The argument that clinical negligence claims are draining the NHS of funds that could better be used for front line services is a common one that is directed at our industry. Figures published state that £1.63bn was paid in compensation to victims of medical accidents in 2017/2018, an increase on the previous number of £1.08bn in 2016/2017. But does the problem really lie with the legal sector?

The recent news that Katie Price (formerly known as Jordan) has negotiated a deal with her creditors in order to avoid bankruptcy is a useful reminder on how an individual voluntary arrangement (“IVA”) can help debtors in circumstances where they are faced with a bankruptcy petition but have assets or an income, but just require time to pay.

Smith Partnership considers the impact of the proposed increase in the Probate fee regime.

You may have heard that the government has resurrected its plan to introduce a sharp increase in Probate Court fees. When the idea was last proposed in 2016 the intended increase was substantial and the government eventually bowed to sustained pressure to withdraw its plans.

Unfortunately, we now find ourselves facing another attempt to increase the fee and, whilst the fee-hike is lower than previously proposed, the increases are still extraordinary.

Smith Partnership is spreading some good news for those who are owed money. . .

Almost daily one of our Debt Recovery team has a conversation with a debtor who claims to have received “advice” that all they have to do is “offer £1 a week and the creditor has to accept this”.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, retailers will begin offering products with discounts too tempting to refuse. However, many consumers will find themselves purchasing gifts and other goods, which they decide they wish to return, once the lure of a bargain has worn off.

With Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the Boxing Day sales fast approaching, now is a good time to familiarise yourself with your rights as a consumer, so that you don’t find yourself in a difficult position further down the line.

Returns and exchanges

The Business Defence team at Smith Partnership Solicitors, offers some insight into the complex world of fire safety and the circumstances surrounding the tragic Grenfell Tower incident. 

Tinnitus is a common complaint. If left untreated it can become a huge burden on you and your loved ones. To help you understand your rights and the compensation process, we gathered everything you need to know about tinnitus.

Witnessing a Will is no small responsibility and an important decision to make, both for the witness and the person writing the Will. As part of the Wills Act, witnesses are necessary to ensure the document becomes official and legally binding. Without witnesses, your Will is simply an ‘official looking’ document. Selecting your witnesses is an important step in the process. Make sure you understand who can and can’t witness your Will.

In recent years, there has been some publicity about prospective changes to the law to protect the rights of grandparents (and other extended family) to have contact with children.  This originates from a recent debate in Parliament in which MPs shared experiences of their constituents, including of grandparents accused of harassment and visited by the police after sending birthday cards and Christmas gifts to their grandchildren.

The issue of access rights for grandparents was last examined as part of the Independent Family Justice Review in 2011.

With access to ever cheaper forms of technology and a desire to add extra security measures to your home or business, the use of CCTV and other surveillance equipment has become more popular. To ensure your security doesn’t turn into a liability, it’s important to know the do’s and don’ts of privacy and surveillance. This guide is on hand to provide you with what you need to know to get started.