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An overview of the Building Safety Act 2022

The Building Safety Act 2022 has completely rewritten the law on safety in relation to high-rise buildings following the tragedy at Grenfell Tower, but it has done much more than this.  This webinar will pull all the legislation, regulations, and guidance together and tell you what you need to know, including:<ul><li>What is actually in force – and what isn’t in force yet</li><li>Higher-risk buildings – what are they and what are the rules relating to them?</li><li>Remediation of existing defects – including when costs can be recovered from tenants</li><li>The Responsible Actors Scheme</li><li>Changes to existing legislation, including the Defective Premises Act</li></ul>

Negotiation skills for lawyers

Topics include:<ul><li>What is negotiation?</li><li>Planning and preparation</li><li>Red and blue negotiating styles: their pros and cons</li><li>Sending and reading body language signals</li><li>Assertive trading</li><li>Tricks and tactics used by negotiators</li><li>Example of a commercial negotiation</li></ul>

Budget 2024 – Changes to inheritance tax and capital gains tax

Topics covered include:<ul><li>An examination of changes to the rules on the taxation of non Domiciled individuals<ul><li>Pensions coming with the IHT net – how is this likely to impact our clients</li><li>The changes to Agricultural property relief and the impact on farmers</li><li>The changes to Business Property Relief</li><li>A review of the key CGT changes</li></ul></li></ul>

Retirement and removal of trustees

Replacement of trustees is an area where things can go horribly wrong. If a mistake is made, you can find yourself having to unpick a whole series of appointments which turn out to have been made by the wrong people. This webinar will consider:<ul><li>What to look for in the trust instrument</li><li>The traps in the statutory provisions</li><li>The problems of incapacitous trustees</li></ul> After watching the webinar you will be able to<ul><li>Apply the rules correctly</li><li>Identify situations where the court needs to be involved</li></ul>

Domestic Abuse Act 2021 update

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 has been in place for almost three years. It touches on all aspects of family law practice and is relevant to practitioners whether you advise on divorce, finance, or child law matters.Various sections have already been implemented and with further changes due to come into force, now is the ideal time to update your knowledge.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>Domestic Abuse Act 2021 – key provisions</li><li>Statutory definition of domestic abuse – how does this work in practice?</li><li>Cross-examination – position with Qualified Legal Representatives</li><li>Special measures and participation directions – why this is so essential</li><li>Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders – what provisions are there for how matters will change going forward?</li><li>Impact of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 to the way in which non-molestation and occupation orders are run</li><li>Electronic monitoring – how will this change things?</li><li>Economic abuse – application in children and injunction proceedings</li><li>Criminal offences linked to domestic abuse, including non-fatal strangulation and suffocation, disclosure of intimate photographs, and offences committed outside the UK</li><li>Disclosure by the police</li><li>Mandatory polygraph examinations</li></ul>

Gifts with Reservation of Benefit – how to get the best for your client

AimTo help practitioners advise in relation to gifts with reservation of benefit, what works and what doesn’t and what other problems can arise.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to give estate planning advice to clients wishing to retain an element of control over assets.Agenda<ul><li>An examination of the rules around gifts for inheritance tax purposes and what constitutes a gift with reservation<ul><li>A review of Pre Owned Asset Tax and why we should be concerned about it</li><li>Problems with Gifts of Reservation in relation to taxes other than inheritance tax</li><li>Case study examples of what can work and in what circumstances</li></ul></li></ul>

The latest developments in costs and funding

As ever, there has been a steady stream of case law, rule changes in recent months. This webinar will highlight the key developments, such as the law firm which set its success fee at more than 100% (280%, in fact) and was ordered to repay its client $3m!The Intermediate Track Rules were amended with effect from 6 April, with more to come later in the year, and of course more part 36 issues have surfaced.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>Can the court sever an unlawful provision in a retainer?</li><li>Does part 36 apply to an assessment under the Solicitors Act?</li><li>What are the key changes in the Intermediate Track?</li><li>What is happening about fixed costs in low value clinical negligence claims?</li><li>Is a paying party entitled to see a breakdown of a bill rendered by a medical reporting agency?</li><li>Indemnity costs for breaching the overriding objective.</li></ul>

Discrimination: remedies in employment tribunals

Any practitioner advising or representing clients in discrimination cases needs to be familiar with the remedies which are available if the claim succeeds.Those remedies have distinctive features when compared with other employment tribunal cases such as unfair dismissal.This webinar looks at the following topics:<ul><li>Does the loss suffered by the claimant have to be foreseeable?</li><li>Does the claimant have to give credit for all social security benefits?</li><li>Is a deduction permitted for any contributory conduct on the part of the claimant?</li><li>Does the principle in Polkey v AE Dayton apply?</li><li>What criterial are applied to the calculation of future loss: Wardle v Credit Agricole?</li><li>Can stigma damages be claimed on the basis that the claimant cannot find other employment because of their successful pursuit of a discrimination claim?</li><li>How do the Vento bands operate in relation to injury to feelings, and what factors determine which band is appropriate for the case in question?</li><li>What is the position with regard to aggravated and exemplary damages?</li><li>How is psychiatric injury calculated?</li><li>Does the uplift for unreasonable breach of the Acas Code of Practice apply to discrimination cases?</li><li>Where there is judgment against an individual discriminator as well as the employer, who is liable and to what extent: LB Hackney v Sivanvandan?</li></ul>

Reporting to lenders - know your obligations

Residential conveyancers are all too familiar with the seemingly ever-changing requirements in the Lenders Handbook. Keeping up to date with those is tricky enough but the Handbook requirements are not the totality of conveyancers obligations to lenders. This webinar will look at some practical issues to consider including:<ul><li>The significance of case law</li><li>Reporting obligations</li><li>Certificate of Title</li><li>What documents is a lender entitled to ask you to produce?</li></ul>

Client care: costs, conflicts, and confidentiality

The SRA Codes of Conduct underwent simplification as part of the SRA’s reinvigoration of its Standards & Regulations (STaRs) back in 2019. However, the old messages around client care and the duties regarding costs, conflicts and confidentiality still appeared in both iterations of the Codes in much their original form.However, what do the rules require? Is there an opportunity here for simplification of your terms and conditions? Can we send the client less by way of verbiage than we currently do? What must we say about costs – and what of conflicts and confidentiality issues too?None of the essentials have changed just because the codes have altered.This webinar will look at the following topics:<ul><li>The ‘new’ Rules 6, 7 & 8 – Client Care<ul><li>The Rules</li><li>What must be in writing?</li><li>What else do we customarily include?</li><li>Can we reduce the burden?</li><li>The actual requirements<ul><li>Costs</li><li>Conflicts – what is it and when can we act?</li><li>Confidentiality – what are the rules and how do we protect old clients’ confidences</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>

Partnership and LLP law – what every partner and member should know

This webinar will give you a grounding in the key principles of partnership and LLP law.  It is ideal for those contemplating joining a partnership or for junior corporate and employment lawyers looking to develop a basic understanding of partnership matters.The webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>The basics – what is a partnership and what is an LLP?</li><li>The Partnership Act 1890 – an overview</li><li>Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2000 – an overview</li><li>What is the difference between partnership and Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)?</li><li>What do partners and members own?</li><li>How partners and LLP members are paid.</li><li>Is it possible to be an employee and a partner?</li><li>What are fixed-share partners vs salaried partners?</li><li>What are the legal relationships and duties between partners?</li><li>How does the relationship and duties differ in an LLP?</li><li>How do partnerships and LLPS come to an end?</li><li>Key takeaway tips</li></ul>

Tricky issues with sub-leases – problems and practical solutions

Sub-leases raise particular challenges in drafting and management for all three parties involved: landlord, head-tenant and sub-tenant.This webinar surveys the problems and considers practical solutions.Issues covered will include:<ul><li>Enforceability of head-tenant’s and sub-tenants’ obligations</li><li>Anticipating and drafting for insolvency of the head-tenant, or forfeiture of the head-lease</li><li>Consequences of the head-tenant operating a break option</li><li>How sub-tenants operate 1954 Act procedures</li><li>Obtaining superior landlord’s consents</li></ul>

Residential property practice update May 2024

In the latest of his regular Residential Property Practice updates David will cover:<ul><li>The updated TA6 & Material Information</li><li>Progress of the Freehold & Leasehold Reform Bill</li><li>Limits on a Right of Way following McGill v Stewart</li><li>Land Registry Practice Guides 9 & 68</li></ul>

Proving and pleading your case - how to get it right

There is a myriad of requirements when it comes to stating your case and how it is to be proven, and too often we see parties fall foul of them. In March, for example, the High Court ruled that a circuit judge was entitled to make a wasted costs order against a firm of solicitors that failed to translate their client’s statement and pleadings for use at trial.Failure to comply can literally make the difference between winning and losing. In this webinar Dominic Regan will identify the key requirements of which every litigator needs to be aware.<ul><li>Challenging contested evidence after Tui v Griffiths – must fraud be overtly pleaded?</li><li>The failure to allege contributory negligence</li><li>2024 guidance on running a fundamental dishonesty argument – the danger of pleading too much</li><li>What language is a witness statement to be in?</li><li>Who bears the burden of proof on a remoteness of loss argument?</li></ul>

Redundancy: consultation, selection and ‘fire and rehire’

This webinar will examine the duties which are placed on an employer during the redundancy process, and the rights of employees faced with redundancy.You will also explore the ways in which the fairness of redundancy might be challenged, as well as the strategy adopted by some employers of ‘firing and rehiring’ and consider how it differs from the procedures required for redundancy.The webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>The statutory definition of redundancy</li><li>Determining the pool of those who are at risk</li><li>When is a pool of one fair?</li><li>Does the employer have to consider ‘bumping’?</li><li>Selection criteria: do they need to be objective?</li><li>Avoiding discrimination in selection</li><li>Automatically unfair redundancies</li><li>Maternity protection</li><li>Do scores have to be disclosed to employees?</li><li>The employer’s duty to look for alternative employment</li><li>Should the employer provide an appeal?</li><li>Redundancy payments and suitable alternative employment</li><li>Collective consultation</li><li>Protective awards</li><li>How does the practice of ‘fire and rehire’ compare with redundancy?</li><li>Rights of the employee on insolvency of the employer</li></ul>

Safeguarding children’s futures – wills, trusts and parents wishes

AimTo help practitioners guide parents when writing wills to help safeguard their children.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to advise parents about how best to cater for their young children within their wills.Agenda<ul><li>A review of what happens when no guardian is appointed and parents/guardians have died?</li><li>Guidance on who to appoint as Guardian;</li><li>What types of decisions can guardians make and how prescriptive should we be in guiding them;</li><li>An example letter of wishes that can be prepared by parents to help informed their guardians of their wishes and hopes and dream for their children</li><li>A review of the trusts available for minors</li><li>Guidance for Trustees in interacting with Guardians</li></ul>

Trusts and the RNRB

The Residence Nil Rate Band (RNRB) has been with us since 2017 but it continues to cause problems.This webinar will consider:<ul><li>Drafting wills to obtain the RNRB</li><li>the use of post-death variations and IHTA 1984, s144 to obtain the RNRB retrospectively</li><li>Situations where nil rate band discretionary trusts can help</li><li>The availability of RNRB on termination of a qualifying immediate post-death interest</li><li></li></ul>After this webinar you will be able to:<ul><li>Draft wills to take advantage of the RNRB</li><li>Suggest ways of securing the RNRB when dealing with estates</li><li>Suggest structures to help secure the RNRB on the death of a surviving spouse or civil partner</li></ul>

Cohabitation: latest developments

Family lawyers are increasingly required to handle cohabitation disputes. This webinar will address common questions that arise during such cases.While the majority of procedural elements in this field are based on civil procedure rules, the principles concerning relationship breakdowns are often rooted in family law. Therefore, it is crucial for family lawyers to stay up to date on developments and case law related to cohabitation.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>The significance of the concept of a ‘common law wife and husband’?</li><li>Joint tenancies and tenancies in common</li><li>Use of cohabitation contracts or agreements</li><li>Does the court start with an equal divide when deciding on the assets?</li><li>What is ‘common intention’ and what needs to be established to show ‘detriment’?</li><li>Practice following Stack v. Dowden and Kernott v. Jones</li><li>Consideration of Lee Hudson v Jayne Hathway [2022 EWHC 631] (QB)</li><li>Use of proprietary estoppel</li><li>Equitable accounting and occupation rent – what is the significance?</li><li>How are the procedural elements different in the CPR from the FPR?</li><li>How does Schedule 1 CA 1989 fit into Trusts of Land disputes?</li><li>Costs and offers</li></ul>

Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (‘the Act’) received royal assent on 24th May 2024 and makes a series of important changes to existing consumer law. As part of these changes, traders may be fined up to 10% of the total value of their turnover either by the courts or directly by the Competition and Markets Authority (‘CMA’). Given that these powers will be in force from early 2025 it is essential that both law firms and their clients are aware of the key provisions.This session sets out a succinct summary of the key consumer law related provisions of the Act with particular emphasis on the following topics:Unfair commercial practices<ul><li>Repeal of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008</li><li>Changes to the definition of ‘unfair commercial practice’</li><li>Amendments to the schedule of commercial practices which are always considered to be unfair to include new rules about fake reviews</li></ul>Enforcement provisions<ul><li>Definition of ‘relevant infringements’</li><li>Changes to the powers of the court</li><li>Introduction of direct enforcement powers for the CMA</li><li>Provisional and final infringement notices</li><li>Introduction of monetary penalties – fixed amount v daily rate</li><li>Appeals procedure</li><li>CMA Draft Guidance on enforcement of monetary penalties</li></ul>

Rentcharges – practical issues for conveyancers

Conveyancers are now well aware rentcharges have not gone away; far from it. They continue to cause confusion and delay.  As the impact is totally different, it is critical to know whether an obligation to contribute to maintenance costs is an estate rentcharge or a positive covenant.This webinar is intended to provide a recap and look at some practical issues including:<ul><li>What are rentcharges & reform Proposals</li><li>What is an estate rentcharge</li><li>How do estate rentcharges differ from positive covenants to pay towards maintenance?</li><li>How can I tell the difference between an estate rentcharge and a positive covenant?</li><li>Does it matter what an obligation to pay towards maintenance is called?</li></ul>

Lease termination by business tenants – navigating the maze

When a tenant decides to bring their lease to an end, it will often be a priority to do so as soon as possible, so as to limit the exposure to further rental payments.  It might seem at first glance that termination of a commercial tenancy should usually be a very simple business. What makes it complicated is the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, paradoxically an Act designed to protect tenants.  The complexity of the Act means that opportunities can be missed, unless one is on top of the issues.Other options include surrender, disclaimer, and exercise of break options, each of which require a good working knowledge of the technicalities.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>What are the common law rules for ascertaining the required length of notice to quit?</li><li>Within the 1954 Act, what methods of termination are effective?</li><li>How do contractual doctrines of repudiation and frustration work with leases?</li><li>Can a lease be disclaimed when a tenant is not insolvent?</li><li>How might a landlord attempt to frustrate or delay termination?</li></ul>

Motor finance mis-selling explained

Another financial mis-selling scandal is emerging.In January 2024 the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced a further investigation into widespread mis-selling of vehicle finance.That follows a finding in March 2019 by the FCA of highly questionable incentive structures in the sector and of the aggressive marketing of “PCP” (personal contract purchase) plans to customers.The FCA concluded:“The way commission arrangements are operating in motor finance may be leading to consumer harm on a potentially significant scale”“Some customers are paying significantly more for their motor finance because of the way lenders choose to remunerate their brokers”Mis-selling claims are now being brought against lenders and brokers to remedy the inflated interest rates that consumers were unknowingly duped into agreeing.This webinar will explore the practicalities of bringing these claims, and cover:<ul><li>Introduction to PCP and vehicle loans</li><li>The Legal Framework</li><li>Criteria for bringing a claim</li><li>Practicalities of Issuance</li><li>Quantum</li><li>Case law to date</li></ul> This pre-recorded webinar can be viewed by the whole firm for a single fee.

Drafting commercial leases in the light of MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards)

Although the Government has stepped back from requiring higher energy efficiency standards for residential buildings for the moment, there is still uncertainty regarding their intentions for commercial buildings.It is therefore more important than ever to be aware of how to draft (and amend) commercial leases in the light of MEES, whether acting for landlord or tenant, and this webinar will consider all the relevant lease provisions, including:<ul><li>Repairing covenants</li><li>Covenants to comply with statutory requirements</li><li>Alterations covenants</li><li>Tenant covenants relating to planning</li><li>Service charges</li><li>Rent review provisions</li></ul>

Partnership and LLPs – An introduction to expulsions and forced retirements

This webinar will cover the key issues arising in respect of expulsions of Partners in a traditional Partnership and LLP Members in an LLP.It will touch upon Partnership Law, Limited Liability Partnership Law, Discrimination Law and offers a brief overview of the tactical process and potential remedies for those involved in a dispute. The legal risks will be addressed in the context of each of the areas outlined below.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>Decision making principles in Partnerships and LLPs</li><li>No fault expulsion</li><li>Fault expulsion</li><li>Discrimination Law fundamentals and common issues arising</li><li>Risk management and remedies</li><li>Practical tips on managing the end of a Partnership or LLP arrangement.</li></ul>

Fixed recoverable costs and the intermediate track – the latest changes

The regime for fixed recoverable costs for cases worth up to £100,000, which introduced the Intermediate Track, only came into force last October but a series of amendments have already been made to it following a Ministry of Justice consultation. In this webinar, Professor Dominic Regan will recap the key aspects of the system and outline the adjustments that came into force in April:<ul><li>A subtle but important tweak to Stage 2 of Table 14 which dictates the costs recoverable in the Intermediate Track</li><li>The new Stage 16</li><li>Contracting out – still a mess</li><li>How to best run cases in the Intermediate Track</li><li>When fixed costs aren’t fixed</li><li>Clarification of the clinical negligence exception</li><li>The limit on expert reports clarified.</li></ul>

Mid-term dilapidations and the alternatives

Dilapidations has traditionally been dealt with at lease-end, though this has its risks, not least the potential for the tenant’s finances to deteriorate in the meantime.  Why not deal with disrepair before then, with the aim of being immediately able to remarket, once possession is obtained?  There are several answers, to do with restricted availability or effectiveness of most of the usual remedies, but there remain opportunities to achieve effective enforcement of repair obligations during the term, and there are sometimes compelling reasons to do so.In this webinar we consider the pros and cons of the available levers, and how lease drafting can assist the landlord to a good outcome.Topics covered will include:<ul><li>What may restrict recoverable damages?</li><li>Procedural hoops: the Leasehold Property (Repairs) Act 1938</li><li>Drawbacks to forfeiture</li><li>Is specific performance of repair obligations always unobtainable?</li><li>The Jervis v Harris procedure – just too problematic, or under-used?</li><li>Thinking outside the box – other options</li></ul>

Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act received royal assent on 26 October 2023.Throughout 2024 new provisions from the Act will come into effect, including the failure to prevent fraud offence.Also relevant for businesses are the changes in procedures related to registering a new company with Companies House.Each provision of the act requires businesses of all kinds to add additional steps to their existing frameworks.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>The Act in outline</li><li>Companies House adjustments</li><li>Extra information to be provided to Companies House</li><li>Steps required of businesses to mitigate and prevent fraud by staff and other stakeholders</li><li>Steps suggested by HM Government</li></ul>

IHT planning for high net worth clients – implications and application

AimTo help practitioners’ advise HNW Clients need estate planning advice.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to help HNW clients with their estate planning.Agenda<ul><li>A detailed discussion and step by step guide to help a particular HNW client mitigate his tax liability on death whilst protecting his family and business needs.</li><li>We will explore steps that can be taken now, in a will, by deed of variation, with investments, with changes to the business structure and set up all whilst keeping an eye and improving the clients position in relation to other tax concerns.</li></ul>

Pre-nuptial agreements and inheritance aspects in financial remedy cases

This webinar will examine the law and practice of pre and post nuptial agreements. A useful tool when a couple is looking to get married or enter a civil partnership and when advising on division of family assets following marital breakdown.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>When may prenuptial agreement be relevant?</li><li>What is the impact of Radmacher v. Granatino [2010] UKSC 42. What principles emerge from this case?</li><li>Are pre-nuptial agreements binding, and what are the benefits of such agreements?</li><li>Nuptial agreements and meeting needs – Consideration of Ipekci v McConnell [2019] EWFC 19 and Robson v. Robson [2010] EWCA Civ. 1171</li><li>Distinction between marital and non-marital property – WX v HX (Treatment of Matrimonial and Non- Matrimonial Property) [2021] EWHC 241 (Fam)</li><li>Impact of WC v HC [2022] EWFC 22 – undue influence and impact upon a pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreement</li><li>Non-material disclosure in negotiating the pre-nuptial agreement. Consideration of TRNS v TRNK [2023] EWFC 133</li><li>Impact of HD v WB [2023] EWFC 2 – the effect of a pre-nuptial agreement</li><li>What about future inheritance? Can this be taken into account? Consideration of Alireza v Radwan and Others [2017] EWCA Civ. 1545</li></ul>

Nuisance for property lawyers

This webinar will look at problems that may arise with contaminated land as well as water pollution, asbestos, Japanese knotweed, and certain indigenous protected species, together with the various types of liability relating to property usage, including:<ul><li>Civil liability under common law nuisance</li><li>Common law negligence</li><li>The rule in Rylands v. Fletcher</li><li>Public nuisance</li><li>Statutory nuisance</li><li>Breach of the Human Rights Act 1998</li><li>Requirements of planning conditions or obligations</li></ul>

Conduct arguments in financial remedy cases

Conduct is a significant issue that can be raised in any financial remedy proceedings. It is crucial to be aware of situations where conduct may be raised and the proper procedure for doing so.In addition to addressing conduct during the marriage or civil partnership itself, this webinar will explore developments related to conduct arguments in financial remedy cases. This includes instances where the court exercises discretion under section 25 of the MCA 1973, as well as when litigation conduct is brought into consideration.While costs orders are not as common in family cases as in other legal areas, when conduct issues are raised, it could directly impact the principles outlined in Part 28 of the FPR 2010.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>How do material non-disclosure and conduct issues affect the outcome?</li><li>Growing case law surrounding material non-disclosure</li><li>Litigation conduct and its application to Part 28 FPR 2010</li><li>Economic abuse, conduct and financial remedy matters – consideration of DP v EP [202] EWFC 6</li><li>Manipulating documents and adjourning of capital claims due to conduct – consideration of X v Y [2022] EWFCC 95</li><li>Pleading conduct in financial remedy cases – consideration of the principles set out within Tsyetkoy v Khayrova [2023] EWFC 230 and Tsyetkoy v Khayrova [2023] EWFC 131</li><li>Continuing developments in conduct issues – consideration of O v O [2023] EWFC 161</li></ul>

Administrative and dispositive powers in wills and trusts

Dealing with trusts and estate often requires an understanding of the powers given in the will or trust whether you are drafting the original instrument or advising on an existing instrument.This webinar looks at:<ul><li>Administrative and dispositive powers<ul><li>the differences</li><li>where power to appropriate fits in</li></ul></li><li>Common dispositive powers in trusts<ul><li>Why so many?</li><li>how they can be exercised</li><li>tips and traps</li></ul></li><li>Administrative provisions<ul><li>the STEP provisions 3rd edition</li><li>adding additional powers</li><li>limitations</li></ul></li></ul>

SRA Wellbeing Agenda

The SRA Codes of Conduct and other rules underwent a change in 2023 to incorporate new provisions around the wellbeing of staff and the steps that law firms need or ought to be taking to reinforce that agenda.A year on, and as the work-from-home approach is relenting, how have these provisions bedded in?This webinar will look at the following topics:<ul><li>Amendments to the Codes of Conduct</li><li>Amendments to the Fitness to Practice Regulations</li><li>Key inclusions in a Wellbeing Strategy</li><li>Support for Staff in reporting unacceptable behaviour</li><li>Difference between brusqueness and unacceptability</li><li>Weaponization of SRA reporting</li></ul>

Compliance update no 1, 2024

This forthcoming compliance update webinar will highlight several recent and topical initiatives, consultations, and their corresponding responses.Key issues arising from the SRA will be examined, along with a breakdown of enforcement steps taken in response to the recent round of investigations and thematic reviews by the SRA –including the increasingly substantial fines, serving as a wake-up call to all law firms.The webinar will also feature the latest thinking on the sanctions regime and AML in general, with particular focus on the Addendum to the Legal Sector Affinity Group guidance. It will also look at some developments regarding ongoing competence and AI initiatives as well as other miscellaneous information from other agencies.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>SRA – new fining powers exercised</li><li>SRA investigations of AML procedures – continued</li><li>New measures to counter financial fraud</li><li>Sanctions regime – changes and extra guidance</li><li>AI and Lawtech innovations</li><li>Review of our continuing competence</li></ul>

Introduction to family law for new entrants

This webinar is an introduction to family law practice and procedure for those who are moving into family law from other disciplines; trainees, support staff and paralegals; or those returning after a career break who require a refresher.It will provide a comprehensive overview of the significant changes and developments in family law over recent years, covering both theory and practice.Topics include:<ul><li>Use of the Family Procedure Rules 2010</li><li>Use of standard documents: what is available?</li><li>Taking instructions and funding</li><li>Divorce and dissolution</li><li>Resolving matters other than through court processes</li><li>Domestic abuse and steps to take: what remedies are available?</li><li>Financial aspects following relationship breakdown</li><li>Financial disputes affecting married parties and civil partners</li><li>Cohabitation and unmarried party disputes</li><li>Private children law disputes</li><li>Local authority involvement and impact of care applications</li></ul>

Tactical Use of the Consumer Contract Regulations in dispute resolution

The Consumer Contract Regulations (2013) is an underused and often misunderstood tool within a litigator’s arsenal. The CCR’s application is widespread and engages almost every relationship imaginable between a ‘trader’ and a ‘consumer’.Understanding the application of the CCR and applying tactical concepts to use the CCR defensively on behalf of traders, and offensively on behalf of consumers, can be an extremely useful way of short-cutting lengthy and expensive litigation.This on-demand webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>The application of the Regulations</li><li>Types of contracts under the CCR, and the regulatory framework surrounding them</li><li>Information requirements relating to the various types of contracts</li><li>How to identify a breach of the CCR, and the consequences of breach</li><li>Practical application of CCR breaches and how to use them to tactical advantage</li><li>Cancellation rights under the CCR, and how to use them to tactical advantage</li><li>Judicial interpretation of the CCR</li></ul>

