Australian Court accepts unsent Text Message as a Valid Will
The BBC has recently reported on an Australian case, in which the Supreme Court of Brisbane has accepted a draft text message as a valid will. Found in the drafts folder of his mobile phone after his death, the man left ‘all that I have’ to his brother and nephew. He also left detailed banking…
#DiscriminateNoMum Campaign: Maternity Discrimination Q&A With Yunus Lunat
This month we’ve launched a campaign to help stamp out maternity discrimination in the workplace. Our Head of Employment,Yunus Lunat, details how important this campaign is and how he hopes it will encourage more women to come forward. Tell us about the #DiscriminateNoMum campaign… The #DiscriminateNoMum campaign hopes to raise awareness around maternity discrimination and…
Ison Harrison Launches #DiscriminateNoMum Campaign
This month, we are launching a “Discriminate No Mum” campaign to help stamp out maternity discrimination in the workplace: #DiscriminateNoMum Ison Harrison has experienced several recent cases where clear maternity discrimination has taken place. We have represented clients in tribunal cases where women have been selected for redundancy who are either currently pregnant, or who have…
Clinical Trial: Investigating Complications When Delivering Bigger Babies
Would delivering bigger babies early lead to less complications during birth? That’s the question being addressed by an upcoming clinical trial. Supported by the Erb’s Palsy Group, the three-and-a-half year trial will study 4,000 pregnant women to investigate whether delivering bigger babies earlier could prevent serious complications during labour and beyond. If a baby is…
Model Behaviour: the Competition and Markets Authority and how it can affect your business
An open letter issued by the Competition and Markets Authority has served as a timely reminder of its powers and the consequences that can be felt when competition law is breached. The CMA refer to a recent case involving modelling agencies and their representative body, in which it was found that they had colluded as…
Property Department Updates – New Build & Residential
The summer weather may be disappointing but our Property teams have plenty to smile about. Here, we take a closer look at what’s happening across the firm. New Build Property – A Flying Start To The Year Our New Build Property department has seen a surge in new instructions during the first half of 2017,…
Erb’s Palsy Clinical Negligence Case Study: Baby J
On the 21st September 1986 Mrs P was admitted to Hospital following a suspected rupturing of membranes followed by the onset of contractions. Mr & Mrs P were eagerly awaiting the birth of their second child having given birth to a healthy baby girl two years previously. Mrs P’s labour was slow to progress and…
Ison Harrison Supports Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2017
Ison Harrison are supporting Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2017, held between 14th-21st August, as a timely reminder of how common birth trauma is and how many people are affected by it. What is Birth Trauma? Birth trauma is commonly referred to as a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and can be described as how a mother…
Ison Harrison Sponsors Radio Aire Young Heroes Award
Ison Harrison are sponsoring an award at the annual gathering of Young Heroes in the city of Leeds; the Radio Aire Young Heroes Awards 2017. The event takes place at the Clayton Hotel in Leeds on 21st September 2017, and the aim of the awards is to celebrate all the fantastic young people in the…
Erb’s Palsy Clinical Negligence Case Study: Ms W
Ison Harrison successfully recovered substantial damages on behalf of a young girl whose nerve was damaged at birth causing a form of palsy in her shoulder. This condition is known as Erb’s Palsy. During the antenatal period, it was noted that she was a large baby. Despite this, her mother’s labour progressed well until such…
Inheritance Act Cases: Charity Begins at Home?
Back in March, I wrote about the case of Illott v Mitson, in which I made the point that it merely served to reiterate the existing law under the Inheritance Act. Four months have elapsed since that case was decided- but we find ourselves reminded of the point once again. Nahajec v Fowle is an…
Lease Extensions for Flats- Our Solicitor’s Advice
A lease extension is not necessarily at the top of a home owner’s to-do list, but it can prove to be a shrewd step to take. Here, Steve Neale, a Partner in our Commercial Property department, looks at the benefits of doing so in relation to flats. First and foremost, the key benefit of extending…
Brexit and the Law – What’s Happened post- Article 50?
