As the days grow longer and the pace of life eases just a little, we’re pleased to bring you the summer edition of Law and Life - a round-up of insights, guidance, and updates from across our Private Client Group.
In this edition, you’ll find a blend of articles covering key developments and practical advice in Agriculture, Private Client, Residential Property, and Family Law. We’re also delighted to feature two guest contributions from our Commercial Litigation and Property Litigation teams, offering a broader perspective on issues that could impact both individuals and businesses.
This edition consists of timely insights and updates to help you navigate important legal changes and seize new opportunities, including:
- Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) - changes ahead
- Why use lawyers to draft your will?
- Life after divorce: keeping your will under review
- Summer house hunting: what UK homebuyers should look for during hot weather viewings
- Rising costs, failing trust: riding the current HMRC wave
- TOLATA and time limits: a cautionary note for cohabitees, partners and all other trustees
If you’d like to discuss any of the topics further, our Private Client Group is here to help.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) - changes ahead
Alex Robinson outlines the UK government’s proposed updates to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), which would shift benchmarks from EPC‑rated energy usage to three new metrics: fabric performance, smart readiness, and heating system efficiency. Read the full update.
Why use a lawyer to draft your will?
In his insightful article, Richard Dundee (Partner in our Private Client team) explains why only around half of wills are drafted by solicitors - leaving many to rely on risky DIY documents or AI-generated templates. He highlights how professional oversight ensures legal validity, protects vulnerable beneficiaries, and mitigates inheritance disputes - offering peace of mind and regulated protection. Read the full update.
Life after divorce: keeping your Will under review
After a divorce, reviewing and updating your will is crucial. Until the divorce is legally final, your ex-partner may still benefit from your existing will - so acting early can help avoid unintended outcomes. In this article, Karen Brennan (Partner & Head of Family) and Richard Dundee (Partner in our Private Client team) outline why it’s important and highlight the key considerations to protect your estate and wishes. Read the full update.
Summer house hunting: what UK homebuyers should look for during hot weather viewings
As temperatures rise, house hunters need to take extra care during summer viewings. Toni Peppard (Senior Associate in our Residential Property team) highlights key considerations - from checking insulation and ventilation to assessing garden orientation and outdoor space usability. She also reminds buyers to scrutinise legal matters like property boundaries, management companies, and peak-time parking. Read the full update.
Rising costs, falling trust: riding the current HMRC wave
In today’s challenging tax climate - with rising costs and dwindling public trust - HMRC faces growing pressure to modernise. Nathan Talbott (Partner & Head of Commercial Litigation) reviews a recent Committee of Public Accounts report that brands HMRC a “lumbering dinosaur” and highlights six recommendations to rebuild trust through better customer service and technology. Read the full update.
TOLATA and time limits: a cautionary note for cohabitees, partners and all other trustees
After cohabitation ends or disputes arise over jointly held property, it’s vital to act promptly under TOLATA (Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996) to protect your interests. In this article, Stuart Miles (Senior Associate in our Property Litigation team) explains why early legal advice is essential and outlines the key deadlines and steps trustees and beneficiaries should follow. Read the full update.
