Olivia Wilde’s court serving could have breached human rights conventions in the UK Whilst possibly entertaining, the service of US custody papers (known as child arrangement order in the UK) to Olivia Wilde onstage at Read more…
Insights
Lawrence Stephens gears up for charity mud run to support Chron’s & Colitis UK
Help us meet our target by donating here or you’re welcome to turn up on Saturday to support the Lawrence Stephens team! Lawrence Stephens is gearing up to run, sweat and trudge their way through Read more…
Challenging times for construction professionals and design and build contractors: professional duty of care
Originally published in Construction Law Magazine In these difficult times for the construction industry, it is more important than ever for construction professionals and design and build contractors to understand the scope of their professional Read more…
The Benefit of Multiple Wills for Different Jurisdictions
As more of us become internationally mobile and own assets overseas, many clients will require co-ordinated estate planning, using multiple wills, namely multi-jurisdictional and separate situs wills. Whether it’s opening a foreign bank account, buying a holiday Read more…
HMRC Clarifies the Position on VAT Treatment of Dilapidation Payments
A dilapidation payment is the money claimed by a landlord from a tenant upon the termination of a lease to cover the cost of repairs to a premises when a tenant has failed to return Read more…
Legal Issues Facing the Metaverse
The concept of the ‘metaverse’ has attracted much press interest of late, covering the emerging appetite for metaverse investment opportunities, a recent virtual land boom, or where crypto, gaming and capitalism collide. The term ‘metaverse’, which comes Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Sale of Insurance Brokerage, Hamilton Leigh to Specialist Risk Group (SRG)
Lawrence Stephens recently acted for Lee Cohen and Jill Hamilton in connection with the sale (subject to regulatory approval) of Hamilton Leigh Ltd, an independent commercial insurance brokerage based in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, to insurance intermediary, Read more…
No-Fault Divorce is Nearly Here – What Does This Mean for You?
On 6th April 2022 the long-awaited no-fault divorce will be introduced in England and Wales under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. This reform is widely welcomed by family law professionals and it seeks Read more…
A Guide to the UK Trusts Register
If you’re a trustee, or you administer or benefit from a trust, it’s important that you understand how the introduction of the UK Trusts Register may affect you and your trust The Register was introduced Read more…
Tom Pemberton Joins Lawrence Stephens as Director in the Construction and Development Finance Team
Tom Pemberton joins Lawrence Stephens as a Director in its growing Construction and Development Finance team. Formerly a Partner at Goodman Derrick LLP, Tom Pemberton has over 25 years of experience advising on all stages Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Three Acquisitions for Ansor Group
Lawrence Stephens’ Corporate & Commercial department has completed three major acquisitions for Ansor Group with the acquisition of Dental Excellence, Norwich Orthodontics and Passion Dental. The Lawrence Stephens team, led by Senior Director, Steven Bernstein and assisted by Katherine Read more…
Is Now the Right Time sell your Wealth Management Business?
Over the last 12 months, there has been healthy M&A activity within the adviser industry, with attractive valuations, encouraging increasing numbers of IFAs to contemplate a sale. However recent data from Schroders* shows regulation and Read more…
Why Business Owners Should Review their Power of Attorney
While some business owners may have LPAs in place to cover their financial affairs if they lose capacity to make decisions, many will have attorneys that are their spouses, or other family members. However, few Read more…
Employee Ownership Trusts – A Win/Win?
Have you considered selling your business in a way which is not only tax efficient but which can reward and incentivise your employees at the same time? A sale of your shares to an Employee Read more…
Domestic Abuse and the Law
Recent figures published by the Office for National Statistics have revealed that the number of domestic abuse related crimes rose by 6% in the year ending March 2021, however, the figure of charges for domestic Read more…
Divorce and Social Media – Avoiding the Pitfalls
If you are going through a divorce – whether it is amicable or acrimonious – it is important to think carefully about the effects social media may have on your case. This article does not Read more…
How can I Protect my Business Assets if I am Going Through a Divorce?
While not always the case, in the event of a divorce it is common for a business asset – whether it is a private company, sole trader, interest in a company or shares in a Read more…
Considering the Potential Tax Implications of Divorce
If you are separating from your partner, it is important to consider the tax implications of a divorce. If you are domiciled in England and Wales and choose to process your divorce in this jurisdiction, Read more…
Why Networking is More Important Than Ever for Junior Lawyers
In recent weeks, the Lawrence Stephens team have been out and about networking with our peers, clients and friends old and new at various industry, networking and social events across London and beyond. We pride Read more…
My Ex-Partner and I Disagree on Vaccinating our Children. What Can I Do?
Vaccinations have been a huge topic in the media since the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out began in December 2020. With all UK adults now having had the opportunity to receive both vaccinations and a number currently Read more…
Establishing Jurisdiction in an International Divorce
Every country has its own divorce laws and the approach towards capital payments, maintenance, pensions and nuptial agreements can vary significantly from country to country. Where there is an international element to a marriage, for Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Announces Partnership with Crohn’s & Colitis UK for 2022
We are delighted to announce that our chosen charity partner of 2022 is Crohn’s & Colitis UK. The Lawrence Stephens team voted to support this fantastic charity, a cause very close to our hearts, and Read more…
Why You Should Embrace A Sustainable Business Culture in 2022
Over the last decade, environmental concerns and sustainability have become hot topics for governments, businesses and individuals around the world. Last year, ‘net-zero’ start-ups in Europe raised a total of £2.1 billion from venture capital Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Two Multimillion-Pound Loans in One Week
A team of solicitors from Lawrence Stephens pulled out all the stops for client VM Finance Ltd to complete finance facilities worth over £5.9 million in less than a week. The transaction concerned a simultaneous Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Makes Three Further Acquisitions for Ansor Group
Solicitors in Lawrence Stephens’ Corporate & Commercial department have completed a further three acquisitions for Ansor Group companies, Compliance Group and ALS Dental Group. The deals were led by Senior Director, Steven Bernstein, with support Read more…
What is it Like to be a CILEX Trainee?