The UK has taken another step towards leaving the EU with the European Union (Withdrawal) Bill receiving its First Reading in Parliament. The Bill will repeal the 1972 European Communities Act (ECA), which saw Britain become a member of the EU, and which also meant that European law took precedence over domestic legislation. Here, we…
Hellewell Pasley & Brewer
On 04.05.17 we published an advert concerning the closure of the law firm Hellewell Pasley & Brewer. It has been brought to our attention, and we accept, that contrary to the indications we gave, no allegations of dishonesty have been made against Mr Richard Whitaker. We apologise unreservedly to Mr Whitaker for the advert having…
Long Term Sickness Dismissals: What is the Law?
Questions relating to unfair dismissal and their relationship with long term sickness absence are common for employment lawyers. Given how frequently such queries arise, our Head of Employment Yunus Lunat tackles this problematic issue below, in the context of a pertinent case. Earlier this year, the Court of Appeal gave judgment in the case of…
Wills Reform: Unnecessary Changes on the Horizon?
A review by the Law Commission into the law surrounding wills has revealed some interesting statistics- and shared its view that these laws need modification to being them into step with the modern age. The Commission cites research stating that an estimated 40% of adults die each year without having made a will, with confusion…
Separating Parents and Child Arrangements: A Helpful Guide
Most separating parents are able to reach an amicable agreement as to decisions relating to their children. If this is not the case, there are options to consider. Lidia Foster is a Solicitor at our Castleford branch, and regularly helps parents in this type of situation. Here, Lidia offers a helpful overview. There is the…
Is it Time to Tackle Discrimination in Football?
The inclusivity of football should undoubtedly be one of its main qualities, but unfortunately we have had an illustration that this is not always the case. Recently published research conducted by the charity Scope under their ‘We want to show disability discrimination the red card’ campaign contains some eye-opening statistics: Eight in ten of those…
The Gig Economy: What Is It and What’s Next?
The release of the Taylor Review has had the press abuzz, with yet more column inches being filled about the insecure position some workers have, as well as talk of the ‘gig economy.’ Often, people working within niche sectors or under non-standard contracts aren’t clear about their employment status and how it affects them. This…
Supreme Court Rules Employment Tribunal Fees are Unlawful
The Supreme Court has just issued a momentous ruling which will not only generate column inches but have far reaching implications for those looking to issue claims in the Employment Tribunal. In 2013, a fees regime was introduced which meant that people wishing to issue claims in the Employment Tribunal would have to pay fees…
What are Corporate Investigations- and How Do They Work?
Corporate Investigations by the Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency, Police, HMRC, Serious Fraud Office or Trading Standards usually come out of the blue. Is your business prepared for a situation where a death, serious accident or fraud is being investigated? The decisions made in the aftermath of a serious incident are always important, not…
What is a Notice of Intended Prosecution?
Many of us will be familiar with a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NiP) owing to their use in cases of speeding or drivers proceeding through a red light. Here, Ghaz Iqbal offers an important overview and dispels some of the myths surrounding NiPs and their use. What is a Notice of Intended Prosecution? Issued by…
Huddersfield Branch Strengthened With New Commercial Property Partner
There’s a new face at the Huddersfield office – although it’s a familiar one for customers and employees of Ison Harrison alike. Partner Rachel Warsop, an experienced commercial property lawyer, has joined the team at our Huddersfield office. Rachel has 20 years’ experience of commercial and residential property and has moved across from the Castleford…
Supreme Court Pension Case Breaks New Ground
Under the Equality Act, it has not been possible for same-sex partners to receive spousal benefits from pension schemes, where the funds were paid into the scheme before December 2015. The Supreme Court has now declared this provision to be unlawful, handing down its judgment in the case of Walker v Innospec Limited and Others….
Driving up the Cost: New Increased Penalties for Speeding Offences
Often, drivers will have a general understanding as to the way in which speeding offences are dealt with, but important changes introduced this Spring may have passed some by. Here, our Road Traffic Offences specialist Ghaz Iqbal offers an insight into the way in which speeding offences are now punished. Have there been changes to…
The Queen’s Speech: What’s next for the Law?