Development update - commercial and residential property

Peta Dollar brings you the second of her regular webinar series on recent changes in property development for 2024.This webinar will cover the following:Construction  <ul><li>The Building Safety Act 2022: Law Society support for solicitors on BSA; HSE: Letter to industry: Registration of the Building Control Profession: transitional arrangements; Unsdorfer v Octagon Overseas Ltd (BSA Accountable Person); DLUHC: Call for evidence: Jointly owned properties; HSE Guidance.</li><li>The Income Tax (Construction Industry Scheme) (Amendment) Regulations 2024 (of great relevance to landlords and tenants)</li><li>The new 2024 JCT contracts</li><li>Vainker v Marbank Construction Ltd (construction defects)</li><li>Second staircase requirement </li></ul>Planning<ul><li>R (Dennis) vLondon Borough of Southwark</li><li>Consultation on PDRs</li><li>PINS: Appeals decision: APP/F5540/W/23/3326324</li><li>Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) (Amendment) Order 2024</li><li>Section 62A designations</li><li>Pratt, R (on the application of) v Exeter City Council</li><li>The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 (Commencement No 3 and Transitional and Savings Provision) Regulations 2024</li><li>PINS: Appeal decision: APP/Z3825/W/23/3321658.</li></ul> Development<ul><li>CMA market study and investigation into housebuilding</li><li>Donovanv Prescott Place Freeholder Ltd (Landlord and Tenant Act 1987)</li><li>Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024</li><li>Restrictive covenant cases: Blackhorse Investments (Borough) Ltd v London Borough of Southwark; Rogers v Dinshaw</li><li>Easement cases: South Tees Development Corporationv PD Teesport Ltd</li><li>Options cases: R (Suffolk Energy Action Solutions SPV Ltd) v Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero; ; Krishnamohan v HMRC</li><li>Conservation covenants</li><li>Taylor v Jones (Rev1) (party walls)</li><li>Goodman v Morris Homes (Midlands) Limited (overage)</li></ul>

Updated protocol for Exchange & Hold to Order

The Law Society has proposed sweeping changes to the way in which contracts are exchanged and has proposed, for the first time, a formal clarification of what is meant by “Hold to Order”. The changes will lead to the “abolition” of the current exchange formulae.This webinar will look at the proposals including:<ul><li>Preliminary requirements</li><li>The Protocol for immediate exchange</li><li>The Protocol surrounding exchange involving a release of contracts</li><li>Post exchange obligations</li><li>Holding to order of deposits & documents</li><li>Practical considerations.</li></ul>

Flexible Will Trusts

AimTo help practitioners advise in relation to Interest in possession trusts in wills and the benefits of making such trusts flexible with practical drafting guidance, whilst also looking at the flexibility of discretionary trusts and the pros and cons of each type of trust.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to give flexible will trust advice to clients and to choose which provisions to include within wills containing the same.Agenda<ul><li>An introduction to Interest in Possession trusts</li><li>Making such trusts flexible especially in relation to spouses/civil partners</li><li>Ending the Life interest</li><li>Discretionary Trust introduction and comparison to an IIP</li><li>Pros and cons of each type of trust</li></ul>

Licence to alter - tips and pitfalls

An application for licence to alter may appear less pressing than an application for licence to assign.  The tenant has no remedy based upon failure to make a decision within a reasonable time, as there is no general duty on landlords to do so.Well-advised tenants, however, will know the legislative mechanism for making time run against the landlord, and for getting the consent they want where the landlord’s objections are unreasonable.For the landlord, documenting consent involves issues which if not addressed can create problems which may only emerge at the end of the lease.This webinar will consider the points to be aware of from both a landlord and tenant’s perspective, including:<ul><li>Best practice on making and fielding applications for consent</li><li>Chattels, fixtures and tenant’s fixtures</li><li>The role and relevance of reinstatement obligations</li><li>Compensation for alterations</li><li>What is the difference between improvements and alterations?</li><li>How should a notice under s.3 Landlord and Tenant Act be drafted, and when should one be served?</li><li>Typical content of a licence to alter</li></ul>

Clear writing for lawyers

This practical webinar highlights the principles of clear legal writing, an essential skill for lawyers who have to advise on complex legal matters in client-friendly language.It will cover:<ul><li>Using the active and passive voice</li><li>Use of tabulation to itemise lists and to avoid ambiguity</li><li>Using one word instead of three or four</li><li>Best practice for maximum sentence length</li><li>Tips for decluttering your writing</li></ul>

An overview of real estate finance

This webinar will provide an overview of real estate finance, covering ‘the what, the why and the who’ of transactions, and answering the following crucial questions:<ul><li>Who normally prepares the property due diligence on a real estate finance transaction?</li><li>Give three reasons why another party might prepare the property due diligence.</li><li>Name three things a bank will consider when deciding whether to enter into a real estate lend.</li><li>Name three third-party issues that commonly arise in a real estate transaction.</li></ul>Topics include:<ul><li>Investment and development finance</li><li>Details of how real estate finance deals are structured</li><li>Security in real estate finance deals</li><li>Diligence required in a real estate finance transaction</li><li>Real estate finance deals in operation</li><li>Investment and development</li><li>Which of the clauses matter to your borrower</li><li>Why you need to negotiate them</li><li>Who does what and when in a real estate finance transaction</li></ul>

Costs in probate claims

This webinar will take a detailed look at costs in probate claims, and examine the following topics:<ul><li>General rule for costs in litigation</li><li>What is a probate claim? Does the general rule for costs apply in probate claims?</li><li>Exceptions to the general rule for costs incurred in litigation.</li><li>Costs when facing a claim for reasonable financial provision</li><li>Role of personal representatives:<ul><li>Remaining neutral in litigation; and</li><li>Challenge of costs by beneficiaries</li></ul></li><li>Can costs be recovered from third parties?</li><li>Funding options in probate claims</li><li>Other considerations</li></ul>

Commercial property (including landlord and tenant) update summer 2024

This webinar is part of our regular quarterly update series, designed to be an engaging and efficient means of keeping abreast of key developments.A number of recent cases and other changes on both commercial leases and commercial property generally will be covered, including the following topics:<ul><li>Lessons from the courts: Renewal terms, opposition & compensation under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954;</li><li>Dilapidations, default and dealings;</li><li>Property contracts: the latest on validity, misrepresentation and onerous clauses;</li><li>Really practical steps to modify restrictive covenants & stop easements</li><li>New government, new property laws?</li></ul>

Fundamental dishonesty – all you need to know in 2024

The concept of fundamental dishonesty was created by statute in 2014. After a slow start, it has suddenly burst into life, most recently when a man seriously injured in a motorbike crash saw his £6.4m claim was dismissed in the biggest case to date where fundamental dishonesty was found, even though he had over £1m in true losses. At the same time, a claimant who lied about having a minor head injury, which did not feature in his pleaded claim or medical report, was not fundamentally dishonest, the High Court ruled.Professor Dominic Regan will consider the implications of these and more during his webinar.You will explore:<ul><li>The statutory framework</li><li>The Olympic Park breakthrough</li><li>Must fundamental dishonesty be pleaded?</li><li>Who bears the burden of proof?</li><li>Critical evidence</li><li>The Ritchie J 2024 guidance on substantial injustice</li><li>The need to warn the client and witnesses too</li></ul>

Preventing sexual harassment in the workplace – what you need to know before October 2024

From October 2024 employers will be under a new duty (The New Worker Protection (Amendment of the Equality Act 2010) Act 2023), to prevent sexual harassment of their employees in the workplace, a duty that extends not just in the context of employee on employee interactions, but with respect to third parties, including customers/clients and suppliers. This is following substantive amendments to the Equality Act 2010.In this webinar you will consider the following:<ul><li>The background to the establishment of the new duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace</li><li>The statutory framework of the revised Equality Act 2010</li><li>The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) Guidance on sexual harassment and harassment at work which outlines the expectations on employers</li><li>An overview of the quirks, tensions and ambiguities likely to be explored in future case law</li><li>The practical nature of the 25% uplift to compensation</li><li>Practical steps to consider for employers to mitigate their risks</li></ul>This new legislation changes the sexual harassment legal framework, not just of claims but exposes employers to the risk of enforcement by the EHRC.How employers respond to these new duties will be key, from both a claimant and a respondent angle in relation to future workplace relationships and Employment Tribunal claims.This session, which will predominantly be aimed at employment lawyers, will also be of interest to law firm management teams who of course as employers must comply with the new duty and be alert to the risks arising.Expect a practical session which creates a to do list of things to consider and address.

Residential property - September 2024 update

In the latest in his series of residential property practice updates, David Keighley will examine recent case law, practice guides and related developments relevant to residential property. To ensure the most relevant & up to date material is included changes to content may be made ahead of the recording but subject matter may include:<ul><li>Building regulation & planning enforcement</li><li>Land registry – policy change on addresses for service</li><li>Buyer beware: Co Mayo Estates Limited v Hidden Gem Limited</li><li>Seller beware: Rosser v Pacifico </li><li>Tribunal guidance on the application of leaseholder protections under the Building Safety Act 2022: Lehner v Lant Street Management Company Ltd</li></ul>

COLP, COFA and other roles – resourcing

It often seems to be the case that in many, if not most, law firms several job titles are vested in one person. Whilst this might be understandable, the SRA are at pains to point out that these titles are in fact real jobs, that may require substantial investment in terms of time on top of a day-to-day commitment to fee-earning.In tough times, spreading these roles around can be a challenge, but may be one worth facing.This webinar will discuss the various roles that may fall to be filled and will discuss the components of each.<ul><li>COLP, COFA, MLCO, MLRO, SRO, DPO, IDO</li><li>The possible redistribution of some of these roles</li><li>The burden of fee-earning on top of other responsibilities</li><li>How can the burdens be more effectively spread</li><li>Resourcing</li></ul>

Partnership and LLP agreements

This webinar will cover the basics in terms of key clauses when drafting either a traditional Partnership Agreement under the 1890 Act or a Limited Liability Partnership Agreement.The webinar will focus on the following areas:<ul><li>Key clauses (parties (including their status))</li><li>Joining an existing Partnership or LLP Agreement – deed of adherence</li><li>Garden leave and suspension</li><li>Restrictive covenants</li><li>Age based retirement clauses</li><li>Restrictions on authority</li><li>The role of management and drafting issues surrounding it</li><li>Exiting partners or members – deed of retirement</li><li>Practical tips and pitfalls</li></ul>

AML update 2024 – what next?

The SRA’s unremitting pressure on law firms, enhanced by an unlimited power to fine for economic crime, with increasingly higher fines being imposed on a weekly basis, proves that we must do everything in our power to counter money laundering, terrorism and proliferation financing.This webinar will explore the latest developments, including:<ul><li>Sanctions checks – things to focus on</li><li>Key financial crimes, including counter proliferation financing</li><li>Risk assessments of clients and matters – key inclusions; explaining your thinking</li><li>CDD – the key aspects<ul><li>Getting the key documentation</li><li>Vetting the key documentation</li><li>Source of wealth and funds investigations</li></ul></li><li>Other considerations – high-risk countries, PEPs & ongoing monitoring</li></ul>

Using pensions to mitigate IHT

AimTo help practitioners understand pensions in respect of inheritance tax and the ways and means in which clients can mitigate their inheritance tax bills using pensions as part of a wider estate planning strategy.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to give estate planning advice in relation to pension contributions and withdrawals.Agenda<ul><li>An introduction to the different types of pensions<ul><li>The rules on pension contributions</li><li>The rules regarding pensions and inheritance tax</li><li>A detailed look at what happens upon death to an untouched pension compared to a pension which has been used to fund retirement.</li></ul></li></ul>

Special guardianship and child arrangement orders

When family practitioners advise on children law cases, they will have to consider special guardianship and child arrangement orders. It’s imperative that they understand the key differences and similarities between these orders, how they operate, and when it may be more appropriate to seek one over the other.This webinar will examine the criteria, as well as key legislative and case law developments, covering the following topics:<ul><li>Child arrangements orders: the effect, criteria and procedure</li><li>Enforcement of child arrangements orders</li><li>Special guardianship orders: the effect, criteria and procedure</li><li>Variation and discharge: consideration of Re F and G (discharge of special guardianship order) 2021 EWCA Civ 622</li><li>Special guardianship regulations in England and Wales</li><li>Notice position</li><li>Assessments, timescales and support</li><li>Exercise of parental responsibility</li><li>Assessment for special guardianship orders and child arrangements</li><li>Extending the 26 weeks and effect of Re P – S (Children) [2018]</li><li>The effect of the Public Law Working Group (recommendations to achieve best practice in the child protection and family justice systems: special guardianship orders) Report 2021</li></ul>

Contract – exclusion and limitation clauses

Exclusion and limitation clauses are some of the most important provisions to be inserted into a contract and are regularly tested before the courts. This session will look at the most recent case law and will set out a series of practical steps to take by way of response. Topics will include:<ul><li>Application of the ‘reasonableness’ test</li><li>Interpretation of ambiguous clauses</li><li>Exclusion of claims arising out of a wrongful repudiatory breach</li><li>Exclusion of claims for ‘wasted expenditure’</li></ul>

Private children law 2024 update

Running family law cases will invariably involve issues surrounding children. This webinar will provide practitioners with an update on this area of law, including a succinct account of the key principles and recent case law, with a focus on changes in 2024.Topics include:<ul><li>Practice direction updates</li><li>MIAMs and use of NCDR, including recent changes</li><li>Pathfinder pilot and courts: how it operates</li><li>Child impact reports</li><li>Domestic abuse fact-finding hearings in private children law cases</li><li>Use of QLR and private children law cases, with consideration of Re Z (prohibition on cross-examination: No QLR) [2024] EWFC 22</li><li>Prohibition of cross-examination and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021</li><li>Use of family reporting pilot</li><li>Police disclosure and private children law</li><li>Costs orders and private children law cases</li><li>Orders for no contact and removal of PR, with consideration of Re EMP (A Child) 2024 EWFC 12 (B)</li><li>Case law update</li></ul>

An introduction to negotiating commercial leases

This webinar will look at some of the most important points to be aware of when negotiating a commercial lease on behalf of the tenant, including:<ul><li>Alienation – the effect of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927 and the Landlord and Tenant Act 1988</li><li>Open market rent review – assumptions, disregards and the hypothetical lease</li><li>Insurance – treatment of uninsured risks, rent suspension</li><li>Service charge – items to be excluded from the service charge</li><li>Repair – schedules of condition, latent defects</li></ul>

Menopause and disability discrimination in the workplace

Many women experience the negative effects of menopausal symptoms in the workplace. Some feel compelled to leave their jobs as a result.This webinar seeks to look at whether discrimination law provides a measure of protection. It also explores ways in which employers can support workers experiencing menopausal symptoms.Topics covered include:<ul><li>How is disability defined?</li><li>In what circumstances will the menopause be held to be a disability?</li><li>What duties does the employer have where an employee is disabled?</li><li>case law on menopause and disability discrimination: Lynskey v Direct Line Insurance Services Ltd; Chen v Stansted Airport Ltd; Rooney v Leicester City Council</li><li>To what extent are age and sex discrimination relevant?</li><li>Acas guidance on “Menopause at Work”</li><li>Equality Commission guidance on “Menopause and Perimenopause” –</li><li>suggestions as to how employers can support employees experiencing menopause</li></ul>

Easements: decisions and implications

Easement problems are amongst the most difficult legal issues to resolve. The relevant law can be complicated and arcane – and often difficult to apply with any degree of certainty. To add to the uncertainty, it is clear from recent decisions that amongst other issues proving abandonment of an easement is tricky and that the impact of the “registration gap” is real.This webinar will look at:<ul><li>Abandonment and restrictive covenants</li><li>The “dangers” arising from Land Registry backlog</li><li>Extending an easement to adjoining land; the concept of “ancillary use”</li><li>Intensifying the use of an easement</li><li>Encroachment on right of way</li><li>Limits of right of way</li></ul>

Dealing with litigants in person

This webinar will explore the latest guidance on the correct approach the court should take when dealing with litigants in person, including recent case management.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>Application of the CPR</li><li>Duties owed to litigants in person</li><li>New guidelines</li><li>Abuse of process</li><li>No reasonable cause of action</li><li>Striking out – the defence</li><li>Examples of abuse of process – repeated applications</li><li>Costs orders</li><li>Totally without merit orders, bans and CRO</li><li>Dealing with litigants in person</li></ul>

The law of private nuisance and the repurposing of properties

The law of private nuisance and restrictive covenants operates side-by-side with the planning system to control land use.  While the planning system increasingly encourages flexibility and repurposing, private property rights tend to be more restrictive.It is not just freehold rights, but also rights arising under leases, which may constrain the freedom of both landlords and tenants.  Consent to change of use, derogation from grant, even repudiation of leases, may all play a part.  The move to repurposing is undeniable, nevertheless, and urban areas are increasingly mixed-use.Whether or not housing is provided in a mixed-use development, residential occupiers increasingly find themselves next to commercial uses, with potential for conflict, and this is underlined by the high-profile nuisance claims which regularly make their way to the Supreme Court.In this webinar you will consider the legal issues raised, and potential means of resolution of the difficulties.Topics covered include:<ul><li>How modern case-law has recast the law of nuisance</li><li>The tension between public law and private law</li><li>Modification and discharge of restrictive covenants, both freehold and leasehold</li><li>Derogation from grant and repudiation of leases</li><li>Remedies for the tenant affected by landlord’s repurposing of neighbouring premises</li><li>Remedies for landlords resistant to tenant’s change of use</li></ul>

Public children law – 2024 update

Running family law cases will invariably involve issues surrounding children. This webinar will update practitioners on public children law, including the removal of children under interim care, the use of the FDAC process, cognitive function assessments, and recent developments in deprivation of liberty cases, as well as recent case law and changes in 2024.Topics include:<ul><li>Practice direction updates</li><li>Interim separation, including consideration of Re D (children: interim care order: hair strand testing)</li><li>Vaccinations and parental responsibility, including consideration of A Local Authority  v WSP and others (A Child) (vaccination: religious objection) 2023 EWHC 2622 (Fam)</li><li>Instructing experts</li><li>Intermediaries, cognitive assessments and capacity</li><li>Consideration of Re X & Y (intermediary: practice and procedure) 2024 EWHC 906 (Fam)</li><li>Placement orders and leave to oppose adoption orders</li><li>Secure accommodation and deprivation of liberty orders</li><li>Fact-finding hearings and judgments</li><li>Use of FDAC, including consideration of London Borough v A  2024 EWFC 46 (B)</li><li>Police disclosure in public children law</li><li>Reporting pilot and practice direction updates</li><li>Judgments and clarification, with consideration of YM (care proceedings) (clarification of reason) 2024 EWCA Civ 71</li><li>Case law update</li></ul>

Transaction management in real estate finance deals

This webinar will explore transaction management in real estate finance deals from term sheet to completion, as well as key points to consider in a transaction and why.Subjects covered include:<ul><li>Term sheet queries</li><li>Who needs to be involved</li><li>Questions lawyers need to ask to provide a fee quote for a real estate finance transaction</li><li>Timetables</li><li>Possible third-party issues</li><li>Redemption of outgoing lenders</li><li>Completion mechanics<ul><li>Registration of security</li><li>Post completion matters</li></ul></li><li>Key points to consider in a transaction and why – type of borrower, lender, property, and relationship</li></ul>

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act received Royal Assent in October 2023.This complex Act is now largely in force and covers a variety of areas of law which will be covered this this webinar.<ul><li>Pavement licence changes</li><li>Registration schemes for Airbnbs</li><li>Planning enforcement</li><li>High street rental auctions</li><li>Infrastructure Levy</li><li>Interests and dealings in land</li><li>Blue plaques</li><li>Review of RICS</li></ul>

The 2024 CPR changes and what is coming next

The last year has seen significant rule changes coupled with several judgments of note. In this one-hour webinar, Dominic Regan will identify and explain their practical consequences.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Drafting witness statements</li><li>New ADR rules</li><li>The resurrection of costs management</li><li>2024 updated guidance from the Legal Ombudsman on solicitor-own client disputes</li><li>Evidence</li><li>Offers to settle</li><li>The need to think long and hard before using a KC</li><li>2024 Intermediate Track reforms</li><li>Disclosure</li><li>The legal duty to cooperate</li></ul>

SRA accounts rules update - Oct 2024

This webinar designed for both fee-earning and administrative staff, will explore the latest developments to the ‘new’ SRA Accounts Rules, five years on from their introduction.Despite the streamlined version, many firms still adhere to the previous rigid system. But with potential changes on the horizon, including the possibility of banning solicitors from holding client money, it’s time to update your knowledge.Topics include:<ul><li>SRA thinking behind the shorter Accounts Rules</li><li>Less detail does not necessarily mean less onerous; integrity is all</li><li>Banking facilities – thoughts to ponder and things to avoid</li><li>Key questions to answer:<ul><li>Can we bill before we do the work?</li><li>What about unattributable sums sent to client account?</li><li>How should we deal with residual balances on client ledgers?</li><li>Have our time-frames been shortened?</li></ul></li><li>Reconciliations – what, when, who and how?</li><li>Hardening attitude of the investigating accountants</li><li>Checklists to reflect upon</li><li>Proposed new amendments</li><li>Should TPMAs be made compulsory?</li></ul>

Lifetime trusts v Family Investment Companies - estate planning strategies explored

AimTo help practitioners understand the benefits and potential pitfalls of Family Investment Companies how they work and how they compare and contrast with the traditional lifetime trust option as part of a wider estate planning strategy.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to give estate planning advice in relation to Family Investment Companies.Agenda<ul><li>An introduction to FICs and the mechanics of the same<ul><li>For whom they will be suitable and when they won’t be</li><li>Taxation implications and concerns of Close companies</li><li>Taxation implications and concern particularly in relation to FICs</li><li>How they compare and contrast to Lifetime Trusts</li></ul></li></ul>

Contracting-out of business tenancies - the developing caselaw

With attention beginning to focus on the Law Commission’s forthcoming review of the Landlord & Tenant Act 1954, one aspect of the Act which is widely considered ripe for review is the procedure for contracting-out. What ought to be a quick and simple process has several potential problems, which are surprisingly technical and may require cumbersome work-arounds. It is an every-day procedure but getting it wrong may drastically affect the property valuation, or operational priorities for the property.New cases such as Pretoria Energy v Blankney Estates illustrate the difficulties in the procedure, and although guidance from the courts is welcome, amending legislation would be even more so. This webinar will consider contracting-out comprehensively, in a way which applies common sense to the potential problems.You will cover the following:<ul><li>Dealing with the unrepresented tenant</li><li>Problems in identifying the lease in the declaration</li><li>Authority to swear declarations on behalf of the tenant</li><li>Pre-completion amendments to the form of lease</li><li>More complex transaction structures</li></ul>

Planning and building regulations - Oct 2024 update

Planning conditions can give rise to issues in conveyancing transactions especially in newbuild and the enforcement regimes for breaches of both planning and building regulations have recently undergone a thorough overhaul resulting in major changes. Conveyancers need to be aware of many issues to ensure clients are fully informed.This webinar will look at:<ol><li>The different types of planning conditions & their implications</li><li>What does & doesn’t need planning consent</li><li>Listed buildings & planning</li><li>The updated planning position regarding working from home</li><li>The new building regulation enforcement provisions</li><li>The revised planning enforcement regime</li></ol>

UK GDPR – compensation claims

Compensation claims arising out of breaches of data protection legislation are increasingly commonplace and controllers need to be able to respond to such claims effectively. This webinar summarises the key issues that need to be kept in mind.Topics will include:Interpretation of applicable legislation<ul><li>Meaning of ‘damage’ and ‘distress’</li></ul>CPR considerations<ul><li>Pre-action protocol</li><li>Part 53 Media and Communications Claims</li><li>Strike out and summary judgment</li></ul>Types of loss<ul><li>Recovery of damages for loss of control over personal data</li><li>Lloyd v Google [2021] UKSC 50</li></ul>‘Class actions’<ul><li>Group Litigation Orders v Representative Actions</li><li>Weaver v British Airways [2021] EWHC 217 (QB)</li><li>Lloyd v Google [2021] UKSC 50</li><li>SMO v TikTok [2022] EWHC 489 (QB)</li><li>Prismall v Google UK [2023] EWHC 1169 (KB)</li></ul>Heads of claim<ul><li>Additional claims for breach of confidence, misuse of private information and negligence – Warren v DSG Retail [2021] EWHC 2168 (QB)</li></ul>Appropriate Court<ul><li>High Court v County Court</li><li>Johnson v Eastlight [2021] EWHC 3069 (QB)</li><li>Cleary v Marston [2021] EWHC 3809 (QB)</li></ul>Level of damages<ul><li>Threshold of seriousness</li><li>Rolfe v Veale Washborough [2021] EWHC 2809 (QB)</li><li>Driver v CPS [2022] EWHC 2500 (KB)</li></ul>

Avoiding negligence: lessons from recent cases

This webinar will give a brief introduction to the principles of negligence in residential and commercial property, in both contract and tort, and will then consider the lessons to be learned from recent cases, including:<ul><li>Vainker v Marbank Construction Ltd (defective building)</li><li>Bratt v Jones (valuation)</li><li>Hope Capital Limited v Alexander Reece Thomson LLP (valuation)</li><li>Seema Ashraf v Lester Dominic Solicitors (duty of care owed to non-client)</li><li>Spire Property Development LLP v Withers LLP (solicitor’s liability in tort)</li><li>Harcus Sinclair LLP v Your Lawyers Ltd (solicitors’ undertakings)</li></ul>

Claims for unreasonable financial provision

This webinar will explore claims for unreasonable financial provisions under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Overview of claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975</li><li>Who can bring a claim?</li><li>What is reasonable financial provision</li><li>Relevant factors</li><li>Court’s powers</li><li>Looking at specific categories of claimants:<ul><li>Spouses and civil partners</li><li>Divorce vs death</li><li>Cohabitees</li><li>Adult children</li><li>Others maintained by the deceased</li></ul></li><li>Practical examples</li><li>Other issues, such as interim orders and costs, including funding arrangements</li></ul>

Experts - 2024 Update

An expert has the ability to make or break a claim. Experts have been in the news more and more this year, from the Lucy Letby case to a leading London law firm having to apologise to the High Court and opposing party after going too far in asking an expert to amend a joint statement. Part 35 has been with us for a quarter of a century, yet serious breaches regularly occur.Topics covered in this webinar include:<ul><li>How to get reports struck out</li><li>The essential ingredients of a viable report</li><li>Must my expert demonstrate a balanced workload of claimant and defendant instructions?</li><li>The Single Joint expert</li><li>Must medical agencies reveal what the doctor charged?</li><li>How to locate a decent expert</li><li>Why an executive summary at the start of a report is a bad idea</li></ul>

Climate change and conveyancing

Last year The Law Society decided that the conveyancing process should now include consideration of climate change and advice to clients. Unsurprisingly the search industry has risen to the challenge and now offers a variety of additional elements to its environmental searches. But what does this mean in practice for conveyancers? What should you tell clients? Where are the limits of your experience and clients’ expectations? In which scenarios is this going to be a major issue: residential, commercial, development, leasehold or freehold?We will look at techniques to meet this new challenge and advise clients appropriately, including:<ul><li>What is the Law Society saying we must do?</li><li>Can the client opt out – the need for ‘informed consent’?</li><li>What do you put in client care letters as a result?</li><li>What types of transactions are affected – residential and commercial – it’s all about the context?</li><li>What is the search companies offering and how do they compare?</li><li>What happens if it is found to be affected ?</li><li>Can you manage the risk, or should you withdraw?</li></ul>

Leasehold and freehold reform

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act was passed on 24 May 2024 as part of the “washup” ahead of the general election and leasehold reform was again included in the recent king’s speech.This session will look at the key points of the Act and further proposals including implications for conveyancing in The Renters Rights Bill & the proposed draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill.

