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DIY wills: Should you write your own will?
From self-checkouts to flat pack furniture, modern life is making us increasingly self-sufficient. DIY wills are becoming more and more popular, however even with the assistance of Google, not everything can be do-it-yourself. If your… Read More
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Who keeps the family pet when a marriage or relationship breaks down?
Pets are a big part of family life. Cats and dogs are often viewed as ‘children’ by their owners – but what happens to the family pet when a couple separates? The English Courts view pets as possessions (or ‘chattels’) – similar to… Read More
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What’s the difference between gifting and lending money?
Disputes often arise as a result of sums of money being either gifted or lent to family members or friends. ‘Gifting’ money is exactly that – a gift. The money is given on the understanding that it does not need to be repaid. However, if… Read More
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Five facts about notaries public you didn’t know
A notary public prepares and certifies documents for use abroad, for example for individuals engaged in overseas transactions or for businesses involved in international trade. Despite being the oldest arm of the legal profession, the… Read More
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Will the government listen to pleas for social care reform?
Dame Barbara Windsor and her husband Scott Mitchell have recently teamed with Alzheimer’s Society to launch an open letter calling for social care reform. Windsor was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014 and has since become an ambassador… Read More
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The clock is ticking for Help to Buy ISAs
From 30th November 2019, Help to Buy ISAs will be closed to new customers. First time buyers can still open an account between now and the deadline, if they don’t already have one. Help to Buy ISAs were introduced in 2015 to help… Read More
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Divorcing in Denmark: How does it compare to the UK?
Until recently, ‘divorce’ in Denmark meant completing a straightforward online application form and paying a £56 fee. However, new legislation came into force in April, requiring divorcing couples to wait for a period of three months and… Read More
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Is it wise to agree to a simultaneous exchange and completion date?
Many people find moving house stressful because they fear their sale and/or purchase may not go through. In order to give some certainty, there are two distinct stages: Exchange of contracts – this is when the parties… Read More
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Summer shortlist success: Yorkshire Legal Awards 2019
Emsleys Solicitors' Wills & Probate team has been shortlisted in the Private Client category for this year’s Yorkshire Legal Awards. Read More
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What are the Stamp Duty implications when buying a second home?
If you own a house, chances are you’ll have paid Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) at the time of purchase (unless you were a first-time buyer*). However, did you know you’re still required to pay SDLT on any additional properties you buy?… Read More
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Do cyclists really need insurance?
Although it isn’t a legal requirement, we would always advocate that cyclists take out insurance. Whether you’re a regular commuter, a leisure rider or a cycling aficionado, a minimum of third party insurance is always advisable. Last… Read More
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Will a septic tank cause a stink when I buy or sell a house?
If you own a property which drains into a septic tank you may have received correspondence from the Environmental Agency advising you to replace your system. Read More