Headed by Jerry Hawthorne (Partner), this department deals with dispute resolution, litigation and contentious business. The highly specialised fields of employment law, matrimonial and education law are dealt with by this department.
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If a person dies without making a will, the Intestacy Rules govern who is entitled to inherit that person's estate. The Intestacy Rules do not make any direct provision for an unmarried partner so it is essential to consider whether you and your partner wish to provide for one another in the event of a death and have an up to date will in place. If you already have a will, it is important to review it from time to time, to ensure that it is up to date and gives effect to your current wishes. If you would like our expert advice about any these issues please contact us. |
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Buying a property together is a big commitment emotionally and financially. It is therefore important that your interest is properly protected. We can advise and help you clarify your interest in the property and also deal with practical matters such as the division of outgoings, mortgage repayments and circumstances for future sale. Where two people own a property together, the beneficial interest, that is, the value, in the property can be held as joint tenants or as tenants in common. If the property is owned as joint tenants, on the death of one partner the survivor will become the sole owner. If the property is owned as tenants in common, the deceased partner's share will pass in accordance with his or her will or under the Intestacy Rules. It is therefore important to consider what you wish to happen in the event of your death. |
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Couples who are living together may choose to enter into a Cohabitation Agreement setting out arrangements which will apply whilst they are living together, as well as rights and arrangements in the event of a relationship breakdown. If properly prepared, a Cohabitation Agreement is as enforceable as a contract. We can advise in relation to dealing with property, outgoings, ownership of joint accounts and children. |
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Increasing numbers of people now choose to live together without getting married or entering a civil partnership. We can advise you about living with another person and ensuring that your interests are protected as well providing advice if there is a relationship breakdown. If you have been living with your partner and you separate, your rights are different from those of a spouse or a registered civil partner. Unless you are the owner or joint owner of your home, you will not be entitled to a share of that property, unless you can show that it was held on trust for you. This is a complex area of law. |
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Dispute Resolution and Litigation