Legal and tax implications of intergenerational property purchasing

AimTo help practitioners understand the problems and potential pitfalls of intergenerational property purchasing when it comes to care fees, inheritance tax, probate and similar.OutcomeParticipants will be better equipped to give estate planning advice in relation to those considering buying a property with another generation and to assist those practitioners when clients have already done this and come to you for advice on care fees, inheritance tax, probate and similar issues.Agenda<ul><li>How these structures are typically arranged.<ol><li>The problems these can cause from a care funding or tax perspective.</li><li>How to distribute the estate and what to consider in the will when one party dies.</li><li>The risks factors and the need for a Declaration of Trust to protect all parties and what to include within this.</li><li>Unravelling the arrangements.</li><li>The implications for the owners if the arrangement is challenged.</li><li>Problems for Deputies and Attorney’s involved in these arrangements</li></ol></li></ul>

Developments in secure accommodation and deprivation of liberty cases 2024

This webinar covers a specialised area of public children law which continues to be complex and challenging at all levels for professionals. You will explore case law and the legislative developments that have taken place in 2024.The webinar will refresh your understanding these orders, as well as ways to approach running such cases, whether you are acting for the applicant or the respondent.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Secure accommodation orders in children cases – how do these operate?</li><li>What weight does the secure criteria review have on decision making?</li><li>When is a restriction a deprivation of liberty, as opposed to a deprivation of liberty? Issue as to consent of the child – consideration of the decision in Re T (A Child) 2021 UKSC 35</li><li>Lack of secure accommodation units and the steps/actions that can be taken</li><li>Consideration of Tameside MBC v AM and others 2021 EWHC 2472 (Fam)</li><li>Need for DOL authorisation and implications if not sought- consideration of NHS Trust v ST (Refusal of Deprivation of Liberty Order) 2022 EWHC 719 (Fam)</li><li>The supported accommodation (England) regulations 2023</li><li>Revised practice guidance on the court’s approach to unregistered placements – president of the family division 2023</li><li>Revised national listing protocol for applications that seek deprivation of liberty orders relating to children under the inherent jurisdiction</li><li>Impact of Re J [Local Authority consent to Deprivation of Liberty] [2024] EWHC 1690 (Fam) – Is S.33 (3) appropriate?</li><li>Deprivation of liberty and mobile phones – consideration of LA v CP and DT and P 2023 EWHC 133 (Fam)</li><li>Lack of placements – What can be done? Consideration of Re X (Secure Accommodation: Lack of Provision) 2023 EWHC 129 (Fam)</li></ul>

What is money laundering? AML elements for support teams

The phrase ‘Money Laundering’ can often conjure up mental images of vast sums of drug money being handled by the Russian mafia and Colombian cartels.The reality is much more down-to-earth. Everyone has the potential to be a money launderer and that is why all staff need to be constantly and consistently aware of the current thinking about how to prevent it.The SRA and other regulators, frustrated by law firms’ ongoing inefficiencies, now mandate comprehensive compliance measures. Firms must conduct full practice-wide risk assessments, CDD, KYC verification, client and matter-specific risk assessments, and provide justifications for each case. Additionally, firms must thoroughly investigate the source of wealth and transaction-related funds, under a more rigorous and closely monitored regime than before.What you will learn: <ul><li>The key question – what IS money laundering?</li><li>Update of the AML regime, including new Acts of Parliament</li><li>What does it mean to be a ‘gatekeeper’?</li><li>SRA Sectoral Reviews and Warning Notices</li><li>What do we have to do to comply?<ul><li>PWRAs</li><li>CDD; e-ID&V</li><li>CRAs</li><li>MRAs</li></ul></li><li>What do all the acronyms mean?</li><li>Ongoing Monitoring</li></ul>

Flexible working: the changing landscape

This webinar will examine the law and practice relating to flexible working, and the changes which are expected in the near future.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023</li><li>Forthcoming legislation on flexible working in the Employment Rights Bill</li><li>the requirements for a valid request</li><li>What procedure must an employer adopt in dealing with any such requests? – Walsh v Network Rail</li><li>What is “a reasonable manner” of handling such requests?</li><li>The provisions of the Acas Code of Practice on flexible working</li><li>The statutory reasons upon which an employer can base a refusal to accept a request</li><li>What if the employer bases its refusal upon incorrect facts? – Commotion Ltd v Rutty; Singh v Pennine Care NHS</li><li>How is a refusal to flexible working related to indirect discrimination? – Dobson v North Cumbria NHS</li><li>What potential claims for indirect discrimination might there be if an employer refuses a request for flexible working?</li><li>Guidance on dealing with the provisions of the proposed new law</li></ul>

Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (‘the Act’) received royal assent on 24th May 2024 and makes a series of important changes to existing consumer law. As part of these changes, traders may be fined up to 10% of the total value of their turnover either by the courts or directly by the Competition and Markets Authority (‘CMA’). Given that these powers will be in force from early 2025 it is essential that both law firms and their clients are aware of the key provisions.This session sets out a succinct summary of the key consumer law related provisions of the Act with particular emphasis on the following topics:Unfair commercial practices<ul><li>Repeal of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008</li><li>Changes to the definition of ‘unfair commercial practice’</li><li>Amendments to the schedule of commercial practices which are always considered to be unfair to include new rules about fake reviews</li></ul>Enforcement provisions<ul><li>Definition of ‘relevant infringements’</li><li>Changes to the powers of the court</li><li>Introduction of direct enforcement powers for the CMA</li><li>Provisional and final infringement notices</li><li>Introduction of monetary penalties – fixed amount v daily rate</li><li>Appeals procedure</li><li>CMA Draft Guidance on enforcement of monetary penalties</li></ul>

Financial remedies, cohabitation and marital breakdown – autumn update 2024

This webinar will examine the latest developments in financial remedies, cohabitation and marital breakdown in 2024.This year has seen developments in the running of conduct issues, as well as the use of experts in financial remedy cases. Furthermore, there have been developments surrounding the use of Schedule 1 CA 1989 and the acquisition of beneficial interests and legal arguments surrounding the use of constructive trusts.Other topics covered include:<ul><li>Developments in divorce processes</li><li>Application for final order for divorce</li><li>Position surrounding the ‘20 week’ period when pursuing a divorce and difficulties surrounding financial remedy consent orders</li><li>Instructing experts in finance cases – consideration of BR v BR 2024 EWFC 11</li><li>Will the court consider ‘economic abuse’ as conduct when dividing marital assets?</li><li>Disproportionate legal costs – What will the court do?</li><li>Developments surrounding cohabitation cases</li><li>How does Schedule 1 CA 1989 fit into trusts of land disputes?</li><li>Consideration of Schedule 1 and SP and QR 2024 EWFC 57 (B) and Y v Z (Schedule 1) [2024] EWFC 4</li><li>Pleading conduct in financial remedy cases</li><li>NCDR and developments</li><li>Hadkinson orders and enforcement – consideration of Re Z (No.5) (Enforcement) 2024 EWFC 44 periodical payments and maintenance pending suit</li><li>Inheritance and Barder principles</li><li>Key case law updates</li></ul>

An introduction to construction for property lawyers

Many property documents contain construction elements, including agreements for lease with development obligations, building leases, development agreements, forward sale agreements and forward funding agreements.  It is therefore important for property lawyers to have at least a basic understanding of relevant construction issues and how they work.  This webinar will provide an introduction to construction issues for property lawyers, including.<ul><li>Different types of building contract and letters of intent</li><li>Professional appointments and copyright issues</li><li>The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996</li><li>Collateral warranties and third party rights</li><li>Timing issues, practical completion and LADs (liquidated and ascertained damages)</li><li>The CDM Regulations</li><li>The Building Safety Act 2022 and its drafting implications</li><li>Lessons learned from recent cases, including Abbey Healthcare</li></ul>

Fixed Recoverable Costs – The transitional provisions and consequential problems

With the latest regime extending fixed recoverable costs reaching its one-year anniversary, Nick McDonnell, Director and Costs Lawyer with Kain Knight will discuss the ambiguities surrounding the regime’s transitional provisions, the consequential confusion emanating from the judiciary, parties and Court staff as well as examining the implications arising from the recent case of Asmat Bi v Tesco Underwriting Ltd (in the County Court at Manchester) [2024].Topics covered include:<ul><li>What types of cases are caught and when</li><li>Court staff confusion</li><li>Judicial confusion</li><li>Party confusion</li><li>Bi v Tesco</li></ul>

Lease variations - altering course without hitting the rocks

Renegotiation of lease terms happens all the time, and documenting agreements requires variation of the lease.  This is an area which on the face of it may look routine, and which clients may expect to involve a minimum of fuss and expense, but which is full of technical issues and often requires bespoke drafting.  Getting it wrong may involve inadvertently releasing guarantors, conferring security of tenure, adverse impact on rent review, and additional SDLT liability.  It is important to be alive to the pitfalls.Topics covered in this webinar include:<ul><li>Implied surrender and re-grant: the parameters and the unintended consequences</li><li>Adding to the demise by supplemental leases</li><li>Adding to the term by reversionary leases</li><li>The implications where there are former tenants and guarantors</li><li>Formalities of documentation</li><li>Recognising disguised variations</li></ul>

Residential property -November 2024 update

In the latest in his series of residential property practice updates, David Keighley will examine recent case law, practice guides and related developments relevant to residential property. To ensure the most important and up to date material is included changes to content may be made ahead of the recording but subject matter may include:<ul><li>Renters Rights Bill: Impact on leasehold conveyancing</li><li>Land Registry Practice Guide 9: Powers of Attorney</li><li>Land Registry Practice Guide 68: Land Registration Rule 130</li><li>TA6 Fifth Edition: Where are we?</li><li>SRA Updated AML Sector Risk Assessment</li></ul>

AI: risk and global regulation

AI is an increasingly ubiquitous technology across all areas of society and the economy. However, its use also presents significant legal and regulatory risks, under both existing and emerging legislation. In this webinar, leading AI barrister Jacob Turner presents a guide to the technology, the problems it could cause, and how these can be managed by organisations and their advisors. The recent enactment of the EU AI Act makes these issues all the more important for businesses and other organisations.The webinar will cover:<ul><li>An introduction to AI technology and what makes it unique</li><li>Major sources of risk for business: opacity, unpredictability, bias</li><li>Case studies of AI harms</li><li>Key existing legislation, including the GDPR</li><li>Possible future UK legislation under the Labour government</li><li>Emerging international legislation, including the EU AI Act and China’s AI laws</li><li>Practical steps organisations can take to build AI governance</li></ul>

Will files and Larke v Nugus requests – is there such a thing as a ‘bullet proof’ will file?

It is estimated that the ‘Baby Boomer’ generation will pass on over £5 trillion as part of the greatest wealth transfer’ over the next 30 years or so. With inheritance disputes continuing to increase, and set to continue, this short webinar will provide practical guidance and suggestions on how to best prepare your will files and records, but also on how to navigate claims when they do arise and respond to Larke v Nugus requests after a death has occurred.Topics covered in this webinar include:<ul><li>Larke v Nugus requests – what’s all the fuss?</li><li>How to respond to a Larke v Nugus request, including consideration of the Law Society Disputed Wills Practice Note and costs</li><li>What is revealed when files are disclosed?</li><li>What role do executors have in this process?</li><li>What happens when a will your firm drafted becoming litigious? What is your firm’s obligations in any claim that may or does follow?</li><li>Common challenges to wills</li><li>Practical tips to protect your firm against challenges in the future</li><li>Trends in private client and private client disputes</li></ul>

Family law and practice - 2024 roundup

This webinar will provide a comprehensive round up of the key developments in case law and legislative updates related to family law in 2024.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Pre-nuptial agreements and enforceability</li><li>Costs in financial remedy cases</li><li>Pleading conduct in financial remedy cases – current guidance</li><li>Use of NCDR</li><li>Mandatory use of ADR in civil cases</li><li>Running cohabitation cases and informal agreements</li><li>Piloting of domestic abuse protection notices and orders</li><li>Use of pathfinder in private children law cases</li><li>Changes to parental responsibility</li><li>Length of care proceedings</li><li>Police disclosure</li><li>Divorce and other relationship breakdown applications</li><li>Position with acknowledgement of service</li><li>Applying for final order</li></ul>

Commercial property (including landlord and tenant) update December 2024

This webinar is part of our regular quarterly update series, designed to be an engaging and efficient means of keeping abreast of key developments, and will cover a number of recent cases and other changes on both commercial leases and commercial property generally, including the following topics:<ul><li>Avoiding problems with forfeiture: lawfulness, waiver & relief</li><li>More renewal terms: Landlord and Tenant 1954</li><li>Tenant insolvency: guidance from the High Court for landlords</li><li>Resolving neighbour disputes: nuisance, boundaries & rights of way</li><li>Development land & restrictive covenants: more lessons from the Upper Tribunal</li></ul>

Development update (commercial and residential)

This is the third of Peta Dollars regular updates on recent changes in property development for 2024.  This webinar will include:Construction<ul><li>More new JCT contracts</li><li>More developments under the Building Safety Act 2022, including cases: Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities v Grey GR Limited Partnership, Lehnerv Lant Street Management Co Ltd, Ovington Court,197-205 Brompton Road, London, SW3 1LB, Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd v Prater; Delivering the golden thread: Guidance for dutyholders and accountable persons (guidance);</li><li>Updated CLLS letter of intent</li><li>Abbey Healthcare (Mill Hill) Ltd v Augusta 2008 LLP (formerly Simply Construct (UK) LLP) (collateral warranties)</li></ul> Planning<ul><li>R (Parkes) v Dorset Council (extent of planning control)</li><li>R (on the application of Finch on behalf of the Weald Action Group) v Surrey County Council (considerations for planning authority on granting planning permission)</li><li>R (Gurajena) v London Borough of Newham (publicity for planning applications)</li><li>PINS: Appeal decision: APP/C1625/W/23/3329704 (use of unilateral undertaking)</li><li>More on BNG (biodiversity net gain): model s106 agreements; R (Weston Homes Plc) v Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities</li></ul>Development<ul><li>Easements: new rights to light protocol; Nicholson v Hale</li><li>Co Mayo Estates Limited v Hidden Gem Limited(sale at auction of plots for development)</li><li>Rowland Philip Bratt v Nigel Lawson Jones(valuation)</li><li>Davies v Bridgend County Borough Council (Japanese knotweed)</li><li>Updated guidance on the Crichel Down rules</li></ul>

Building Safety Act: problem areas for residential transactions

Despite having been in force for over two years, there remain uncertainties & doubts about some aspects of the Building Safety Act which may impact on residential property buyers and sellers. This webinar will look at the core issues including:<ol><li>Key terms of BSA</li><li>Impact of surrender and regrant</li><li>Can a company be a qualifying leaseholder?</li><li>The capacity of executors and trustees</li><li>Leaseholder and landlord deeds of certificate</li><li>Law Society guidance</li></ol>

Handling difficult clients

This webinar will focus on how to handle difficult clients and is suitable for lawyers and support staff within law firms.Topics covered include:<ul><li>How to be assertive but not aggressive</li><li>Assertiveness self-assessment questionnaire</li><li>Detecting bullies</li><li>Techniques for dealing with angry clients</li><li>Reading body language</li><li>Action planning</li></ul>

The 2024 CPR changes and what is coming next

This year has seen important changes to the CPR in no fewer than nine updates published in 2024, with the next set being implemented next month.This webinar will go through the key changes from earlier this year, such as various issues in the intermediate track, including clarifying which clinical negligence claims are caught, to the October changes, including codification of the Churchill ruling on ADR, introduction of the fixed costs determination procedure and new Precedent U, and adjustments to the contempt of court rules.This webinar will also look ahead to what is on the horizon for 2025. Will we see costs budgeting reform and clinical negligence fixed costs? What about the reversal of PACCAR, after the election killed off legislation that would have done just that.

Compliance update no 2, December 2024

The second bi-annual compliance update from Trevor Hellawell will focus on several recent and topical initiatives, consultations, and the ultimate responses.The webinar will look at key issues emanating from and about the SRA and a run-down of enforcement steps taken in response to the recent round of investigations and thematic reviews by the SRA. It will also focus on the recent publication of the report into the Axiom Ince scandal, and the implications for trust in the profession’s ability to regulate itself and, indeed, trust in the SRA.The following topics will be covered:<ul><li>SRA – implications of the Axiom Ince report</li><li>SRA investigations of AML procedures – continued</li><li>Might we be prevented from holding client money?</li><li>Fallout from the AML data collection survey (September 2024)</li><li>AI & Lawtech innovations</li><li>Review of the effectiveness of training & continuing competence</li></ul>

Default in performance of sale contracts - remedies and choices

Once contracts have been exchanged for the sale of a property, the parties will usually consider that to mark the end of stress and uncertainty, and the beginning of the process of organising completion of the transaction.  If one party fails to complete, and renegotiation is not successful, the remedies for default will come into play.  The well-established remedies are codified in the two major sets of standard conditions, and there is a developed body of caselaw surrounding them.The remedy chosen may be one designed to achieve completion of the contract, or it may be one designed to achieve termination.  Very often the dispute will in reality be about the fate of the deposit but will present as an argument about whether a breach of the contract terms was repudiatory in nature – a question which it is not always easy to answer.Aspects covered in this webinar will include:<ul><li>What might prevent a buyer from obtaining specific performance?</li><li>Time of the essence</li><li>What breaches are repudiatory, and what if both parties are in repudiatory breach?</li><li>What are the courts doing currently as regards forfeiture of deposits?</li></ul>

How to respond to the new residential enquiries

Enquiries and their response continue to be a major issue for the property professional. This webinar looks at response to enquiries generally, and specifically at some of the CPSE enquiries.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Enquiries generally</li><li>Japanese knotweed</li><li>Fire safety enquiries</li><li>Asbestos enquiries</li><li>Changes to the CPSE 1 and 6 enquires in relation to the Building Safety Act</li><li>Energy performance certificate enquiries</li><li>SDLT and Land Transaction Tax enquires</li></ul>

Risk reporting and managing risk by title insurance

Often reports on title to clients flag up issues of concern but fail to give clients the mechanism to assess the risk, its likelihood, its impact, whether it is ‘mission critical’, normal, or minor. Often title insurance is routinely obtained without thought of explanation to the client of its, often limited, function in dealing with the risk. Furthermore, firms frequently do not comply with their legal compliance obligations in arranging the insurance. The net result can be that the buck stops (and the risk stays) with the firm, not the client or the insurer.This one-hour webinar will look at ways of communicating risk to clients, what the issues are with title insurance, when it might not be appropriate, and your legal obligations in arranging the insurance.Topics:<ul><li>The importance of assessing risk, probability and impact</li><li>Not all risk issues are equal</li><li>What risks can be taken and what can be lived with?</li><li>When is title insurance the wrong approach or inappropriate?</li><li>The limits of cover</li><li>How do you educate the client so they take the decision and accept the risk (if they do) rather than pass it on to your PI insurance?</li><li>What are the new rules about arranging insurance? It’s likely you are the ‘broker’ not just an arranger</li><li>Do you end up taking the risk rather than the insurance company?</li><li>What does your demand needs and suitability statement have to say?</li><li>What are your regulatory and compliance requirements?</li><li>Common issues with standard policies</li><li>Who should arrange any insurance – buyer or seller?</li><li>Contractual terms, warranties, non-disclosure issues</li></ul>

Conducting advocacy in children and personal protection cases

This webinar will explore the role of advocacy in children and personal protection cases.There are many hearings where you may need to provide advocacy, including contested hearings, case management hearings, and those involving ‘live evidence’.The webinar will combine practical tips, the procedure of advocacy and how you can deal with ‘live evidence’ in practice. The webinar is ideal for those acting for parents, children, extended family members and local authorities.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Steps to take in preparation</li><li>Using the law in family advocacy to boost your confidence</li><li>Making Submissions – structure and analysing of the case</li><li>Skeleton arguments and submissions</li><li>Without notice injunction applications – what do you need to do?</li><li>Live hearings and calling evidence</li><li>Effective examination-in-chief</li><li>Is permission to ask supplemental evidence required?</li><li>Cross examination – it’s easy when you know how!</li><li>Re-examination</li><li>Contested interim care hearings – do I really need to contest?</li><li>Case management hearings</li><li>Issues resolution and final hearings</li><li>Remote hearings</li></ul>

Development and overage – how to get it right

In many development scenarios involving options or similar, overage is thrown in as an afterthought in the Heads of Terms, leaving it to the lawyers to in effect negotiate its terms. Sadly, these often end badly resulting in disputes and High Court litigation. We will look at the key terms to bear in mind when negotiating overage, mathematical issues, drafting issues, trigger events and overage protection mechanisms.

Family ties and breakdowns – Key succession issues

Families are the cornerstone of our lives, but when relationships evolve or break down, the legal implications can be significant and complex. This webinar will explore vital considerations around marriage, wills, and succession planning, including how changes in relationships—such as separation or divorce—can affect inheritance and financial arrangements.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Impact of marriage when considering wills and succession</li><li>Considerations during separation, and divorce, including receipt of inheritance</li><li>Impact where there is a death:<ul><li>To minor children: parental</li><li>responsibility/guardianship, inheritance, and claims for reasonable financial provision.</li><li>Other children: adult children, children by way of a surrogate, foster children etc.</li><li>Family home and assets, including different legal rights between a marriage/civil partnership and cohabitees.</li><li>PI and other claims, and impact</li></ul></li><li>Predatory marriages</li><li>Court of Protection: LPAs and Deputy applications</li></ul>

CPR - 2024 in review

Domestic abuse – A guide to injunctions for family lawyers

There have been significant developments in injunctions within family and domestic cases in recent years. The President’s guidance has emphasised key areas, including return dates, order drafting, and joint directions hearings for private children law and injunctions. Family lawyers must ensure that all aspects of domestic abuse are recognised, addressed and appropriately dealt with.This webinar will give guidance on the effect of power of arrest, and when the court cannot accept an undertaking, as well as how to decide whether to apply under the Family Law Act, Protection from Harassment Act, Children Act, or another provision. It will also discuss ways to ensure that the order is clear enough to avoid problems later on.Topics include:<ul><li>Applicability of the Family Law Act 1996</li><li>Non-molestation orders and occupation orders – essential criteria</li><li>Civil and criminal sanctions</li><li>President’s guidance on non–molestation orders</li><li>Use of domestic abuse protection notices and orders – how do these operate?</li><li>Injunctions and case involving children – use of PD12J</li><li>Use of Protection from Harassment Act 1997</li><li>Forced marriage protection order cases and FGM protection order cases</li><li>Case law developments</li></ul>

Defining the retainer – A guide for residential practitioners

Residential conveyancing practitioners face ever increasing demands. It seems to be expected that you are experts in and be able to advise on all aspects of a wide range of issues such as planning, building regulations, knotweed, bamboo, contaminated land, SDLT, CGT, building safety and climate change.It is implicit in a solicitor’s retainer that advice will be given which is reasonably incidental to the work being undertaken but how far does that extend and how if at all can you limit your responsibility.This webinar will look at:<ul><li>SRA & statutory requirements</li><li>Liability in contract & Tort</li><li>Limiting liability</li><li>The importance of defining what you will do</li></ul>

Unpacking Asset Protection Trusts: risks, realities, and solutions

This webinar is designed to help practitioners navigate the challenges posed by so-called asset protection trusts (APTs). Learn to identify the pitfalls of these structures, understand their limitations, and develop strategies to assist clients who are considering APTs or have already entered into one.By the end of the webinar, you will be better equipped to provide informed estate planning advice, offer alternatives, and effectively guide clients through the process of unravelling arrangements.Topics covered include:<ul><li>How these structures are sold to unsuspecting clients<ul><li>A detailed examination of how and why they don’t work including considering inheritance tax, care funding and bankruptcy.</li><li>The problems these can cause from a care funding or tax perspective.</li><li>The risks factors and better alternatives</li><li>Unravelling the arrangements.</li><li>Problems for deputies and attorneys involved in these arrangements</li></ul></li></ul>

How to prepare for SRA visits - AML and other tricks

There are many challenges faced by the SRA, namely the fallout from Axiom Ince, which has been particularly significant. Compounding these difficulties, the SRA has intensified its scrutiny of firms, focusing on identifying loopholes, particularly in AML compliance. With expanded fining powers and an increasingly assertive approach to enforcement, their oversight has become more rigorous.This webinar will explore what firms should expect during SRA inspections.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Formalities – how long will we have to prepare? What, who and how will they be investigating?</li><li>AML steps<ul><li>PWRAs – have they been approved?</li><li>Client & matter risk assessments, with rationale – have they been completed?</li><li>Source of wealth and funds enquiries</li><li>Records – where are they? Can you find them?</li></ul></li><li>Sanctions compliance</li><li>Conflicts, confidentiality and data protection</li><li>SLAPP litigation & NDA issues</li></ul>

Escaping Fixed Recoverable Costs altogether

With the latest scheme of extended fixed recoverable costs well into its second year of existence, Nick McDonnell, Director and Costs Lawyer with Kain Knight will discuss the various ways legal practitioners are seeking to escape the regime altogether so that their costs are paid on an hourly rate/time spent basis.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Contracting out</li><li>Vulnerable clients</li><li>Exceptional circumstances</li><li>Excluded claims</li><li>Multi-Track features</li></ul>

An introduction to real estate development finance transactions

This webinar is aimed at real estate, banking and construction lawyers who work on real estate finance development transactions.The webinar will review the underlying commercial principles of a real estate development transaction from the lender and the borrower’s perspective and will then cover how such a transaction is structured, secured and transacted and what happens once the asset is completed.The following areas will be covered:<ul><li>The commercial principles of real estate finance development lending</li><li>How real estate finance development deals are structured</li><li>Security in real estate finance development deals</li><li>Diligence required in a real estate finance development transactions</li><li>Who does what when in a real estate finance development transaction</li><li>The end of a development facility – the move to a stabilised asset and beyond.</li></ul>

Partnership exits, the willing and the unwilling: What are the options?

