Am I a Nearest Relative? If your relative is detained under the Mental Health Act, you may be considered as their nearest relative. It is important to be aware that this person can be different to the next of kin. The general rule is that the nearest relative will be the person who comes highest … Continued

The term Court Martial is widely known, but little understood. I hope to briefly explain what a Court Martial actually is, how it differs from a ‘civilian’ Court, and how Clark Willis Law Firm LLP might be able to help anybody who requires representation before the Court Martial. What is a court martial? A Court … Continued

 What is the new relief As of 22 November 2017, first-time buyers in England and Wales of residential property have benefitted from welcome relief from Stamp Duty for purchases under £300,000 and relief on the first £300,000 if buying property up to £500,000. The Stamp Duty threshold is currently £125,000 whereas the threshold for first-time … Continued

Previous legal aid eligibility From 1 April 2013, legal aid has only been available in a limited number of family cases including: Care proceedings Children cases where there is evidence of domestic abuse against the parent or the child, in the preceding 24 month period Domestic violence injunctions (also referred to as Non-Molestation Orders) International … Continued

We are delighted to announce that we have achieved accreditation with Cyber Essentials. We have been assessed to ensure we take Cyber security for our firm, and therefore our clients, very seriously. For further information please see www.cyberstreetwise.comcyberessentials

What are the new Regulations? From April 2018, the regulations will make it unlawful for private sector landlords to let residential or commercial properties to new or existing tenants, without an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) band rating of E or above. Properties which do not require an EPC under the current regulations will be exempt … Continued

We have today drawn our Christmas raffle in aid of St Teresa’s Hospice. The raffle was won by Louise Wilson, a member of our Family Team.

If you have been the victim of a violent crime and have suffered physical or mental injury, then you may be able to submit a claim for compensation to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The CICA is a government body established to compensate innocent victims of criminal assault and other violent crimes. Eligibility requirements … Continued

We are delighted to announce that following an annual audit we have maintained our Lexcel quality mark. We have held this quality mark since 2010. Lexcel is defined by the Law Society at http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/support-services/accreditation/lexcel/ ‘Lexcel is the Law Society’s legal practice quality mark for excellence in legal practice management and excellence in client care. It provides … Continued

I know, I know it’s ‘only October!’ but we are starting the countdown and the Christmas gifts have appeared in the shops. I am talking about this now because it needs to be looked at sooner rather than later. How the Christmas holidays are split is a tricky issue between some separated parents. There is … Continued