Many people may not be aware that you don’t have to do the Legal Practice Course (LPC) to forge a successful career as a lawyer. We spoke to our very own Bethany Jacobs and Laila-Jade Read more…
Press Release: Lawrence Stephens Closes £5m Bridging Loan for Lendhub
Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate Finance team has completed a £5 million corporate bridge on behalf of long-standing client, Lendhub. The bridging loan is intended to facilitate the refinance of a commercial premises with planning permission Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Acts on Sale of Prestigious West End Theatre
Lawrence Stephens’ Consultant Solicitor, David Seal, has acted for the vendor of Saville Theatre on London’s Shaftsbury Avenue to complete a sale to Yoo Capital Investment Management. The Grade II listed building initially opened as Read more…
Gareth Hughes Joins Lawrence Stephens as Director of Private Wealth & Succession Planning
We are delighted to announce the hire of Private Client expert, Gareth Hughes, who has joined Lawrence Stephens to lead our Private Wealth & Succession Planning practice. With over 18 years’ experience in the industry, Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Team Completes £13m SPV Acquisition
A team of Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate Finance and Corporate & Commercial solicitors has completed a £13 million company acquisition on behalf of a successful property developer client. The property involved in the Special Purpose Read more…
What Will Happen to My Pension Following Divorce?
After the matrimonial home, a pension is often the second largest asset to be considered in the event of a divorce. It is therefore important to understand the options available to parties when dealing with Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Makes Latest Lateral Hire with Director James Lyons
We are pleased to announce that we have appointed experienced Corporate lawyer James Lyons as a Director in our expanding Corporate & Commercial department. With more than 20 years’ experience, James is a highly skilled Read more…
What You Need to Know about Codicils
Life is always changing and, naturally, our lifestyle choices and priorities will change as well. If you have written a Will and your circumstances change, you can easily update your Will to reflect your wishes Read more…
What is the Future for Sustainable Commercial Property?
Insulate Britain have made themselves a household name within the last few weeks, after staging several protests on the M25 and on other major highways, resulting in swathes of arrests, many disrupted commutes, and numerous Read more…
Winding-Up Petitions – Are We Back Where We Started?
The Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 (CIGA 2020) marked significant changes to UK insolvency law, gaining royal assent on 25th June 2020 after just 5 ½ weeks. CIGA 2020 introduced several permanent and temporary Read more…
How IR35 Legislation is Affecting the UK’s HGV Driver Shortage
Recent reports indicate that the UK’s HGV Driver Shortage has reached over 100,000. There are a number of reasons cited for the substantial shortfall, including Brexit, COVID-19, an aging workforce with many drivers retiring, and Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Acts for OakNorth Bank on £10.6m Loan
Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate Finance & Banking team have acted for valued client, OakNorth Bank, to facilitate a £10.6 million loan to Nine Points Property. The Litchfield-based commercial landlord and developer primarily focuses on the Read more…
How Can I Protect My Inheritance After Divorce?
If you are considering, or in the process of getting a divorce, it is important to bear in mind that assets from your current or future inheritance could be impacted. During financial proceedings, the Court Read more…
What to Expect from the New “No-Fault” Divorce System
After years of campaigning from supporters, The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill finally became an Act of Parliament on 25 June 2020 and is due to come into force on 6 April 2022. As the Read more…
I am Considering a Divorce – Where do I Start?
Coming to the decision that you wish to divorce your spouse can be very daunting. Emotions run high and there is anxiety of the future and what lies ahead. Whilst the process may seem overwhelming, Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Acquisitions for Compliance Group
Lawrence Stephens has acted for Ansor Group company, Compliance Group Limited, to acquire Flair Developments Ltd and Zeta Compliance Services Limited. Senior Director, Steven Bernstein, completed the acquisitions of Flair, an Enfield-based fire safety company Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Expands with Suite of New Hires
We are delighted to announce that we have hired a further three solicitors to meet increasing demand for our legal services. Today we welcome Associate Kimberley Clift to our Real Estate Finance & Banking department, Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Largest Ever Loan for ActivTrades PLC
We are pleased to report that Lawrence Stephens has acted on behalf of client ActivTrades PLC to turn around their largest loan to date. Real Estate Finance Associate, Andreas Panteli, led on the completion of Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Adds to Expanding Real Estate Department
We are pleased to announce that we have hired Commercial Real Estate Solicitor, Sara Jutestal, to join our growing team. Native Swedish speaker Sara has seven years’ experience working in the real estate sector including Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes SPV Sale for £36 Million
We’re pleased to report that Lawrence Stephens has completed a sale of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) on behalf of a valued corporate client for £36 million. The SPV owned 114 residential properties across north-east Read more…
Why It’s Never Too Soon to Write Your Will
Many of us are guilty of putting off writing our Wills, believing that it’s not something we need to worry about until we reach retirement age, or older. However, this last year alone has shown Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes £2m Bridging Loan on Prime London Apartment
Lawrence Stephens has acted for valued client Whitehall Capital to complete a £2,025,000 bridging loan on a prime residential property in London’s Marylebone. The completion of the bridging loan enables a refinance of the £2.7 Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Acts on EBS’ Acquisition of Qoda Consulting
Lawrence Stephens’ Corporate department has acted for client Efficient Building Solutions Limited (EBS) to acquire design engineering consultancy, Qoda Consulting. Senior Director, Steven Bernstein, led on the deal for the green construction and building services Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Strengthens Residential Real Estate Team
We’re delighted to announce that we have recruited experienced residential property solicitor, Rebecca Thomas, to our expanding Real Estate department. Joining us as a Senior Associate, Rebecca has over twelve years’ experience in providing expert Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Closes on £1.5 million Metro Bank Loan
Lawrence Stephens’ Corporate & Commercial team have completed on a £1.5 million CBILS loan to a corporate borrower on behalf of long-standing client, Metro Bank PLC. Solicitor Aashay Knights acted for the bank to facilitate Read more…
INNERJI Appoints Lawrence Stephens as Exclusive Legal Advisors
New energy drink brand INNERJI has hired Lawrence Stephens to advise the company on its corporate affairs. Launched in 2020, INNERJI is the world’s first caffeine-free revitalising drink that promises to boost immunity, improve mood Read more…
Should all Employers Implement a Vaccination Policy at Work?
