Blog

Domestic Abuse and Legal Help

What Legal Help Is Available If You Are In An Abusive Relationship

Domestic abuse is defined as an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading, and violent behaviour, including sexual violence, primarily by a partner or ex-partner, but also by a family member or carer. It is a pattern of behaviour used to hurt, terrorize, manipulate, or gain control over a family member. Domestic abuse can manifest…

Armstrong Luty and Ison Harrison Solicitors

Ison Harrison Expands Regional Presence With The Acquisition Of Armstrong Luty Solicitors

Press Release – April 2025 Yorkshire-based law firm Ison Harrison has announced the acquisition of Skipton-based personal injury specialists Armstrong Luty Solicitors, further strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading full-service legal practices. The deal marks another milestone in Ison Harrison’s strategic growth, expanding its reach across North Yorkshire and enhancing its personal…

do i really need a will

Why You Need a Will (Even If You Think You Don’t)

As a solicitor, I have conversations with clients about making wills on a daily basis. I am often surprised by the number of people who tell me that they don’t need a will because ‘my circumstances are really straight forward’ or ‘my children know what I want’. Equally, I meet clients who have written wills…

Getting to know Child Arrangement Orders - Spend Time With

Contact Orders and Child Arrangements: What You Need to Know

When parents separate, one of the biggest concerns is how child arrangements will work. If both parents cannot agree, a contact order (now known as either a Child Arrangements Order – Spend Time With or a Child Arrangements Order – Live With) may be necessary to ensure the child maintains a relationship with their parents….

Securing UK Spouse Visa to help family relocate

Securing a UK Spouse Visa for a US Citizen: A Client Success Story

At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we pride ourselves on helping families navigate the complexities of UK immigration law. In a recent case, our experienced team successfully assisted a US citizen in securing a UK Spouse Visa to join his British husband and their two British children. The case involved addressing financial challenges and securing the children’s…

divorcing couple

Express Financial Remedy Pilot: What You Need To Know

From 7 April 2025 various courts across North and West Yorkshire, Cheshire, Merseyside, Cleveland, Newcastle, Durham, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Cumbria and the West Midlands will be included in the new Express Financial Remedy Pilot. The traditional process When spouses are unable to reach an agreement in respect of their matrimonial finances following a divorce, they…

Bicycle claims

Vulnerable Road User Injury Claims: How Ison Harrison Can Help You Recover Compensation

Each year, thousands of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are seriously injured on UK roads – many through no fault of their own. At Ison Harrison, we specialise in helping vulnerable road users secure the compensation they deserve following road traffic accidents. If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, we’re here to…

immigration

Spring Budget 2025: Implications for Immigration and Sponsored Workers in the UK

The Spring Budget 2025, delivered against the backdrop of a challenging economic climate and an approaching General Election, set the tone for continued fiscal restraint and a firm stance on immigration. While headline-grabbing tax cuts and investment announcements dominated the news cycle, several key developments – both direct and indirect – will significantly affect UK…

sexual abuse advice

Raising Awareness & Supporting Survivors During Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for justice. Sexual assault remains a significant concern in the UK, with various studies highlighting its prevalence: Approximately 1 in 4 women have been subjected to some form of sexual violence since the age of 16. Around 1 in…

Victoria Boid The Business Compass

Sports Law Uncovered with Athlete-Lawyer Victoria Boid

Balancing a high-pressure legal career with elite-level sport sounds almost impossible—but Victoria Boid is doing just that. As a partner at Ison Harrison Solicitors and a Great Britain triathlete, she proves that determination, strategy, and passion can make the seemingly unachievable a reality. In a recent episode of The Business Compass podcast, host Richard Coulthard…

police station

Our Top Tips For Choosing A Local Criminal Lawyer

Facing up to the prospect of criminal charges can be an overwhelming experience, but a major element of confronting this is assessing your legal position and preparing your defence. And therefore it is essential that you choose a good criminal lawyer, and as soon as you can. Not only will this help you prepare the…

Deadline approaches to make the switch to eVisa

Over 4 Million UK Visa Holders Successfully Transition to eVisas

According to Home Office statistics published in February, over 4 million UK visa holders have now created an account to access their eVisa. However, an estimated 600,000 individuals have yet to switch from their physical documents to a digital eVisa. The eVisa rollout, which began last year, is part of the UK government’s push to…

sylvia thompson

Inquest Concludes That The Death Of 89 Year Old Patient Suffering With Dementia Was Contributed To By Neglect

The inquest touching upon the death of 89 year old Sylvia Thompson concluded this Monday at Wakefield Coroners Court.  Assistant Coroner Oliver Longstaff recorded a short form conclusion of Natural Causes Contributed to by Neglect. In order for neglect to be found in an inquest, the following must be established; The Coroner must find that…

Considering pensions on divorce.

