Law For Life

Zak Barnaville, Private Client Executive in the Wills, Trusts and Probate team at Franklins Solicitors explains what a Declaration of Trust is, why it's important and what the benefits are. 

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.

Nieve Jones, Solicitor in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution team at Franklins Solicitors gives a detailed overview of the Renters Reform Bill, why it was introduced, how it makes it more difficult to evict renters and the changes that private landlords will have to make to be ready when it comes into effect.

Welcome to Episode 3 of Law for Life with Franklins Solicitors. In this episode, host Chris is joined by family lawyer Nikita Bhara to discuss the realities of family law and child arrangements.

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

In this episode of Law For Life from Franklins Solicitors LLP, host Chris Gregg is joined by Sara Marshall, Partner and Head of Employment Law, to demystify settlement agreements. Whether you’re facing redundancy, leaving a role, or resolving a workplace dispute, Sara explains everything you need to know about these important legal documents.

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

In the debut episode of *Law For Life* from Franklins Solicitors LLP, host Chris Gregg is joined by George Smith, Head of Litigation and Dispute Resolution, for a plain-speaking and insightful look at wills and what happens after you’ve died. Many people assume that once a will is written, its instructions are final. But as George explains, that’s not always the case. The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 gives certain family members and dependants the right to challenge a will if they have not been left enough – or if they’ve been left out entirely.

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