Thousands of businesses have been forced to make critical changes to their HR policies since the global outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020. With staff health and wellbeing an increasing priority as restrictions are relaxed, many Read more…
Furlough After 1 July: What You Need to Know
Significant changes to the Furlough Scheme made on 1 July require employers to now make a minimum contribution of 10% to furloughed employees’ salaries. The recent changes mark the next step in a phasing out Read more…
How Can I Reduce My Inheritance Tax Bill?
Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax added to the estate of a deceased person, including all their property, possessions and financial assets. Depending on the value of your estate, you may not always have to Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Expands Real Estate Team
We’re pleased to announce that experienced real estate lawyer, Angela McCarthy, has joined Lawrence Stephens as an Associate in our expanding Real Estate team. With 10 years’ experience in the real estate sector, including 4 Read more…
Jay Patel Joins Lawrence Stephens as First Family Law Director
We are delighted to announce that renowned family lawyer Jay Patel has joined Lawrence Stephens as Director of our newly established Family department. A highly skilled solicitor with more than 20 years’ experience in family Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Launches Family Law Practice
We’re delighted to announce the launch of our new family law practice at Lawrence Stephens. The Family department will provide advice and services on a full range of family law matters including international and domestic Read more…
Plant a Tree – and Get an ASBO?
If you were asked to visualise the cause of an Anti-Social Behaviour Order, one of the last images you might think of would be the planting of few Cherry trees on a private property. However, Read more…
What is a Deputyship Order and Who Needs One?
A Deputyship Order is a legal document which enables elected representatives to make important financial and welfare decisions on behalf of a person who has lost the capacity to handle their own affairs (ie. As Read more…
Senior Associate Ausra Kaminskaite Joins Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate Finance & Banking Team
We are pleased to welcome Senior Associate Ausra Kaminskaite to our expanding Real Estate Finance & Banking team. Ausra brings a wealth of experience to our Real Estate Finance & Banking arm, having acted for Read more…
Breathing Space Moratorium Introduced to Assist Struggling Debtors
On 4 May 2021 the Government launched the Breathing Space Moratorium and Mental Health Crisis Moratorium (England and Wales) Regulations 2020, a new scheme designed to help individuals manage spiralling debts. What is a Breathing Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Sale of Production Company
Lawrence Stephens has successfully acted for the owners of production company Production Plus Limited in relation to a sale to Shooting Partners Holdings Limited, part of audio-visual technology group, Anna Valley Ltd. Hertfordshire-based Production Plus Read more…
Westfield Landlord Wins First CRAR Dispute Despite COVID Defence
The High Court decision in Commerz Real Investmentgesellschaft v TFS Stores Limited (2021) has ruled in favour of CRI, the owner and commercial landlord of the Westfield Shepherd’s Bush premises, in its action against its Read more…
Setting Up A Charity: What You Need to Know
Many people are unaware that you can set up your own charity if you have a charitable cause. Setting up a charity is more straight-forward than you might think, and it will enable you to Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Promotes Nisha Saigal to Director
We are delighted to announce that Real Estate Finance Senior Associate Nisha Saigal has been promoted to the role of Director. Since joining Lawrence Stephens as an Associate in 2015, Nisha’s exceptional dedication and expertise Read more…
Government Calls for Evidence on Latest Commercial Rent Measures
Since extending restrictions on Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) and commercial evictions last month, the government has released a call for evidence on the latest commercial rent measures from landlords, tenants and all relevant stakeholders Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Closes Deal on Multi-Million-Pound Westminster Property
Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate department has acted for high-profile international investors to complete a purchase of a multi-million-pound Central London commercial property. Real Estate Director Nick Marshall led on the transaction, with the assistance of Read more…
Further Measures Introduced to Protect Businesses from Insolvency and Eviction
The UK Government have announced further measures to protect businesses from insolvency and eviction up until 30 June 2021. The measures that have been extended include: Winding-Up Petitions: Temporary changes to the Corporate Insolvency and Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Welcomes New Senior Associate Indre Johnston
We’re thrilled to announce that Indre Johnston has joined Lawrence Stephens as a Senior Associate in our growing Real Estate Finance & Banking team. Indre Johnston is an experienced real estate finance and banking solicitor; Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Seals M&A Deals for Two Ansor Portfolio Companies
We are pleased to announce that Steven Bernstein, Senior Director in Lawrence Stephens’ Corporate & Commercial department, has carried out M&A deals for two Ansor portfolio companies to enable them to expand their business in Read more…
All Private Landlords to Issue Electrical Safety Reports from 1 April
From 1 April 2021 it will be a statutory requirement for all landlords to carry out electrical safety tests and issue electrical safety reports to tenants for all private tenancies in England. The Electrical Safety Read more…
What Does the GDPR Adequacy Decision Mean for Business?