This webinar will outline for partnerships and LLPs the principles of exiting partners and members from their firm.  The webinar will look at the questions arising from both the firm’s perspective and the individual’s perspective.In almost all scenarios it is important to understand how a firm could do it well, and how individuals may seek to push back.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is expulsion?</li><li>What is compulsory retirement?</li><li>What to put in a partnership or LLP agreement and its relevance upon exit?</li><li>How to challenge an exit?</li><li>How to prepare for a challenge to exit?</li><li>Adopting a fair and correct procedure</li><li>Acting in good faith</li><li>The Equality Act 2010 and the impact of discrimination</li><li>Some leading cases in relation to matters</li></ul>

How to respond to the new residential enquiries

The new enquiries are complicated in the extreme with plenty of scope for misrepresentation and negligence. The webinar looks at some of the issues, including:<ul><li>Enquiries generally and how to avoid misrepresentation</li><li>The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations</li><li>Material information</li><li>New solar panel enquiries</li><li>New Japanese knotweed enquiries</li><li>Building Safety Act and leasehold enquiries</li></ul>

Boundary issues on registered titles

Only too frequently there is a mismatch between the apparent boundaries of titles as shown on old transfer plans, charge certificates, MapSearch results and the physical features on the ground. Rather than jumping straight into arguments about ransom strips, title insurance or adverse possession, it is necessary to understand how the peculiarly, and intentionally, imprecise conveyancing and land registration regime in this country has given rise to the issue and look at ways of finding a satisfactory solution to the issues discovered. This webinar explains what the different possibilities are and the route to obtaining a solution in these cases.

Employment Rights Bill

he introduction of the Employment Rights Bill heralds the most sweeping change in employment law for generations.It consists of 158 pages containing 119 clauses and seven schedules. Anyone concerned with advising employers or employees needs to be aware of the outline of the changes which it will make.Don’t miss this essential webinar, where we’ll break down the pivotal new rights and changes set to reshape the employment landscape.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The right to claim unfair dismissal becomes available from Day One of employment</li><li>There will be an exception for the period of probation which will be subject to special rules</li><li>Zero hours contracts will give way to a right to guaranteed hours</li><li>Employers will have to give notice of shift changes</li><li>The duty to consult in cases of collective redundancy will be expanded</li><li>The cap on a protective award for failure to consult in collective redundancy situations will be lifted</li><li>The practice of “fire and rehire” adopted by some employers will become unlawful except in very limited circumstances</li><li>The refusal of a request for flexible working will be subject to a reasonableness test</li><li>Extended protection from dismissal will be conferred on new mothers</li><li>Employers will be fixed with a new duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment of their employees by third parties such as customers.</li></ul>

Time & Stress Management for Lawyers

Six out of 10 lawyers in the UK have experienced burnout. This webinar will focus on stress and time management skills which can help you to take charge of your schedule and reduce your stress levels.This webinar will cover the following:<ul><li>Common causes of stress</li><li>Why some stress is good – effects of rust out and burn out</li><li>Self-assessment questionnaire – how stressed are you?</li><li>How to manage and control your stress day by day</li><li>Time management self-assessment – how well do you manage your time?</li><li>Common time thieves and how to deal with them</li><li>Action planning</li></ul>

Advanced guide to Part 36

For a successful receiving party, part 36 opens up “a raft of enhancements”, as the Court of Appeal put it in 2019. However, too many practitioners come unstuck and fail to reap the rewards.Dominic Regan, who has been talking about the rule for the last 25 years, will identify common lapses and how to avoid them. He will, as always, give tactical advice too.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is the best way to make an offer?</li><li>How high can an offer realistically be pitched?</li><li>When can an offer be accepted after a trial?</li><li>The impact of dishonest evidence on rewards</li><li>Who should offers be served upon?</li><li>Dealing with costs</li><li>Can rewards be apportioned?</li><li>The estoppel myth</li></ul>

Divorces and relationship breakdowns – A how to guide for family lawyers

This webinar will bring you up to speed on how to run divorce cases under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020.Questions explored include:<ul><li>What is the purpose of the 20-week period before applying for Conditional Order?</li><li>What is the difference between defending and disputing a divorce?</li><li>In what circumstances can you claim costs for divorces?</li><li>When would you lodge a sole rather than joint application?</li><li>Can the same solicitor act for both parties on a divorce?</li></ul>Other topics include:<ul><li>Key principles of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020</li><li>How joint applications work</li><li>What should you be doing in the 20-week period?</li><li>Issues over service, time periods, and service outside of jurisdiction</li><li>The difference between a ‘defended’ divorce and a ‘disputed’ divorce</li><li>When to seek to delay/stay the divorce and reasons why</li><li>When the use of nullity and judicial separation is relevant</li><li>The effect of a ‘non–marriage’</li></ul>

Misrepresentation in residential conveyancing

This webinar will consider issues relating to misrepresentation in residential transactions.The risks are potentially greater if the proposed 5th edition of the TA6 is used in its current format. Those risks will be considered together with the lessons from recent decision such as Rosser v Pacifico and Co Mayo Estates v Hidden Gem.

Business and Agricultural Property Relief: key insights and updates post 2024 budget

This webinar will provide practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of the recent changes to Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) following the latest Budget. With a focus on practical guidance, you will explore strategies to help clients mitigate their Inheritance Tax liabilities effectively and navigate the complexities of administering estates containing farming or business assets.Topics covered include:<ul><li>A detailed examination of BPR and how it applies, in what circumstances and at what rate</li><li>A detailed examination of APR how it applies and in what circumstances</li><li>A look at the types of BPR investments</li><li>How to deal with farming businesses in estate administration</li><li>A review of recent case law and decisions regarding farming and agricultural property</li></ul>

Mediation for family lawyers

This 35 minute webinar will provide an understanding of mediation, what it is, how it works and who might be suitable. It will also explain why it is important for family lawyers to understand mediation, especially since the introduction of the changes in court rules on 29 April 2024 and the compulsory filing of the Form FM5. It will also clarify the sorts of issues that can be dealt with in mediation, so that you can free up time on a particular matter and focus on other chargeable work, as well as explaining how you can help your clients to maximise the benefits from mediation.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is mediation and why is it important to family lawyers?</li><li>Who is suitable for mediation?</li><li>How does it work?</li><li>What is the role of the mediator?</li><li>How the mediator can be neutral and impartial</li><li>What kinds of children issues can benefit from mediation</li><li>What kinds of financial issues can benefit from mediation</li><li>Other ways that mediation can benefit family lawyers in the areas of cohabitation agreements, separation agreements and pre and post nuptial agreements</li></ul>

Close, sell or merge: what are your options as a law firm owner?

What to do with your law firm as you plan for your longer-term career and life is a key question: whether or not you intend to merge and join another practice; sell the firm to either retire or become a consultant; or close the firm because you no longer wish to operate it, whether through financial or personal constraints.  These are difficult issues to consider for all law firm owners and planning five, 10 or even 15 years from the decisions that you may want to make can help give you options.In this webinar we will focus on the following areas:<ul><li>What are the basics of the three options.</li><li>When closing a law firm what do you need to consider:<ul><li>What do the SRA Rules say?</li><li>What is the expectations of your professional indemnity insurers?</li><li>What are the practical implications in terms of data records and clients?</li></ul></li><li>Should you sell your practice?<ul><li>Why selling and joining a firm can make sense?</li><li>Why selling and closing the residual firm can make sense?</li><li>Appointing a selling agent?</li><li>Valuation options.</li></ul></li><li>Should you merge?<ul><li>Do mergers really exist or is an acquisition?</li><li>How to identify merger partner options.</li><li>What should you consider to be a red flag warning sign?</li></ul></li><li>Which of these options might be right for you and how you can analyse this yourself!</li></ul>

Contract law 2025 update

This webinar will examine the latest developments in contract law. Expert speaker Helen Swaffield will cover the new cases and provide practical litigation and drafting tips.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Using emojis as part of a “written” contract</li><li>Negotiations when performance has begun – the traps</li><li>Is it the end of good faith as we know it?</li><li>The end of Canada Steamship Guidelines in indemnity drafting – what does this mean for protecting your clients?</li><li>New ways to carve out exceptions from the exclusion clause</li><li>Trick and tips for the guarantor</li><li>What is a deliberate or wilful breach?</li><li>Persistent, substantial, material breach re-defined</li><li>Asymmetrical force majeure clauses and why you may need to check yours</li><li>The Hague Convention finally changes law and jurisdiction clauses</li></ul>

SRA accounts rules – February 2025 update

The aftermath of the Axiom Ince intervention has reignited debate over whether solicitors should hold client money at all. Meanwhile, the ‘new’ SRA Accounts Rules continue to offer relaxations—though perhaps only for a limited time.With the SRA adopting a more assertive regulatory stance, firms are facing increased scrutiny and fines, particularly for breaches of Rule 3.3 and the improper use of banking facilities. Recent updates to guidance highlight the systems and procedures firms should implement to remain compliant, but some proposed changes have been delayed indefinitely, adding uncertainty to an already challenging landscape.This webinar will explore the key compliance measures you need to be aware of and how to mitigate risks in light of the expanded fining powers.Topics covered include:<ul><li>An outline of the current rules</li><li>The key developments<ul><li>How do we describe ‘disbursements’ in our bills?</li><li>Are we charging the right VAT?</li><li>Dealing with residual balances on client account ledgers</li><li>Offering of banking facilities – case studies and examples</li></ul></li><li>Recent enforcement actions and penalties</li><li>Reconciliations – what, who and how?</li><li>Duties of the COFA</li><li>What should our relationship be with our reporting accountants?</li><li>Key checklists and benchmarks</li></ul>

Corporate support for property lawyers

This webinar is designed for property lawyers assisting their corporate colleagues on corporate transactions that include one or more properties, particularly the sale of shares in a company that owns property.  There are many differences when compared with acting on a purely property transaction.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What you need to do differently when providing corporate support compared with more traditional property work</li><li>What your corporate colleagues will be expecting from you</li><li>Share sale versus asset sale – the pros and cons</li><li>Property warranties – how they work</li><li>The disclosure letter</li><li>Certificates of title</li><li>Recent cases and lessons learned</li></ul>

Fixed Recoverable Costs – the non-fixed costs elements

With the latest scheme of extended fixed recoverable costs well into its second year of existence, Nick McDonnell, Director and Costs Lawyer with Kain Knight will discuss the various aspects of costs that are not fixed and how the courts may resolve disputes in their regard. The webinar will explore:<ul><li>The assessment of disbursements generally</li><li>The assessment of medical agency fees</li></ul>

Protecting what matters: wills, probate, and tax planning for cohabiting couples

Approximately 3.6 million are cohabiting couples in the UK —a 144% increase since 1996—cohabiting couples represent the fastest-growing family type, accounting for 18% of all families. Unlike married couples or those in civil partnerships, cohabitees have distinct legal rights that intersect family, trusts, and inheritance law, underscoring the importance of this growing area of practice.This webinar will explore how to advise individuals entering cohabiting relationships, dispel common myths about cohabitees’ legal rights, and address the unique challenges these couples face during legally complex breakups.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Cohabitees: current position of families and households in England and Wales</li><li>Summary of the legal position for cohabitees vs those married and/or in a civil partnership, including a list of common myths.</li><li>Before cohabiting: legal issues to consider</li><li>During cohabitation:</li></ul> o  On purchasing and/or living in shared property o  Should cohabitee lose capacity and/or ability to make decisions<ul><li>Breakdown of cohabitees’ relationship:</li></ul> o  How are assets and property divided? o  Financial provision? o  Property rights and Trusts and Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996? o  Minor children?<ul><li>Succession and inheritance rights: on death of a cohabitee</li></ul> o  Importance of making a Will o  Tenancies and tax o  Position under the intestacy rules o  Funeral and burial wishes o  Potential legal claims, including property rights o  Pensions, bereavement benefits/life insurance, and fatal accidents<ul><li>Future reform – such as Cohabitation Rights Bill</li></ul>

An overview of directors’ duties

This webinar provides an understanding of directors’ statutory duties under the Companies Act 2006 (CA 2006). The webinar will emphasise two key duties: the duty to promote the success of the company (s 172) and the duty to avoid conflicts of interest (s 175), using recent landmark cases to illustrate how these duties are applied in practice.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Overview of directors’ duties</li><li>Directors’ duties under s 172 and 174 and ESG factors, following the decision in ClientEarth v Shell Plc[2023] EWHC 1897 (Ch)</li><li>Review of the decision in Humphrey v Bennett[2023] EWCA Civ 1433 on duty to avoid conflict of interest under s 175</li></ul>

Adverse possession – what you need to know

Clients often come to property lawyers with boundary disputes, frequently referencing the concept of 'squatter rights' and seeking advice on adverse possession claims. However, determining the most appropriate course of action requires careful consideration of key factors. With three distinct legal regimes governing adverse possession—each with different criteria and potential outcomes—selecting the wrong approach can lead to costly and potentially disastrous consequences. This webinar provides a practical guide to navigating these complexities, outlining the critical steps and considerations necessary to maximize the chances of a successful result. Topics covered include:<ul><li>Deeds interpretation or Adverse possession?</li><li>Mapping error at Land Registry?</li><li>Unregistered squatting</li><li>Old style -12 years squatting before 13/10/2003</li><li>If not then New style – 10 years</li></ul>

Acting for elderly/vulnerable clients – a guide for conveyancers

Acting for elderly and/or vulnerable clients in a conveyancing transaction presents a range of additional issues for practitioners to consider over and above the sale or purchase itself. This webinar will look at the key issues including:<ul><li>Who is your client?</li><li>Dealing with attorneys or OPG deputies</li><li>Mental capacity</li><li>Duress & undue influence</li></ul>

People management and effective delegation

Effective people management is a vital skill for anyone supervising junior staff or trainees. This 1-hour webinar is designed to help you save time, delegate tasks effectively, and foster on-the-job learning. You’ll gain practical strategies for improving performance, developing others, and handling challenging personnel situations with confidence. By the end of this webinar, you’ll be equipped with the tools to enhance team productivity and growth.Topics covered include:<ul><li>How people learn through on-the-job experience</li><li>Best practice principles for delegation</li><li>Delegation case study</li><li>The art of giving feedback on performance</li><li>Dealing with difficult personnel situations</li><li>The hallmarks of a good appraisal</li></ul>

The do’s and don’ts of litigation 2025

The litigation landscape today is unrecognisable compared with even a few years ago. Getting it wrong can be disastrous, with the courts more willing than ever to penalise poor practice. The well-informed litigator will be alert to the problems and will appreciate what they should and should not be doing. In this webinar, Professor Regan will highlight:<ul><li>The elevated status of protocols</li><li>The new ADR rules – including the power to require parties to try it</li><li>The duty to act reasonably and to cooperate</li><li>Preservation of documents and other evidence</li><li>How to make effective offers</li><li>Giving good costs and funding advice</li><li>Special obligations in injury cases</li><li>Seeking relief from sanctions</li><li>Dealing with a defaulting opponent</li></ul>

Sales and purchases of part- top tips and traps

Acting on the sale of only part of a seller’s property (whether freehold or leasehold) or acting on such a purchase involves considering particular issues that do not apply on a sale/purchase of whole.  This webinar will look at the main traps and how to avoid them, including:<ul><li>Split reversions</li><li>Splitting a lease term</li><li>Sub-lettings of part</li><li>Surrenders of part</li><li>Existing rights, s62 and Wheeldon v Burrows</li><li>Granting and reserving new rights</li><li>Restrictive covenants – imposing them and/or passing on the benefit</li><li>Lessons from the cases</li></ul>

Restrictive covenants and rights of way

Advising on restrictive covenants and the potential limits on easements such as rights of way is often not clear cut. This webinar will look at some practical issues to consider including:<ul><li>Abandonment of restrictive covenants</li><li>Intensification and/or extending the scope of an easement of easements</li><li>Encroachment on rights of way</li><li>Limits on a right of way for domestic property</li></ul>

ADR – what litigators need to know in 2025

The reality of 2023’s landmark Churchill ruling, in which the Court of Appeal declared that judges are free to direct parties to engage in ADR, is now with us. Following the October 2024 rule changes that embedded this into the CPR, Miles J in DKH Retail Ltd v City Football Group Ltd [2024] EWHC 3231 (Ch) ordered mediation in a matter that was perilously close to trial. There is no going back – the overriding objective now includes promoting or using ADR. It is a fundamental of contemporary litigation today.This webinar will look at all key issues including:<ul><li>Churchill</li><li>The package of CPR reforms introduced in October 2024</li><li>How PGF – the 2013 ruling that established how ignoring an offer to mediate is unreasonable and may result in costs sanctions – brought about a sea change</li><li>When should ADR take place?</li><li>Can a party legitimately refuse to agree?</li><li>Who pays for it?</li><li>Bad excuses for rejecting ADR</li><li>What ADR can achieve that no court could order.</li></ul>

Environmental issues in property transactions

Environmental ‘contaminated land’ searches can be very misleading, with many false negatives due to a misunderstanding of the nature of environmental risks when buying land that has been previously used for any kind of industrial process.The ‘contaminated land regime’ is very often a side show compared to the real risks in common law, nuisance, criminal prosecution and similar. This webinar will outline the real areas of risk that need to be considered and look at the ways in which you can assess and deal with the issue.

Placement and adoption orders – the latest news in 2025

This webinar provides a comprehensive update on adoption and placement orders, essential for family law practitioners who represent parents, extended family members, local authorities, and children.You will gain a clear understanding of key principles, including the appropriate panel for a child’s case, the stages of placement, approval, and matching, as well as recent developments on the revocation of placement orders and opposition to adoption orders. With judicial perspectives, including insights from the President of the Family Division, this webinar will examine the evolving position on post-adoption contact into 2025. Additionally, it will explore the distinctions between placement orders and other public law orders, particularly in relation to the transfer of parental responsibility.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Placement orders – effects and applications</li><li>Placement orders – exercise of parental responsibility</li><li>Criteria for granting a placement order and processes</li><li>Various aspects of the adoption regulations</li><li>Need for child’s permanence report (written report) and implications</li><li>Adoption panels and processes – approving, matching and recommending</li><li>Revocation of placement orders – When, why and the criteria?</li><li>Leave to oppose making of adoption orders – what is the correct position with these applications?</li><li>Revocation of adoption orders- when would this be granted?</li><li>Consideration of decision in Re X and Y (Children: Adoption order: Setting aside) [2025] EWCA Civ 2</li><li>Interrelationship between s.26 ACA 2022 and S.51A ACA 2002</li><li>Consideration of Re R and C (Adoption or Fostering) [2024] EWCA Civ 1302</li><li>Developments surrounding post adoption contact</li><li>Views of the President of the family division and adoption contact, together with the public law working group recommendation for best practice in adoption</li></ul>

A practical guide to exit and principal charges for trusts

This practical webinar will show you how to understand and calculate exit and principal (anniversary) charges, determine when they arise, and report them to HMRC.Participants will gain the knowledge to perform these calculations accurately and advise clients on potential tax liabilities when setting up trusts.Topics covered include:<ul><li>An introduction to the relevant property regime</li><li>A guided example on calculating an exit charge in the first ten years of the trust</li><li>A guided example on calculating the principal or anniversary charge</li><li>A guided example on calculating later exit charges</li><li>A run through on how to report these charges to HMRC</li></ul>

Resolving Fixed Recoverable Costs disputes

Exactly one year after the implementation of the 1 October 2023 Fixed Recoverable Costs (FRC) regime, the 1 October 2024 saw the introduction of the Rules and Practice Directions that set out the procedure, and the associated fixed recoverable costs, for resolving FRC Disputes. The procedure is called the ‘Fixed Costs Determination’ or ‘FCD’ process.Nick McDonnell, Director and Costs Lawyer with Kain Knight Costs Lawyers will provide an overview of the FCD process and how, in practical terms, legal practitioners can seek a judicial resolution of FRC disputes.

An overview of tenant insolvency

This webinar will equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of tenant insolvency, the associated legal rights, and effective strategies for recovering arrears in residential property settings. Participants will learn practical steps to navigate financial distress scenarios and protect their interests as landlords.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Overview of tenant insolvency</li><li>Considerations for landlords dealing with insolvent tenants</li><li>Understanding tenant insolvency: definitions, types (eg, bankruptcy, IVA), legal implications, and signs of tenant financial distress</li><li>Landlords’ rights and remedies: managing arrears pre-insolvency, dealing with bankruptcy, participating in IVAs, and estate administration</li><li>Practical recovery strategies: payment plans, rent deposit schemes, guarantor use, and leveraging insurance or legal expense coverage.</li><li>Case study/practical application: a tenant filing for bankruptcy during possession proceedings</li></ul>

Commercial property update (including landlord and tenant) – Spring 2025

This webinar is part of our regular quarterly update series, designed to be an engaging and efficient means of keeping abreast of key developments, and will cover a number of recent cases and other changes on both commercial leases and commercial property generally, including the following topics:<ul><li>Defining the covenant for forfeiture</li><li>Registration gap problems for landlords</li><li>The lease/licence distinction revisited</li><li>Implied terms and interpretation issues: getting the drafting right</li><li>Repair, structural defects and service charges</li><li>What is a building? And when & why does it matter for landlords?</li><li>The Court of Appeal: lessons on adverse possession & boundaries</li></ul>

From domicile to residence: exploring the Inheritance Tax implications

Navigating the shift from a domicile-based to a residence-based system introduces significant challenges for inheritance tax planning. This webinar aims to help practitioners understand these changes and their practical application, participants will gain the knowledge and tools needed to offer tailored estate planning advice and implement effective strategies to mitigate tax in cross-border scenarios.Topics covered include:<ul><li>A brief history of domicile on what we had prior to now</li><li>The new residence system – a review on how this works</li><li>Leaving the UK – the tail provisions</li><li>A review of the rules on income and CGT</li></ul>

Rights of first refusal – tips and traps

Pre-emption rights, also known as rights of first refusal, allow the grantee to acquire land, or a lease, but unlike an option, a pre-emption right is not exercisable unless and until the grantor decides to sell the relevant land (or to take whatever other action in relation to that land triggers the possible exercise of the rights).This webinar looks at the tricky issues relating to these rights, and warns of the traps that exist, including:<ul><li>When does a pre-emption right take effect as an interest in land?</li><li>Triggering the possible exercise of a pre-emption right</li><li>What kind of “disposal” triggers the possible exercise of the pre-emption right?</li><li>When does the grantor wish/intend/propose to make the disposal?</li><li>How long does the grantee have in which to exercise the pre-emption right?</li><li>What price must the grantee pay?</li><li>What is the grantor’s position after the exercise period ends without the pre-emption right being exercised?</li><li>Protecting the pre-emption right</li><li>The rule against perpetuities and pre-emption rights</li></ul>

Getting ethics right – conflicts, confidentiality and undertakings

Over the past 18 months, the SRA has intensified its enforcement efforts, particularly in relation to AML procedures. However, this heightened scrutiny extends beyond AML, prompting many professionals to revisit fundamental legal and ethical principles—some of which haven’t been seriously considered since law school.This webinar is designed not only for legal practitioners but also for those who work alongside them and are subject to the same regulatory expectations. The webinar will provide a valuable refresher and practical insights on key compliance topics, including:<ul><li>Conflicts of interest – what does ‘informed consent’ truly entail?</li><li>Unexpected conflict scenarios – how and where can conflicts arise beyond the obvious?</li><li>Duties of confidentiality – understanding obligations and avoiding breaches.</li><li>Common pitfalls – real-world examples of slips, trips, and breaches.</li><li>The nature of undertakings – can an emoji constitute a binding commitment?</li><li>TOWIE (The Only Way Is Ethics) – why doing the right thing isn’t just best practice but a necessity</li></ul>

A managing partner’s agenda

What should you be reviewing about risk, compliance and the regulators agenda for your law firm?The lonely role of Managing Partner is a challenge whether you are a sole practitioner or head a large firm.  All law firms face a complex management, regulation, compliance and claims issues.This webinar is designed to help Managing Partners embed best practice, ask the right questions of their specialist team and to learn from the mistakes of others.Topics covered include:  <ul><li>The SRA agenda and how it impacts on business planning – what to expect and planning for uncertainty</li><li>Compliance questions to ask as Managing Partner!</li><li>Difficult partners and how to manage the risk they pose to your firm</li><li>Managing reputational risk in the era of campaigns – does your client base attract interest from campaigners?</li><li>Growth – organic or merger?</li><li>Strategic development options</li></ul>This practical webinar will focus on taking the lessons from advising countless Managing Partners and from running a practice. Expect to create a “to do list” from this webinar.

