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A bonus for shared ownership buyers

First-time buyers who bought a shared ownership property in the last twelve months should check if they are due a refund on any stamp duty paid.

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Greater protection for pregnant women and new parents

New proposals to give pregnant women and new mothers returning to work greater protection from being treated unfairly were published in January by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

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Equality takes centre stage for employers

The #TimesUp campaign has captured headlines with its push for greater diversity and equality in Hollywood and the entertainment sector, but these shifting attitudes are mirrored in legislative changes in the UK which will affect employers in the coming months.

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Soaring fees set deadline for executors and estate planning

Controversial court fees which have been branded a stealth tax on bereaved families are expected to prompt a surge in probate applications before the hike hits. The new banded fee structure will see the cost of probate soar by thousands of pounds for higher value estates.

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Brexit and employment law

Whichever side of the Brexit fence you sit on, there is no doubt that Brexit has the potential for far reaching implications for the UK.

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Parental bereavement (leave and pay)

On 13 September 2018, a new workplace right to paid leave for bereaved parents was implemented.

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Insight

Change in divorce law looks set to stop the blame game

No fault divorce is likely to be introduced, but professionals say fair deal on asset sharing means mediation must remain top of the agenda

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Safeguarding’s vital when appointing others to act

Increasing numbers of people are taking advantage of a simplified online process to make a Lasting Power of Attorney, which enables others to manage their affairs if they become unable to do so themselves, but alongside there is a surge in reports of abuse by attorneys. “It’s important to get guidance and set safeguards in place when permitting others to manage your affairs.” says private client specialist, James McMullan who explains how the process works and the ways in which you can protect yourself.

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What lies beneath…

If you’re investing in or developing property, be aware that any mines and minerals beneath the surface could be owned by someone else.

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Can you ever be too young to create a Lasting Power of Attorney?

While most Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are created by older people, mental capacity issues can strike at any age. Anyone can fall foul of an illness or accident which leaves them incapacitated or even in a coma.

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Death and taxes are said to be the two certainties of life…

While we often stop and have a moan about taxes; very little thought is often given to death itself.

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New trade mark rules simplify counterfeit challenges

A branding challenge toppled the golden arches when a small Irish fast food company managed to block the international McDonald's food chain from trademarking the terms Big Mac and Mc throughout Europe.

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