Following its official departure from the EU on 1 January 2021, the UK is now classified as a ‘third country’ for data protection purposes. This means that the European Commission has until 30 June 2021 Read more…
Commercial Eviction Ban Extended by 3 Months
The Government has announced that it has extended the ban on commercial tenant evictions until at least 30 June 2021, in an effort to provide additional support to businesses as they begin to trade following Read more…
Stamp Duty Surcharge of 2% for Non-UK Residents Approaches
During last week’s budget we heard that the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) holiday would be extended until 30 June for residential properties with values up to £500,000, with a final deadline of 30 September Read more…
What the 2021 Budget Means for Employers
Yesterday’s Budget announcement from Chancellor Rishi Sunak brought some promising news for many employers, employees and organisations across the UK. We’ve summed up some of the key developments that employers need to prepare for going Read more…
Providing for Digital Assets in Your Will
Over the last several years we have become increasingly more reliant on digital platforms to manage our finances, investments and many other valuable assets. We are used to accounting for physical property in our Wills, Read more…
UK GDPR – Where Are We Now?
Remember back in 2018 when all anyone talked about was the looming enactment date of the GDPR, and the 25 May deadline was etched in your brain for months? Now, this seems like a distant Read more…
Help to Buy: Exploring the Differences between the Current and New Equity Loan Scheme
The Help to Buy Equity Loan Scheme, an initiative designed to better enable buyers to raise funds for a new residential property purchase, was first announced by the UK Government in the March 2013 Budget. Read more…
How Are the Off-Payroll Working Rules Changing in 2021?
On 6 April 2021 significant changes to the government’s IR35 regime will come into effect. The IR35, also known as the off-payroll working rules (the “Rules”), govern the national insurance contributions (NIC) and income tax contributions of Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes £32 Million Property Refinance
We are delighted to announce that Lawrence Stephens has successfully acted for a long-term valued client to complete a £32 million property refinance against an Outer London mixed-use property. The 32 million-pound refinance was secured Read more…
The Cladding Crisis and the UK Government’s Five-Point Plan: A Drop in the Ocean?
Almost four years following the Grenfell Tower tragedy on 14 June 2017, the UK Government has finally announced a plan to tackle unsafe cladding in residential buildings across the UK. The obvious question is why has it Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Inaugural Case for Recognise Bank
We are pleased to announce that Lawrence Stephens has completed its first deal on behalf of Recognise Bank, a recently established digital bank that specialises in SME finance. Acting for the new bank, Senior Director, Gregory Palos, Read more…
LIBOR Living on Borrowed Time: The Transition from LIBOR to SONIA
2021 will be the last year we see the LIBOR rate used in the global financial markets as we transition to the SONIA rate. But what does this mean for the syndicated and bilateral loan Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Multi-Property Refinance Worth £8.5 Million
The Lawrence Stephens Real Estate Finance team has again completed a multi-million-pound refinance against an extensive property portfolio for a valued client. Working within especially tight timescales, Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate Finance solicitors acted for Read more…
New Year, New Will? Why You Should Consider Making a Will in 2021
What is your new year’s resolution? Being more active? Starting a new hobby? Finding a new job? Whatever it is, one New Year’s resolution we all should have in the forefront of our minds for Read more…
Stamp Duty Land Tax Holiday Deadline: What You Need To Know
As we approach the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) holiday deadline on 31 March, many buyers and sellers are feeling the pressure to get their property transactions over the line to make significant tax savings Read more…
UK Leads on European Venture Capital Transactions
The British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association released its latest Quarterly Review last week and despite the uncertain macro-economic conditions across Europe, the Report outlines that the UK is leading European venture capital transactions Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Appointed to Legal Panel of Recognise Bank
We are pleased to announce that Lawrence Stephens has been appointed to the legal panel of Recognise Bank, a new digital bank focused on providing tailored banking solutions to UK SMEs. Recognise Bank was launched Read more…
Supreme Court Backs Pay-Out of COVID Business Interruption Claims
The Supreme Court has ruled that thousands of UK businesses are entitled to have claims paid for business interruption losses caused by COVID-19. In September 2000, the High Court ruled that, subject to the limitations Read more…
What is a Lasting Power of Attorney and Who Needs One?
