Divorce is one of the most difficult situations that a person may face in life, with people often comparing the grief and stress to that which you may experience during bereavement. If you are considering a divorce or dissolution, it is likely that you have begun to look into this and have encountered a wealth of information, which can be extremely overwhelming. At Manak Solicitors, our knowledgeable and empathetic family law expert solicitors can help you to understand what you can expect from your divorce/dissolution and to simplify what is likely to be a very complex situation. Making the application You may be familiar with the previous divorce process, which required the person who applied for the divorce to provide reasoning for initiating their application. The reasons included two or five years’ separation, adultery, behaviour, and desertion. This often led to divorces being unnecessarily acrimonious from the outset. Since April 2022, divorce has been on a ‘no fault’ basis. This means that you do not need to blame your spouse or give any reason to the court for your divorce other than that your marriage has broken down irretrievably. It is not possible to contest a divorce save for on very limited grounds, including:Jurisdiction – for example, if you are not domiciled or habitually resident in England and Wales.Your marriage/civil partnership has already legally ended, such as if you have already had divorce proceedings in another jurisdiction. Your marriage/civil partnership was never valid. The divorce application is made online. Once your solicitor has filed your application, the court will issue the application and will take a fee of £612. The court or your solicitor will then serve the documents on your spouse, who has to acknowledge that they have received it. The stages of divorceA divorce takes a minimum of six months, and can be broken down into the following stages:Your solicitor prepares your divorce application and sends this to you to check. Once you have approved the draft application, they will submit it.The court issues your application, and it is then sent to your spouse, who has to acknowledge that they have received it.  A 20-week reflection period then begins, during which you and your spouse will begin to exchange financial information and work towards negotiating a settlement. During this time, divorcing couples usually address living arrangements for their children. After the reflection period, you can apply for the conditional order. This is a ‘checkpoint’ where the court reviews your application and, if satisfied, confirms there is no reason why your divorce cannot proceed. The conditional order is granted within a few weeks. At this stage, if a financial settlement has been reached, your solicitor can file a financial remedy order reflecting this with the court.Six weeks after your conditional order is granted, you will be able to apply for your final order, which terminates your marriage. However, we usually advise clients to wait until their financial remedy order has been approved and sealed by the court prior to applying for the final order. Once the final order is granted, your marriage will have legally ended.Speak to an expertIf you are considering a divorce and wish to speak to one of our expert family solicitors in more detail, book a free no-obligation call back here, and we can point you in the right direction.

Divorce costs can often be a source of anxiety for those looking to dissolve their marriage, with ‘how much does it cost to get divorced?’ one of the most common questions asked of family solicitors.This query is understandable, of course, as separating from a (sometimes life-long) partner can not only be an emotional journey, but a financial one too. Understanding the potential costs of this decision upfront can help individuals manage any misgivings and make more informed choices about the process ahead.In this blog, we will explore how UK divorce costs can vary dramatically based on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, and how we can help you handle the challenges of both.Uncontested divorcesAn uncontested divorce is when both parties agree on all aspects of the divorce, including important issues such as child arrangements and financial settlements. This mutual agreement typically streamlines the divorce process, making it simpler and less time-consuming. As a result, uncontested divorces are often regarded as the most cost-effective way for a marriage to come to an end, with reduced legal fees and minimal court involvement significantly lowering the overall expenses.Contested divorcesContested divorces, on the other hand, involve disputes between the separating parties on one or more key issues, such as child custody, division of assets, and financial settlements. These disagreements may require court intervention or extended negotiations, which can lead to a considerable increase in the amount you will be expected to pay for your divorce. In the UK, the financial implications of a contested divorce can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case. Factors such as the number of hearings, the legal representation required, and any additional expert consultations can all contribute to escalating expenses.How much does it cost for a divorce in Sevenoaks?Divorce can be a costly and emotionally taxing process, but at Manak Solicitors, there are options available to help you manage these expenses effectively. One of the most appealing of these is our flat fee service that offers legal representation for divorce matters at a competitive price. For a fixed fee