In this episode of Law for Life, Chris Gregg is joined by Zoe Hail from Franklin Solicitors to answer the most common questions about child arrangements and holidays. They explain when consent is needed, how child arrangements orders affect travel, what to do if a parent refuses permission, and the legal options available if disputes arise.

Whether you're planning a summer holiday or simply want to understand your rights, this episode provides practical guidance to help separated parents navigate what can often be an emotional and challenging situation.

If you need advice on family law matters, the Family Law team at Franklin Solicitors is available to help.

#FamilyLaw #ChildArrangements #SeparatedParents #FranklinSolicitors #LawForLife #FamilySolicitor #ParentalResponsibility #ChildCustody #UKLaw #LegalAdvice #Parenting #SchoolHolidays #CoParenting #Podcast #ChrisGregg

In the latest episode of Law for Life, Chris is joined once again by Franklin Solicitors' Eddie Bell to explain Business Property Relief (BPR) and its agricultural equivalent, Agricultural Property Relief (APR). These valuable inheritance tax reliefs have been in the spotlight following recent government changes, and understanding how they work could save business owners and their families a significant amount of money.

The discussion begins by explaining exactly what Business Property Relief is and why it exists. Introduced around 50 years ago, BPR was designed to stop successful family businesses being forced to close or sell simply because a large inheritance tax bill became payable when the owner died. Instead, qualifying business assets can receive either full or partial relief from inheritance tax, helping businesses continue trading for future generations.

The episode explores the major changes introduced following the 2024 Budget and explains the current rules now in force. Eddie outlines how the level of relief available depends on the type of business asset involved and explains the new £2.5 million threshold for full relief, replacing the government's original proposal of £1 million. The conversation also looks at how married couples can transfer unused allowances between each other, providing potentially £5 million of fully relieved business assets.

Chris and Eddie discuss who can actually benefit from Business Property Relief, whether you're a sole trader, partner or shareholder in a private limited company. They also explain why company directors who don't own shares may be missing out on valuable tax advantages and why the structure of your business can have a significant impact on inheritance tax planning.

The podcast also tackles some of the more complex areas, including why property investment companies generally do not qualify, how excessive cash held within a business can affect relief, and the important distinction between property investment and property development. Listeners also learn why shares listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) no longer receive the same generous tax treatment they once did.

One of the key messages throughout the episode is the importance of obtaining professional advice. Business Property Relief can be incredibly valuable, but the rules are detailed and often depend on individual circumstances. Eddie explains how accountants, financial advisers and solicitors frequently work together to ensure business owners make the most tax-efficient decisions while remaining fully compliant with HMRC requirements.

The conversation also covers practical estate planning, including how wills, trusts and lifetime gifting can all play an important role in reducing inheritance tax. Eddie explains why simply leaving everything to a spouse may not always be the most tax-efficient solution and how carefully drafted trusts can preserve valuable reliefs while providing flexibility for future generations.

Finally, the episode highlights the importance of succession planning. Beyond saving tax, every business owner should consider who will take over the business, how ownership will transfer and what arrangements should be in place to ensure the company continues to operate successfully if the unexpected happens.

Whether you're a sole trader, company director, shareholder or planning for the future of a family business, this episode provides a clear introduction to one of the most valuable inheritance tax reliefs available.

Listen now to discover how Business Property Relief could help protect both your business and your family's future.
 

Georgia breaks down the legal definition of harassment under the Equality Act, including harassment related to protected characteristics, sexual harassment, and the protections available to employees when inappropriate conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive working environment.

The discussion explores the existing legal framework, the introduction of the preventative duty requiring employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, and the significant changes that are now arriving through the Employment Rights Act. These include new whistleblowing protections relating to sexual harassment, the enhanced requirement for employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment, and the return of employer liability for harassment carried out by third parties such as customers, clients and members of the public.

Georgia explains what these changes could mean in practice, why employers should start preparing now, and the practical measures businesses can take to reduce risk. Topics include workplace policies, staff training, reporting procedures, risk assessments and the importance of creating a safe and respectful working environment for employees.

Whether you're a business owner, manager, HR professional or employee, this episode provides a valuable overview of an area of employment law that is becoming increasingly important for organisations of all sizes.

For tailored legal advice relating to employment law, workplace policies, discrimination, harassment or HR matters, contact the Employment Law team at Franklin Solicitors.