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is just as important as making a Will if not more; it is an essential legal mechanism which makes sure that your assets are handled by someone you trust Read more…
Government Reforms to Benefit Leaseholders
On 7 January 2021 the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, announced revisions to leasehold enfranchisement laws, which come as part of the biggest proposed reforms to English Property Law in 40 years. Lease Extensions Under the Read more…
Lawrence Stephens’ New Year Message
With 2020 behind us, we at Lawrence Stephens are assertively looking forward. We believe that this year will be a year of vital regrowth for so many businesses across the UK and internationally; therefore, as Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Welcomes New Director to Real Estate Team
We are delighted to welcome Jonah Michael to Lawrence Stephens as a Director in our expanding Real Estate team. An experienced Residential Conveyancing lawyer, Jonah has an impressive record of dealing with complex and high-value Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Completes Multiple Corporate Acquisitions for Leading Dental Business
We are pleased to announce that Lawrence Stephens has enabled leading dental laboratory business, Amalgamated Laboratory Solutions Limited, to substantially develop its assets and expand its business in the UK. Lawrence Stephens’ Senior Director, Steven Read more…
The New Help to Buy: Equity Loan Scheme: What You Need to Know
First-time buyers are able to apply for an equity loan with the new Help to Buy: Equity Loan (2021-2023) scheme from 16 December 2020. The new scheme replaces the current Help to Buy: Equity Loan Read more…
Lawrence Stephens’ Secured Lending Team Complete Multi-Million-Pound Property Refinance
We are delighted to announce that Lawrence Stephens has acted for Aldermore Bank to complete a property refinance with a loan value of £3,955,000. Lawrence Stephens’ Secured Lending team, with Nicolas Barritt leading on the Read more…
Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate Team Excels with Two Successive Multi-Million-Pound Property Deals
We are pleased to announce that Lawrence Stephens has acted on behalf of high-profile international investors to complete transactions of two Central London commercial properties, each with eight-figure price tags. Working to a tight three-week Read more…
Finance Act Raises HMRC’s Ranking in Insolvency Proceedings to Secondary Preferential Creditor Status
On 1st December 2020, the Insolvency Act 1986 (HMRC Debts: Priority on Insolvency) Regulations came into force. Under the Regulations, HMRC will be a secondary preferential creditor in all insolvencies commenced on or after this Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Welcomes New Director, Paul Wilson
We are pleased to welcome new Director Paul Wilson to our Construction team. Having most recently worked as a legal consultant for law firms and clients in the construction sector, Paul brings with him more Read more…
Lawrence Stephens acts for Tuscan Capital on urgent £2.2m developer exit bridge
We are very pleased to share that Lawrence Stephens successfully acted for bridging lender Tuscan Capital, enabling them to fund an urgent £2.2m developer exit bridge in just five weeks. The high-pressure case was introduced Read more…
How does GDPR affect internal investigations?
This month, the High Court has looked at the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 and their relevance in internal disciplinary proceedings. In Kathryn Hopkins v HMRC, the employee was Read more…
Stress Awareness Week 2020: What have we learnt?
As some of you may be aware, last week was Stress Awareness Week in the UK, and it could not have arrived at a more crucial time. Amidst the reintroduction of tighter lockdown measures, it Read more…
Exhausted options? Considerations for ending employment
The decision to end employment The decision to make redundancies is never one that is taken lightly, though the chance of us seeing further redundancies in the coming months seems increasingly likely. We have covered Read more…
Lawrence Stephens contribute to ASTL’s monthly newsletter
This month, Lawrence Stephens’ Partner Gregory Palos and Trainee Solicitor Alex Duncliffe-Vines contributed to the Association of Short Term Lenders (ASTL)‘s monthly newsletter. Their joint article takes a look at how to create a more efficient Read more…
Lawrence Stephens complete bridging loan in five days
We are delighted to share the news that members of our Real Estate Finance team have successfully completed a £550,000 bridging loan financed by valued client Lendhub Limited only five days after being instructed. The Read more…
Rent arrears recovery and protection
Following our previous article on this topic, the government has extended the protections available to commercial and residential tenants. This article also outlines the remedies available for landlords. FORFEITURE Section 82 of the Coronavirus Act Read more…
Reflections on World Mental Health Day 2020
Tomorrow is World Mental Health Day, and thanks to the ongoing pandemic, this year could be the most important one yet. In the space of just six months, we’ve experienced a national lockdown, a huge shift Read more…
Flexible working, reducing hours and changing contracts: An employer’s guide for shifting employment needs
On the 31st October, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will come to an end, placing millions of UK jobs at risk. Most businesses have faced unprecedented challenges and financial hardships during the pandemic and are Read more…
Blockchain and Cryptocurrency – So What?
Bitcoin (BTC) was born 11 years ago, and ever since, there has been much hype over this killer technology and the ways it can revolutionise various aspects of our lives. So far, we’ve seen people Read more…
Webinar – Preparing for the End of Furlough: Managing your Workforce for Post-Covid Success
Next week, corporate recovery and restructuring firm Buchler Phillips will welcome our Senior Associate Katherine Zangana as a special guest panellist on their weekly webinar series. Katherine will join host Stephen Benzikie and Marcus Gibson, founder of the SME Gibson Read more…
Lawrence Stephens acts on Berkshire property refinance
We are delighted to share the news that members from our Real Estate Finance, Corporate and Real Estate teams have successfully acted on a property refinance involving over 65 residential flats at Brook House, Wokingham in Berkshire, valued Read more…
COVID-19 Update for Residential Landlords & Tenants – New Six Month Notice Period
From 29 August 2020, residential landlords must give at least 6 months’ notice when seeking possession under s.83 of the Housing Act 1985; s.8 and s.21 of the Housing Act 1988; and against tenants with Read more…
What is the government’s new Kickstart Scheme?
Over the few months, businesses across the country have been navigating the reality of operating their businesses amidst a global pandemic. Despite the efforts made to smooth the transition and encourage workers back into the Read more…
Lawrence Stephens welcomes Mark Toland as an Associate
We are delighted to welcome Mark Toland to our Real Estate Finance and Commercial Real Estate teams. Mark joins Lawrence Stephens as an Associate from Wright Hassall LLP and brings with him 4 years of Read more…
In conversation with our new joiner: Nick Marshall
We are so pleased to welcome Nick Marshall to our growing Partnership at Lawrence Stephens. He brings with him decades of formidable experience in the Real Estate Investment and Occupier sector, which has earned him industry-wide recognition as a leader in the field. Read more…
What pay are employees entitled to if self-isolating after their holiday abroad?
