgage guarantee scheme.

All details are correct at the time of writing (19 June 2024)

It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice, and the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. It does not provide individually tailored investment advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain. Levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are those currently applied or proposed and are subject to change; their value depends on the investor’s individual circumstances. No part of this document may be reproduced without prior permission.

Celebrating Excellence: Tees’ Women in Finance Shortlisted for Top Awards

Posted on 29 July 202429 March 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Three out of six leading ladies in our Wealth team who were nominated for awards have been shortlisted in the final of the Women In Financial Advice 2024 Awards.

This year, Tees Financial Limited had six women from our Wealth team nominated for the prestigious awards.

The nominees were as follows:

Cailin Lehmann, Financial Services Manager

Cara Lambert, Senior Wealth Planner

Emma Fisk, Senior Financial Planning Administrator

Laura Blyth, Wealth Planner

Megan Johns, Trainee Financial Adviser

Toni Chalmers-Smith, Wealth Specialist

Cailin, Laura and Toni have now been announced as being shortlisted to the finals.

This is the second time in a row that Laura Blyth has reached the final stages, whilst Toni Chalmers-Smith has been a finalist for four years in a row. Previously, Cara Lambert was shortlisted as a finalist for two years.

Additionally, Toni Chalmers-Smith has reached the finals for Later Life Adviser of the Year in The Women’s Recognition Awards 2024.

Toni Chalmers-Smith, said: “This is a great achievement for me to reach the finals of two separate awards, but more importantly, this is a big achievement for the team.

I think the nominated and shortlisted candidates are all brilliant. It really shows the high level of work the ladies in our team undertake and the high quality of that work, too.

I’m proud of us all, and fingers crossed for the win!”

The Later Life Adviser award will announce its winner on Tuesday, 22 October, whilst the award ceremony for the Women In Financial Advice will be held on Wednesday, 6 November, both in London.

These awards are not about men versus womenor whether a particular gender is more suited to a career or role in financial services – they are simply about celebrating and recognising the achievements of women in a sector where they continue to be under-represented.

Good luck to our wonderful women in finance!

Understanding civil partnerships: Your comprehensive guide

Posted on 26 July 202418 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

What is a civil partnership?

A civil partnership is a way for couples, whether heterosexual or same sex, to formalise their relationship, without getting married. Civil partners have the same rights as married couples and legal rights covering issues such as:

parental responsibility
inheritance tax
social security
tenancy rights
life insurance recognition
next of kin rights.

There is no legal requirement for a civil partnership to be accompanied by a ceremony or an exchange of vows. Couples can of course choose to incorporate these elements in celebration of their partnership.

Currently, you can only convert a same-sex civil partnership to a marriage.

The common law marriage myth

Only through a valid civil partnership or marriage can a couple acquire automatic legal rights as a couple that protect them in the event of separation or death. It is not the case that a couple who have lived together for a long time and/or have children together will have any legal rights as a couple and responsibilities to support each other in the event of separation – the concepts of ‘common law wife’ and ‘common law marriage’ have no legal status. If you intend to enter into a cohabiting relationship or are in a cohabiting relationship, take advice from a solicitor to ensure that you are protected.

How does civil partnership differ from marriage in the UK?

While both forms of partnership have similar rights from a legal point of view, there are differences in the way they are created and ended.

To enter into a civil partnership, couples are required to sign a civil partnership document in the presence of two witnesses and a registrar. A marriage instead requires the exchange of words (vows) at a formal religious or civil ceremony. The civil partnership certificate includes the names of both parents of each partner, whereas a marriage certificate only includes their fathers’ names.

Consummation is currently a prerequisite for a valid marriage in England and Wales, meaning failure to consummate a marriage is a ground for annulment. Civil partnerships cannot be annulled on a ground of non-consummation. This offers an alternative for those couples who believe that consummation should not be a prerequisite to a formalised partnership.

A civil partnership is ended by a Dissolution Order, but marriage is ended by a Final Order (Divorce); both are lengthy procedures.

Dissolving a civil partnership

If you want to end a civil partnership, you need to apply to the court for a ‘dissolution order’, by confirming that your partnership has irretrievably broken down. You will also need to agree with your partner on how to resolve practical and financial issues. The process used to end a civil partnership is called a ‘dissolution’. The first step is applying for, and completing, a dissolution application form.

Dissolving a civil partnership can be straightforward when both partners are in agreement. However, if you disagree over practical issues (childcare, finances and property) then the process can be longer and more complex and require the involvement of solicitors to aid with negotiations.

When can I apply to end a civil partnership?