Diversity – managing across cultures

In today’s interconnected world, understanding and managing cultural differences is essential for anyone working with diverse teams or clients. This 1-hour webinar will introduce the seven building blocks of culture, equipping you with the skills to interact effectively with people from different backgrounds.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Benefits of diversity in the workplace</li><li>What constitutes culture?</li><li>Detecting others’ cultural norms</li><li>Flexing to accommodate others’ cultural orientations</li><li>Group discussion – doing business in other countries</li><li>Action planning</li></ul>

Bank of mum and dad: gift, loan, investments?

With an estimated £5 trillion set to be passed down over the next 30 years, the transfer of wealth between generations is more important than ever. This webinar will equip practitioners with the knowledge to navigate the legal landscape surrounding gifts, loans, and investments within families. Guidance will be offered on how to best advise clients on mitigating risks, structuring tax and estate planning effectively, and ensuring financial support is given securely.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Gifts, loans, or investment?</li><li>Gifts to family members<ul><li>Presumption of advancement</li><li>Presumption of undue influence with lifetime gifts</li><li>Presumption against double portions</li><li>Sharing ownership of properties</li><li>Tax implications, including gifts with reservation of benefit</li></ul></li><li>Loans to family members<ul><li>Soft or hard loan?</li><li>Lender’s requirements: purchase, mortgage, and waiver</li><li>Updating wills to reflect loan agreements and forgiveness of loans</li><li>Tax considerations</li></ul></li><li>Investments with family members</li><li>Estate administration: gift or loan?</li><li>Other considerations:<ul><li>Protecting funds for family member in event of marriage/civil partnership, cohabitation, separation and divorce</li><li>Deprivation of assets and social care</li><li>Other options, such as family trust</li><li>Older and financial abuse</li><li>Adult children living with parents and/or providing care</li></ul></li><li>Practical tips for professionals and examples</li></ul>

Partnership disputes: causes, key considerations, and resolution strategies

This webinar will consider disputes which may arise between co-owners of professional practices, whether partners, members of an LLP or shareholder-directors in professional practices.It assumes a general knowledge of the law relating to partnerships, LLPs and companies in the professional practice sectors.This webinar aimed at those wishing to enhance their knowledge in dealing with these disputes in a practical manner.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The nature of partnerships and LLPs</li><li>Why disputes arise between partners/members</li><li>Why do Shareholder/Directors think they are Partners?</li><li>How to avoid disputes if you can</li><li>What to look for in a partnership or members’ agreement</li><li>S994 Companies Act 2006 – for LLP’s and Companies</li><li>Options if there is no agreement:<ul><li>Negotiation</li><li>Dissolution</li><li>Other?</li></ul></li><li>Key negotiating options</li><li>The different options available to partnerships and LLPs</li><li>Major sticking points:<ul><li>Valuation</li><li>Payments – how much and when</li><li>Liability</li><li>Restrictions</li><li>Ego</li></ul></li><li>Legal proceedings – what the courts can and cannot do:<ul><li>Partnerships</li><li>LLPs</li></ul></li><li>How to short circuit many of the pitfalls that arise in partnership and LLP disputes</li></ul>

Children and family law update spring 2025

This webinar provides an update on the changes in legislation, case law and guidance affecting children and family law in 2025, covering, amongst others, the following topics:Children and domestic abuse matters<ul><li>Developments surrounding domestic abuse – the current position</li><li>Enforcing contact – how to deal with cases of ‘alienating behaviours’</li><li>Use of specific issue applications and parental responsibility</li><li>Use of the pathfinder courts and how are these operating</li><li>Expectations relating to MIAMS’s and NCDR</li><li>Developments in cross examination and use of Qualified Legal Representatives</li><li>Public children law cases and tackling delay</li><li>Case law update</li></ul>Finances, divorce and cohabitation<ul><li>Divorce and dissolution – developments in Procedure</li><li>Financial remedy matters – case law developments and procedural changes</li><li>Financial remedy cases – conduct, costs and use of nuptial agreements</li><li>Maintenance pending suit applications</li><li>Maintenance applications and schedule1 claims</li><li>Case law update</li></ul>

Homemade wills and lasting power of attorneys: common problems and pitfalls

This webinar emphasises the importance of working with clients to create and regularly review wills while identifying and addressing potential issues arising from homemade wills and lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) prepared without professional guidance. You will gain the skills to spot common pitfalls in the drafting and administration of these documents, which can lead to costly disputes and challenges for families.Free Wills Month runs throughout March 2025 together with Update Your Will Week which is being run by the Association of Lifetime Lawyers. Families are often incredibly complex and there is often a misconception that making a lasting power of attorney and/or a will is expensive, which is often not the case. However, the failure to make a lasting power of attorney and/or will with a professional can lead to more costly mistakes in the long term and to your loved ones having to pick up the pieces when you no longer have capacity and/or you have died. Homemade wills and lasting power of attorneys are one of the big reasons behind the increase in will disputes and challenges.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Key life stages: when to consider making an LPA or a Will. Working to protect you and your family…</li><li>Key considerations before preparing an LPA or a Will</li><li>Why use a professional: solicitors, will writers, and DIY</li><li>Potential pitfalls with homemade LPA and Wills: from drafting</li><li>Common mistakes and horrors: examples of where it goes wrong</li><li>Potential claims:</li><li>Poorly drafted wills</li><li>Failed and/or adeemed gifts</li><li>Invalid wills</li><li>Inheritance tax and/or other consequences</li><li>Planning for the future with LPA’s, wills, and trusts – practical tips and suggestions</li></ul>

Key negotiation points for a real estate finance deal

This webinar will provide a broad commercial view of a real estate finance transaction from both the borrower and the lender’s perspective. The webinar will then focus on specific aspects of the facility agreement which are commonly negotiated and will discuss these points from the viewpoint of both parties.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Key points to cover in Heads of Terms</li><li>Key points to ask your client<ul><li>Lender view</li><li>Borrower view</li></ul></li><li>Common negotiation points for:<ul><li>Drawing down funds – the mechanics</li><li>Reps</li><li>Undertakings – general, property, information and financial</li><li>Events of default</li><li>Boilerplate terms</li><li>Conditions precedent</li></ul></li><li>Points to consider for repaying an outgoing lender</li><li>Negotiation points during the life of the loan and when waivers/consents and amendments are required</li></ul>

Cybercrime and AI – where are we now?

In today’s evolving landscape of homeworking, artificial intelligence, and ever-sophisticated fraud tactics, staying vigilant against scammers remains critical. While the challenges may have shifted, the need for constant awareness has not. Taking a moment to ask, “Could I be being scammed here?” is often the first step to prevention.This webinar will explore the most common types of cybercrime and fraud faced by legal professionals today and provide practical advice on recognizing and mitigating risks.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Scale of cybercrime</li><li>Types of cybercrime – systems attacks and ID fraud</li><li>Alarming but steady increases in incidents</li><li>Steps to overcome the main attacks<ul><li>Systems attacks<ul><li>Policies and internal protocols</li><li>CyberEssentials & ISO 27001</li><li>Cyber insurance – is it part of PII?</li><li>Practical steps</li></ul></li><li>ID fraud<ul><li>AML CDD checks</li><li>E-searches</li><li>The importance of CDD checks and verification</li><li>Steps to identify UBOs</li><li>The key point to watch</li><li>GDPR implications</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Essential steps to guard against frauds of all types</li><li>Artificial intelligence developments</li></ul>

Steps on ending a Trust

A trust may end automatically, for example on the death of the life tenant or when beneficiaries fulfil an age contingency. Alternatively the trust may be wound up by the trustees exercising a power to under the trust instrument (a power of appointment or a power to apply capital for the advancement or benefit of beneficiaries).Whenever a trust ends and for whatever reason, there are certain things to consider. This webinar will look at:<ul><li>Standard matters which trustees need to consider whatever the type of trust<ul><li>Is it preferable to transfer assets or proceeds of sale?</li><li>If the termination date is within the control of the trustees, would the beneficiaries prefer distribution in a later tax year?</li><li>Has the beneficiary assigned their interest?</li><li>Should trustees retain assets to meet possible liabilities?</li><li>Steps required to ensure tax compliance: R185, SA900, IHT100</li></ul></li><li>Matters relevant to the ending of a life interest trust on death<ul><li>Who are the beneficiaries?</li><li>Are they absolutely entitled?</li><li>Is there a transitional serial interest</li><li>What if a remainder beneficiary has predeceased?</li><li>What if the remainder interest has not been disposed of?</li></ul></li><li>Matters relevant when trustees exercise their powers to end a trust<ul><li>Are the trustees exercising their powers for a proper purpose?</li><li>What formalities have to be complied with?</li><li>What should a distribution document contain?</li></ul></li></ul>

Assessing mental capacity: key legal considerations

With an aging population and a rise in capacity-related legal disputes, it is crucial for practitioners to confidently assess a client’s mental capacity. This webinar will provide practical guidance on the legal tests for capacity, key assessment principles, and factors that may influence a client’s decision-making abilities. As well as how to navigate fluctuating capacity, mitigate risks, and implement safeguards to protect both clients and practitioners.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Capacity and the Mental Capacity Act 2005</li><li>Test for capacity:<ul><li>Instructing a solicitor</li><li>Conducting civil litigation</li><li>Making a lifetime gift</li><li>Entering into a marriage or civil partnership</li><li>Making a will</li></ul></li><li>Assessing capacity</li><li>Influencing factors and conditions:<ul><li>Impact of grief</li><li>Alcohol and recreational drugs (substance abuse)</li><li>Dementia and/or Alzheimer’s disease</li><li>Stroke</li><li>Brain injuries</li><li>Mental health conditions, such as depression and trauma</li><li>Other conditions, such as UTI’s</li></ul></li><li>Fluctuating capacity: temporary, predictable and unpredictable changes</li><li>Capacity and unwise decisions </li></ul>

Residential property practice update – May 2025

In the latest in his series of residential property practice updates, David Keighley will examine recent case law, practice guides and related developments relevant to residential property.To ensure the most relevant and up to date material is included changes to content may be made ahead of the recording but subject matter is expected to include:<ul><li>Misrepresentation in conveyancing</li><li>Freehold & Leasehold Reform Act 2024</li><li>White Paper on commonhold and leasehold reform</li><li>Land registry practice updates</li></ul>

Getting disclosure right – and the dangers of getting it wrong

Disclosure can go very wrong. Recently, a party represented by a major City law firm was hauled over the coals in court for accidentally disclosing thousands of privileged documents, an incident the judge called “extraordinary” and “unprecedented”. This shows that, whether dealing with disclosure under Part 31 or PD57AD, the obligations are onerous. After a reminder about the fundamentals, this webinar will address the following:<ul><li>What is a document?</li><li>What are the differences between the two disclosure regimes?</li><li>When should preservation warnings be given?</li><li>What is the sanction for failing to comply with a disclosure order?</li><li>How long does the duty to disclose run for?</li><li>The seismic impact of this year’s ruling in Aabar v Glencore, which drastically reduces the scope of documents a litigant shareholder is entitled to seek from a company.</li><li>2024 Court of Appeal guidance on full and frank disclosure</li><li>The consequences of wrongly destroying documents</li></ul>

Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 – Where are we now?

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (‘the Act’) received royal assent on 24th May 2024 and makes a series of important changes to existing law. As part of these changes, traders may be fined up to 10% of the total value of their turnover either by the courts or directly by the Competition and Markets Authority (‘CMA’). These powers are in force from April 2025 and therefore it is essential that both law firms and their clients are aware of the key provisions.This webinar sets out a succinct summary of the key provisions of the Act with particular emphasis on the following topics:Unfair commercial practices:<ul><li>Repeal of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008</li><li>Changes to the definition of ‘unfair commercial practice’</li><li>Introduction of more detailed provisions about ‘fake consumer reviews’</li><li>CMA Guidance on unfair commercial practices</li></ul>Enforcement provisions:<ul><li>Definition of ‘relevant infringements’</li><li>Changes to the powers of the court</li><li>Introduction of direct enforcement powers for the CMA</li><li>Introduction of monetary penalties – fixed amount v daily rate</li><li>CMA Guidance on enforcement of monetary penalties</li></ul>

Will drafting for business owners

This webinar aims to help practitioners understand the key factors involved in transferring businesses to the next generation. By the end, you will be better equipped to provide estate planning advice to business owners, guiding them on how to effectively pass on their businesses through their wills.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Business structures and rules of succession.<ul><li>Business Property Relief – when its available and what you need to check</li><li>IHT Problems in relation to mortgages to fund businesses</li><li>Why business property should be left as a specific legacy and not part of the residue of the estate – the spreading provisions</li><li>The so called double dip system – how this works and why it can be advantageous</li><li>Additional powers for Trustees to conduct business and to what extent do the STEP provisions cover this</li><li>Sample clauses for consideration</li><li>Family Investment Companies and Wills</li></ul></li></ul>

AML update – May 2025

The term ‘money laundering’ often evokes images of large sums of illicit money being funnelled through organized crime syndicates, such as the Russian mafia or Colombian cartels. However, the reality is far more commonplace and accessible. In fact, almost everyone, regardless of their role, has the potential to be involved in money laundering — making it crucial for all staff to stay consistently informed and vigilant about the latest strategies to prevent it.The growing frustration among the SRA and other regulators over law firms’ failure to meet expectations has led to stricter requirements. Firms are now mandated to conduct comprehensive practice-wide risk assessments, implement thorough Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Know Your Client (KYC) procedures with verification, and assess both client and matter risks, providing clear justifications for each decision made.Furthermore, regulators are emphasising the importance of understanding the source of wealth and source of funds for each transaction. As a result, firms are operating under a more rigorous and closely monitored regime than ever before.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The key question – what IS money laundering?</li><li>What does it mean to be a ‘gatekeeper’?</li><li>SRA sectoral reviews and warning notices</li><li>What do we have to do to comply?<ul><li>PWRAs</li><li>CDD; e-ID&V</li><li>CRAs</li><li>MRAs</li></ul></li><li>What do all the acronyms mean?</li><li>The crucial importance of ongoing monitoring</li><li>What are the consequences of us not complying?</li></ul>

Discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief – all you need to know

This webinar offers an in-depth exploration of the complex and often nuanced issue of discrimination based on religion or belief in the workplace and beyond. The webinar will cover key legal principles, including direct and indirect discrimination, harassment, and the scope of protected beliefs.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Direct and indirect discrimination and harassment as they relate to religion or belief</li><li>Defining which beliefs are protected – Grainger plc v Nicholson</li><li>What qualifies for protection?</li><li>The Forstater case: is a belief that one’s sex is immutable protected?</li><li>The distinction between “holding” and “manifesting” a belief – Grace v Places for Children</li><li>Guidance on when manifestation of a belief is protected – Higgs v Farmer’s School (EAT and CA)</li><li>Dress codes – wearing the hijab, crucifix and other manifestations of religious belief</li><li>Prayer breaks and religious holidays</li><li>What constitutes harassment?</li><li>When does misgendering constitute harassment?</li><li>The role of the Human Rights Act and the European Convention on Human Rights: Eweida,</li><li>What happens when rights appear to clash? – Ladele, McFarlane, the “gay cake” case</li></ul>

Wardship and inherent jurisdiction in children cases – 2025 update

Family and children law practitioners frequently encounter the concept of Wardship and the potential invocation of the High Court’s Inherent Jurisdiction. But what do these principles entail in practice?This webinar will provide a detailed examination of their application, including the necessary procedural requirements and the circumstances in which they may be invoked. While these mechanisms can offer effective remedies where case law or statute is insufficient, they can also be contentious and may involve urgent applications. The webinar will explore their use in both private and public law contexts, equipping you with essential knowledge for navigating these complex legal frameworks.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Use of wardship: what is this and how does it work in practice?</li><li>How does wardship link in with the inherent jurisdiction?</li><li>When should you consider wardship rather than a specific issue application?</li><li>Wardship and private children law matters</li><li>Which forms have to be completed, and how to go about the process of applying?</li><li>Inherent jurisdiction and duty to consult parents: when is a parent not to be notified of proceedings?</li><li>Disputes over vaccinations and parental responsibility- should I apply under Wardship or a specific issue order?</li><li>Use of inherent jurisdiction in matters relating to injunctions and personal protection</li><li>Wardship and name of child</li><li>Inherent jurisdiction and detention under MHA 1983 – consideration of A Local Authority  v PR 2024 EWHC 2964 (Fam)</li><li>Child sexual exploitation cases and use of wardship – developments in this area</li><li>Consideration of secure accommodation, wardship and deprivation of liberty – how has the law developed in this area and what if the appropriate application is not made?</li><li>Use of section 33(3) CA 1989, DOL applications and implications of Re J 2024 EWHC 1690 and Court of Appeal decision in 2025</li><li>Practice guidance about transition of matters from national DOL list to court of protection – January 2025</li><li>Inherent jurisdiction and matters related to nationality</li></ul>

Drainage issues in residential conveyancing

Homeowners don’t linger on thoughts about what happens after they flush the toilet or empty the sink, but residential conveyancers do need to consider wider issues relating to drainage of both sewage and surface water whether mains or off mains.This webinar will look at the key issues including:<ul><li>Responsibility for maintenance of drains and sewers</li><li>SUDS & Expansion</li><li>Build-over and build-near agreements & potential impact of an omission in the Transfer of Private Sewers Regulations 2011</li><li>Properties without mains drainage: general binding rules</li></ul>

Supervision – A brief for law firm leaders

Have you really learnt to lead your team effectively or just got by in terms of supervision until now? The historical norm of good lawyers becoming leaders is no longer appropriate as leadership and supervisions skills have become critical.Aimed at law firm supervisors, managers, and team leaders this webinar will introduce basic supervision best practice and guide on how to support your team effectively.The SRA Standards & Regulations 2019 have been amended to include well-being of your team supervision and competence. This webinar will help manage these evolving risks and guide you on becoming a high performing supervisor.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Supervision in the modern workplace</li><li>What is good supervision?</li><li>How do you get the best out of your team?</li><li>If sports people need a coach on fundamental skills to maintain their sporting prowess, are solicitors able to learn from this?</li><li>The SRA and Law Society requirements and guidance</li><li>Some simple supervision models to help you develop a supervisor</li></ul>

PD51ZB and The Damages Claims Portal

Following the introduction of PD51ZB in early 2022 for unspecified damages claims going through the county court, and subsequent changes making the Damages Claims Portal (DCP) mandatory for both claimants and defendants, users have encountered significant difficulty around how to perform certain tasks and processes on the system.This webinar will provide a basic overview and guide to using the system appropriately, so that users comply with their obligations under the CPR and PD51ZB, whilst navigating the nuances of the MyHMCTS system.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Overview of the Damages Claims Portal/MyHMCTS</li><li>PD51ZB and the CPR</li><li>Things to know before using the DCP</li><li>How to issue a claim</li><li>Serving a claim</li><li>Making applications (pre and post service)</li><li>The Defence and Direction Questionnaires</li><li>Standard Direction Orders</li></ul>The webinar will not cover in detail the processes leading up to trial.

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 – when it applies

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 is the bed rock of commercial leases and is essential for any property professional.  This webinar will explore the various situations where the Act applies.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Exclusion of the act including the Court of Appeal case of TFS v Designer Retail Centres</li><li>Tenancies at will</li><li>Leases and licences</li><li>Occupation for business purposes under the act</li><li>Recent cases on occupation and subleases</li><li>The definition of a business</li></ul>

The latest construction news for property lawyers

This webinar will cover all the latest construction news for property lawyers on developments under the Building Safety Act 2022, including:<ul><li>The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (Commencement No 1) Regulations 2024</li><li>Issues with roof gardens and the decision in Smoke House & Curing House, 18 Remus Road, E3 2NF</li><li>News on delays relating to passing the Gateways</li><li>The Remediation Acceleration Plan</li><li>The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC): Consultation outcome</li><li>The Building Safety Levy: Technical consultation response</li></ul>The latest case law will be covered, including cases such as:<ul><li>Almacantar Centre Point v Various Leaseholders of Centre Point House</li><li>URS v BDW appeal;</li><li>Redrow plc v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government;</li><li> Grey GR Limited Partnership -v- Edgewater (Stevenage) Limited;</li><li>381 Southwark Park Road RTM Co Ltd v Click St Andrews Ltd;</li><li>BDW Trading Ltd v Ardmore Construction Ltd (2 cases);</li><li>Adriatic and Triathlon Homes appeals;</li><li>Flats 5, 15 and 29 Thanet Lodge, 10 Mapesbury Road, NW2 4JA</li></ul>

Tenant breach of covenant, remedies and enforcement (including forfeiture)

This webinar will empower you with essential knowledge about tenant breaches of covenant, available remedies and enforcement mechanisms, including the use of forfeiture as a last resort. You will gain practical insights into addressing common breaches effectively while minimising risks.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Overview of tenant covenants</li><li>Identifying breaches of covenant: common breaches (e.g. rent arrears, unauthorized alterations, subletting), documentation, and the importance of clear lease terms</li><li>Remedies for breach: non-legal remedies (negotiation, mediation) and legal options (injunctions, damages, specific performance), including the role of statutory notices</li><li>Forfeiture as a last resort: what forfeiture entails, the process (e.g. section 146 notices, waiver considerations), tenant rights, and landlord risks</li><li>Case study: example of unauthorised subletting, with discussion on enforcement steps and remedies</li></ul>

Where litigators go wrong

The law reports are full of negligent actions by litigators when running actions, despite rules and authorities going back decades. Such lapses can result in a good case being rejected or at the least costly interim applications. This practical webinar will identify the common errors and how you can avoid derailing your own case.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What must I plead?</li><li>Is it obligatory to spell out fraud?</li><li>The burden of proof</li><li>Where a judge begins when assessing evidence</li><li>Specifics for a defendant to address</li><li>What must happen where key evidence is disputed?</li><li>The correct approach where evidence is deliberately destroyed – what latitude does the court enjoy to go beyond pleadings?</li></ul>

A practical guide to understanding ‘threshold’ in care cases

In public children law cases, family lawyers must have a strong understanding of the evolving issues surrounding the threshold criteria. It’s crucial to know how it operates, the types of evidence required to establish it, and how to respond effectively, particularly in navigating the complexities of ‘past’ and ‘future’ harm. This webinar will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle these challenging threshold issues in care proceedings. We’ll explore key case law, practical insights, and procedural best practices, ensuring you’re well-prepared to handle these critical aspects of children law.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Threshold criteria – what to establish and why?</li><li>How can one deal with threshold effectively at interim and final hearings? Difference between s.38(2) and s.31(2) CA 1989 in practice</li><li>Threshold statements and responses – how to respond to threshold</li><li>Linking the facts with showing harm and/or likelihood of harm – implications of Re A (A Child) [2015] EWFC 11</li><li>Consideration of Re BR (Proof of Facts) [2015] EWFC 41</li><li>Does threshold need to be established in all cases? Consideration of WBC v. A [2016] EWFC B70</li><li>Threshold involving children in the same set of proceedings – consideration of Re L-K (Children) [2015] EWCA Civ 830</li><li>Consideration of diverse standards of parenting</li><li>If threshold are met, will removal be sanctioned? What about welfare contact/family time, and/or the care plan?</li><li>Threshold when one parent has killed another – consideration of Re A and B [2010] EWHC 3824  </li><li>Threshold and need for an order- implications of LCC v. AB and Others [2018] EWHC 1960 (Fam)</li><li>Threshold from previous proceedings and position with new allegations – implications of Re J (A Child) 2013 and H-W (Care Proceedings: Further Fact – Finding Hearing) 2023 EWCA Civ 149 </li><li>Threshold based on future harm – implication of Re B (A Child) [2013] UKSC 33</li></ul>

What to do when you make a mistake

We all dread making the kind of mistake that can derail a professional career. It may not be the end of the world in itself, but maybe the reputational fallout will do the damage anyway. Actually, we all slip up from time to time, and the result is rarely Armageddon.Topics covered include:<ul><li> The most common mistakes made by lawyers</li><li>How to avoid them</li><li>How to handle mistakes when they do occur</li><li>Action planning to keep mistakes at bay</li></ul>

How to structure estate sales: navigating SuDS, maintenance, rentcharges, and commonhold

Given the recent changes to leasehold ground rents, rentcharges, and related matters—with more reforms expected—we will explore various ways to structure leasehold blocks, manage landscaping, and address Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) on development sites.We will examine different management arrangements, including landlord management companies, floating management companies, concurrent leases, and even Tyneside flat-style structures.The government is keen to revive Commonhold, despite its less attractive framework compared to other countries’ strata title systems. Meanwhile, Scotland has developed a more effective and less burdensome approach to resolving the leasehold issue. In this webinar, we’ll also look at what changes may be on the horizon for leasehold arrangements.