From 8 June 2020, Government Regulations (the “Regulations”) require most people travelling to the Common Travel Area (UK, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands) to quarantine for 14 days. What does this Read more…
What happens when the furlough scheme ends?
The Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been a lifeline to many businesses, with 1.2 million employers claiming for employees’ wages. As the scheme begins to wind down, we go through what employers need to Read more…
Redundancy amidst COVID-19: What employers need to know
COVID-19 has thrown up a whole host of problems for businesses. Government schemes – such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (the “Scheme”) – have provided some relief to employers, allowing them to continue operating Read more…
AI-powered ID verification platform Onfido launches at Lawrence Stephens
Lawrence Stephens has partnered with AI-powered identification verification platform Onfido. Given current circumstances, it is not always feasible for clients to travel to our offices to provide relevant identifying documentation. The technology allows individuals to Read more…
Lawrence Stephens acts on Manchester property transaction
We are pleased to announce that our Real Estate team, led by Partner Stephen Messias and Senior Associate Nisha Saigal successfully acted on a transaction involving an exciting mixed-use development in the heart of Manchester Read more…
Rent Arrears Recovery: Considerations for Landlords and Tenants
As the pandemic continues to affect the economy and businesses, the government has introduced a number of measures for commercial and residential tenants. Forfeiture Section 82 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 (‘the Act’) is intended Read more…
Celebrating 10 years of Metro Bank
Following the announcement that Metro Bank will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary today, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity for the Bank’s key account team here at Lawrence Stephens to have a ‘virtual’ catch-up around the Read more…
Virtual witnessing of wills becomes legal
In what is being described as the “biggest change to law in 200 years,” the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has this week announced that people will be able to sign wills with a witness only Read more…
Further reforms to the Use Class Order used in planning laws which include 3 new Use Classes
The government has this week announced further changes to planning laws, this time revamping the current Use Classes order. Currently planning permission is required where there is a change of use of a property and Read more…
Construction Leadership Council publishes its Fifth Edition of Construction Site Operating Procedures – 1 July 2020
The new version of the CLC’s Site Operating Procedures reflected the governments easing of its guidance on lockdown which will apply from the 4 July 2020. The main change which contractors have been looking for Read more…
Electrical safety standards in the private rented sector
New Regulations require landlords to have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a person who is qualified and competent, at least every 5 years. Landlords have to provide a copy of Read more…
Why you should have a will
Making a will is an important part of insuring your family’s financial future. Wills are legally-binding documents which provide an essential guide as to how your estate and assets should be distributed after death. This Read more…
The Future Fund: How to fund your future
As the Coronavirus crisis continues to affect businesses all over the country, the government has introduced a number of different measures to help protect the economy and businesses’ futures. One such measure, announced by the Read more…
Suspension of Wrongful Trading and the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill
The Corporate Insolvency and Governance Bill (“Bill”) was published on 20 May 2020. The Bill intends to provide businesses with the flexibility they need to continue to trade during the Covid-19 pandemic and ease the Read more…
Lawrence Stephens act on High Court directors’ application
The Lawrence Stephens dispute resolution team have successfully acted on behalf of two company directors applying to the High Court for permission to act as directors and members of a number of companies and Limited Read more…
Property market reopen for business: Has it? Will it?
As of the 13th May, the government has relaxed restrictions imposed on the property sector during the coronavirus lockdown period. Estate agents, removal companies, conveyancers, and surveyors can resume trading; buyers and surveyors can visit properties Read more…
Contesting a Will: FAQs
The impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has raised a number of adverse challenges for families and individuals across the country. More than ever before, families may be in the position of needing to contest Read more…
Everything you need to know about the government’s new measures for the property market
Last week, the government announced its measures to help restart the property market after a period of deep freeze, following the UK’s measures taken to curb the spread of coronavirus. During this period, it has Read more…
Hard Work for Hard Hats
Over the last few weeks, we have been helping clients – both employers and contractors – prepare their compliant Construction Design Management (Health and Safety) and Site Operating Procedures, which understandably involve enhanced COVID -19 Read more…
How to support your colleagues through furlough
The impact of COVID-19 has been felt everywhere. Businesses across the country are feeling the strain, and many of us will have friends, family members and colleagues who have been furloughed through the Government’s Job Read more…
Lawrence Stephens welcomes Paul Marsh as a Partner
We are delighted to announce that Paul Marsh has joined the Partnership at Lawrence Stephens. Paul joined us in 2016 and quickly became an indispensable member of our Real Estate, Secured Lending and Banking team. Read more…
Commercial Property and COVID-19 – FAQs
In this legal insight, Partner Danny Schwarz seeks to provide clarity on practical issues that building occupiers and owners have experienced, by addressing some of the most frequently asked questions he and his team have Read more…
UPDATE – Annual Leave Entitlement: Where Do You Stand If You Have Been Furloughed?
Annual leave entitlement The Working Time Regulations 1998 (the “Regulations”) provide that workers are entitled to 5.6 weeks’ paid annual leave per year (prorated for part time employees). This is made up of a minimum Read more…
COVID-19: Witness of Deeds
During the current COVID-19 climate with the government advising on social distancing, many people will find executing documents difficult. So, what advice should law practitioners be giving their clients to assist when executing documents? Can Read more…
Annual Leave Entitlement: Where Do You Stand If You Have Been Furloughed?