of £500 plus VAT, along with any applicable court fees, individuals in Sevenoaks can secure best-in-class legal expertise to help them navigate the complexities of a divorce.This fee structure not only simplifies the financial aspect of a marital separation but also ensures that our clients are aware of the cost of a divorce upfront. Transparency in pricing is crucial during such a challenging time, and our flat fee model eliminates the uncertainty that can often accompany traditional billing methods, where hourly rates can lead to unexpected expenses. Thanks to our fixed fee divorce solicitors, clients in Sevenoaks can plan their budgets more effectively, reducing stress as they focus on moving forward with their lives.Why choose our divorce solicitors?Choosing the right divorce lawyer is crucial for helping you work through the nuances of a marital breakdown, and Manak Solicitors’ dedicated team stands out for several reasons. Firstly, as we are divorce and family law specialists, you can rely on us to tailor our expertise to meet your specific needs. Several of our lawyers hold accreditations from the Law Society and Resolution, affirming our commitment to high standards and professional excellence.Additionally, our family practice is recognised as one of the leading law firms in Sevenoaks. This reputation is built on our extensive experience and successful track record in various aspects of family law. Whether you are seeking assistance with financial settlements, child arrangements, or prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, our knowledgeable solicitors are equipped to guide you through each process with care and professionalism.With branches conveniently located in Sevenoaks, Gravesend, Orpington, Bromley, and Biggin Hill, we are proud to serve clients across Kent and throughout the UK. Our local presence combined with our ability to handle cases nationwide allows us to offer personalised legal solutions regardless of your location. When you choose Manak Solicitors, you are not just getting a legal representative; you are gaining a supportive ally dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family during a challenging time.Contact our experienced team of divorce solicitors in Sevenoaks to arrange your initial consultation today.

If you’ve received an MG11 form for fare evasion, it’s crucial to understand your options going forward. The MG11 is a witness statement form used in criminal investigations, often issued by train companies like Southeastern or South Western Railway when investigating fare evasion. Your response to this form can significantly influence the outcome of your case, so acting promptly is essential.At Manak Solicitors, we specialise in defending clients facing fare evasion investigations from various train operators, including Southeastern and South Western Railway. Whether you’re dealing with a penalty fare or potential prosecution, our expert team is here to guide you through the process. In this guide, we’ll explain how to settle a fare evasion case without waiting for a letter from your employer, why addressing the situation quickly is advantageous, and how we can help resolve the matter efficiently. What is an MG11 Form?An MG11 form is a witness statement typically issued during an investigation. If you’ve been caught evading fares on a Southeastern or South Western Railway service, this form is a key part of the process. It includes critical details such as:The date, time, and location of the alleged fare evasion.Your explanation for not having a valid ticket. Any additional information that might affect the case’s outcome.Receiving this form indicates that the train company is formally investigating the incident. How you respond to the MG11 will play a major role in whether the case proceeds to court, is settled swiftly, or escalates into a more serious legal issue.Can You Settle a Fare Evasion Case Without Waiting for a Letter from the train company?While many people assume they must wait for a formal letter from the train company before taking action, you can often settle your fare evasion case beforehand. In fact, addressing the matter early is frequently more beneficial. Early Settlement Without Formal Prosecution In many cases, you can resolve your fare evasion case directly with Southeastern or South Western Railway before any formal letter is issued. By acknowledging the fare evasion and showing a willingness to resolve it, you may be able to settle the case without it progressing to criminal prosecution.This might involve: Agreeing to a settlement avoiding harsher legal consequences.Taking swift action can often prevent the issue from escalating and allow for a simpler resolution.Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Letter from the train company Waiting for a formal letter from the train company can delay resolution and worsen the situation. Here’s why acting quickly is preferable:Avoid a Criminal Record: If the case reaches court, it could lead to a criminal conviction. A conviction for fare evasion might harm your future career, particularly in regulated sectors. Settling early reduces this risk. Minimise Penalties: Delaying action often results in higher fines and more severe consequences. Addressing the issue promptly increases the likelihood of a reduced fine or penalty fare.Reduced Stress: Uncertainty can be stressful, especially while awaiting formal correspondence. Settling the case quickly lets you move on without the emotional burden of an ongoing investigation.Protect Your Employment: For those in regulated industries like finance or education, a