Listed buildings – the key issues for conveyancers

This webinar will focus on the key issues that come up for conveyancers who are dealing with listed buildings.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What does “listed” mean</li><li>The categories of listing</li><li>Limitations imposed on listed building owners</li><li>What does need listed building consent?</li><li>What is a “building”?</li><li>EPC and listing</li></ul>

Pride: inheritance and estate planning for the LGBTQ+ community

With 3.2% of the population identifying as LGBTQ+ and evolving legal frameworks around gender recognition, relationships, and estate planning, it is essential for practitioners to provide informed and sensitive advice. This webinar will explore the unique legal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ clients, including key considerations for wills, lasting powers of attorney, and family structures. Gain the knowledge to navigate complex issues, mitigate potential disputes, and ensure your advice is both legally sound and inclusive.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Overview of potential issues:<ul><li>Cohabitees: legal rights vs marriage/civil partnership</li><li>Pronouns and chosen titles</li><li>Not making assumptions about relationships</li><li>Alternative relationship structures, including non-monogamous relationships</li><li>‘Next of kin’</li></ul></li><li>Health conditions and impact on long term care<ul><li>Lasting power of attorneys</li><li>Different types of LPAs</li><li>Reasons why LPAs beneficial</li><li>Advance Statements</li></ul></li><li>Wills and Estate planning<ul><li>Potential impact of family homophobia and estrangement</li><li>Transitioning clients, children or grandchildren and Gender Recognition</li><li>Non-dom LGBTQ+ clients</li><li>Children: impact of IVF, surrogacy and adoption</li></ul></li><li>Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975</li></ul>

AML traps for conveyancers

Every conveyancing lawyer knows that they must comply with the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, and yet it is still an area that is misunderstood. Individual fee earners face fines and even criminal charges if they get it wrong, so it is essential to understand the key requirements. AML is not a tick box exercise, nor is it someone else’s job. This webinar will be a refresher on this key area for legal practitioners and those who work alongside them will learn the key principles. This webinar will contain practical examples set in a conveyancing context.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What are the key AML requirements?</li><li>What are the practical risks for conveyancers?</li><li>AML guidance</li></ul>

Source of wealth/source of funds – your questions answered

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) recently acknowledged the level of confusion among professionals regarding the precise distinction between the concepts of ‘wealth’ and ‘funds.’ They have indicated their intention to issue updated guidance to clarify their interpretation of these terms.In the interim, we must proceed with the current understanding of these terms, though many may still have questions about the difference between the two concepts, the extent to which we need to conduct inquiries, and whether corroborative evidence is required to verify the information provided.This webinar aims to address these questions and provide clarity on the matter.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is the difference between Source of Wealth and Source of Funds?</li><li>Which should come first?</li><li>What do we do about clients we have known for years?</li><li>What records do we need to keep?</li><li>What evidence do we need – is 6 months bank statements sufficient?</li><li>When can we stop?</li></ul>

Commercial property update (including landlord and tenant) – Summer 2025

This webinar is part of our regular quarterly update series, designed to be an engaging and efficient means of keeping abreast of key developments, and will cover a number of recent cases and other changes on both commercial leases and commercial property generally, including the following topics:<ul><li>Opposing lease renewal successfully: redevelopment plans and landlord’s occupation;</li><li>Relief from forfeiture:<ul><li>Restoring the landlord to its pre-breach position;</li><li>Problems for sub-tenants;</li></ul></li><li>Repudiatory breach of lease by landlord – can it happen, and how?</li><li>Termination clauses & own breach “clear and entirely unequivocal”;</li><li>Boundaries: unpicking demarcation agreements;</li><li>More on modifying restrictive covenants for change of use</li></ul>

Planning and development – what every property lawyer needs to know

In her latest planning and development update for property lawyers, Peta Dollar will cover the following:Development:<ul><li>Restrictive covenants</li><li>Easements: Changes to LRPG 62</li><li>Conditional contracts</li><li>Adverse possession: Clapham v Narga; Brown v Ridley</li><li>Boundaries: White v Alder</li><li>Government response to CMA recommendations on housebuilding</li></ul>Planning:<ul><li>R (Friends of West Oxfordshire Cotswolds) v West Oxfordshire District Council (s73)</li><li>Friends of the Earth Ltd v Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (climate-related issues)</li><li>Farnham Town Council v Secretary of State for Levelling Up Housing and Communities; Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities v Rogers (Rev1) (s288)</li><li>Evans v Bridgend County Borough Council (repeat planning applications)</li><li>Jones v Shropshire Council (CIL)</li><li>Mead Realisations Ltd v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government (policy/guidance)</li><li>Greenfields (IOW) Limited v Isle of Wight Council (s106)</li><li>Consultation on draft supplementary EIA guidance following Finch</li><li>Community Infrastructure Levy (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2025</li><li>The Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2024-25</li><li>The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 (Commencement No 7) Regulations 2025</li></ul>

An introduction to leadership for lawyers

Good lawyers tend to progress their careers by being asked to lead a team, department or firm. Leadership does not come naturally to everyone but it is a skill which can be learnt and developed.This webinar will focus on how to lead practically and is aimed at prospective leaders, newly appointed leaders and those leaders who recognise that they need to develop their leadership skills to support their team.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Setting an example – real leadership</li><li>How to plan your time as a leader</li><li>Why doing less will help you, and empower those you lead</li><li>Giving and receiving feedback</li><li>Persuasion, power and influence – using these to lead effectively</li></ul>

Complex financial disputes – a guide for family lawyers

This webinar will explore how to best manage complex financial disputes during divorce proceedings.Topics covered include:<ul><li>A guide to how to take full proof from your client from the outset</li><li>Immediate applications / actions that may be necessary</li><li>The use of experts and obtaining reports from joint experts in connection with valuations</li><li>How to best use mediation to deal with practical issues if there are difficulties between solicitors direct</li><li>Ensure there is a private FDR in the diary so that the judge has proper time to consider all documents and the matter generally and can concentrate on the matter solely on the day assigned for the private hearing</li><li>Costs considerations</li></ul>

Property rights for unmarried couples: key legal principles for family law practitioners

Family law practitioners are increasingly required to advise unmarried parties, former cohabitants, and non-civil partners on property-related matters. In such cases, trust law is particularly relevant, especially for individuals who are or have been cohabiting. Many practitioners find this area challenging, making a solid understanding of key legal principles, practice, and procedure essential.While procedural aspects are largely governed by the Civil Procedure Rules, relationship breakdowns are deeply rooted in family law, highlighting the need for practitioners to be well-versed in both areas. This webinar will provide a comprehensive overview of the relevant legal principles, equipping you with the knowledge necessary to advise former cohabiting couples effectively.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Impact of a client referring their partner as ‘common law wife and husband’</li><li>Joint tenancies and tenancies in common – Why the importance?</li><li>Cohabitation contracts and their usefulness</li><li>Constructive trusts – What needs to be established?</li><li>Consideration of leading cases, including Lee Hudson v Jayne Hathway [2022] EWHC 631 (QB)</li><li>Informal discussions and impact of decision in Nilsson v Cynberg [2024] EWHC 2164 (Ch)</li><li>Compulsory mediation and impact of Churchill v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council [2023] EWCA Civ. 141</li><li>Use of proprietary estoppel in advising former cohabiting couples</li><li>Equitable accounting and occupation rent</li><li>How does Schedule 1 CA 1989 fit into trusts of land disputes? Consideration of Y v Z ( Schedule 1) [2024] EWFC 4</li><li>Pursuing and defending cases through Tolata 1996</li></ul>

Negotiation of Share Purchase or Asset Purchase Agreements

The Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) or Asset Purchase Agreement (APA) is the key document governing mergers and acquisitions. Negotiating its terms is essential to protecting your client’s interests.This webinar will cover:<ul><li>What is an SPA or APA?</li><li>The key differences between and SPA or an APA</li><li>Acting for a buyer or a seller</li><li>What is being bought and sold?</li><li> Consideration<ul><li>Cash</li><li>Deferred</li><li>Earn out</li><li>Shares/other</li><li>Completion accounts or locked box</li><li>Accruals and prepayments</li></ul></li><li>Warranties and indemnities</li><li>Limitation on claims</li><li>Conditions</li><li>Restrictive covenants</li><li>Disclosure</li><li>Tax covenants</li><li>Risks</li><li>Due diligence and reverse due diligence if acting for a seller</li><li>Exchange and completion</li></ul>

An introduction to the probate process for paralegals and support staff

This webinar offers a comprehensive introduction to estate administration, designed to equip those new to wills and probate teams with the knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the process confidently. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the key steps involved in estate administration, enabling them to actively contribute to the management of estates from start to finish.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is probate?</li><li>The Intestacy Provisions</li><li>A detailed examination of the three stages of estate administration: pre-probate, obtaining probate, and post-probate</li><li>Tax in estates and the Trust Registration Service</li><li>Estate accounts and protecting your firm before distributing estates</li><li>Deeds of Variation</li></ul>

Costs orders – getting them right

The constant stream of rulings on costs show how vital it is to ensure that any costs order made for or against your client is correct. There has also been a recent spike in wasted costs orders against lawyers. This webinar will consider the variety of orders that can be made and how conventional ones could be refused or varied.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Standard or indemnity basis?</li><li>The quirks of Intermediate Track recovery</li><li>Part 36 orders where there is late acceptance</li><li>Part 36 consequences</li><li>Ordering a solicitor to pay</li><li>Ordering a third party to pay</li><li>Penalising misconduct</li></ul>

Project management – how to scope

This webinar introduces the principles of project management as applied to legal transactions. You will learn how to improve efficiency, control costs, manage risks, and meet client expectations while maintaining quality of service.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Scoping the project</li><li>Planning by using work breakdown summaries</li><li>Creating the timeline for the project by using Gantt charts and timetables</li><li>Risk assessment</li><li>Budgeting and cashflow analysis</li><li>Setting medium and long term objectives – and how to avoid having longer term projects blown off course by short term emergencies</li></ul>

Commercial lease, repairing covenants, service charge and dilapidations

Dilapidations is an area that never goes away. Commercial landlords need to maintain the value of their investment and tenants need to restrict the impact of their repairing obligations. This webinar will consider all these aspects in a practical way and advise on pitfalls and solutions. Topics covered include:<ul><li>Repair as opposed to renewal and improvements;</li><li>Repair and service charge liability;</li><li>Damages for disrepair;</li><li>Recent important case law on service charges;</li><li>Practical Considerations; and</li><li>Building Safety Act 2022 and implications for mixed-use properties.</li></ul>

TUPE Transfers – your essential guide

This engaging webinar will cover the essential elements involved in managing a TUPE transfer. We’ll delve into the commercial aspects such as outsourcing, business sales, handling TUPE data and effective negotiation strategies.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Key considerations in a TUPE transfer</li><li>Understanding who is affected by a transfer</li><li>The legal requirements</li><li>Rights that are transferred</li><li>Obligations related to information and consultation</li><li>Employee liability information</li><li>Approaching changes resulting from TUPE in a constructive and proactive manner</li><li>Preventing unfair dismissals in TUPE scenarios</li></ul>

Introduction to joint ventures for property lawyers

Property-focussed joint ventures are an important part of property work, particularly in the context of development.  This webinar will provide an introduction for those who have not come across them before, including:<ul><li>What is a property joint venture?</li><li>Different situations where a property joint venture may occur</li><li>The issues that need to be considered when forming a property joint venture</li><li>The different structures available when forming a property joint venture, including contractual joint ventures, forward funding, partnerships, joint venture companies, REITs and others</li><li>The advantages and disadvantages of each structure, including tax, the possibility of a collective investment scheme arising, liability, risk and reward, confidentiality and ability to borrow</li><li>Lessons from the cases</li></ul>

Will and estate planning for clients with physical disabilities

This webinar aims to equip practitioners with key insights and practical guidance for working with clients who have physical disabilities when making a will and undertaking estate planning. It will highlight the additional steps, safeguards, and evidentiary requirements necessary—particularly in cases involving clients who are blind, visually impaired, illiterate, or unable to communicate in English—to ensure the validity of a will and reduce the risk of future challenges or claims against practitioners.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Making a will: legal requirements</li><li>Presumption of knowledge and approval</li><li>Additional steps and safeguards:<ul><li>Involvement of a professional</li><li>Will drafting and preparation</li><li>Formatting and alternative formats</li><li>Attestation clauses</li><li>Anticipating issues on signing the will</li></ul></li><li>Challenging will on grounds of knowledge and approval:<ul><li>Suspicious circumstances</li><li>Evidence of due execution</li><li>Evidence to contest a will</li><li>Evidence to defend a will</li></ul></li><li>Other considerations<ul><li>Evidence of due execution</li><li>Evidence of will of blind or illiterate testator</li><li>Rectification and/or construction of the will</li><li>Professional negligence</li><li>Costs and time limits</li><li>Impact if successful in challenging will</li></ul></li><li>Other grounds to challenge validity of will</li></ul>

The digital future of wills and LPAs: AI, legal tech, and the Wills Act 2025

In this webinar, we will explore how rapid advancements in technology—particularly AI and digital tools—are reshaping private client work for solicitors. From the digitisation of LPAs and the potential for digital Wills under the proposed Wills Act 2025, to how AI can assist (not replace) lawyers in managing files and workflows, we’ll examine both the opportunities and the ethical challenges of this evolving legal landscape. This session also touches on the crucial role of data as we prepare for a more tech-driven future.Topics covered include:<ul><li>A brief timeline of key tech developments that have impacted private client work (e.g. blockchain, automation, AI)</li><li>The current state of AI and legal tech—and how it integrates into daily practice</li><li>Practical uses of AI to support, not replace, legal professionals (e.g. drafting, file review, client intake)</li><li>The digitisation of LPAs and the impact of proposed changes under the Wills Act 2025</li><li>Potential for digital Wills: opportunities, legal questions, and practical implications</li><li>Key risks and safeguards—how to identify red flags and reduce abuse in digital systems</li></ul>The evolving role of data in legal practice and why it’s critical for future-readiness

Navigating pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements in 2025

As modern relationships become increasingly complex, family law practitioners are seeing a growing demand for advice and expertise in drafting pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements. Once perceived as tools only for the ultra-wealthy, these agreements are now being considered by a broader range of couples—whether entering marriage or civil partnership.This webinar will explore how the law and best practices around nuptial agreements have developed, when and why they should be used, and the implications even when an agreement meets the standards set by Radmacher v Granatino. We’ll also examine the court’s discretion and the nuances that can influence enforceability.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The growing use of and importance of nuptial agreements</li><li>What is the impact of Radmacher v. Granatino [2010] UKSC 42? What principles emerge from this case?</li><li>Are pre-nuptial agreements binding, and what are the benefits of such agreements?</li><li>Nuptial agreements and meeting needs – Consideration of Ipekci v McConnell 2019 EWFC 19 and Robson v. Robson 2010 EWCA Civ 1171</li><li>Distinction between marital and non-marital property – WX v HX (Treatment of Matrimonial and Non- Matrimonial Property) 2021 EWHC 241 (Fam)</li><li>Impact of WC v HC 2022 EWFC 22 – undue influence and impact upon a pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreement</li><li>Non – material disclosure in negotiating the pre – nuptial agreement.</li><li>What about future inheritance? Can this be taken into account? Consideration of Alireza v Radwan and Others 2017 EWCA Civ 1545</li><li>Continuing use of Pre- nuptial Agreements  – Consideration of Helliwell v Entwistle 2024 EWHC 740 (Fam)</li><li>Drafting and Pre- nuptial agreements – Loh v Loh-Gronager [2024] EWFC 241</li></ul>

How to create and lead a high performance culture – a guide for lawyers

Law firms often develop accidental leaders, supervisors who are outstanding lawyers but who find creating a culture and leading a high performance team a challenge. Strangely simple tools can transform the leadership of your team and make supervision more enjoyable and effective.In this webinar we will explore the qualities of leadership, culture and high performance.The topics covered will include:<ul><li>Knowing and using your personal strengths and weaknesses</li><li>Setting the culture – leadership by example and by coaching</li><li>Data – why key performance indicators (KPIs) can help</li><li>Why a small numbers of KPI’s may help you</li><li>Using your teams strengths and weaknesses to compliment you and secure a higher performance culture</li><li>The importance of storytelling – data and successes to help inspire your team</li></ul>

The impact of short term lets on leasehold covenants

This webinar will explore the impact of short term lets on leasehold covenants.The following topics will be explored:<ul><li>User clauses in leases : Nemcova v Fairfields Rent Ltd & subsequent court decisions</li><li>Health and safety issues</li><li>Mortgage lender UKFML</li><li>Planning</li><li>Nuisance/annoyance</li><li>Insurance</li></ul>

A practical guide to Declarations of Trust

This informative and practical webinar designed to equip practitioners with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively advise on and draft Declarations of Trust.This webinar will explore when these declarations are necessary, the protection they offer, and the key differences between legal and beneficial ownership. Whether you’re new to this area or seeking a refresher, this webinar will enhance your confidence and capability in preparing Declarations of Trust.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What are Declarations of Trust and why are they useful, what protection do they provide</li><li>The differences between beneficial and legal title</li><li>A brief consideration of the tax consequences of setting them up</li><li>What they should include</li><li>Drafting tips to ensure you get them right</li></ul>

Family law for new entrants – practice and procedure

This introductory webinar is designed for new practitioners, those transitioning into family law, support staff, or anyone returning to practice and in need of a refresher. Covering both theory and practice, it offers a clear overview of key areas you will deal with in family law.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Use of the Family Procedure Rules 2010</li><li>Use of standard documents – what is available?</li><li>Taking instructions and funding</li><li>Divorce and dissolution – What has changed?</li><li>Resolving matters other than through court processes</li><li>Domestic abuse and steps to take – what remedies are available?</li><li>Financial aspects following relationship breakdown</li><li>Financial disputes affecting married parties and civil partners</li><li>Cohabitation and unmarried party disputes</li><li>Private children law disputes</li><li>Child Arrangements and Special Guardianship Orders</li><li>Local authority involvement and impact of care proceedings</li></ul>

Undertakings – pitfalls for conveyancers

The conveyancing process would fall apart if conveyancers did not give and receive undertakings. But there are signs that cracks are appearing. Are transfers being sent on the day of completion? Is the Code for Completion by Post being complied with? If undertakings are regularly breached, this can cause significant problems for conveyancers acting for seller and buyer.This webinar will be a refresher on this key area for legal practitioners and those who work alongside them will learn the key principles.This webinar will contain practical examples set in a conveyancing context.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is an undertaking?</li><li>Why do they matter in conveyancing transactions?</li><li>Are the requirements of the SRA and CLC different?</li><li>What did the Supreme Court have to say about undertakings?</li><li>What if an undertaking goes wrong?</li><li>How is an undertaking enforced?</li><li>Undertakings do’s and don’ts</li></ul>

Insurance in real estate finance transactions

This webinar will provide banking and real estate lawyers with an understanding of the need and types of insurance required in a real estate finance transaction, including an overview of how the insurance due diligence process is completed to the satisfaction of a lender.Topics covered include:Property insurance<ul><li>Cover</li><li>Exclusions</li><li>Conditions and warranties</li><li>Key insurance points for lenders</li><li>Lease considerations</li><li>Lease considerations for mixed use (freeholder insured)</li></ul>Construction – all risks<ul><li>Cover</li><li>Exclusions</li><li>Third-party liability</li><li>Other sections of the policy</li></ul>Lender’s clauses in a facility agreement<ul><li>Lender’s interest clauses</li><li>Other clauses</li><li>Common issues/negotiation required</li><li>Broker letters (and limits of liability)</li></ul>Lender’s insurance due diligence<ul><li>Why these are important</li><li>Broker letter</li><li>Insurance report</li></ul>

Accounts Rules – checklists for success

The Accounts Rules have remained largely unchanged for decades, and many firms have become familiar with their requirements. The streamlined 2019 version seemed to mark a continuation of this steady course.However, recent high-profile cases—most notably the Axiom Ince scandal—have prompted renewed scrutiny by the SRA. Long-standing practices around handling client money, earning interest, and retaining residual balances are now under review. A consultation is underway that could significantly reshape the regulatory landscape.This webinar will explore the SRA’s proposals, consider their potential impact, and provide practical guidance on compliance and risk management in light of these developments.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What are the SRA’s concerns over the SAR provisions?</li><li>What are they suggesting we do instead of the current regime</li><li>What is the objections to the current rules on interest</li><li>What checklists can we attempt to adhere to achieve compliance</li><li>What things should a COFA be keeping a check on?</li></ul>

Turnover Rents – the latest guidance

Since the pandemic there has been a resurgence in interest in turnover rents, particularly with the perilous state of the high street for new start-up shops. However, dealing with them correctly for either a landlord or a tenant needs more than using an off-the-shelf precedent. A detailed understanding of the tenant’s proposed business.This webinar will look at the key provisions and consider the key points to focus on, including:<ul><li>Structure-full turnover-base rent plus turnover?</li><li>What percentage</li><li>For how long – revert to UORR?</li><li>Caps?</li><li>Service charges and insurance too?</li><li>Keep-open covenants</li><li>Showrooming</li><li>Concessions</li><li>Alienation</li><li>Payment mechanics</li><li>Turnover is not profit</li><li>What is turnover?</li><li>Returns, theft, waste, etc</li></ul>

Enforcing judgements abroad – Hague reforms

This webinar offers a practical update on enforcing judgments internationally in the post-Brexit landscape. It covers the 2019 Hague Convention, expected changes in 2025, and the current state of bilateral agreements and Commonwealth standing orders. We’ll also look at key third states, including the USA and Middle Eastern jurisdictions, recent case law, and changes to the CPR. Ideal for lawyers needing clear guidance on navigating cross-border enforcement in a shifting legal environment. Topics covered include: <ul><li>After Brexit</li><li>The Hague Convention 2019</li><li>Changes to the Convention in 2025</li><li>Bilateral agreements – which ones are in effect?</li><li>Commonwealth standing orders</li><li>Third States – USA + Middle East</li><li>Recent cases</li><li>CPR and incoming judgments</li></ul>

Personal protection injunctions – enforcement across civil and criminal courts and the future of DAPO pilots

When dealing with injunction proceedings in personal protection cases, it’s essential for family law practitioners to understand both the civil and criminal dimensions. This is particularly crucial when securing non-molestation or occupation orders, as practitioners must be equipped to advise on the potential consequences of breaches—whether through civil penalties or criminal prosecution.The landscape continues to evolve, with increasing overlap between the family and criminal courts. Even if not directly involved in criminal proceedings, family practitioners must be prepared to guide clients on what actions may follow in the criminal context. This has become especially important following the guidance issued by the President of the Family Division in July 2023, which clarified how injunction proceedings interact with other legal processes.In addition, the piloting of Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) marks a significant shift in how protective measures are implemented. This webinar will explore how these new orders function and what they mean for future practice.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Use of civil and criminal remedies</li><li>What remedies are available in the event of alleged breach of such orders/undertakings.</li><li>What forms are used and what is the procedure?</li><li>What orders are available? – non-molestation and occupation orders</li><li>Use of ancillary orders – s.40 Family Law Act 1996 and enforcement</li><li>Without notice orders and enforcement – compliance with president’s guidance of 2023</li><li>Enforcement of exclusion provisions attached to molestation orders</li><li>Public law children orders and enforcement</li><li>Use of inherent jurisdiction and Ouster orders</li><li>Position with undertakings and enforcement – when may an undertaking not be accepted?</li><li>Enforcement of occupation orders – use of section 47 Family Law Act 1996</li><li>Criminal sanctions and use of Domestic Violence, Crimes and Victims of Act 2004</li><li>Powers of court on committal and use of Part 37 FPR 2010</li><li>Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders – current pilots and developments</li><li>How are Domestic Abuse Orders different to non – molestation and occupation orders?</li></ul>

Due diligence for private company acquisitions

Conducting appropriate due diligence is a key part of private company acquisitions, in order to ensure that the buyer is acquiring what they want to acquire and that there are no skeletons in the cupboard. Good due diligence then feeds into drafting the warranties and indemnities in a Share Purchase Agreement. This webinar will cover:<ul><li>Why due diligence?</li><li>Shares and ownership</li><li>Finance</li><li>Assets</li><li>Contracts</li><li>Employment</li><li>Regulatory and compliance</li><li>Litigation and complaints</li><li>Asset sales and share sales</li><li>How to send a due diligence request</li><li>How to respond to a due diligence request</li><li>How to analyse and report on due diligence</li><li>Data rooms</li><li>Reverse due diligence if acting for a seller</li></ul>

Obligations of trustees

This webinar looks at two of the most important obligations of trustees: the need to avoid self-dealing and the proper purpose rule. It will identify issues relating to trustees’ obligations and responsibilities and advise trustees appropriately on how to navigate these duties in practice. The webinar will look at recent cases including: <ul><li>Re McDonald (Deceased) [2022] EWHC 2405 (Ch)</li><li>Kane v Radley-Kane and Others [1999] Ch 274</li><li>Caldicott v Richards and Walker [2020] EWHC 767 (Ch)</li><li>Brealey v Shepherd [2024] EWCA Civ 303</li><li>Da Silva v Heselton [2022] EWCA Civ 880</li><li>Wong Liu Sheung v Burt [2005] WTLR 291 (New Zealand)</li><li>Smith v Michelmore’s Trust Corp Ltd [2021] EWHC 1425 (Ch)</li><li>Grand View Private Trust Co Ltd and another v Wong and others (Bermuda) [2022] UKPC 47</li></ul>

Meeting etiquette for lawyers

In many legal workplaces, meetings are a regular part of the working culture. While some discussions genuinely require a meeting, others might be handled more efficiently through a focused email exchange or a quick online survey. Knowing when a meeting is necessary—and how to make it effective when it is—can save everyone time and improve outcomes.This webinar is designed to help you make the most of the meetings you attend or help organise.Topics covered include:<ul><li>How to prepare effectively so you’re ready to contribute</li><li>What is expected of all participants during the meeting</li><li>The key responsibilities of the chairperson</li><li>What needs to happen ASAP after the meeting</li></ul>Understanding these basics will help you build confidence, communicate clearly, and work efficiently in a professional legal environment.