#EmploymentLaw #Harassment #WorkplaceHarassment #EmploymentRightsAct #HR #HumanResources #BusinessAdvice #LegalAdvice #FranklinSolicitors #SexualHarassment #Whistleblowing #EmploymentRights #WorkplacePolicies #EqualityAct #BusinessOwners #Management #HRCompliance #UKEmploymentLaw #LawForLife #WorkplaceCulture
 

The conversation covers a wide range of everyday litigation scenarios including barking dogs, nuisance pets, blocked driveways, rubbish disputes, CCTV privacy concerns, overhanging trees, easements, shared access issues, fencing and boundary disputes, trespass, and legal responsibilities between neighbours.

George explains when informal communication should come first, when councils may become involved, where mediation can help, and when legal action such as injunctions or court orders may be necessary. The discussion also looks at property rights, nuisance law, privacy considerations under UK GDPR, land boundaries, adverse possession, tree preservation orders, and the duty of care landowners may owe to neighbouring properties.

A useful and accessible look at how litigation law applies to everyday disputes and how problems can often be resolved before reaching court.

#LawForLife #FranklinSolicitors #Litigation #DisputeResolution #NeighbourDisputes #PropertyLaw #BoundaryDisputes #CCTVPrivacy #ParkingDisputes #LegalAdvice #UKLaw #EnvironmentalProtectionAct #Solicitors #Homeowners #PropertyDisputes #LawPodcast #ChrisGregg #FranklinSolicitorsPodcast

The conversation explores the key changes coming into force, including the reduction in qualifying service for unfair dismissal claims, the removal of compensation caps, and the extension of claim time limits. There’s also a clear explanation of what actually counts as unfair dismissal, the different types of claims, and how these differ from redundancy.

The episode then moves into practical territory, looking at how businesses may be affected and why more disputes could be resolved through settlement agreements. Georgia explains how these agreements work, what they include, and why independent legal advice is essential before signing anything.

Whether you're employing staff or working within a business, this episode offers a straightforward and informative guide to navigating these upcoming changes and understanding your rights.

#EmploymentLaw #UnfairDismissal #UKLaw #HRAdvice #BusinessSupport #LegalAdvice #FranklinSolicitors #WorkplaceRights #EmploymentRightsAct #Podcast
 

They explain what an LPA is, the difference between property & financial affairs and health & welfare LPAs, and why having both can offer complete peace of mind. The conversation explores when an LPA can be used, how mental capacity is assessed, and why it’s not just something to think about later in life.

You’ll also hear practical advice on choosing the right attorney, what powers they actually have (and don’t have), and how to avoid common misunderstandings. Plus, the process of setting up an LPA, how long it takes, and what happens if you don’t have one in place when it’s needed.

Whether you're planning ahead for yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers essential guidance to help you make informed decisions and protect your future.

#LawForLife #LastingPowerOfAttorney #LPA #LegalAdvice #EstatePlanning #UKLaw #FranklinSolicitors #PowerOfAttorney #FinancialPlanning #HealthAndWelfare #LegalPodcast #FuturePlanning #MentalCapacity #SolicitorAdvice

In this episode of Law for Life – The Franklin Solicitors Podcast, Chris is joined in the studio by Tya from the Corporate Services team to unpack the growing role of artificial intelligence in the legal world. From drafting contracts to preparing court cases, AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming increasingly common—but they come with serious risks.

The conversation explores why legal work isn’t just a simple “input and output” process, the dangers of relying on templates or AI-generated agreements, and real-life examples where things have gone badly wrong—including fake case law appearing in court. Tya explains why legal documents require precision, experience, and human judgement, and why even small wording errors can leave businesses exposed.

They also discuss where AI can be useful—such as helping to clarify ideas or summarise instructions—while reinforcing why it should never replace professional legal advice. If you run a business or are tempted to cut corners with legal paperwork, this is an essential listen.

For advice or support, the Corporate Services team at Franklin Solicitors are on hand to help you protect what matters most.

#LawForLife #FranklinSolicitors #BusinessLaw #AI #ChatGPT #LegalAdvice #SmallBusiness #Contracts #Entrepreneurship #UKBusiness #LegalPodcast #ArtificialIntelligence #RiskManagement #CorporateLaw

#EmploymentLaw #BusinessUK #HRAdvice #EmploymentRights #FranklinSolicitors #LawForLife #WorkplaceLaw #UKBusiness #HRCompliance #LegalUpdate

In this episode of Law for Life, Chris is joined by Zoe Hale from the Family Law team at Franklins Solicitors to explore the often-misunderstood world of cohabitation law. As more couples choose to live together without marrying, understanding the legal implications of sharing a home, finances and assets has never been more important.

One of the biggest myths addressed in this discussion is the idea of the “common law marriage”. Many people believe that living together for a certain number of years automatically gives them the same legal rights as a married couple — but in England and Wales, that simply isn’t the case. Zoe explains why this misconception persists and what the law actually says.