criminal conviction could jeopardise your job. Resolving the case swiftly helps safeguard your professional reputation.Why Should You Resolve Your Fare Evasion Case Quickly?Avoid a Criminal Record A major concern for those facing fare evasion charges is the risk of a criminal conviction. This can have lasting effects, including:Difficulty securing new employment, especially in roles requiring background checks.Travel restrictions to countries with strict visa rules.Damage to your personal and professional reputation. By settling your case quickly with Manak Solicitors’ help, you can avoid a criminal conviction and protect your future prospects.Minimise Fines and PenaltiesEarly settlement can often reduce the penalties you face. Agreeing to a penalty fare or settling with the train company outside of court could spare you substantial fines and the risk of harsher consequences. If the case goes to court, you might face a much higher fine or, in extreme cases, imprisonment if the offence is considered severe.Safeguard Your CareerIn sectors where background checks are standard, a criminal record for fare evasion could limit your job opportunities. Resolving the case quickly allows you to move forward without worrying about career repercussions, which is especially vital for those in finance, education, or healthcare.Alleviate Stress and UncertaintyFacing a criminal investigation can be nerve-racking, particularly when the outcome is unclear. Acting swiftly gives you peace of mind, knowing your case is being handled effectively and the risk of escalation is reduced.How Can Manak Solicitors Help You Settle Your Fare Evasion Case Quickly?At Manak Solicitors, we specialise in helping clients resolve fare evasion cases efficiently and effectively, particularly with Southeastern and South Western Railway. We understand the complexities of fare evasion investigations and can guide you to the best possible outcome.Here’s how we can assist:Early Negotiation with the Train Company Once we take on your case, we’ll immediately start negotiating with Southeastern or South Western Railway on your behalf. Our aim is to secure a penalty fare settlement or reduced fine, preventing the matter from escalating to criminal prosecution.Comprehensive Assessment of Your Case We’ll thoroughly review your case details, including the MG11 form, to determine the best approach.Minimise Legal Consequences Our primary goal is to reduce the penalties you face and avoid a criminal conviction. By settling early, we’ll negotiate the most favourable terms to ensure minimal impact on your life and career.Contact Manak Solicitors TodayIf you’ve received an MG11 form from Southeastern or South Western Railway regarding fare evasion, don’t delay taking action. Contact Manak Solicitors today for expert advice and representation. We’ll help you resolve your fare evasion case quickly and minimise the legal consequences.Contact us now for a consultation. Let us help you settle your fare evasion case efficiently and protect your future.Manak SolicitorsPhone: 01689 870769Email: [email protected]: manaksolicitors.co.uk/services/fare-evasion/Address: 265 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NW 

Manak Solicitors Acquire Browns SolicitorsManak Solicitors are delighted to announce the acquisition of Browns Solicitors, a highly respected law firm based in Bromley (51 Tweedy Road, BR1 3NH). This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Manak Solicitors’ continued expansion and further strengthens its presence across London and Kent.Browns Solicitors was established by Managing Director Christine Brown in 2011 specialising in Private Client Law ie Wills, Probate and Power of Attorney. Over the years the firm has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional legal service. The firm has been a trusted name in the Bromley community for years, known for its Private Client legal expertise. By joining forces with Manak Solicitors, Browns’ clients will gain access to a broader range of legal services while continuing to receive the same high standard of care.This acquisition follows Manak Solicitors’ successful integration of Ennis-Webb Solicitors in Biggin Hill last year, reinforcing the firm’s position as one of the region’s most forward-thinking legal services provider. With a reputation for innovation, Manak Solicitors continues to lead the way with cutting-edge client solutions, such as the trademarked Instant Instruct tool, which allows clients to seamlessly instruct legal services online.Surinder Singh Manak, Managing Director of Manak Solicitors, commented: “This acquisition is a major step forward for us. Browns Solicitors has a long-standing reputation for excellence, and we are excited to add this to our existing teams. Our shared values and commitment to outstanding service make this a perfect fit, and we look forward to serving Browns’ clients with the same dedication and professionalism they have come to expect.”Christine Brown, Managing Director of Browns Solicitors, added: “After many successful years serving our clients, I am delighted that Browns Solicitors is joining forces with Manak. Their modern, client-first approach aligns perfectly with our own values, and I am confident that this transition will bring great benefits to our Clients and Team. This merger underscores Manak Solicitors’ commitment to growth while maintaining its dedication to providing best-in-class Legal Services. Clients of Browns Solicitors can expect a seamless transition, with myself, Libby and Becky continuing to support them under the Manak Solicitors umbrella.”