Pensions On Divorce: An Asset Not To Be Overlooked

In many matrimonial cases pensions are the most valuable asset of the marriage, although many do not realise that both their own pension and their spouse’s pension is considered a matrimonial asset. Depending on the age of the spouses the pension may not provide an immediate income, however it should not be overlooked as to…

Haemochromatosis complications and compensation

Haemochromatosis: The Importance of Regular Surveillance to Prevent Complications

What is Haemochromatosis? Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder where there is excessive absorption and storage of iron in the body. This condition can lead to serious health issues if not properly managed. Regular surveillance is crucial to prevent complications and ensure early intervention. Understanding Haemochromatosis Haemochromatosis, often referred to as iron overload, occurs when the…

Registering a child as a British citizen

Registering a Child as a British Citizen: An Overview

If your child was born in the UK and has lived here consistently, they may be eligible to register as a British citizen. This is an option worth exploring for several important reasons. Entitlement to Register as a British Citizen Under Section 1(4) of the British Nationality Act 1981, a child born in the UK…

Needlestick Claims

Needlestick injuries, psychological trauma and PTSD

Needlestick injuries: psychological trauma claims. If you have a needlestick injury, whether it was from a discarded hypodermic, insulin tester or other forms of sharp the chances are that, in the absence of infection of by a blood-borne virus (BBV) the physical injury will be slight with no more than a spot of blood to…

Government crackdown on illegal worker activity

Record-Breaking January for Illegal Working Enforcement Activity Announced by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced a record-breaking January for illegal working enforcement activity, as the government intensifies its efforts to combat immigration system abuse under its Plan for Change. The surge in enforcement activity forms a key part of the government’s broader initiative to restore order to the UK immigration system by identifying, disrupting,…

Sexual assault in the British armed forces.

Army Chief Condemns Senior Officers for Failing to Stop Harassment in the Ranks

General Sir Roly Walker, the head of the British Army, has issued a powerful statement condemning the “appalling and shameful behaviour” faced by female personnel within the ranks. His remarks come after over 1,000 women shared their experiences of sexual abuse and harassment in the military, a response sparked by the tragic case of 19-year-old…

Dangerous Dogs

Out of Control Dogs: Your Rights After a Dog Bite in the UK

Dog attacks can happen suddenly, leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected financial costs. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options for claiming compensation. At Ison Harrison Solicitors we specialise in no win, no fee dog bite claims, helping…

IH International Womens Day 2025

7 Inspiring Interviews To Celebrate International Women’s Day

This year, to celebrate International Women’s Day on 8th March, we have interviewed some inspirational women that work at Ison Harrison and in the local community. Find out why International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to celebrate these very inspirational women! Ruth Bundey (Ison Harrison Consultant & Inquest Advocate) Ruth Bundey is recognised nationally…

Ison Harrison ranked as Yorkshire's leading property solicitors.

Law Firm’s Booming Property Division Ranked Number One For Transactions

Press Release – March 2025 A Yorkshire law firm’s property division has been recognised as the region’s leading property solicitors, completing more transactions than any other firm. Following a UK-wide property sector analysis, Ison Harrison is ranked number one in Yorkshire and Humberside for successful property completions, with the highest overall market share. The independent…

Clinical negligence in accident and emergency

Understanding Clinical Negligence in A&E: Your Guide to Making a Claim

Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments provide vital care, they are often busy with doctors and nurses working under pressure.  Unfortunately, this means that sometimes mistakes can happen, and these mistakes can have devastating consequences for patients. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a failure to diagnose and treat in A&E, you…

Wayne Cowley of Packetts Insurance

What Every Business Owner Needs to Know About Insurance with Wayne Cowley from Packetts

“If you arrive tomorrow morning and it was a pile of rubble, what would you do as a business?” In the latest episode of The Business Compass Podcast, Richard Coulthard sat down with Wayne Cowley, an expert who bridges two worlds—insurance and the Police. As Shareholder and Director at Packetts Insurance and a background in…

What makes a good employer?