Annual leave entitlement The Working Time Regulations 1998 (the “Regulations”) provide that workers are entitled to 5.6 weeks’ paid annual leave per year (pro-rated for part time employees). This is made up of a minimum Read more…
COVID:19: What does the future hold for the secured lending market?
In the current lending market, many businesses are under extreme time pressure to refinance existing facilities, complete on purchases committed to before COVID-19, or secure development financing. A big proportion of these businesses are now Read more…
2% stamp duty surcharge overseas purchaser
On 11th of March 2020 Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced in his budget that from 1st April 2021, a 2% surcharge on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) would be imposed upon non-UK resident buyers of residential Read more…
COVID-19: Advice for employers and employees
COVID-19: Corporate Finance Advice
Residential Property Transactions and COVID-19 – FAQs
The measures taken by the UK Government to contain the spread of the coronavirus have created profound complications for the UK residential property market. Legal concerns relate to drafting contracts, financing arrangements, force majeure provisions, Read more…
Start-ups: How will Coronavirus affect your business?
Start-ups: How will Coronavirus affect your business? The Coronavirus crisis has meant that many small businesses have been forced to cease trading on a record scale. My previous article (found here) outlined some of the Read more…
Company Employment Sanctions and COVID-19 – FAQs
Last month, businesses across the country adapted to new measures designed to curb the spread of COVID-19. Due to the continually evolving nature of the crisis, this has raised a number of questions related to employment. To offer Read more…
Furlough: What does it mean for you and your business?
With businesses across the country forced to close at an alarming rate, the Government has introduced a number of emergency measures to help try to keep the UK economy afloat. The newly proposed Coronavirus Job Read more…
Lawrence Stephens act on disposal of ITEC Connect to Xerox
We are pleased to announce that the Corporate and Commercial team, led by Jeff Rubenstein, has, despite the COVID-19 virus, completed a corporate sale for the Sellers/Shareholders of ITEC Connect Ltd. ITEC has been sold to the Read more…
COVID-19: Construction sites may stay open
As more and more companies announce the closure of their construction sites, the government’ guidance remains that construction sites may stay open provided the Public Health England (PHE) guidelines, including keeping two-metres from others, can Read more…
Coronavirus Round-Up: What you need to know to help your business get through the crisis
As the UK government announces new, stricter measures to curb the spread of coronavirus, businesses across the country are preparing for a vastly different economic climate when we eventually emerge from the crisis. The effects Read more…
Commercial Tenants: no evictions for 3 months – but what will really happen?
There was an air of inevitability with the announcement, and it is hard to argue against it. The Government announced on the 23 March that given the unprecedented strain on businesses, any tenants affected by Read more…
COVID-19: Business Operations
It is clear that Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to be a public and personal threat, creating many challenges for families and businesses worldwide. We want to reassure you that we are here to help you with Read more…
The Government’s attempt at ‘Squashing the Sombrero’: will banning evictions for 3 months on Commercial Tenants really solve the problem?
I miss Brexit. In light of the strict lockdown on 23 March 2020, the Government have implemented further concessions to assist tenants in the short-term and announced that commercial tenants who are affected by Covid-19 Read more…
Business as usual
If you are worried about Coronavirus (COVID-19) and what it might mean for you and any ongoing matters that you have with us, we want to reassure you that we are here to help. In Read more…
Are Your Commercial Contracts Safe as Houses?
In the wake of the global COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, we consider the general legal principles that apply to commercial contracts and the implications for our clients (particularly those of commercial landlords and tenants). Unforeseeable circumstances Read more…
Reflections on International Women’s Day
What does International Women’s Day mean to us? Sunday 8th March marked International Women’s Day, an event which recognises and celebrates the achievements of women around the world. All as part of the global efforts to Read more…
Leasehold Enfranchisement: Are leaseholders finally going to see change?
On the 19th December 2019, the Queen’s Speech – delivered at the opening of Parliament, set out the government’s proposed legislative policies for the forthcoming year. High up on the agenda was the issue of Read more…
The future of law – Can the human touch retain parity with technological innovation?
For many, March is simply the start of spring but for those connected to the real estate sector it means much more than that. Each March, the biggest names in property flock to Cannes for MIPIM, the world’s Read more…
How can tenants manage a disappearing landlord?
A vast number of people throughout London and the UK struggle to purchase a home and renting property has quickly become the norm. However, despite its prevalence, renting certainly does not come without its issues. Read more…
Lawrence Stephens at Dennis Wise in the Community’s Annual Fundraising Ball
Last month, Lawrence Stephens attended the Dennis Wise in the Community’s Annual Fundraising Ball at The Savoy Hotel. Dennis Wise in the Community is a charity which works to support children and adults with disabilities. The Read more…
Achieving a work-life balance as a junior solicitor
Today is World Mental Health Day and individuals across the world are doing their bit to raise awareness of mental health issues. The day also offers the opportunity for industries to reflect on their efforts Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Solicitors welcome two new Partners
Lawrence Stephens Solicitors has welcomed two new Partners to their team of established legal professionals. The pair join the firm’s nine existing Partners and offer over 50 years combined legal experience. David Freedman joins the firm’s Commercial Read more…
Lawrence Stephens act on All Star Lanes rescue deal
Lawrence Stephens’ work has been in the headlines this week, following our work on the All Star Lanes rescue deal. Last week, Lawrence Stephens acted on a deal involving All Star Lanes, a chain of Read more…
Lawrence Stephens to take part in Will Aid charity Will writing scheme
Lawrence Stephens Senior Associate Hardeep Nijher will be taking part in Will Aid this November, to raise vital funds for nine of the UK’s best loved charities. Will Aid is a charity Will writing scheme Read more…
To be or not to be an expert witness
Anne Wright of Lawrence Stephens and barrister James Davison of 3PB provide practical guidance on selecting an expert witness, and advise witnesses how to behave once appointed. ‘The expert witness’s primary duty is to help Read more…
Lawrence Stephens act for Alpha Property Lending on £25,000,000 Care Home Refinance
Lawrence Stephens Partners Steven Bernstein (Banking) and Avi Barr (Property) have led a team, including Craig Mullen and Milana Katz, which acted on a £25,000,000 refinance on behalf of the Lender, Alpha Property Lending. The Borrower, Abbey Healthcare Group Read more…
Contracting out the 1954 Act – what can you get away with?
