Prenuptial agreements, known as ‘prenups’ have become a recurring theme in television dramas, reality shows and films, often depicted as business contracts intended to protect a wealthy spouse from losing their fortune in a messy divorce. While these portrayals are entertaining, they often misrepresent the true nature and purpose of a prenuptial agreement under the law in England and Wales.   ‘If you are considering a prenup, or just want to learn more about them, it is important to separate

Commercial landlords rely on rent to cover the costs of running their premises and to maintain income. When a tenant stops paying rent, damages the property, refuses to leave at the end of a lease, or occupies without any legal right, swift action is often needed. One of the formal options available is to apply to the court for a possession order.   ‘A possession order can be essential where a tenant remains in occupation despite rent arrears, ongoing breaches,

An exclusivity agreement can secure a strong, long-term relationship between two closely-working businesses, however, sometimes, they can impose restrictive obligations on one or both parties. Exclusive agreements frequently underpin arrangements in the supply, distribution and service industries, and, when drafted and implemented correctly, they can offer significant commercial advantages.   Examples include binding a manufacturer to produce certain goods solely for you, ensuring a supplier will only provide a certain service to you in your industry sector, or granting a

A company’s share structure defines how ownership is divided among its shareholders and what rights each type of share carries. For a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), this framework shapes everything from everyday management decisions to long-term succession planning.   When first establishing a company, many business owners set up their share capital and then proceed to leave it untouched for years. Yet businesses constantly evolve. New investors may arrive, founders may leave and key employees who deserve a stake

Many business disputes are resolved by agreement between the parties. That may occur after court proceedings have been issued or before any formal action has commenced. There are a number of ways in which a party can make an offer to settle, and each carries different potential consequences in relation to the court’s ultimate decision on costs. One commonly used mechanism, available to both claimants and defendants, is the making of a formal offer to settle, known as a ‘Part

Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard your family and ensure your wishes are carried out after your death. Therefore, the quality of the will itself is critical to avoid leaving your loved ones facing unnecessary stress and expense. Unclear, ambiguous and poorly drafted documents can often lead to confusion, misinterpretations or even spark disputes.   Recent court cases, including Tedford v Clarke & Ors [2025] EWHC 816 (Ch), have highlighted the

It is pleasing to see the introduction of the initiative known as Jess’s Rule, brought in on 23rd September 2023 by the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England.   The initiative follows the tragic death of Jessica Brady, who sadly passed away from cancer in December 2020 at just 27 years old.   In the 5 months before she died, Jessica attended her GP surgery on 20 occasions complaining of various symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting

Buying off-plan means buying a house or apartment prior to it being built. Typically, as a buyer, you must rely on architect’s plans, computer-generated images and other details provided by the developer. However, in some instances, you may have the opportunity to view a show home or the already completed parts of the development.   ‘Buying off-plan can be a good way of acquiring a new build home at a competitive price,’ says Sam Fahey, an Associate in the conveyancing

Dealing with property problems in a divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership can be legally complex. Failing to properly understand how assets are categorised, neglecting to value them correctly, or ignoring potential tax implications can result in an unfair settlement and lasting financial damage. These matters can be further complicated where other family members are involved, such as an elderly parent in a granny annex, or where property is owned via a company.   ‘Among some of the most

If you have a blended family, making a will allows you to establish clear and effective arrangements for your loved ones. You may wish to consider how best to account for the interests of your current spouse or partner while protecting the needs of your children from an earlier relationship, and ensuring that your estate is distributed in line with your wishes. Without careful planning, even the most well-intentioned arrangements can produce unintended outcomes and, in some cases, costly and