The conversation looks at what happens when unmarried couples buy property together, how ownership structures such as joint tenancy and tenants in common affect rights, and what can happen if a relationship breaks down. The episode also explains the legal framework used when disputes arise, including the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996, often referred to as TOLATA.

Chris and Zoe also discuss practical steps couples can take to protect themselves before moving in together. One key option is a cohabitation agreement — a legal document that sets out how finances, property and responsibilities will be handled during the relationship and what should happen if it ends. While it may feel unromantic to plan for the possibility of separation, it can prevent significant disputes later on.

The episode explores how these agreements work, what information is needed to create one, and why each partner should obtain independent legal advice before signing. Zoe also explains the difference between a declaration of trust and a cohabitation agreement, and how they can work together to provide clarity over property ownership and financial arrangements.

Other topics covered include joint bank accounts, savings disputes, household expenses, financial disclosure, and how agreements should be reviewed when major life events occur — such as having children, receiving an inheritance or changes in employment.

With cohabitation becoming increasingly common, this episode provides essential insight into an area of law that many people don’t fully understand until it’s too late. Whether you’re planning to move in with a partner, already sharing a home, or simply curious about your legal rights, this discussion offers clear and practical guidance on how to protect yourself and plan ahead.

#CohabitationLaw #FamilyLaw #UKLaw #LivingTogether #PropertyLaw #LegalAdvice #LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #RelationshipsAndLaw #KnowYourRights

In this edition of Law for Life, the podcast from Franklins Solicitors, we’re joined by Nieve Jones from the litigation team to break down the sweeping reforms introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act, due to take effect from 1 May 2026.

Described as the biggest shift in rental law since the Housing Act 1988, this legislation will fundamentally change how tenancies operate across England.

We cover:

• The abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions
• Changes to Section 8 notices and expanded eviction grounds
• The end of fixed-term tenancies and move to periodic agreements
• New rules around rent increases via Section 13 notices
• Tenants’ rights to challenge rent at tribunal
• Four-month notice requirements in key circumstances
• New landlord database registration requirements
• Penalties ranging from £7,000 to £40,000 for non-compliance
• Rent repayment orders and compensation risks
• The new legal position on tenants keeping pets
• What landlords must prove if reclaiming a property to sell or move in

We also discuss the practical realities — what landlords should be doing now to prepare, how the courts are likely to interpret the new grounds, and why getting your paperwork right will be more important than ever.

Whether you’re a seasoned landlord, a first-time investor, or a tenant wanting to understand your rights, this episode provides a clear, plain-English guide to what’s changing and what it means for you.

For tailored legal advice, contact the litigation team at Franklin Solicitors.

#RentersRightsAct #LandlordLaw #TenantRights #PropertyLaw #UKProperty #Section21 #Section8 #FranklinsSolicitors #RentalReform #HousingLaw

In this episode of Law for Life, the Franklins Solicitors podcast, Chris sits down with Eddie Bell from the Wills, Trusts and Probate team to unpack the often confusing world of IHT. From thresholds and tax rates to common myths and costly mistakes, this episode offers a clear and practical overview of what inheritance tax really means for you.

They discuss:

• What inheritance tax actually is and who it affects
• The current nil rate band and residence nil rate band
• Why more estates are being caught by IHT
• Gifting rules and the seven-year rule
• Business and agricultural property relief
• The risks of putting your home into trust
• Lifetime gifts and surplus income exemptions
• Loans to children and how they’re treated
• Charitable giving and the reduced 36% tax rate
• Upcoming changes to pension taxation for IHT
• Deeds of variation and smart estate planning
• What happens if someone dies without a will

With inheritance tax receipts rising and thresholds frozen for years, this is no longer just a concern for the “super wealthy”. Whether you’re planning your estate, supporting your children financially, or simply want to understand the rules, this episode provides essential guidance.

As always, personal advice is key – every situation is different.

If you’ve found this helpful, make sure you subscribe for more practical legal insights from the team at Franklins Solicitors.

#InheritanceTax #EstatePlanning #WillsAndProbate #LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #FinancialPlanning #UKTax #WillWriting #Trusts #FamilyFinance

#Podcast #EmploymentLaw #Redundancy #WorkplaceRights #UKEmployment #HR #LegalAdvice #FranklinsSolicitors #BusinessSupport #EmployeeRights

The conversation moves into common questions such as how long probate takes, what happens with shareholdings, and whether any other taxes might arise. Eddie also covers what to do if an executor doesn’t wish to act, whether a will can be changed, and the legal position when there’s no will at all.

This episode is designed to make a complex and often confusing process more understandable, offering clarity when people need it most.