in December 2024, the Law Commission of England and Wales released a scoping report addressing the need for reform in the law governing financial remedies in divorce proceedings. While the report does not make any firm recommendations, it highlights significant issues within the current legal framework and discusses the implications of reform in this area of practice. The Current Legal LandscapeThe existing law surrounding divorce and financial proceedings is primarily governed by the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973. Despite the evolution of case law over the past fifty years, the statute itself has remained unchanged. The lack of updates has led to ambiguity and confusion regarding key concepts and the distinction between matrimonial and non-matrimonial property, which are not explicitly defined in the statute.Critics argue that the broad discretion afforded to judges under the current law creates uncertainty for divorcing couples. Different judges may arrive at vastly different outcomes based on the same set of circumstances, which can complicate negotiations and potentially escalate costs. As society has evolved significantly since the 1970s, many believe that reform is overdue to align the statute with contemporary values and expectations.Key Findings of the Scoping ReportThe scoping report concludes that the current law requires reform and places the onus on the government to determine the direction of these changes. It outlines four potential models for future reform:Codification: This model involves minimal changes to existing law, with key concepts from case law codified into a single statute. While this would enhance accessibility, it would not significantly reduce judicial discretion.Codification-Plus: Building on the codification model, this approach would include additional reforms to address unsettled areas of law while still allowing for judicial discretion, albeit with some limitations.Guided Discretion: This model would introduce a set of principles and objectives to guide judicial discretion, providing a more structured approach to decision-making.Default Regime: This model would establish a matrimonial property regime, offering couples clarity on how property will be divided upon divorce. This approach is common in several European countries and would significantly reduce judicial discretion.Areas in Need of ReformThe scoping report identifies several areas where reform is particularly necessary:Nuptial AgreementsThe Law Commission’s 2014 report recommended that couples should be able to enter into binding agreements, but the government has yet to act on this. Since the landmark case of Radmacher v Granatino, nuptial agreements which are being increasingly upheld, provided that they meet certain criteria and that the effect of the same will meet need.Nuptial agreements are becoming increasingly popular, and the courts are placing more weight upon them now than ever before. The Law Commission are considering whether to produce a standardized nuptial agreements, which engaged couples can utilise in order to safeguard their assets in the event of divorce. Spousal MaintenanceThe current law allows for spousal maintenance to meet need and support a spouse’s transition to financial independence. However, there are calls to limit maintenance to a specific duration, raising concerns about the potential vulnerability of ex-partners. Often, the court and Family Law practitioners try to avoid ongoing maintenance and achieve a clean break, in order to limit any future dispute or issues between the parties, for example if the person who is paying maintenance is no longer able to do so.ConductThe absence of a statutory definition of conduct has led to inconsistencies in how personal misconduct is treated in divorce proceedings. Reform could clarify what constitutes conduct and its relevance in financial settlements.Financial Support for Children Aged 18 and OverThe current statute generally ceases financial support for children at 18, despite societal norms where parents often continue to provide support. Calls for reform suggest extending this support to the age of 21. In practice, it is common for children in their early to mid-20s to continue to live with their parents, despite legally being adults. This often means that a parent is still financially responsible for a child, even if the court considers them to be an adult and therefore not relevant to financial proceedings.How Manak Solicitors can support you While the Law Commission’s scoping report advocates for reform, it does not specify a method for implementing changes, leaving the decision to the government. The current system, which relies on both statute and case law, provides judges with considerable discretion to achieve fair outcomes. Any proposed reforms must balance the need for certainty with the necessity of fairness in financial settlements.If you are considering divorce or need assistance with financial settlements or pre-nuptial agreements, don’t hesitate to reach out to Manak Solicitors. Our team of divorce solicitors can help you with: Financial SettlementsOur solicitors work diligently to secure a fair financial settlement that meets both parties’ needs, as well as taking into account other factors such as contributions. We understand the complexities involved in asset division, including the need to account for property, savings, and pensions. Our goal is to ensure that your financial future is safeguarded, allowing you to move forward with confidence.Child ArrangementsOur team advocates for a child’s best interests in determining who a child is to live with and the frequency and duration of their time with the other parent. We will work collaboratively with you to establish arrangements that promote stability and security for your children, whether through shared care or an alternative arrangement.Prenuptial and Postnuptial AgreementsOur solicitors are experienced in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating pre- and post-nuptial agreements. These agreements can provide peace of mind by safeguarding your assets and will also limit future disputes in the event of a divorce. Domestic Violence and AbuseIf you are facing domestic violence or abuse, our team is committed to your safety and wellbeing. If required, we can assist you with applying for various injunctions, such as non-molestation orders. We provide compassionate support and guidance in securing protection orders and addressing related divorce issues. Find out more about our divorce services and book a consultation with Manak Solicitors today. 

