Welcome to the September edition of our Business Group Newsletter, bringing you a curated selection of expert insights across Employment Law, Corporate (including VAT) Law, Business Immigration and Commercial Law.
As we move into the latter part of the year, it’s a great time to refresh your knowledge and ensure your business is prepared for the evolving legal and regulatory landscape. This edition features timely updates and practical guidance, including:
- A closer look at directors’ duties under the Companies Act 2006
- Key clauses in commercial contracts that can protect your business
- A potential rise in flexible working requests, how to deal with these and a reminder of the April 2024 changes
- The impact of the current UK immigration debate on recruitment and compliance
- Updates on HMRC tax adviser registration in 2026
- Challenges with eVisas and UKVI accounts and how to navigate them
- Managing late payments and avoiding SME disputes - a guess article from our Commercial Litigation team
Our Business Group is here to help you understand these changes and plan effectively for the months ahead.
Directors' duties under the Companies Act 2006: What you need to know
Company directors carry significant legal responsibilities under the Companies Act 2006, from promoting the success of the company to exercising independent judgment. Understanding these duties is essential to avoid personal liability and safeguard your business. Read the full article by Robert Lee, Partner in our Corporate team to explore the key duties every director must comply with.
The Magnificent Seven: Key clauses to protect your business
Just like the seven gunslingers in the classic Western, seven critical clauses in commercial agreements can defend your business from legal and financial risks. From limitation of liability and indemnities, to warranties, termination, payment, intellectual property and data protection, this article explores how to structure contracts to safeguard your operations. Robyn Hey, Senior Contracts Manager in our Commercial team shares practical insights to help you negotiate agreements that balance legal protection with business realities.
Flexible working requests: What employers need to know
Flexible working is increasingly part of the modern workplace, and legislative changes mean employers need to stay up to date. This article outlines the legal obligations, practical considerations and key steps to manage flexible working requests effectively, helping balance business needs with employee rights. Read the full article by Gemma Clark, Associate and Daniel Jagiri, Paralegal in our Employment Law team for essential insights on handling flexible working requests.
Flags & fables: Immigration, politics and business recruitment
Immigration has surged back up the UK’s political agenda, with public opinion driving major policy changes. This article looks at the political backdrop, Labour’s 2025 White Paper reforms, rising thresholds and tougher compliance rules. For employers reliant on overseas talent, it highlights the key risks and what future reforms could mean for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Read the full article by Matthew Davies, Partner & Head of Business Immigration to see how immigration shifts may affect your recruitment plans.
HMRC tax adviser registration: What businesses should know for 2026
From 2026, businesses seeking tax advice must ensure their advisers are registered with HMRC under new regulatory requirements. This article explains what the registration means, who it affects and the steps businesses should take to ensure compliance - helping you avoid penalties and maintain confidence in your tax planning. Read the full article by Kevin Hall, Partner and VAT Specialist, for guidance on HMRC tax adviser registration and its implications for your business.
eVisas & UKVI: Navigating the digital transition
The UK’s move to digital immigration status has faced significant challenges, leaving many applicants struggling with eVisas and UKVI accounts. From account creation difficulties to verification issues and limited Home Office support, these problems have real-world consequences for travel, work and tenancy rights. This article by Vishal Makol, Associate in our Business Immigration team explores the practical hurdles of the digital rollout and highlights what applicants and employers need to know to avoid complications.
Tackling late payments: Challenges and solutions for SMEs
Late payments continue to be one of the most common and disruptive issues for small and medium-sized businesses. This article explores the impact of late payments, the latest Government proposals to address the problem and practical steps SMEs can take to protect cash flow and manage disputes effectively. Parminder Takhar, Partner in our Commercial Litigation team shares strategies to navigate late payment challenges and safeguard your business.
Summer 2025 WH Newsletter
In case you missed it, our Summer 2025 WH Newsletter highlighted our Great Place to Work certification, Planet Mark reaccreditation, Partner Katie Alsop being named Lawyer of the Year, new hires, promotions and expert legal insights. Read the full edition here.
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The information provided in this article is provided for general information purposes only, and does not provide definitive advice. It does not amount to legal or other professional advice and so you should not rely on any information contained here as if it were such advice.
Wright Hassall does not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from reliance on any information published here. Definitive advice can only be given with full knowledge of all relevant facts. If you need such advice please contact a member of our professional staff.
The information published across our Knowledge Base is correct at the time of going to press.