#podcast #probate #wills #inheritancetax #legaladvice #franklinssolicitors #chrisgregg #estates #executor #uklaw #miltonkeynes

Georgia explains how the proposed legislation will overhaul existing employment law, from day-one rights for unfair dismissal to sweeping changes in statutory sick pay, family-friendly rights, and protection around maternity, paternity and parental leave. She outlines what these changes mean in practical terms, why businesses need to start preparing now, and how contracts, policies and staff handbooks may need a complete refresh.

We also explore the wider political background, including how the bill emerged from Labour’s manifesto and why it is considered one of the most significant updates to UK employment law in decades. Georgia offers valuable guidance for businesses navigating this transition period and highlights how Franklin’s can support employers with contract reviews, policy updates and legal clarity during the rollout.

Whether you're an employer trying to stay compliant or an employee wanting to understand your new rights, this episode gives you the essential insight you need before the reforms arrive in 2026 and 2027.

#EmploymentLaw #EmploymentRightsBill #UKLaw #HRUpdates #FranklinsSolicitors #LawForLife #EmployeeRights #UnfairDismissal #StatutorySickPay #FamilyFriendlyRights #LegalPodcast #BusinessCompliance #UKEmployers

The episode walks listeners through each stage of the divorce process, from filing an application online to obtaining a conditional order and finally a final order. 

Nikita also offers valuable insights on the division of assets, consent orders, pet custody, and financial settlements, as well as the importance of taking time to reflect before finalising the decision. With practical, jargon-free advice, this episode helps demystify a stressful topic and shows how Franklin Solicitors can guide clients through divorce with compassion and clarity.

#LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #FamilyLaw #DivorceLaw #NoFaultDivorce #LegalAdvice #ConsentOrder #FinancialSettlement #DivorceProcess #UKLaw #MiltonKeynes #Northampton #LegalPodcast #NikitaBhara #ChrisGregg #SolicitorsUK #DivorceSupport #LawPodcast

He also warns what the consequences could be if you don't have one in place and how to include future changes in your financial circumstances in the document. 

There's also some good advice about the importance of having a will if you are a co-habiting couple with a Declaration of Trust.

From the early stages of separation through to court proceedings, Nikita explains how solicitors can guide parents through difficult times, including mediation, child arrangement orders, and welfare concerns such as domestic abuse. They also explore how the courts prioritise a child’s best interests, what happens when orders are breached, and the role of independent bodies like CAFCASS.

This episode offers practical insights, clear explanations, and reassurance for anyone facing family law challenges, showing how the right legal support can make a difference.

#LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #FamilyLaw #ChildArrangements #SeparationSupport #DivorceAdvice #ChildCustody #ParentalRights #Mediation #CourtProcess #LegalAdvice #Podcast #FamilySupport #CAFCASS #ChildWelfare #ParentingThroughSeparation #LegalGuidance #NikitaBarra #LawPodcast #Solicitors

They cover what a protected conversation is and when it might be used, the difference between a settlement agreement, a COT3, and a compromise agreement, and the circumstances in which an agreement may be offered. Sara also discusses what should be included in the agreement, from notice pay and holiday entitlement to commission, benefits, and shares, as well as how tax and National Insurance apply.

Other key questions include confidentiality, post-employment restrictions, references, and whether signing prevents you from making tribunal or court claims. Importantly, Sara explores who pays the legal costs, how far terms can be negotiated, and whether you actually have to sign at all.

This episode is an essential listen for anyone navigating workplace exits or disputes, giving you clear, practical advice in plain English from one of Franklins’ leading employment law experts.

#LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #SettlementAgreement #EmploymentLaw #WorkplaceRights #Redundancy #EmploymentDisputes #LegalAdvice #UKLaw #Solicitors #EmploymentTribunal #LegalPodcast

The conversation explores how the courts balance the wishes of the deceased with the financial needs of those left behind, and why dependants, spouses, and even long-term cohabiting partners may still be entitled to provision. Chris and George also discuss the strict six-month time limit for claims, the potential costs and challenges of disputes, and how professional advice can prevent families from being left in turmoil. From unusual will conditions to high-profile court cases, this episode reveals the complexity of inheritance law and why having a well-drafted will is essential.

George shares practical examples of how disputes are resolved, what steps executors must follow, and why mediation is often better than lengthy court proceedings. Whether you’re planning your own will, dealing with a loved one’s estate, or simply curious about how the law works, this first episode provides clear, expert guidance to help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

#LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #WillsAndProbate #InheritanceAct #LegalAdvice #DisputeResolution #EstatePlanning #FamilyLaw #LegalPodcast #UKLaw #Solicitors #Litigation