This week the High Court had a rare opportunity to consider some practical issues that arise when commercial leases are excluded from the Security of Tenure Provisions in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, which Read more…
Lawrence Stephens helps Alpha Property Lending complete £4m development loan
Lawrence Stephens Solicitors has helped Alpha Property Lending complete a £4m development loan, within three working days of formal instruction. Avi Barr, Craig Mullen, Steven Bernstein and Milana Katz from the Secured Lending and Banking Read more…
Lawrence Stephens helps client OakNorth complete loan worth £10m
Lawrence Stephens has helped valued client OakNorth to complete a 5 year term loan worth £10m. The multi-million pound loan saw Lawrence Stephens secure first ranking legal charges across all the sites. Partner Gregory Palos Read more…
Upcoming Changes to Tenant Fees – Letting Agents and Landlords to Take Note
From 1 June 2019 the Tenant Fees Act 2019 (“the Act”) will impose restrictions on fees that can be demanded from tenants of newly granted Tenancies (such as ASTS, student lettings and licences to occupy Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Support Tigers Global Logistics with New Thurrock Facility
Lawrence Stephens Real Estate Partner, Avi Barr and Senior Associate Craig Mullen recently supported multi-national logistics firm Tigers Global Logistics with its move to a major new logistics facility in Thurrock. The opening of this Read more…
Lawrence Stephens Helps Got Capital Secure Multi-Million Pound Facility with Shawbrook Bank
Central London law firm Lawrence Stephens has helped SME finance provider Got Capital secure a multi-million pound revolving credit facility from Shawbrook Bank. Jeff Rubenstein, Company & Commercial Partner at Lawrence Stephens, acted for Got Capital to complete Read more…
Lawrence Stephens client Lendhub secures new funding line
Lawrence Stephens client Lendhub, a specialist bridging and development lender, has secured a loan-on-loan facility from specialist bank OakNorth. The new funding line will sit alongside clients’ proprietary funds, with the deal enabling Lendhub to Read more…
Lawrence Stephens helps Whitehall Capital loan for £1.4m scheme in just 5 days
25th March, London – Lawrence Stephens assisted Whitehall Capital with the completion of a crucial bridging loan, seeing the deal through in 5 days. Lawrence Stephens acted for the privately funded specialist loan provider on Read more…
Lawrence Stephens at MIPIM 2019: Gregory Palos
Gregory Palos, Partner, Head of Secured Lending, will be the third member of the Lawrence Stephens team in Cannes. We talked to Gregory about the prestigious event, the current property landscape and Lawrence Stephen’s partnership Read more…
Lawrence Stephens at MIPIM 2019: Steven Bernstein
Corporate and Banking Partner Steven Bernstein will also be in Cannes for MIPIM as part of the Lawrence Stephens team. We spoke to Steven about his aims for the prestigious event and what makes the Read more…
Frustrated by Brexit? Not if you are a Landlord!
A significant decision was reached today in the High Court which will allow Landlords up and down the country to breathe a huge sigh of relief. The High Court considered a claim by the European Read more…
Tenant Fees Bill receives Royal Assent
On 12 February 2019, the Tenant Fees Bill 2017-19 received Royal Assent and became the Tenant Fees Act 2019. The Act will come into force on 1 June 2019 for new and renewal leases and Read more…
Pressure to use airspace builds up
A potential way of dealing with the lack of development land space in urban areas is not to build on land but its airspace. Anne Wright and Avi Barr discuss the construction and legal implications developers should Read more…
Property Law In-House Training
No area of law is static and businesses and individuals need to completely understand the latest legal developments and their implications in order to make the most of every opportunity. This week Lawrence Stephens brought Read more…
Lawrence Stephens helps start-up break crowdfunding record
A Lawrence Stephens Partner has helped break a crowdfunding record in acting for UK savings app Chip. Partner Bradley Lee helped the UK start-up complete a record-breaking funding round on Crowdcube in December 2018, raising Read more…
Another problem with the government’s ‘death tax’?
The Ministry of Justice’s controversial proposal to radically increase fees for administering probate has hit another snag, as it has emerged that the government has not assessed the costs attached and the practical application of Read more…
Lawrence Stephens helps Whitehall Capital complete bridging loan worth £750,000
21st January, London – Lawrence Stephens has helped Whitehall Capital complete a bridging loan worth three quarters of a million pounds for a portfolio of Birmingham flats, announced today. Lawrence Stephens helped the privately funded Read more…
Non-resident Investors – The Three-Month Property Supermarket Trolley Dash
The chimes at midnight this week meant more for UK non-resident investors than simply a new year – it marked the countdown to new rules coming into force on the payment of Capital Gains Tax Read more…