Despite the current turmoil going on in the political arena, it was business as usual as far as the Queen’s Speech was concerned. The legislative programme may not be as extensive as originally intended, but there is still plenty to consider. Here, we take a whistle-stop tour of the key aspects. Personal Injury The Civil…
How Many Shotgun and Firearms Licenses are Revoked?
This is a question that is asked regularly by certificate holders. We are now in possession of the most recent facts figures relating to shotgun and firearms certificates for the year ending March 31st 2015, 2015 being the anniversary of 20 years since the recording of such figures began. There are 1.8million shotgun and firearms certificates…
How is Redundancy Pay Calculated?
Whenever the dreaded word ‘redundancy’ is mentioned it can be very alarming. Whatever your circumstances are there can be uncertainty and lots of questions, not least in terms of finances. Here, our Head of Employment Law Yunus Lunat looks at the area of redundancy pay, outlining the law surrounding it and providing useful tips on calculating how much…
Family Law Services in Pudsey
Providing quality Family law services is crucial at Ison Harrison, and our Pudsey branch is no exception. Nigel Monaghan, who has over 30 years’ experience in dealing with all aspects of Family law, understands how important it can be to obtain early advice from a trustworthy professional. Understanding Family Law At Ison Harrison, we understand…
70th Birthday Milestone
All of us at Ison Harrison and Harrison Bundey would like to wish Ruth Bundey a very happy birthday as she turns 70. As dedicated and passionate about her work now as when she qualified in 1980, Ruth has never believed in a ‘one size fits all’ approach to cases. Ruth’s background is in criminal…
Six Individuals Facing Criminal Proceedings following the Hillsborough Disaster
In another dramatic turn of events in the 28 year-old saga of the 1989 Hillsborough Disaster, six men will now face criminal charges for their part in the days’ events and the subsequent alleged cover-up of evidence. Yesterday, Wednesday 28th June, saw the CPS inform families of the 96 victims that match commander for South…
Q&A with Karen Hillyer, Chair of the Erb’s Palsy Group
With Erbs Palsy Awareness Week in full swing, we thought now was a good time to interview a lady who is helping to educate and inform about Erb’s Palsy and she kindly gave us some useful insight into how and what running the Erb’s Palsy Group really means. Hi Karen- please tell us about your background and how you…
Erb’s Palsy Awareness Week: Reasonable Adjustments in the Workplace
As part of our involvement in Erb’s Palsy Awareness Week, Head of Employment Yunus Lunat looks at the issue of reasonable adjustments in the workplace, something that Erb’s sufferers (and indeed employers) may wish to be aware of. The relevant law: The Equality Act 2010 The Act imposes a positive duty upon employers to help…
Changes to Police Bail: What do they mean?
From time to time, usually with the advent of a high profile case, the length of time a person can be left on Police Bail has been the focus of attention. Reports have well documented lengthy timescales, sometimes as long as twelve months. Now, the Policing and Crime Act 2017 has brought with it changes…
Ison Harrison is Supporting Erb’s Palsy Awareness Week
Ison Harrison is one of only three law firms in England and Wales recommended by the Erb’s Palsy Group – a national charity – and they are joining forces to promote Erb’s Palsy Awareness Week, running from 26th June. The Clinical Negligence team of Ison Harrison, headed by James Thompson, specialises in Erb’s Palsy cases,…
Financial Regulation: It Pays to be On the Ball
The BBC has recently reported on an interesting case involving the England and Newcastle United footballing legend Alan Shearer, which places the spotlight upon specialist advisors and their conduct. Mr Shearer brought a claim against his former financial advisor as well as a pension company, on the basis that the advisor had been ‘careless’ and…
Ison Harrison Take On the Challenge of The Lyke Wake Walk
Three members of Ison Harrison staff, along with friends and family, are taking on one of the biggest challenge of their lives in the next few days, all in the name of raising funds for a brilliant local charity. Emma Garfitt, Lucy Holt and Gareth Forster are taking on the Lyke Wake Walk on Saturday…
The Importance of Representation in Police Interviews
A new series of the Channel 4 TV programme 24 Hours in Police Custody has just hit our screens, aiming to offer an insight into what happens after a suspect has been arrested. The reality is that for those arrested, having prompt and accurate advice is crucial. Zahir Nazir is an Accredited Police Station Representative…
Wills In Contemplation Of Marriage
It is unlikely that the prospect of making a Will or addressing your financial security in the future is top of your list when planning a wedding- not when your mind is on a thousand other things. Addressing your Will may not be steeped in romance, but it is crucially important and something you really…
New Family Law Clinic Launch in Otley
We are pleased to confirm that starting on Friday 19th May, we are holding a Family Law clinic at the Courthouse, Otley. Initially running for seven weeks, the clinic will be held between 12-2pm each Friday afternoon- no appointment is necessary. The clinic will be hosted by Sarah Laughey, Family Solicitor at our Ilkley branch….