What Makes A Good Employer? Here’s 7 Things To Look For

Every employer should have a specific structure in place which manages their legal duties. This will take care of their responsibility to provide a safe and comfortable work environment, and will also cover human resources services, such as contracts, renumeration and pensions, and a structure to deal with harassment, discrimination, dismissals, redundancy and paternity/maternity rights….

domestic abuse

An Insight Into Life After Domestic Abuse

A number of our lawyers here at Ison Harrison are IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services) Ambassadors, an important charity whose work involves providing support for those who have been victims of sexual and domestic abuse and training and educational work to inspire individuals and organisations to tackle the root causes of domestic abuse. Here is…

military

Former Soldier Exposes Culture of Misogyny in the Army

A former soldier has spoken out about the sexist environment faced by women in the British Army, describing how female personnel endure persistent harassment, crude remarks, and damaging gossip. The comments emerged during an inquest into the death of 19-year-old Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck, who was found dead in her barracks at Larkhill Camp,…

Needlestick Claims

How To Claim For Your Needlestick Injury At Work

Most needlestick injuries could have been avoided and the employers would, in most cases, have been liable for the injury and stress resulting from the incident. It doesn’t matter that the injury was caused by someone else; your employers are liable for the actions and mistakes of your colleagues. The same duty of care and…

Government proposals on increased energy efficiency standards.

Government Consultation on Raising Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards in the Private Rented Sector

The UK government is currently consulting on proposed changes to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (“MEES”) for residential properties in the private rented sector. This potential reform aims to enhance energy efficiency by requiring landlords to meet higher standards, aligning with the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. Proposed Changes to MEES…

Recent changes to employment law.

Three notable changes to employment law in 2024: Is your business up to speed?

Employment law is constantly evolving, and 2024 brought several important changes that businesses must be aware of. From enhanced protections against redundancy to new obligations around flexible working and preventing workplace harassment, these updates could have a significant impact on how employers manage their workforce. Failing to comply not only risks legal action but could…

How to climb the property ladder

How To Climb The Property Ladder (And Be Savvy)

The property ladder involves a different number of steps, some planned and some unplanned. The number of steps on the ladder will relate to your life ambitions, what decisions you make and what life throws at you. Unfortunately, the hardest step on the ladder to reach is the first one. How you climb the property…

domestic abuse

Three Year Time Limit For Bringing A Case For Childhood Abuse To Be Scrapped

The abuse of a child, like any abuse, is an abhorrent crime often leaving the victims with lifelong mental scars. The survivors of such abuse often take many years to be able to speak about the abuse they suffered, often due to mental health difficulties, the feeling of shame, fear and the mistrust of people…

Alistair Gladstone on The Business Compass

Breaking the Silence: Richard Coulthard Addresses Men’s Mental Health with Alistair Gladstone From Wingmen

“If I can completely fall apart like that, then other people are going to be suffering in silence in the same way as I was.” – Alistair Gladstone In a recent episode of The Business Compass podcast, host Richard Coulthard, Director and Head of Corporate at Ison Harrison Solicitors, sits down with Alistair Gladstone from…

Impact of Rising Interest Rates on Commercial Leases

As interest rates in the UK continue to rise, and uncertainty around future rates, businesses are feeling the ripple effects across various sectors, and businesses with commercial leases are no exception. For landlords and tenants alike, understanding these impacts is critical to navigating lease negotiations and long-term commitments. The immediate effect of rising interest rates…

Three notable changes to employment law in 2024: Is your business up to speed?

Extension of Protection Against Redundancy Change: Protection against redundancy for employees that have taken maternity, adoption, or shared parental leave was enhanced. Previously, protection against redundancy only applied during maternity leave, but now it covers additional family leave types. Penalty: Employers who dismiss employees during these protected periods may face claims for unfair dismissal in…

The rights of cohabiting couples

What Rights Do Cohabiting Partners Have?

Contrary to popular belief, cohabiting partners do not have the same rights as partners who are legally married or who are in a civil partnership. The ‘common law’ marriage agreement is a myth, and because unmarried couples are now very common, it is important that the rights of cohabiting partners are fully understood. What are…

A new problem solving approach to child arrangements

The Pathfinder Pilot: A Revolutionary Approach to Family Law Comes to Leeds

A new way of doing family law is coming to Leeds. The ‘Pathfinder Pilot’ is soon to be implemented by Leeds Family Court. This is a new method of dealing with applications about who a child lives with and spends time with (‘child arrangements’). As those who have experience of the Family Court will know,…

Needlestick Claims

How Can I Protect Myself From Needlestick Injuries?

