The Government yesterday published the new legislation, in the Crime and Courts Bill, that will mean adult community sentences will now contain a punitive element. The following press release has been issued by the Ministry of Justice: In a move to restore public confidence, adult community sentences will now have to include some form of punishment, such as a fine, unpaid work, curfew or exclusion from certain areas. The new …Read More
Owning Property in Joint Names
This article is taken from the Land Registry’s website and aims to clarify the two types of Joint Ownership of property. If you own your property jointly, either as a married couple, partners or friends, you will have chosen one of two kinds of ownership. You will own your property as either beneficial joint tenants or tenants in common. This is the case whether you own the property as freeholders or leaseholders. …Read More
The Government proposes to give Courts new powers to provide redress for consumers
Executive director Richard Lloyd said plans outlined in a consultation on civil enforcement remedies ‘should help ensure consumers are no longer left out of pocket if they have been ripped off or are the victims of mis-selling’. The proposals, from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), will change the way authorities such as trading standards departments pursue enforcement. They include giving courts the option of making a business …Read More
Government launches web app for divorce
Separating parents will be able to find free advice and guidance through a web app released this week by the government. ‘Sorting out Separation’ provides information about all aspects of separation, from how to avoid a separation to coping with the emotional impact of a divorce, accessing legal or housing support and arranging child maintenance. It includes a link to the Law Society’s solicitor-finding service. The app, developed at a …Read More
The Legal Services Board recommends that will-writing activities ‘should be regulated’
The LSB’s recommendation follows two years of investigation, during which it said it found comprehensive evidence that the market is working contrary to the objectives outlined in the Legal Services Act 2007 to the detriment of consumers and providers. If accepted, it said the change would give consumers better protection and consistent access to redress by allowing access to the Legal Ombudsman, increase competition by creating a level playing field …Read More
The Matthew Elvidge Trust
This year 2014 Bates Solicitors is supporting a new charity located within a few miles of our four Hampshire offices. The Trust was set up in 2010 by Matthew’s parents and members of the Elvidge family after Matthew took his own life following a short period of depression. The aim of the Trust is to increase awareness of the issue. The following facts taken from the Trusts website are stark: …Read More