The Bank of Mum & Dad, (and Nan and Grandad)……How do Gifted Deposits Work in Practice?
Due to the continuing increase in property prices many people – generally First Time Buyers – are now reliant on help from the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ or another family member to help them get on the property ladder. Here Iain Gardner, a Residential Property Executive in our Morley branch, looks at what you…
What is a Settlement Agreement?
What is a settlement agreement? A settlement agreement is a formal agreement, usually made between an employer and employee. They are most often used as an alternative to the employee bringing a claim in an Employment Tribunal. You may see reference to a ‘compromise agreement,’ which is an older term for the same type of…
Concerns over Blood Tests by Forensic Science Company
The arrest of two staff members working within a forensic testing laboratory has made headlines this week. Both worked at the Randox facility in Manchester, and have been arrested on suspicion of Perverting the Course of Justice. James Vaughan is the Deputy Chief Constable for Dorset Police, but is also recognised as a key police…
Show Me the Money: The Criminal Finances Bill and its Implications
Successive governments have counted the cost of serious and organised crime, but just prior to dissolving parliament the outgoing Conservative Government introduced the most significant legislation in this area for decades. Ison Harrison successfully acting for clients in some of the most complex criminal and regulatory investigations performed nationwide in recent years. Now that the…
Ison Harrison to Attend the Northern Shooting Show 2017
The second Northern Shooting Show will take place on Saturday and Sunday 6th/7th May 2017 and Ison Harrison will be attending to offer shooting enthusiasts the opportunity to access expert legal advice. Last year’s inaugural event at the Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate was a great success, with 15,000 visitors over the two days and over…
Concerns Raised as to Fixed Fee Proposals in Clinical Negligence Claims
The Government have announced proposals to impose a cap on recoverable costs in Clinical Negligence cases, and ran a consultation until May 1st. James Thompson is a Solicitor in our Clinical Negligence department and here, he looks at the possible implications. What are the proposals? Currently, if a healthcare provider such as the NHS loses a clinical…
Hellewell Pasley and Brewer Firm Closure in West Yorkshire
A local law firm has shut its doors after 80 years following an intervention by the SRA. Hellewell Pasley and Brewer have 4 branches across West Yorkshire, in Halifax, Dewsbury, Ripponden and Birstall. A locally recognised name, 30 staff were employed at the firm as news of the closure broke this week. Are you a…
A Starring Role for Leeds in the new Business and Property Court
From June, specialist civil courts are to be known as the “Business and Property Courts of England and Wales”. An umbrella name for specialist business courts, it will incorporate the High Court’s specialist work, namely: The Commercial Court (dealing with cases such as contract/ business disputes); The Technology and Construction Court; and The Chancery Division…
Ison Harrison Continue Rewarding Partnership With Shipley College
In 2017 all successful businesses have to be socially aware. You can’t expect to recruit the best people and open your business up to the right markets if you limit your visibility and close your mind to vast areas of enthusiasm and potential, and this extends to all areas of the organisation. At Ison Harrison…
Promotion of the Online Court Begins with MOJ Video- ‘Justice Matters’
In March 2017, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) released a new video entitled “Justice Matters”, to promote and inform viewers about the forthcoming Online Court system. The video, which can be accessed on Youtube, allows for quick viewing time, being just over five minutes in duration. The MoJ is said to have an ‘ambitious vision…