Whether it is for personal beliefs, financial reasons, or simply not wanting to conform to societal norms, cohabitation is becoming increasingly common. But although many individuals in the UK choose to live together without getting married or entering a civil partnership, it is essential for cohabiting couples to understand their legal rights and responsibilities.What is a cohabitation agreement?A cohabitation agreement is a legal document that is created by unmarried couples who live together or plan to do so in the near future. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of each partner, providing clarity and protection in various aspects of their shared life.The purpose of a cohabitation agreement is to prevent misunderstandings and disputes by clearly defining the terms of the relationship. It covers important areas such as property ownership and financial contributions. By establishing these terms, both partners can feel secure and confident in their relationship, knowing that their rights and interests are protected in the event of a break-up, death. or other significant live-changing event.Cohabitation: Legal rights of partnersListed below are the legal rights of cohabiting couples who do not currently have an agreement in place.FinancesEach partner retains legal ownership of their individual assets and bank accounts, and there are no automatic rights to inherit the other partner’s assets or pensions upon death. However, even if you do not have a legal interest in your partner’s property, a partner may be able to establish an equitable beneficial interest in certain circumstances, for example, if they have been promised an interest and in reliance they make a contribution to the purchase price or the mortgage payments. The same applies if you solely own a property to which your partner makes a contribution towards. Various tax benefits available to married couples are not applicable to cohabiting couples.Finances on deathIf a married person dies without a Will, certain assets will automatically pass to the other partner, for example jointly-owned property. The same does not apply to unmarried couples. For cohabitees, it is therefore important that there is a Will in place providing for individuals to leave their assets to whoever they choose, including their unmarried partner or their unmarried partner’s children. It is sensible to put a Will in place alongside a cohabitation agreement. PropertyBoth partners are equally responsible for rental obligations if their names are on the Tenancy Agreement. For jointly purchased properties, it is sensible to put in place a cohabitation agreement to determine what happens if the relationship ends. A property can be held either as joint tenants or tenants in common. If you hold your property as joint tenants, if either of you were to pass away, your interest in the property will automatically pass to the other person. If, for example, you have made unequal contributions, you may wish to hold your property as tenants in common, which means it is held in two separate shares. You can then put in place a cohabitation agreement which records your respective shares and, if the property were to be sold, how the sale proceeds were to be divided. A cohabitation agreement can also set out who makes specific contributions to the property, for example, contributions to the mortgage and utilities. This will help with avoiding any future disputes. ChildrenChildren-related matters are not covered within a cohabitation agreement. Instead, you would need a separate parenting plan or child arrangements order. If both partners are listed on a birth certificate, they have equal parental rights and responsibilities. In the event of separation, child maintenance is paid which is governed by the Child Maintenance Service, Child Arrangements OrdersChild Arrangements Orders are legal orders made by a court that determine the living and contact arrangements for children when their parents have separated or divorced. These orders aim to ensure that the child’s best interests are protected and that they have a stable and supportive environment.Child Arrangements Orders can specify various aspects of the child’s life, including:Determining with whom the child will primarily live or have their main residence. The order can specify whether the child will live solely with one parent or with both parents. Setting out spending time arrangements for the parent with whom the child does not live. Addressing specific issues concerning the child’s upbringing and welfare. This may include decisions regarding the child’s education, healthcare, religious upbringing, or any other matter that requires a resolution.Seeking Legal Advice from Manak SolicitorsManak Solicitors are Family & Matrimonial Law experts, and we have extensive experience in dealing with Cohabitation Agreements, as well as other Family Law matters. We understand that dealing with Cohabitation Agreements and Child Arrangement Orders can be stressful, which is why our experts will do everything possible to make the process hassle-free. We pride ourselves on being some of the best family solicitors in Sevenoaks, Orpington, and Gravesend. Our Family Lawyers  are accredited and experienced experts, who will ensure that you receive an efficient and reliable service at all times. For more information about creating cohabitation agreements, explore our family law services or contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced family experts.

