Our views.

Wedding season is now well underway, but for some, the old adage “marry at haste, repent at leisure” may feel a little closer to home. If you’ve found yourself questioning a recent marriage, and are unsure of your options, it’s important to know that support is available, and that annulment may be a route worth exploring. What is an Annulment? In England and Wales, couples must be married for at…

As awareness of neurodiversity grows, so too does the legal and cultural responsibility of employers to support neurodivergent employees or workers. A recent employment tribunal ruling involving Capgemini UK has brought this issue into sharp focus, confirming that failure to make reasonable adjustments for employees with ADHD can amount to unlawful disability discrimination under the Equality Act 2010. This case is a timely reminder for HR professionals, business leaders, and…

The first year of marriage or a civil partnership is often described as the “honeymoon period”, a time filled with excitement, new beginnings, and shared hopes for the future. But for some couples, this year can also bring unexpected challenges as they adjust to life together. If things feel difficult or uncertain, you’re not alone. And if you’re considering separation or divorce, it’s important to know what support and options…

The Procurement Act 2023 came into force in February this year. One of the aims of the new legislation was to “open up public procurement to new entrants such as small businesses and social enterprises so that they can compete for and win more public contracts”. If you are an SME supplying goods, services or works to the public sector, there are a number of things to be aware of…

When entering into a new commercial lease, understanding your repairing obligations as a tenant is essential. These obligations can have significant financial implications, and overlooking them could result in unexpected liabilities down the line. Below are the key considerations you need to be aware of. What does a full repairing lease mean? A full repairing lease places the responsibility for repairs squarely on the tenant. If the property is part…

With the summer holidays in full swing, separated parents may find themselves facing disagreements over how time with their child or children is shared. These situations can be emotionally challenging, not just for the parents, but also for the children, who may feel that their wishes and feelings aren’t being heard or considered. There are several ways a child’s views can be taken into account when formalising contact arrangements, helping…

How landlords and authorities can take effective legal steps to protect communities. Addressing anti-social behaviour and criminal activity at residential and commercial properties remains a key concern for landlords, local authorities and communities alike. One increasingly effective tool in this area is the use of closure orders, orders which can serve as a foundation for mandatory possession proceedings. This article explores the mechanics of closure orders, their interaction with housing…

On the 2nd July 2025, the Supreme Court handed down a long-awaited judgement in the case of Standish v Standish [2025] UKSC 26, offering important clarification on how non-matrimonial assets should be treated in divorce proceedings. But what does this mean in practice for family law professionals? The general principle of division of assets upon divorce When dividing assets in a divorce, the Family Courts in England and Wales apply…

When navigating the financial aspects of divorce, many people focus on immediate concerns, such as rehousing and dividing savings or investments. However, one of the most significant and often underestimated assets in a divorce settlement is the pension. For those with large pension pots, particularly professionals from the armed forces, judiciary, civil service, NHS, and education sectors, this can be a game-changer. Why Pensions Matter More Than You Think Pensions…

When planning to buy or sell a business, one of the most important decisions is how the transaction will be structured. Choosing the right route can significantly impact the outcome of the deal, so it’s essential to understand the differences from the outset. At Swinburne Maddison, we regularly advise clients on the two main approaches, share purchases and asset purchases, and help them navigate the legal, commercial, and tax implications…

If you are contemplating a separation later in life, or if divorce proceedings have already begun, it’s important to know that support is available – and you don’t have to go through this alone. In recent years, more people over the age of 50 are choosing to end long-standing marriages, a trend commonly known as “grey divorce.” While overall divorce rates are declining, the Office of National Statistics reported that…

The landscape for residential tenancies in England is set for major reform with the Government’s Renters’ Rights Bill (“the Bill”). At Swinburne Maddison, we represent many landlords in the private rented sector, and it is essential that they are fully informed about what is likely to be the most significant overhaul of residential letting laws in decades. The Bill was introduced by the previous Government, with its supporters arguing that…

Stress Awareness Month takes place every April and highlights the impact of stress on our mental and physical well-being. Most people will experience stress at some point in their lives—it’s our body’s natural response to pressure, and it can manifest in many different ways, depending on the individual. Recognising the emotional and mental pressures we face is an important part of protecting our mental health. However, there are times when…

The Supreme Court has yesterday ruled that under UK equality law, the terms “man,” “woman,” and “sex” refer to biological sex, not gender identity. This decision has significant consequences for employers, particularly in relation to workplace policies, hiring, and inclusion initiatives. Background: How did we get here? The Supreme Court case arose initially from a Scottish law which was intended to improve female representation on public boards. However, that law…

A new Skills and Employment Survey, carried out by researchers from Cardiff, Oxford, Surrey, and University College London, offers valuable insights into how the world of work in the UK is evolving. The study, funded by organisations such as ACAS, gathered responses from 5,450 individuals through a combination of online and in-person interviews—the first such survey since 2019. Changing experiences in the workplace One of the most striking findings is…

Today is National Pet Day, and it’s all about celebrating the joy, loyalty and unconditional love our furry, feathery (or even scaly!) companions bring into our lives. For many, pets are more than just animals – they’re family. But how are they treated when it comes to family law and financial remedy proceedings? So, how do the courts view pets? It might come as a surprise to many devoted pet…

The new year brings fresh excitement, and as we move into spring—a season of new beginnings—it’s the perfect time for couples to start thinking about taking the next step and buying a home together. Whether you’re planning to cohabit for the first time or are already living together, moving in together is a big and exciting milestone. But alongside all the excitement, it’s also important to consider the legal practicalities…

Applying for planning permission is a crucial step in property development across the UK. In simple terms, development includes any building, engineering, mining, or significant changes in how a building or land is used. Since conveyancers are not usually involved in the early planning stages, some key legal aspects can be overlooked. Failing to consider these legal factors can lead to unexpected costs, disputes, or, in extreme cases, the demolition…