Funding care and support in later life: navigating the system

In 2024, there are now 22 million people aged over 50 in England, which is the equivalent to two in five of the total population. This is increasing rapidly and is expected to rise by a further 19.3% between 2024 and 2044 (an increase of 4.3 million people).Health and social care are intrinsically linked and continue to be under enormous pressure. Given how expensive care and support is in late years, it remains important to help clients navigate the complicated and difficult care and funding system to ensure that their needs are met as much as possible.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Funding:<ul><li>NHS Continuing Healthcare</li><li>NHS Funded nursing care</li><li>Social care funding: local authority/council funding</li></ul></li><li>Funding your own care<ul><li>Financial assessment</li><li>Investments and pensions</li><li>Benefits to help cover care costs</li><li>Care Fees Annuity Plan</li><li>Equity release</li><li>Deferred payment agreement</li><li>Direct payment</li></ul></li><li>Respite care</li><li>Palliative and end of life care</li><li>Gifting of funds and assets by your client or to their family:<ul><li>Deliberate deprivation?</li><li>Severance of joint tenancy: deliberate deprivation?</li><li>Allegations of financial abuse</li><li>Safeguarding</li><li>Investigations by the Office of the Public Guardian or social services</li><li>Recovery action</li></ul></li></ul>

How to get your witness statements right

Since Practice Direction 57AC came into force in April 2021, the stakes around witness statements have been raised significantly. There is now a steady stream of cases where compliance with the rules are tested and, in several of them, found wanting.A defective statement can be struck out, meaning that all of the evidence of the witness is dead and gone. At the same time, the courts have deprecated over-analysis of statements against PD 57AC as part of a tactical trial strategy.Professor Dominic Regan has covered the law around witness statements since it was introduced in 1992. This webinar will address:<ul><li>The essential ingredients</li><li>The most common drafting failures</li><li>The trap in CPR 32.10</li><li>How CPR PD 57AC change things</li><li>When a witness summary is required</li><li>When a witness might be ordered to give some evidence in chief</li><li>What should never be in a statement</li></ul>

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954: grounds of opposition, renewal terms and interim rents

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 is the bedrock of commercial leases and is essential for any property professional. This webinar will look at:<ul><li>The grounds of opposition;</li><li>Intention to demolition and reconstruct;</li><li>Opposition through misrepresentation;</li><li>Renewal terms including some current issues in relation to rent suspension, turnover rents and energy performance; and</li><li>Interim rents and market rents.</li></ul>

Where to start with an ESG strategy

An ESG strategy consists of a set of standards measuring a business’s impact on society, the environment, and how transparent and accountable it is together with how it can be improved. This webinar will look at what an ESG strategy consists of, the benefits of a good one and how to develop one.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What ESG is and the difference between an ESG strategy and ESG goals</li><li>What a good ESG strategy looks like</li><li>The benefit of preparing the ground</li><li>How to develop a strategy</li><li>The importance of implementing a strategy</li><li>How an effective ESG strategy can make business sense</li></ul>

Residential property update – September 2025

In this the latest of his regular update sessions David will be looking at current issues & topics impacting on residential conveyancing including:<ul><li>The Renters Rights Bill</li><li>The 6th Edition of the TA6</li><li>Law Commission consultation on Chancel repair liability</li><li>Government  consultation on regulating service charges and estate management charges</li><li>Unincorporated Associations & adverse possession</li><li>Land Registry Practice guide 81: encouraging the use of digital technology in identity verification</li></ul>

Private children law – 2025 update

Private children law continues to evolve, and 2025 has seen significant developments. From changes in parental responsibility and parentage declarations to enforcement of child arrangements and the impact of the Pathfinder Pilots.This webinar offers a clear and up-to-date overview, ideal for practitioners seeking a concise summary of key principles, recent case law, and practical updates. The webinar provides a focused review of the most important changes in private children law over the past year.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Developments surrounding parental responsibility</li><li>Declarations as to parentage</li><li>Practice direction updates</li><li>MIAM’s and use of NCDR</li><li>Pathfinder pilots and courts – how has this progressed?</li><li>Use of child impact report</li><li>Domestic abuse fact-finding hearings in private children law cases</li><li>Use of QLR and private children law cases</li><li>Change of name[s]</li><li>Developments surrounding PD12J and interim contact/ child arrangements</li><li>Family reporting</li><li>Key case law developments</li></ul>

The telecoms code

This webinar will provide an introduction to the 2017 Electronic Communications Code for property lawyers, and will answer the big questions posed by clients, namely<ol><li>Can we stop new telecoms apparatus being installed on/in our building?</li><li>If not, what compensation will we get, and will this cover loss of development potential?</li><li>How can we get existing telecoms apparatus removed from our building?</li></ol>Topics covered include:<ul><li>What are Code rights and how are they acquired?</li><li>Court powers to impose an agreement</li><li>Termination and modification of agreements</li><li>Pre-existing agreements and the 54 Act</li><li>Lessons from the cases</li></ul>

Leadership and performance using KPIs – A guide for law firms

A lot of the material around leadership, supervision and a high performance culture exists on the internet, in podcasts, and in books.  How do you turn this general leadership noise into day to day steps?In this webinar we will draw on other recent webinars (An Introduction to Leadership for Lawyers, Supervision – A Brief Guide for Law Firm Leaders, and How to Create and Lead a High Performance Culture a Guide for Lawyers) and focus on the power of the collective team and how you can influence a team moving forward using data, targets and performance indicators to raise awareness of team goals and make achieving them enjoyable collectively and to deliver high performance.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is the purpose of your team?</li><li>How to agree and define your goals as a team?</li><li>Using the published and respected frameworks of Jim Collins, Jerry Porros, Simon Sinek and Brad Stulberg to help.</li><li>In terms of culture creating a sense of purpose, connection and team safety.</li><li>Six key performance indicators which help profitability, client satisfaction and employees recognising your team and clients expectations.</li><li>How you can create a team ethos in the context of a law firm using established business and management tools.</li><li>We will focus on what you can do to make a difference through your leadership of a team and what to cut out to make you a more effective leader.</li></ul>

A guide to surrogacy for family practitioners

Surrogacy is an emerging and ever-growing method of family building. It is now, effectively, an international industry. In 2023, the Law Commission highlighted the need for statutory reform, but this remains unaddressed by Parliament. Case law, though, continues to stretch and develop as the Court seeks to apply an arguably outdated statutory framework to modern societal norms.Topics covered include:<ul><li>A brief overview of the existing legal framework covering surrogacy in England & Wales</li><li>An examination of the Court’s judicial creativity in the field of surrogacy</li><li>A look at the “state of play” of some of the key socio-economic issues facing surrogacy law</li><li>Case law</li></ul>

Service charges in commercial leases – what you need to know

Navigating service charges in a commercial lease can be challenging—especially when faced with a lengthy schedule in a lease for a new shopping centre, a small lock-up unit, or an office space. However, most service charge provisions share key elements that, once understood, can make the process more manageable.This webinar will guide you through those core elements, helping you identify what to look for and how to approach them effectively.Additionally, with the increasing focus on climate change and energy performance (EPC/MEES), there is growing scrutiny over who bears the cost of related works or alterations. This webinar will also explore how these evolving considerations are impacting lease negotiations and responsibilities.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The key sections of a service charge clause</li><li>The services</li><li>The proportion and future variations</li><li>How is the amount assessed and rights to challenge amounts</li><li>Concessions</li><li>Car parks in the building/Centre</li><li>MEES/EPC green lease improvements</li><li>New build issues – latent defects</li><li>Alterations – tenants and landlords</li></ul>

Advances in special guardianship and child arrangement orders – discharge and enforcement

Family practitioners advising on children law cases must understand the differences and practical implications of Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) and Child Arrangements Orders (CAOs).This webinar explores how each order operates, when one may be more appropriate than the other, and recent developments in legislation and case law. It will also cover the test for discharging an SGO and the methods of enforcing a CAO.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Child Arrangements orders – effect, criteria and Procedure</li><li>Enforcement of child arrangements orders – What options are available?</li><li>Alienating behaviour cases and enforcement</li><li>Special guardianship orders – how do they operate?</li><li>Care orders and SG orders – consideration of Re F and G (discharge of special guardianship order) 2021 EWCA Civ 622</li><li>Special guardianship orders – how do they operate?</li><li>Special guardianship regulations – position in England Wales</li><li>Assessments, timescales and support</li><li>Assessment for SG order and child crrangements</li><li>Extending the 26 weeks and effect of Re Re P-S (Children) 2018 EWCA Civ 1407</li><li>Discharge of special guardianship orders – Consideration of Re M (Special Guardianship Order: Leave to Apply to Discharge) 2021 EWCA Civ 442</li></ul>

GDPR – the latest news

The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 (‘the Act’) received royal assent on 19th June 2025 and makes a series of changes to the UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018 and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003. Some of these changes are already in force and the remainder will come into force either in 2025 or in 2026.This webinar will look at the key changes in the Act and will highlight what controllers need to do to remain compliant. Other recent developments in the field of data protection will also be considered.]Topics will include:Summary of key provisions of the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025<ul><li>Recognised legitimate interests</li><li>Privacy notices</li><li>Subject access requests</li><li>Automated decision making and profiling</li><li>International transfers</li><li>Cookies</li><li>Application of the soft opt-in to charities</li><li>Increased fining powers for breach of the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003</li></ul>Subject access requests – Ashley v HMRC [2025] EWHC 134 (KB)<ul><li>Scope of subject access requests</li><li>Meaning of ‘personal data’</li><li>Reasonable and proportionate searches</li><li>Provision of information</li></ul>Regulatory Action <ul><li>Latest examples of enforcement action under the UK GDPR</li><li>Latest examples of enforcement action under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003</li></ul>

Newbuild - points to consider

When acting on a newbuild purchase conveyancers will have to consider a wide range of issues which may not all arise on a resale property. This session will look at some of the main points including:<ul><li>Land Registry plan requirements</li><li>Planning conditions and building regulations</li><li>Road and sewer agreements</li><li>SUDS & NAV</li><li>The difference between planning obligation agreements and Community Infrastructure Levy</li><li>Professional Consultant certificates</li></ul>

Planning issues with conditional contracts and options

Property lawyers who do not fully understand how planning works can have major difficulties when drafting, amending and understanding sale contracts that are conditional on the grant of planning permission.  This webinar will focus on the pitfalls to be avoided and the issues that you need to be aware of, including in particular:<ul><li>Defining the planning permission that is the subject of the condition – outline or detailed, onerous conditions, etc.</li><li>Third party challenges, judicial review and s288 – how do they work and what are the problem areas</li><li>Should the seller approve the form of planning application and/or be a joint applicant?</li><li>What about planning appeals?</li><li>Issues with s106 planning obligations</li><li>Lessons from the cases</li></ul>

Whistleblowing: dismissal and detriment

This webinar deals with unfair dismissal and detriment as a result of a protected disclosure (whistleblowing) – an important topic for those acting for employers or employees. The right to protection comes into play from day one, compensation is potentially unlimited, and in the case of dismissal there is the prospect of interim relief. The topics covered will include:<ul><li>What is a qualifying disclosure? Does it include an allegation as well as information?</li><li>What constitutes a reasonable belief that the disclosure is in the public interest?</li><li>What are the protected routes for making a qualifying disclosure?</li><li>Can a claim be made based upon an anticipated disclosure which has not yet been made?</li><li>Does the person who is responsible for the dismissal or detriment need to have knowledge of the disclosure for the whistleblowing provisions to apply?</li><li>What employment status is necessary to make a claim for whistleblowing?</li><li>The differing tests for liability in respect of dismissal and detriment</li><li>The differing rules for compensation in relation to dismissal and detriment</li><li>Claims against co-workers and agents</li><li>Gagging clauses in the context of whistleblowing</li><li>Interim relief: the procedure, the test and the outcome</li></ul>

SRA wellbeing, SLAPPs, NDAs and other issues

Explore the SRA’s increasingly stringent regulatory approach, which has seen firms across the UK face significant penalties for failing to comply with evolving rules, regulations, thematic reviews, and warning notices. While some view this as necessary enforcement, others see it as a barrier to sector growth—especially amid global challenges like Covid-19, the war in Ukraine, and Middle East unrest. We’ll also cover pressing issues such as SLAPP litigation, NDAs, and new wellbeing rules, helping you stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly shifting legal landscape. Topics covered include: <ul><li>The current SRA enforcement approach</li><li>SLAPP guidance and the pitfalls</li><li>NDA guidance – when we can and cannot use them</li><li>Awareness of the issues amongst the profession</li><li>Wellbeing steps that all firms should now have in place</li></ul>

Charities as beneficiaries: what personal representatives need to know

74% of people in the United Kingdom support charities during their lifetime. However, only 7% leave gifts to charities in their wills. Legacy income is predicted to reach over £6 billion by 2050. Charities are now preparing to plan, invest and be ever more creative to maintain and increase their legacy income, in a market that is becoming more crowded.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Personal representatives:<ul><li>Notification of benefit</li><li>Rights to information</li><li>Keeping in contact</li></ul></li><li>IHT considerations:<ul><li>Burden of IHT</li><li>Grossing up</li><li>Reduced rate</li><li>Post death variations</li></ul></li><li>Claims against the estate<ul><li>Ex-gratia claims</li><li>Misnamed charities</li><li>Cy-pres doctrine</li><li>Professional negligence and maladministration</li><li>Costs of executor and/or professionals</li><li>Contested legacies</li></ul></li><li>Other considerations<ul><li>Charities and the duties of charity trustees</li><li>CGT and appropriations</li><li>Charities Act 2022</li><li>Estate and trust accounts: issues for charities</li><li>Best practice in relation to Form R185</li></ul></li></ul>

Understanding estate taxation: income and capital gains tax for personal representatives

This webinar is designed to help practitioners navigate income tax and capital gains tax (CGT) issues in estate administration, including income arising before and after death, the CGT uplift on death, and CGT on disposals during the administration period. Participants will come away better equipped to manage these tax matters with confidence.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Income Tax prior to death<ul><li>Income tax on post death income and payments to beneficiaries</li><li>CGT uplift on death, how this works</li><li>CGT on disposals by the personal representatives and a guided calculation</li><li>A review of penalties and reporting to HMRC</li></ul></li></ul>

Secret commission claims through the back door

Firms like JG Solicitors and Checkmylegalfees have failed in the main to further their efforts to challenge solicitors’ profit costs and success fees through cases like Belsner and Karatysz. However, rather than discontinue the hundreds of live sets of Solicitors Act 1974 detailed assessment proceedings (and become responsible for adverse costs), energy is now being expended on ‘converting’ those proceedings into possible ‘secret commission claim’ associated with ATE premiums taken out by firms. Nick McDonnell, Director & Costs Lawyer with Kain Knight, will discuss the recent case Turner v Coupland Cavendish Ltd and its current ongoing journey to the Court of Appeal.

Commercial property update (including landlord and tenant) – Autumn 2025

This webinar is part of our regular quarterly update series, designed to be an engaging and efficient means of keeping abreast of key developments, and will cover a number of recent cases and other changes on both commercial leases and commercial property generally, including the following topics:<ul><li>The Court of Appeal on the lease /licence distinction: AP Wireless v On Tower;</li><li>Rights of light: damage or injunction? Lessons from the High Court in Cooper v Ludgate;</li><li>Landlord’s commission for insurance: the impact for landlords and tenant of the decision in London Trocadero v Picturehouse;</li><li>Nuisance & leases: whose liable? HLS Leisure v Darville</li><li>The end of upwards only rent reviews? A surprise addition to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill</li><li>Adverse possession – who can claim it? Atkinson v Browne</li></ul>

Employee ownership trusts

This webinar is designed to give participants an overview of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) and the key stages in setting them up.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is an EOT?</li><li>Why organisations should consider becoming an EOT:<ul><li>A friendly buyer for your business?</li><li>Just the tax?</li></ul></li><li>Pros and cons of considering becoming an EOT.</li><li>Stages in setting up an EOT:<ul><li>Independent valuation</li><li>Deal structure:<ul><li>Corporate structure</li><li>Documents</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Employees</li><li>Tax</li><li>Conflicts of interest</li><li>Control, decisions and information</li><li>Culture (eats strategy for breakfast)</li></ul>

Guarding against financial abuse: lifetime risks and remedies

This webinar will help practitioners to better detect, prevent, and address financial abuse of older and vulnerable clients, focusing on the legal and practical framework for trustees, attorneys, and deputies. It will cover risks such as self-dealing, conflicts of interest, and misuse of assets, along with how to spot warning signs, reduce risks, and recover funds from wrongdoers.While financial abuse can occur alongside other forms of mistreatment, it is often perpetrated by those in positions of trust—frequently family members without formal authority but with access to accounts and assets—as well as by appointed trustees, attorneys, and deputies whose powers are misused or abused.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Statutory framework: lasting power of attorneys and deputies</li><li>Fiduciary duties</li><li>Financial abuse</li><li>Mental capacity</li><li>Self-dealing and/or conflict of interest<ul><li>Selling or buying property to a family member</li><li>Severing a joint tenancy</li><li>Charging for services</li><li>Making gifts, maintenance, and making family care payments</li></ul></li><li>Applications for authority from the Court: before or retrospective</li><li>Costs and wider considerations</li><li>Other remedies or options:<ul><li>Appointment of professional deputies</li><li>Account</li><li>Constructive trusts</li><li>Injunction</li><li>Criminal offences</li><li>Proceeds of Crime Act</li><li>Setting aside transactions or transfers</li></ul></li><li>Residency or contact orders</li></ul>

Code for completion by post – a refresher for conveyancers

Every residential conveyancing transaction will use the Code for Completion by Post. The Code contains important steps and undertakings and firms could face serious sanctions in the event of breach. But when did you last consider the Code and its requirements? This webinar will be a refresher on this key area for legal practitioners and those who work alongside them will learn the key principles. This webinar will contain practical examples set in a conveyancing context.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is the Code for Completion by Post?</li><li>What are the key implied undertakings?</li><li>What should conveyancers do at completion?</li><li>What changes were made to the Code after Dreamvar?</li></ul>

Rights of light – where are we post Ludgate?

Impacting both homeowners seeking to extend their property and commercial developers looking to maximise profit margins, a neighbouring property’s rights of light can cause serious issues and possibly even stop the planned work. This webinar examines:<ul><li>Defining a right to light and the owner’s remedies</li><li>Will the work actually cause loss of light, and how is that measured? Lessons from the High Court in the recent case of Cooper v Ludgate House</li><li>Are all rights of light equal? Badly lit buildings, offices: Beaumont v Florala; Midtown v City of London</li><li>Will the court stop building work or not – tips & traps for developers and light owners alike: Lawrence v Fen Tigers; Ottercroft v Scandia Care</li><li>Planning for damages – diminution or negotiating?</li></ul>

Break notices in commercial leases: drafting, compliance and case law

Enforcement of the tenant’s primary lease liability, the payment of rent, has been a major headache for landlords. Landlords now need to re-establish discipline as regards rental payments, and a good understanding of the available remedies is key.Do the CRAR loopholes deprive it of effectiveness? What are the pitfalls of forfeiture? Is it simply too expensive and slow to use debt proceedings in court? How effective are guarantees and rent deposits?At the same time, the problem of pandemic arrears remains, but is now confined in its scope. The operation of the compulsory arbitration scheme is therefore part of the picture of arrears recovery.This webinar will explore the issues through case study scenarios, to identify practical strategies to maximise recovery, and focus on the particular topics:<ul><li>Forfeiture</li><li>Use of statutory demands</li><li>County court action to recover rent arrears</li><li>Commercial rent arrears recovery</li><li>Guarantors and former tenants</li><li>Pandemic arrears and compulsory arbitration</li><li>The continued role of rent concessions</li></ul>

Subleases in commercial property – the key issues

Underletting in commercial property can be a complex area, full of potential pitfalls. Securing the necessary consents and navigating the legal and practical challenges has been the subject of extensive litigation. This webinar will highlight key issues that commonly arise and provide practical guidance on how to manage them effectively.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Obtaining landlord’s and superior landlord’s consent</li><li>The Alienation Property Protocol</li><li>Statutory provisions</li><li>What is ‘reasonable’</li><li>Valid objections</li><li>Terms of underlease</li><li>Terms of licences to underlet</li><li>Undertakings for costs</li><li>Rent reviews</li><li>Rent – underlettings at market value where lower than the passing rent</li><li>Security of tenure</li></ul>

Maximising profitability in private client matters

Time is money, but only if you know how to record it properly. In this webinar, Jade Gani explores how understanding both client and colleague psyche can dramatically improve the effectiveness of your time tracking and fee structures.She will show how moving beyond the traditional billable hour, and pricing your work based on its true value, can boost your profitability. You will also learn exactly what fee-related information to share with clients from the outset to meet the industry regulations and build trust with your clients.

Public children law – the latest news in 2025

This webinar will provide practitioners with an essential update on recent developments in public children law, including key case law and practice changes.Topics will include the use of intermediaries and cognitive functioning assessments, developments in public funding and instructing experts, approaches to risk assessment, and the latest position on deprivation of liberty and post-adoption contact.Delivered with a focus on the practical impact of changes throughout 2025, the webinar will offer a succinct yet comprehensive overview designed to equip you with the key principles and current issues shaping this area of practice.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Practice direction updates</li><li>Interim care orders and position with s.37 CA 1989</li><li>Vaccinations and parental responsibility</li><li>2024 EWFC 350</li><li>Instructing experts and funding – updates on the Remuneration Guidance in 2025</li><li>Experts and application for authority</li><li>Use of intermediaries, cognitive assessments and capacity – what is the current position?</li><li>Intermediaries and position in Re M (A Child: Intermediaries) 2025 EWCA Civ 440</li><li>Assessment of risk</li><li>2025 EWCA Civ 93</li><li>Secure accommodation and Deprivation of Liberty Orders</li><li>Dol cases and impact of Re J (A Child) 2025 EWCA Civ 478</li><li>Reporting pilot and practice direction updates</li><li>Modern view of adoption following R and C</li><li>Placement order contact</li><li>Case law update</li></ul>

Case and costs management

The powers of the courts were changed last year and the judiciary is more actively managing cases and their conduct. On costs, there has been a notable trend of claimants being penalised for putting forward unrealistic budgets, showing that the costs of CCMCs are not always in the case, which many practitioners assume to be the case.This webinar will cover:<ul><li>The extensive powers vested in the court</li><li>Budgeting developments</li><li>The jurisdiction to strike out</li><li>Relief from sanctions</li><li>How an exempt case can yet be costs managed</li><li>Curbs on witness statements</li><li>The Court of Appeal ruling in Alame v Shell confirming the parties’ freedom to plead their case as they want</li></ul>

Advising the buyer of a shared ownership property

Dealing with a shared ownership purchase will involve issues not encountered in a “standard” leasehold transaction.This webinar will look at the key points including:<ul><li>Overview of shared ownership</li><li>Current form<ul><li>Model Lease</li><li>Background</li><li>New provisions</li></ul></li><li>Practice Points</li></ul>

SRA accounts rules update – October 2025

This webinar will explore the latest developments in the SRA accounts rules following the Axiom Ince intervention.  The webinar will  cover the current relaxations firms can still utilise, the regulator’s tougher stance on compliance (including Rule 3.3 and banking facilities), and the updated guidance on systems and procedures firms should adopt. We will also discuss the growing focus on the COFA’s responsibility for financial oversight and insights from accountants on strengthening compliance and financial management.Topics covered include:<ul><li>An outline of the current rules</li><li>The key developments<ul><li>How do we describe ‘disbursements’ in our bills?</li><li>Are we charging the right VAT?</li><li>Dealing with residual balances on client account ledgers</li><li>Offering of banking facilities – case studies and examples</li></ul></li><li>How much is interest a contributor to our overall profits?</li><li>Recent enforcement actions and penalties</li><li>What should our relationship be with our reporting accountants?</li><li>Key checklists and benchmarks</li><li>Duties of the COFA – KPIs</li></ul>

Divorce, cohabitation and financial remedies - key developments in 2025

This webinar will provide practitioners with a focused update on recent developments in family law and practice, with particular attention to the management of divorce proceedings and applications for final orders. It will also examine the implementation and practical operation of the Express Financial Remedy Pilot [PD36ZH] in financial remedy cases.The webinar will review current case law and statutory provisions, highlighting how the evolving law on divorce is being applied in practice and addressing questions that have now been clarified since the reforms were first introduced.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Developments in divorce processes</li><li>Application for final order for divorce</li><li>Position surrounding the ‘20 week’ period when pursuing a divorce and difficulties surrounding financial remedy consent orders</li><li>Applying for a final order for divorce after 12 months</li><li>MPS Application and effect of HA v EN [2025] EWHC 48 (Fam)</li><li>Pre-nuptial agreement and drafting – importance of Loh v Loh-Gronager [2024] EWFC 241</li><li>Express financial remedy pilot: PD36ZH – how is this working and its use in financial remedy cases?</li><li>Seeking enforcement in financial remedy cases – consideration of WZ v HZ</li><li>2024 EWFC 407 (B)</li><li>Developments surrounding cohabitation cases</li><li>How does schedule 1 CA 1989 fit into trusts of land disputes?</li><li>NCDR and developments</li><li>Key case law updates</li></ul>

Buying and selling hotels

Property lawyers are sometimes asked to advise in relation to the sale and purchase of a hotel.  Where the hotel is currently used, and will continue to be used, as a hotel, this is basically the sale and purchase of a business, and many specific issues need to be considered.  This webinar will look at the main issues that should be considered, including:<ul><li>Employment issues</li><li>The sale and purchase of chattels</li><li>Management agreements</li><li>Licences</li><li>Fire regulations</li><li>Franchises</li><li>Third party contracts</li></ul>

Commercial tenant rent arrears – identifying strategies to maximise recovery

Enforcement of the tenant’s primary lease liability, the payment of rent, has been a major headache for landlords. Landlords now need to re-establish discipline as regards rental payments, and a good understanding of the available remedies is key.Do the CRAR loopholes deprive it of effectiveness? What are the pitfalls of forfeiture? Is it simply too expensive and slow to use debt proceedings in court? How effective are guarantees and rent deposits?At the same time, the problem of pandemic arrears remains, but is now confined in its scope. The operation of the compulsory arbitration scheme is therefore part of the picture of arrears recovery.This webinar will explore the issues through case study scenarios, to identify practical strategies to maximise recovery, and focus on the particular topics:<ul><li>Forfeiture</li><li>Use of statutory demands</li><li>County court action to recover rent arrears</li><li>Commercial rent arrears recovery</li><li>Guarantors and former tenants</li><li>Pandemic arrears and compulsory arbitration</li><li>The continued role of rent concessions</li></ul>

Taking and enforcing security in real estate finance transactions

This webinar will explain the different types of security which can be taken in a real estate finance transaction, perfection of that security and also a summary of enforcement of the security. The webinar will include practical tips on why certain security is used and who deals with drafting and registration.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Types of Security<ul><li>Mortgages and charges over land</li><li>Debentures</li><li>Share security</li><li>Alternative forms of security</li></ul></li><li>Priority of security<ul><li>Priority of security over freehold and leasehold property</li><li>Priority between legal and equitable security</li><li>Priority between different Lenders</li></ul></li><li>Perfection of Security<ul><li>Companies House</li><li>Land Registry</li></ul></li><li>Enforcement of Security<ul><li>What it means</li><li>How it happens</li></ul></li></ul>

Demystifying digital assets

This webinar will guide practitioners through dealing with digital assets in estate administration and will drafting.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What are digital assets?</li><li>How to deal with the various different types?</li><li>How to value and report in the IHT400, how to sell or transfer the same, risks and pitfalls.</li><li>The need for specialist Insurance</li><li>How to include within wills</li><li>What to keep and how to record what digital assets are owned, password storage and such like.</li></ul>

Legal leadership: understanding strategy

Leading a law firm and developing and communicating its strategy when thousands of other similar law firms exist can feel daunting and overwhelming.  Many law firms are led by those who do not have traditional management, leadership or business training.In this webinar we will look at some key strategic tools to enable you to understand what business strategy is and to deploy some well-known tools to help you develop and implement strategy in your firm with more confidence.Topics covered include:<ul><li>What is the purpose of your team?</li><li>What is your current strategy?</li><li>An introduction to the Strategy Pyramid which gives you 9 blocks to know and understand your business</li><li>The 80/20 principle (Pareto) and what you can learn from it</li><li>The 5C situational analysis and what you and your law firm can learn from it</li><li>Communicating your strategy to the business and embedding it within the business</li><li>We will focus on what you can do to make a difference through your leadership of your team of your firm utilising some well-established strategy tools</li></ul>

What do journalists really want from lawyers?