What Homebuyers Need to Know About SDLT Changes in 2025Major Changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) in 2025 – What It Means for YouIf you’re planning to buy a property in 2025, you need to be aware of the upcoming **Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) changes**. These new rules, effective from **April 2025**, will impact first-time buyers, homeowners moving to a new property, and investors purchasing additional homes.Understanding how these changes affect your finances can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected costs. Here’s everything you need to know.What Is Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)?Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a **property tax** levied on residential and commercial property purchases in England and Northern Ireland. The amount owed depends on:**The purchase price of the property****Whether you’re a first-time buyer, homeowner, or investor**  **Whether the property is your main residence or an additional home**With changes coming in April 2025, different buyers will be affected in different ways.Current SDLT Rates (Before April 2025)For Homeowners Moving to a New Property- Up to **£250,000** → **No SDLT**- **£250,001 – £925,000** → **5%**- **£925,001 – £1.5 million** → **10%**- Over **£1.5 million** → **12%**For First-Time Buyers- Up to **£425,000** → **No SDLT**- **£425,001 – £925,000** → **5%**- **£925,001 – £1.5 million** → **10%**- Over **£1.5 million** → **12%**For Buyers of a Second Home or Buy-to-Let Investors- Up to **£250,000** → **5%**- **£250,001 – £925,000** → **10%**- **£925,001 – £1.5 million** → **15%**- Over **£1.5 million** → **20%**New SDLT Rates from April 2025For Homeowners Moving to a New Property- Up to **£125,000** → **No SDLT**- **£125,001 – £250,000** → **2%**- **£250,001 – £925,000** → **5%**- **£925,001 – £1.5 million** → **10%**- Over **£1.5 million** → **12%**For First-Time Buyers- Up to **£300,000** → **No SDLT**- **£300,001 – £500,000** → **5%**- Over **£500,000** → **Standard rates apply**For Buyers of a Second Home or Buy-to-Let Investors- Up to **£125,000** → **5%**- **£125,001 – £250,000** → **7%**- **£250,001 – £925,000** → **10%**- **£925,001 – £1.5 million** → **15%**- Over **£1.5 million** → **17%**How Will the SDLT Changes Impact Buyers?First-Time BuyersThe SDLT-free threshold drops from **£425,000 to £300,000**, meaning some first-time buyers will pay SDLT when they previously wouldn’t.If purchasing a property above **£500,000**, first-time buyers will pay standard rates with no relief.This could delay purchases as buyers need to **save more for upfront costs**.  Homeowners Moving to a New PropertyMore properties will **fall under the SDLT bracket** due to the reduced **tax-free threshold (from £250,000 to £125,000)**. Buyers will need to factor in **higher costs** when budgeting for their move.Second Homes & Buy-to-Let InvestorsHigher SDLT surcharges will **increase purchase costs**, making investment properties **more expensive**. Some investors may choose to buy before **April 2025** to avoid the higher rates.What Should You Do Now?**If you’re a first-time buyer**, consider purchasing **before April 2025** to benefit from the current SDLT-free threshold.**If you’re moving home**, be prepared for additional costs after April 2025 and factor SDLT into your budget.**If you’re an investor**, the increased SDLT surcharge may impact your returns – planning ahead is essential.How Manak Solicitors Can HelpNavigating SDLT changes can be complicated, but our team at **Manak Solicitors** is here to guide you through the process. We provide expert conveyancing services to ensure you understand your tax liabilities and **make informed decisions about your property purchase**.**Why Choose Manak Solicitors?** **Expertise in property law & conveyancing****Clear, practical advice tailored to your needs****Support for first-time buyers, home movers & investors****Contact us today** to book a consultation and ensure you’re fully prepared for the SDLT changes in 2025.**Email us** | **Visit our offices** | **www.manaksolicitors.co.uk**

The Employment Rights Bill, currently winding its way through Parliament, promises to transform the world of work in Britain. Dubbed by the government as the "biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation," this legislation aims to bolster job security, enhance protections, and drive productivity to fuel economic growth. With amendments tabled on 4 March 2025 after months of consultation with businesses, trade unions, and others, it’s a good moment to consider how this Bill could reshape the workplace—and what it means for British workers, employers, and the economy at large.A Win for Workers and Businesses AlikeLaunched on 10 October 2024, within Labour’s first 100 days in power, the Employment Rights Bill is a cornerstone of its "Plan to Make Work Pay." It tackles long-standing issues like insecure jobs, low wages, and patchy worker rights, which many argue have held back productivity and economic potential. The latest tweaks, announced this week, show the government’s intent to strike a balance between empowering workers and