You can apply to dissolve a civil partnership one year after you entered into it. To end a civil partnership in England and Wales, one (or both) of you must live in England or Wales (or be domiciled here -i.e. consider their ultimate home to be here). It does not matter in which country you entered into the partnership.

What are the grounds for ending a civil partnership?

You must confirm on the application that the relationship has broken down irretrievably. It is no longer necessary to cite fault – such as unreasonable behaviour or adultery, which was necessary until 2022.

To start the dissolution proceedings, you must complete an application form, which can be made by one partner or both partners as a joint application.

The application can be completed on paper or online and in either case, the court fee for processing the application is £593. You will need to provide your original partnership certificate in the case of an application on paper, or a scanned copy of it if you’re applying online.

What happens after I send the application to the court?

The court will process your application. If you’ve made a sole application, the court will send your civil partner (or their solicitor) a copy of the application and a form to acknowledge receipt of the documentation. The only bases to dispute the dissolution are jurisdiction (i.e. where the divorce should take place), the validity of a marriage or civil partnership or that the civil partnership has already ended.

If you’ve made a joint application with your partner, the court will send both parties a notice of proceedings.

20 weeks after the application was first issued, you (or you and your partner together) can apply for a conditional order, which is the first stage in the dissolution process. In that application, you confirm that the details given in the original application are correct and you wish the proceedings to proceed.

Assuming the application is correct, the court will make a conditional order. Six weeks and one day after the conditional order is made, an application can be made for the final dissolution order which ends the civil partnership.

How long does it take to end a civil partnership?

The application for a conditional order (the first stage) cannot be made less than 20 weeks from the date of the original application, and then the application for a final order cannot be made less than six weeks from the date of the conditional order. However, there are other circumstances that are likely to have an impact on how long it takes to obtain a final order.

Starting the process with a joint application will get the process off to the most conciliatory start. But time will need to be built in for completing and signing documentation on a joint basis.

There can be delays in the court processing the applications. This is beyond the control of the parties or any solicitors involved.

Importantly, it is usually sensible to wait until after a financial agreement has been made (and approved by the court) before applying for the final order. For more information read our article on the importance of obtaining a financial consent order. In many cases reaching a financial agreement (or an agreement in relation to the children of the partnership) takes longer than the dissolution itself. However, it is crucial that the appropriate time is taken for advice and agreement on finances, even if that holds up your final order. A solicitor can advise you on the timing of your application.

Can I separate from my civil partner without getting a dissolution?

Yes. If you want to separate from your civil partner, but don’t want to dissolve the civil partnership (or it’s been less than a year since it was registered). However, the agreement reached regarding your finances will not be fully binding and enforceable unless you have a final dissolution order and the court has approved the agreement. You should also be aware that the financial rights and responsibilities between you will continue until the final order is made (see below).

What are my financial rights after ending a civil partnership?

Separating civil partners have the same financial rights as divorcing couples. They have a right to claim maintenance (‘alimony’), lump-sum payments, property transfers or sales and pension sharing or attachment orders.

Dissolve a civil partnership – expert family law solicitors

Ending a relationship is tough, regardless of the circumstances. Whether the breakup was amicable or acrimonious, it pays to have someone on your side.

While there is little room for dispute in the dissolution of the civil partnership itself, agreeing financial arrangements and arrangements for children can be challenging.

At Tees, a dedicated solicitor will explain your rights and the steps you need to take. We’ll support you at every step and protect your interests. We can support you in the background, equipping you to communicate directly with your partner about arrangements for your dissolution, including financial and children matters; or we can take on that communication for you. Where necessary we can suggest ways to reach agreements on finances and children, such as mediation or arbitration. If other avenues are not appropriate and it becomes necessary to ask the court to determine what happens, we can advise you through that process, while always keeping in mind opportunities for out of court settlement along the way.

Mediation around dissolving a civil partnership

Mediation is a really effective way for a couple to reach an agreement with the help of an independent mediator. You can use a mediation process to sort out disagreements and reach decisions about important things like money, property and childcare. Mediation can be a quicker, less stressful and less expensive alternative to court proceedings. It allows a couple the opportunity to maintain direct communication in a supported environment and helps both partners feel in control of the situation.

An independent, trained mediator will help both parties understand the issues and come to a workable agreement. Tees have specialist mediators on hand to advise you through mediation, and we can ensure a mediated agreement becomes legally binding.

Legal tips for marriage: Prenups, insurance, and more

Posted on 24 July 202418 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Planning for your big day? Don’t overlook these key legal considerations to ensure a smooth journey to the altar. From prenuptial agreements to wedding insurance, understanding your rights and responsibilities is crucial. Here’s everything you need to know about wedding insurance, prenups, and marrying abroad.

Is living together the same as marriage?