If you're part of a law firm's business development, marketing or PR team, you know the drill all too well. A journalist is on a tight deadline and needs a quick, clear quote from a lawyer. You call around the firm… delays, hesitations, rewrites. When something finally lands, it's four paragraphs of technical detail and five hours too late.The challenge isn’t just time pressure — it’s translation. You’re the interface between two worlds: journalists who want sharp, digestible commentary, and lawyers trained to be precise, cautious, and often averse to visibility.This training webinar is designed to help you bridge that gap and give your fee-earners a rare insight into the reality of the newsroom. It shows them what makes journalists tick, why media opportunities matter, how to seize them without risk, and how to communicate legal expertise in a way that’s actually usable. It also gives you, as the PR and comms lead, a stronger foundation to support, brief and manage your spokespeople — making the whole process smoother, faster, and more impactful. No more endless edits. No more missed deadlines. Just better media engagement from the start.Topics covered:<ul><li>The difference between national, trade, and broadcast needs</li><li>What makes a story newsworthy (and what doesn’t)</li><li>How to shift lawyers’ mindset from ‘what I want to say’ to ‘what they need from me’</li><li>How to speak to the story, not just the law</li><li>The ‘quote test’: how to tell if your comment will get used</li><li>Quashing the common media misconceptions often held by lawyers</li><li>Case study: A good quote vs. a missed opportunity</li></ul>

Mazur – its impact on litigation and costs

<hr>On 16 September 2025, Mr Justice Sheldon handed down his judgment in Mazur which has since sent shockwaves through the legal profession. The judgment considers whether and to what extent non-authorised fee earners (and their employers) are permitted to carry out legal work within the constraints of The Legal Services Act 2007 (LSA). The Judge’s conclusions seem to indicate that many non-authorised fee earners, and their employers, may be ‘conducting litigation’ without the appropriate LSA authority; an act that can be considered a criminal offence.Nick McDonnell, Director and Costs Lawyer with Kain Knight, will consider the impact of Mazur on law firms and legal practitioners and specifically its potential impact on costs recovery in litigation.

Reporting to clients: an overview

Practitioners are faced with an ever-increasing list of issues on which they are expected to report on in conveyancing transactions.This webinar will consider:<ul><li>Duty to Report: Lessons from Orientfield Holdings v Bird & Bird</li><li>The Law Society Conveyancing Handbook guidance</li><li>Law Society comment on BSA Advice</li><li>SRA advice note on advising on leasehold transactions</li><li>Defining the retainer in the context of Harry v Curtis Law LLP</li></ul>

Mid-term repair and dilapidations issues - the Jervis v Harris clause

Often problems become apparent before the end of the lease if the landlord finds that the tenant has failed to comply with their covenants. This webinar will look at the following:<ul><li>What can a landlord do if the tenant of a commercial lease fails to keep the property in repair during the term. Does the landlord have to wait till the end of the lease to take action and claim dilapidations?</li><li>Is the threat of forfeiture the only remedy or can the landlord exercise its rights under a ‘Jervis v Harris’ clause in the lease?</li><li>What are such clauses – what are the pitfalls for landlords seeking to exercise these rights? In practice what should a landlord do?</li><li>What should a tenant consider if served with a notice under such provisions and what are the limits on the landlord’s rights</li></ul>

Costs and funding developments in 2025

<hr>Few areas of legal practice evolve as quickly as costs, with new decisions, guidance and other developments coming at a remarkable pace. In this webinar, Professor Dominic Regan will review the most important changes lawyers need to know.<ul><li>The budgeting ‘lite’ pilots</li><li>A stern new warning about budgeting conduct</li><li>When are indemnity costs to be awarded?</li><li>Part 36 developments</li><li>Should a non-party be ordered to pay costs ?</li><li>The latest on medical agency fees</li></ul>

Conducting advocacy in children cases

As more family lawyers undertake their own advocacy, it is essential to develop the skills and confidence needed to do so effectively.This practical webinar will provide guidance on advocacy across a range of family hearings, from case management to contested matters involving live evidence. Through tips, reminders, and worked examples, the training will help practitioners manage anxiety, build confidence, and improve technique.Structured in two parts—covering core procedures and practical approaches to handling live evidence—the webinar offers valuable support for lawyers acting on behalf of parents, children, extended family members, and local authorities.Topics covered include:First half:<ul><li>Steps to take in preparation</li><li>Using the law in Family advocacy to boost your confidence</li><li>Researching the law</li><li>Making submissions – structure and analysing of the case</li><li>Skeleton arguments and submissions</li></ul>Second half:<ul><li>Live hearings and calling evidence</li><li>Effective examination-in-chief</li><li>Is permission to ask supplemental evidence required?</li><li>Cross examination – it’s easy when you know how!</li><li>You can do it – believe in yourself!</li><li>Re examination</li><li>Contested interim care hearings – do I really need to contest?</li><li>Case management hearings – being on the ball with the issued to be covered</li><li>Issues resolution and final hearings</li><li>Remote hearings</li></ul>

AI for law firm leaders – practical deployment

This webinar is tailored for solicitors, managing partners, chief executives, and legal team leaders who are eager to bridge the gap between aspiration and the practical adoption of artificial intelligence in modern legal practice. With the English and Welsh legal market demanding enhanced performance and technological adoption, many professionals find themselves navigating unfamiliar terrain, especially when it comes to AI.Led by Paul Bennett, a solicitor renowned for his expertise in legal regulation and his commitment to productivity and exceptional client outcomes, this webinar transcends hype and sales pitches. Participants will be empowered to separate fact from fiction, understanding what AI truly is—and crucially, what it is not.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Demystifying AI: a clear introduction to artificial intelligence, tailored for legal professionals.</li><li>Identifying suitable tasks: which administrative and legal functions can be ethically and safely assigned to AI within a law firm?</li><li>Safe deployment: practical strategies for implementing AI technologies, ensuring regulatory compliance and client protection.</li><li>Upskilling and resources: making use of freely available materials and accessible training, enabling teams and individuals to build confidence and capability.</li><li></li></ul>Why view this on-demand?<ul><li>Gain practical insights grounded in legal expertise, not technical jargon.</li><li>Learn how to navigate the AI revolution safely and effectively, enhancing your firm’s productivity and client service.</li><li>End the webinar with actionable steps and resources to drive meaningful transformation.</li><li>Book now for a highly practical, ethics-driven exploration of AI in law, and equip yourself to lead your practice into the future—with confidence and clarity.</li></ul><ol><li>This overview was generated by Paul using his bullet points, but it was then converted into this summary using AI.</li></ol>

The changes to BPR and APR as they affect trusts and trustees

The November 2025 Budget is expected to deliver some stern tax measures, but a complete restriction of 100% relief on business and agricultural property remains unlikely. Draft legislation is now available for review.This webinar will look specifically at the way in which the changes will affect trusts. It will consider:<ul><li>Transfers to relevant property trusts pre- and post-budget day</li><li>Calculation of anniversary and exit charges for pre- and post-budget trusts</li><li>A window of opportunity for winding up trusts (but do you want to take advantage of it?)</li><li>Qualifying interests in possession</li><li>Trusts for bereaved minors and bereaved young persons.</li></ul>After this webinar you will be able to:<ul><li>Identify issues relating to the creation and management of trusts with relievable property, and</li><li>Advise trustees appropriately.</li></ul>

Tips and traps when selling land to developers

Developers are professional buyers of land, and it is your job to level the playing field when acting for an “amateur” seller of land dealing with a developer.  This webinar will look at the issues to consider, including:<ul><li>Conditional contracts versus options – which is best?</li><li>What are the drawbacks with a promotion agreement?</li><li>Drafting conditions in a conditional contract</li><li>What are the issues where an option is exercised on part only of the option land?</li><li>S106 planning obligations</li><li>Community Infrastructure Levy</li><li>Overage</li><li>Excepting and reserving rights</li><li>Practical issues and future protection for the landowner</li><li>Lessons from the case</li></ul>

Contract law – the latest developments

The courts continue to see a steady stream of contract law disputes ranging from contract formation to liquidated damages. This webinar summarises all the key developments and sets out a series of practical steps to take.Topics covered include:Contract formation:<ul><li>Can an exchange of WhatsApp messages give rise to a binding contract?</li><li>Jaevee v Fincham [2025] EWHC 942 (TCC)</li><li>Southeaster Maritime v Trafigura [2024] EWHC 255 (Comm)</li><li>Can a thumbs up emoji constitute acceptance?</li><li>Achter Land v South-West 2024 SKCA 115 – Canadian case</li><li>Agreements to agree and reasonable endeavours</li><li>Salem v Salem [2024] EWHC 3311 (Ch)</li></ul>Exclusion and limitation clauses:<ul><li>Exclusion of ‘anticipated profits’ – EE Ltd v Virgin Mobile [2025] EWCA Civ 70</li><li>Meaning of ‘aggregate liability’ – Tata Consultancy v DBS [2024] EWHC 1185 (TCC)</li><li>Limitation clauses and set-off provisions – Topalsson v Rolls Royce [2024] EWCA Civ 1330</li></ul>Liquidated damages clauses:<ul><li>Did a lender have a legitimate interest in inserting a higher rate of interest in the event of non-payment?</li><li>Houssein v London Credit Limited [2024] EWCA Civ 721</li></ul>Interest clauses:<ul><li>Meaning of ‘substantial remedy’</li><li>A&V Building v J&B Hopkins [2024] EWHC 2295 (TCC)</li></ul>Entire agreement clauses:<ul><li>Did an entire agreement clause successfully extinguish all previous agreements?</li><li>Capgemini UK PLC v Dassault Systemes UK Ltd [2024] EWHC 2728 (Comm)</li></ul>

Drafting a PR strategy and plan

PR works best when it’s intentional. Yet, many law firm PR efforts are reactive, inconsistent, or disconnected from wider business goals. This webinar gives you a practical, strategic framework to plan and deliver a PR programme that aligns with your firm’s commercial objectives, leverages your legal experts effectively, and consistently earns meaningful media coverage.You’ll walk away with the tools to build a clear, structured PR plan — whether you’re promoting a specific department or managing firm-wide communications.It will cover:<ul><li>The difference between a strategy and a plan and how to deliver both</li><li>Setting PR objectives that support your firm’s business strategy</li><li>The importance of data</li><li>Identifying key audiences, messages and spokespeople</li><li>Choosing the right media channels</li><li>Generating a consistent pipeline of content</li><li>Setting KPIs and measuring success</li><li>Managing lawyer expectations and understanding</li><li>Gaining lawyer buy in and making PR part of their routine</li></ul>

How to draft award entries that actually win

Winning or even just being shortlisted for industry awards isn’t just a nice-to-have. It builds your firm’s reputation, impresses clients and referrers, supports recruitment, and boosts team morale. But with fierce competition and tight deadlines, many submissions fall flat, not because the work isn’t award-worthy, but because the entry doesn’t do it justice.This practical, insight-packed webinar will show you how to:<ul><li>Identify which awards are worth your time (and which aren’t)</li><li>Craft compelling narratives that make judges take notice</li><li>Highlight your results without resorting to jargon or waffle</li><li>Manage the referee process smoothly and professionally</li><li>Avoid the common mistakes that sink otherwise strong submissions</li></ul>

Tax for professional deputies

This webinar provides a comprehensive overview of income tax, capital gains tax, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), and inheritance tax for professional deputies and their teams, including recent updates and forthcoming changes. By the end of the webinar, you will be better equipped to consider and address tax implications when making best interest decisions in their roles as deputies and attorneys.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Why, as deputies do we need to consider tax when making decisions</li><li>An introduction to each of the main taxes including Income tax, CGT, SDLT and IHT with particular focus on the areas deputies and attorneys will come across in practice</li><li>A run through of recent changes including the changes to the taxation of pensions, the new residence test replacing domicile and the impact of business property relief being reduced</li></ul>

Damages claim portal – updates and enhancements

The DCP has undergone significant changes in the last 12 months, and this webinar will go over the major changes since the first webinar put on by Legal Futures on using the DCP.The aim of this webinar is to arm litigators with the information they need to know to be able to use the DCP effectively and efficiently.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Intermediate track/multi-track</li><li>Applications</li><li>Query management system</li><li>Settlements</li><li>Discontinuance</li><li>What the future holds</li></ul>

The status of admissions and pleading problems

Admissions may be a good way of controlling the scope of proceedings, but they have generated their own bank of case law, which is vital for litigators to understand, especially if the party then seeks to resile from them. In this webinar, Professor Dominic Regan will consider:<ul><li>Ambiguous admissions</li><li>Varying an admission</li><li>Judgment on a written admission</li><li>When and how can a defendant resile?</li><li>Can the court find on a ground never pleaded?</li><li>Controlling pleadings after Baroness Lawrence v Associated Newspapers (2025)</li></ul>

The role of religious beliefs in modern estate planning

This webinar will help practitioners navigate the key considerations in succession and estate planning for clients with religious and spiritual beliefs. It will explore how different faiths approach estate matters, the diversity of beliefs even within families, and the importance of understanding clients’ wishes while recognising the legal limits in England and Wales. Using examples from Christian, Jewish, Islamic, Scientology, Buddhist, and Hindu perspectives, participants will gain practical insight to give tailored advice and manage estates in a way that respects both faith and law.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Legal systems: common law, civil law, and Sharia law</li><li>Testamentary freedom vs forced heirship</li><li>Making a valid will in England and Wales</li><li>Erosion of testamentary freedom?</li><li>Religious beliefs: considering specific faiths and their beliefs, including common areas where wills and estate planning are impacted:<ul><li>Advanced Decisions and Living Wills</li><li>Powers of Attorney (and Deputyship Orders)</li><li>Wills and Trusts, including the identity of executors and trustees</li><li>Burial and Funeral Wishes</li><li>Ownership of Property</li><li>Disposition of Assets</li><li>Loans and Interest</li><li>Financial Planning</li><li>Charitable Giving</li><li>Dispute Resolution</li></ul></li><li>Other considerations:<ul><li>No-contest clauses</li><li>Validity of foreign wills</li><li>Domicile and impact on succession</li><li>Administering an international estate</li></ul></li></ul>

The twelve gifts of Christmas: legal strategies for passing wealth

This webinar will guide practitioners through key changes to the private client sector from the Autumn Budget 2024, including updates to inheritance tax and their practical implications. It will cover estate planning options, particularly relevant for farming families and those facing new inheritance tax liabilities as pensions form part of the net estate from 2027. With an estimated £5 trillion set to pass between generations over the next 30 years, participants will gain the knowledge to advise clients on strategies to mitigate tax, maximise wealth transfer, and plan effectively for later-life inheritance.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The Great Wealth Transfer: Silent Generation and Baby Boomers<ul><li>Changes on the horizon:</li><li>Pensions: being brought into the net estate</li><li>Private school fees and VAT</li><li>IHT reforms to farms and businesses</li><li>Borrowing costs set to rise</li></ul></li><li>Making gifts during lifetime</li><li>Passing on assets in a will</li><li>Using a trust to hold assets</li><li>Other considerations:<ul><li>Deliberate deprivation of assets: care fees</li><li>Lifetime gifts: presumption of undue influence</li><li>Inheritance tax: exemptions, tapering relief, and gifts with reservation of benefit</li><li>Farming families: APR and BPR</li><li>Disposing of assets: Capital Gains tax</li><li>Deeds of Variation</li><li>Charitable giving</li><li>Discretionary trusts</li></ul></li><li>Practical examples: gifting the family home</li></ul>

Property development – the latest news

This is the second development, planning and construction update of 2025, providing an update on all the recent issues that a property lawyer needs to know, including:<ul><li>Restrictive Covenants: guidance from Great Jackson St Estates Ltd v Council of the City of Manchester</li><li>Easements: developments arising from the Ludgate House cases (Cooper v Ludgate House Ltd and Powell v Ludgate House Ltd)</li><li>Planning: analysis of a range of recent decisions with implications for development projects</li><li>Collateral warranties and the effect of the Legal and General decision</li><li>Building Safety Act 2022: the Court of Appeal decisions in the Adriatic and Triathlon Homes cases (including the effect on corporate transactions of the Triathlon Homes decision); Almacantar v de Valk; the Building Safety Levy Regulations; an update on the issues arising from roof gardens; the latest news on delays relating to the Gateways process and what is being done to improve the position; update on the Remediation Acceleration Plan</li></ul>

Landmark international big money cases – Potanina v Potanin and Standish

The cases of Potanina v Potanin and Standish have made the headlines in recent months. Both involved considerable wealth and put the English family court firmly in the spotlight for international couples. As a result, will the floodgates for international cases coming through the family courts open in the hope of larger financial rewards or for fairness to financially weaker spouses?Topics covered include:<ul><li>Case details of Potanina v Potanin</li><li>Specific features of the case and in particular grounds for applying for Part III application</li><li>Clarification of the test for part III applications as a result of this case</li><li>What the case means for divorce law in England and Wales</li><li>Case details of Standish</li><li>Specific features of the case and the judgment from the Supreme Court in particular</li><li>Consideration of the new test for ‘matrimonialisation’ of assets</li><li>What the case means for future big money cases and defining marital and non-marital property</li></ul>

Commercial property update (including landlord and tenant) – Winter 2025

This webinar is part of our regular quarterly update series, designed to be an engaging and efficient means of keeping abreast of key developments, and will cover a number of recent cases and other changes on both commercial leases and commercial property generally, including the following topics:<ul><li>Service charges and ‘reasonableness’ of landlord’s apportionment: guidance from the Court of Appeal: Bradley v Abacus</li><li>Mortgagee’s right to relief from forfeiture: useful guidance in Mentmore Golf Club v Gaymer</li><li>Law Commission: reviewing AGAs, GAGAs and granting commercial leases in mixed-use buildings</li><li>Modifying restrictive covenants: practical benefits with and without ‘substantial value’: Garton v Wheatcroft; Harrison-Ellis</li><li>More on boundary agreements: Bishop v Jaques</li><li>Noisy neighbours & nuisance:  Bakhaty v Hampshire CC</li></ul>

Reporting to lenders: what are the obligations?

How far are practitioners expected to go in reporting to lenders? The obligations imposed by the lenders handbook are just the beginning.This webinar will look at:<ul><li>The UKFML Handbook & the significance of case law</li><li>Reporting obligations</li><li>Standard form Certificate of Title</li><li>What documents is a lender entitled to ask you to produce?</li></ul>

Family law – 2025 round up

2025 has seen a number of significant developments in family law, including changes to statute, case law, and practice guidance.The ongoing rollout of the Pathfinder Pilot continues to shape the approach to private children law cases in selected areas. In financial remedy proceedings, there have been important advances in the principles distinguishing matrimonial and non-matrimonial property, as well as in the treatment of pre-nuptial agreements. Further progress has also been made in other initiatives, including the Express Financial Remedy Pilot.This webinar will provide a comprehensive round-up of the key developments from the past year, offering practitioners an up-to-date overview of family law in 2025.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Divorce procedure developments</li><li>Pre – nuptial agreements and developments</li><li>The impact of standish v standish and division of assets</li><li>Piloting of domestic abuse protection notices and orders</li><li>Development in the pathfinder pilot for private children law cases</li><li>Developments surrounding parental responsibility</li><li>Domestic abuse and fact findings in private children law cases</li><li>Fact finding hearings in public children law cases</li><li>Modern views on post – adoption contact</li><li>Calling experts in children cases</li></ul>

Damages claim portal – common pitfalls

This webinar focuses the Damages Claims Portal where we will look at the common issues and mistakes people make whilst using the system. You will then go through the actions that litigators will need to do to fix these issues and/or how the CPR deals with these problems.All areas of the CPR will be covered including:<ul><li>Why wont my claim form generate?</li><li>I forgot to serve my DQ, what happens now?</li><li>I have served the claim, but my case has been dismissed – why?</li></ul>

Productivity and value-based pricing for law firms

How should you charge your clients? For your time or the value of your solution? In the age of law firm AI, why might value-based pricing be a promising strategy, offering potential benefits for your firm’s growth and success?The SRA Transparency Rules 2018 helped some law firms focus on more than hourly rates and to revise and improve their processes and approach to pricing. Yet years later, few law firms have a dedicated pricing function or focus on productivity.This webinar bridges technology use, management and productivity to explore how to leverage profitable options in your law firm, excitingly showcasing the potential of technology in boosting productivity.Topics covered include:<ul><li>The advantages and disadvantages of hourly rates and why they limit profitability</li><li>What we get wrong across the profession</li><li>The concept of value pricing and how firms are already applying it in practice</li><li>How focusing on your processes and use of technology (including but not limited to AI) can help raise productivity</li><li>How critical it is to value your skills and the value to the client of the solution</li><li>The dynamics of fee risk and price, and how to fix fees profitably</li></ul>

Client risk assessments under the current AML regime

In October 2023 the SRA indicated a fresh approach to the undertaking of client and matter risk assessments. They also introduced a compendious form to be used as a template.An essential part of the client risk assessment is the need to explain the thinking behind whatever risk rating we decide to ascribe to a particular client – a rationale justifying our decision-making. That is proving to be more difficult than it may appear.Further, we need to undertake some elementary source of wealth enquiries to back up whatever identification steps we put in place. Is this enough, though?This webinar will endeavor to answer those queries.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Our role as gatekeepers</li><li>What is the difference between Client and Matter risk assessments?</li><li>Explaining our reasoning</li><li>What do we do about clients we have known for years?</li><li>What records do we need to keep?</li><li>What evidence do we need of what we are told?</li><li>Ongoing Monitoring</li></ul>

Lease variations

Often the landlord and tenant need to agree a variation to the lease during the term of the lease. This webinar will consider the important issues to consider, whether acting for a landlord or a tenant.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Changes in the extent of the demise</li><li>Roof spaces and basements</li><li>Increasing – the surrender and regrant trap and consequences</li><li>Supplemental leases</li><li>Surrenders of part – decreasing the demise</li><li>Security of tenure issues</li><li>Changing rights and reservations – easements and so on – need for mortgagees consent?</li><li>‘Adverse possession’ of landlord’s property? Encroachments</li><li>SDLT consequences?</li></ul>

Accounts rules and why they matter for conveyancers

Both the SRA and CLC have Accounts Rules with which their regulated firms must comply. Front line conveyancers might think that Accounts Rules are something for their accounts department to worry about – but nothing could be further from the truth. This webinar will be a refresher on this key area for legal practitioners and those who work alongside them will learn the key principles. This webinar will contain practical examples set in a conveyancing context.This one-hour webinar will cover:<ul><li>What is the purpose of Accounts Rules?</li><li>What are the main differences between the SRA and CLC Accounts Rules?</li><li>VAT And search fees and disbursements</li><li>Client account do’s and don’ts</li><li>Conveyancing pitfalls</li></ul>

AML update – December 2025

What a year that was. Amid the scandals that have surrounded the SRA over Axiom Ince, SSB and the Post Office, a new CEO has taken office and is out and about visiting law firms to understand the lie of the land. In the light of the recent round of ever-increasing fines imposed on most of us for breach of our ML obligations I doubt she will get that good a hearing. And, to cap it all, the FCA is announced as the single professional AML services regulator in place of the SRA.However, in the meantime, the ‘offensive will continue’ as we try to get our house in order with the increasing burdens and demands imposed on us, notwithstanding some recent attempts to make the system more proportionate.What do those burdens require, exactly?Topics covered include:<ul><li>What it means to be a ‘gatekeeper’</li><li>SRA position & FCA regulation</li><li>What do we have to do to comply?<ul><li>FWRAs</li><li>CDD; e-ID&V</li><li>CRAs</li><li>MRAs</li><li>SoW</li><li>SoF</li></ul></li><li>What do all the acronyms mean?</li><li>The crucial importance of Ongoing Monitoring</li></ul>

Compassionate client care: supporting bereaved families and vulnerable clients

This webinar equips participants with practical strategies for supporting bereaved families and vulnerable clients, helping them deliver exceptional client service in challenging circumstances.Advisors will gain the skills to guide families empathetically through the estate administration process, adapt their advice to meet diverse needs, navigate sensitive interactions with relatives and beneficiaries, and enhance the accessibility and impact of their services.Topics covered include:<ul><li>Who is my client and making reasonable adjustments<ul><li>Changing advice styles – being a legal chameleon</li><li>Dealing with insistent relatives and beneficiaries</li><li>Accessibility of services</li><li>Becoming the family’s adviser for life</li><li>Golden rules of client service</li></ul></li></ul>

How to draft press release and pitches that get cut through

In a journalist’s inbox, your story is one of hundreds. If the subject line doesn’t hook them or the first paragraph doesn’t land, it’s deleted. This Press Office Masterclass webinar, led by expert PR practitioners and former journalists, shows you how to write press releases and media pitches that actually get noticed, opened, and used.You’ll learn how to identify the real story, shape a compelling angle, and speak the language of the newsroom, all while balancing legal nuance and client expectations. Whether you’re pitching legal insights, case wins, or expert commentary, we’ll show you how to turn your firm’s news into something journalists genuinely want to cover.This webinar is for any PR professional working in a law firm who wants to sharpen their media output.

	Item	Net Price	Tax Rate	Gross Price	Quantity	Net Subtotal	Gross Subtotal
	An overview of the Building Safety Act 2022	£0.00	0%	£0.00	1	£0.00	£0.00
Total						£0.00	£0.00