There are 40,000 reported needlestick injuries in the NHS each year (source NHS Employers). It is estimated that the same number again go unreported. This figure doesn’t include care workers, veterinary workers, private health/beauticians etc. The risk of a needlestick injury is high. The best policy is to take all steps you possibly can to avoid…

parents lost baby

56 Baby Deaths at Leeds Hospitals Possibly Preventable

A BBC article today reveals that the deaths of at least 56 babies and two mothers at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust over the past five years may have been preventable. The investigation found that these deaths occurred at the trust’s two maternity units, Leeds General Infirmary and St James’s University Hospital, which are rated…

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme: What it Covers and How We Can Help

The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) is available for members of the UK Armed Forces who have been injured in service, or have had a previous injury made worse by service. This covers both physical injuries and mental health conditions. Anyone who is still serving or has left the Armed Forces can apply. To be…

yorkshire legal awards ison harrison

Leading Yorkshire Law Firm Gears Up for Continued Growth In 2025

Press Release – January 2025 One of Yorkshire’s leading law firms plans to build on the success it achieved last year by making 2025 the most successful year in its 47-year history. Leeds-headquartered Ison Harrison posted its most successful trading period ever for last year, making 2024 its most profitable year since it was founded,…

Current Trends Shaping the Commercial Property Market in the UK

The UK commercial property market continues to adapt to evolving economic and societal shifts. From rising interest rates, national debt, to the ongoing effects of hybrid working, several trends are shaping the market in 2025, presenting both challenges and opportunities for investors, landlords, and tenants. One significant trend is the increased demand for flexible office…

Understanding non-freezing cold injuries

Understanding Non-Freezing Cold Injuries in the Military

One of the most dangerous non-combative threats military personnel face is the cold. Non-freezing cold injuries (NFCIs) are often overlooked, but are a significant risk for service personnel, especially those deployed out to places with extreme weather conditions or those who undertake training exercises exposed to the elements for weeks on end. NFCIs are not…

Divorce and finances

Divorce and Finances: The Evolving Law And Why You Should Still Seek Expert Legal Advice

There can be many factors which can ultimately lead to a couple deciding to divorce, however the most common concern, particularly when there are children of the family is how the couple will be able to financially support themselves and the children. Changes to Divorce Law On 6 April 2022 the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation…

Abbie Churchill Barnsley

Meet Abbie Churchill: Championing Law in Barnsley and Supporting the Reds with Her Family!

Abbie Churchill, the face behind our Barnsley branch, balances her busy legal career with family life and cheering on Barnsley FC – thanks to her kids’ passion for the team! What drew you to Barnsley and to Ison Harrison as the branch manager? I have worked in Barnsley since 2003 and have close links to…

military

“Moral Stain” Addressed As LGBT Veterans Can Finally Claim Compensation

A historical ‘gay ban’ which saw thousands of LGBT veterans mistreated or dismissed from the armed forces merely on the basis of their sexual orientation, has finally prompted an apology in the House of Commons. But a proposed award of up to £70,000 in compensation has been criticised as insufficient, when compared to the losses…

Needlestick Claims

What is the risk of infection from a needlestick injury?

If you have suffered a needlestick injury, then chances are your first concern is whether you have sustained an infection as a result of the incident. While there is always a chance of infection by a blood borne virus (BBV) those chances are very, very slim and the need for injections and blood tests is…

Becoming a homeowner

How To Know If You’re Ready To Be A Home-Owner

Buying a house and becoming a homeowner is a common ambition, and is a significant milestone most people aspire to. While renting a property gives you some freedom, becoming a homeowner is the first step towards financial security and stability, and is also a more dependable form of investment. However, building up equity in a…

What happens when you get 12 points on your license

What Happens When You Get 12 Points On Your Driving Licence?

If you drive a lot of mileage due to work, family or lifestyle commitments you face the risk of committing a road traffic offence all the time. Although you might think you are a careful and experienced driver, you can quite quickly accumulate penalty points for exceeding a speed limit or driving through a red…

Creating a positive working environment

6 Ways To Create A Positive Working Environment

Negativity in the workplace can be an enormous drain on an employer’s resources, in terms of time, energy and personnel. Any kind of division or conflict can demotivate the workforce, which affects commitment and loyalty and ultimately impacts on productivity. The cause of negativity and division in the work environment can be many things –…