No, living together doesn’t provide the same legal rights as marriage. Although 3.4 million couples in the UK cohabited in 2023 (source: Office for National Statistics), many are unaware of their lack of legal protections. Cohabiting couples don’t have the same rights regarding inheritance, income, or capital after a partner’s death. If you’re living together, it’s important to understand these limitations.

What is wedding insurance?

Wedding insurance protects your financial investment in case things go wrong with your wedding arrangements. Coverage typically includes things like venue cancellations, lost deposits, food, flowers, and wedding attire. Without insurance, you may be out of pocket if a supplier fails to deliver.

Why should you get wedding insurance early?

Take out wedding insurance as soon as you start planning—before paying any deposits. Some policies may not cover services booked through a wedding planner, so check the terms carefully. Policies also typically don’t cover cancellations due to personal decisions like a breakup. If you’re marrying abroad, ensure you have separate travel insurance for your honeymoon and specialist wedding insurance.

Getting married abroad: What you need to know

If you plan to marry abroad, ensure your marriage will be legally recognized when you return to the UK. For your marriage to be valid:

It must be allowed under UK law.
You must follow the legal requirements of the country where you’re marrying.

If you’re unsure, consult a family law solicitor before your wedding. They can guide you through the process and help you understand whether extra steps are necessary. You’ll also need to research the specific requirements for your destination country. Websites like GOV.UK offer a helpful guide, but a lawyer with knowledge of the country’s marriage laws can provide extra peace of mind.

What is a prenuptial agreement?

A prenuptial agreement (prenup) is a legal contract that determines how assets, debts, and finances will be divided in the event of divorce. To ensure it is enforceable, prenups must be signed at least one month before the wedding, and both parties must provide full financial disclosure. Independent legal advice is essential to ensure both sides understand the terms and implications.

Is a prenup legally binding in the UK?

Yes, but a judge may not uphold it if deemed unfair, especially if it fails to provide adequate provisions for children or a spouse. The agreement must also be free from duress, and both parties should have received independent legal advice. Prenups made under a month before marriage are less likely to be enforced, so plan ahead.

Home ownership and property deeds in marriage

If you own a property before marriage, you may want to transfer the title into both names. If there’s a mortgage, you’ll need the lender’s consent, and if it’s leasehold, you might need permission from the freeholder. For guidance on deed transfers and mortgages, consult a conveyancing solicitor to ensure everything is handled correctly, including any potential stamp duty.

Should I update my will after marriage?

Marriage automatically invalidates any existing will unless it was specifically made ‘in contemplation of marriage’. It’s highly recommended to create a new will before your wedding to ensure your wishes are clearly outlined. If you have a foreign will, consult a legal expert to confirm its validity after marriage.

Will my partner inherit my pension after my death?

Pension rules can be complex, and they vary depending on the type of pension you have. Don’t assume your spouse will automatically inherit your pension. For example, if you’re receiving a final salary pension or have an annuity, changes may not be possible. However, you can make provisions for your spouse by setting them as a beneficiary for pensions and annuities before your wedding. State pensions remain unaffected by marriage.

Equity release can take some of the stress out of divorce

Posted on 16 July 202421 May 2025 by Sarah O'Sullivan

Rose and James are getting divorced late in life. In this scenario, they use the release of equity in their jointly-owned home to help make splitting their assets easier.*

Both aged 73, Rose and James Heath are going through the stressful process of dividing their assets for the financial settlement of their divorce.

Rose wants to stay in the marital home, but James has agreed to move out and buy a new property. They have agreed to divide the value of their house evenly and have £100,000 in joint savings.

With their house valued at £375,000, Rose needs to access £140,000 of equity in the property via a lifetime mortgage, paying the remainder of the money owed to James from her savings.

By choosing a lifetime mortgage, Rose can remain in her home while retaining ownership, guaranteeing no negative equity, and have the option of monthly repayments. James can now access his finances and buy himself a property.

Things to consider

Before applying for equity release, weighing alternative options and looking at the possible effects on your finances is important. These include:

Downsizing and other forms of finance
Compound interest roll-up, if chosen
Early repayment charges
Long-term care and state benefits considerations
A lifetime mortgage may impact the inheritance you leave

Get in touch

Speak to our Wealth Specialist, Toni Chalmers-Smith or Solicitor Jo Buck-Marshall at Tees today.

*Examples of customer scenarios only. Every case will be different.

This material is intended for information purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for accounting, legal or tax advice. Some information quoted was obtained from external sources we consider to be reliable.

Tees is a trading name of Tees Financial Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Its registered number is 211314.

Tees Financial Limited is registered in England and Wales, registered number 4342506.