Read our latest articles, news briefs and legal updates across all our different services.
It is important to note when applying for training contracts at regional firms, your role is more than understanding the law in which seat you are training in. Here at Machins, as a trainee you are viewed as the future of the firm and so from day one you will have an active role in
During the application season, it can feel like the whole world is announcing that they’ve accepted an offer for their top choice firm or are choosing between three placements. So, how do you stay focused and avoid the trap of comparison culture? You’re already trying to balance ongoing studies alongside writing applications, attending events, networking
With Family Mediation Week due to take place between 22-26 January 2024, we explain some key points about family mediation and how the process works. Family Mediation – What is it? Family mediation is designed to assist divorcing or separating couples reach an agreement in relation to financial and/or children matters that arise as a
The Law Society has warned that a move to electronic wills could lead to an increase in fraud. It says more research is needed before they are introduced. The concern was raised in the Society’s response to the Law Commission’s consultation on wills reform. The commission is consulting on the issue of electronic wills due
The highly anticipated annual office Christmas party epitomises the perfect out of hours staff get together, but if you’re not careful one too many shots coupled with a clash of personalities could make for a recipe for disaster! Here are Machins’ top tips for a trouble-free night of drinks, dancing and merriment without the throes
The Government has announced changes to the Renters (Reform) Bill to protect vulnerable residents and improve the safety of homes for tenants. It has tabled amendments to make it illegal for landlords and agents to have blanket bans on renting to people who receive benefits or who have children – ensuring families aren’t discriminated against
The Government has announced proposals to cut ground rents to help homeowners in leasehold properties. Housing Secretary Michael Gove has launched a consultation that will set out options including capping ground rents at a so called “peppercorn” rate for existing leaseholders, freezing ground rents at current levels and capping the ground rents at a percentage
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has rejected calls to reduce inheritance tax in his autumn statement. Instead, he has decided to leave rates and allowances at the same level as they have been for the last three years. Inheritance tax is set at 40% and becomes payable once the tax-free threshold of £325,000 has been passed. There
Local members of the family justice body Resolution have welcomed new research which shows most people back a change in the law to give cohabiting people more rights. Currently, cohabiting couples have few or no rights in the event of a relationship breakdown meaning that unlike married couples there is no mechanism for splitting assets.
With Christmas fast approaching, it is important separating parents start planning early to agree their child arrangements for the festive period in advance to avoid any uncertainty and tension into the run up to the holidays. The Christmas period can be overwhelming to separating couples and emotions can run high. Issues with child arrangements can