keeping businesses on board.Here’s what’s on the table:Day-One Rights: Workers will get immediate access to unfair dismissal protection (with a probationary period still to be ironed out), parental leave, and statutory sick pay, scrapping previous waiting times.Cracking Down on Exploitation: The Bill bans exploitative zero-hours contracts, giving workers the right to guaranteed hours based on their usual shifts, and puts an end to "fire and rehire" unless it’s a last resort.Flexible Working as Standard: Employers will need to offer flexible working from day one unless it’s genuinely unfeasible, aiming to improve work-life balance.Tougher Enforcement: A new Fair Work Agency will bring together existing bodies to enforce rights like holiday pay, while offering businesses practical support.The pitch is simple: secure, well-treated workers are more productive, and a productive workforce drives economic growth. It’s about putting more cash in people’s pockets and creating a virtuous cycle of investment and spending.Productivity: The Worker Rights DividendThere’s solid ground behind the government’s claims. Studies, including those from Cambridge cited in official statements, show that stronger employment laws over the past 50 years have boosted productivity rather than hampered it. Workers who feel secure and valued tend to stick around, cutting recruitment costs and lifting output.Take day-one unfair dismissal rights: knowing they can’t be sacked on a whim could ease the anxiety that drags down performance. Or consider statutory sick pay from day one (still under consultation)—it might encourage proper recovery, reducing long-term absences. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) reckons these changes could pump over £13 billion a year into the economy, with savings from less workplace stress (£974 million) and better staff wellbeing (£930 million).Businesses aren’t left out in the cold either. By sorting out zero-hours contracts and tightening up umbrella company loopholes, the Bill could stop rogue employers undercutting the good ones. The Co-op, a big name in British retail, backs the reforms, saying that treating staff well pays off in productivity—a view shared across parts of the high street.Growing the Economy: A Rising Tide?The government’s big idea is that Britain’s sluggish growth and stagnant productivity—hallmarks of recent years—need a shake-up. The Employment Rights Bill sits within its "Plan for Change," promising stability and reform over uncertainty and cuts. More secure jobs and better pay mean more spending power, which could give the economy a much-needed shot in the arm.Not everyone’s sold, though. Some business groups and voices like Ross Clark in *The Spectator* (4 March 2025) warn of a £5 billion annual hit to employers, which might make them think twice about hiring. The government’s own numbers suggest a “small but positive” boost to growth, but critics point to risks—small firms, especially, might struggle with extra red tape or tribunal claims.Looking Ahead to 2025 and BeyondAs of 5 March 2025, the Employment Rights Bill is still taking shape. Consultations on tricky details—like how long probation periods should be or how flexible working will work in practice—are set to heat up this year. Most changes won’t kick in until 2026, with unfair dismissal reforms held off until at least Autumn 2026, giving everyone time to adjust.For employers, 2025 is the year to get ready: tweak contracts, update handbooks, and train managers on handling flexible working requests. Workers can look forward to more clout and security, though they’ll need patience for the full rollout.Striking the Right BalanceThe Employment Rights Bill is a bold move to modernise British employment law, with real potential to lift productivity and grow the economy by putting workers first. Its success depends on getting the details right—supporting workers without bogging down businesses. As consultations roll on and the Bill takes its final form, 2025 will be make-or-break in deciding whether this is the "once-in-a-generation" shift it’s billed as.Samir Moftah, Employment Law Specialist at Manak Solicitors, sums it up: “The Employment Rights Bill could be a game-changer if it delivers security for workers without stifling the flexibility businesses need to thrive. It’s a delicate balance, but one worth getting right for the sake of Britain’s economy.”We at Manak Solicitors can assist by advising businesses on how best to navigate changes in law.

Christmas is a wonderful time, but it can also come with challenges for some families, particularly when deciding how children of separated or divorced parents will spend the holidays. Balancing traditions, routines, and quality time with parents can sometimes lead to disagreements. At Manak Solicitors, we are here to help you navigate these arrangements with ease and focus on what matters most: the well-being of your children.Finding what works for your familyEvery family is unique, and so are their festive plans. For some, it may work best for children to spend set days with each parent, alternating yearly. For others, a more flexible arrangement may be required to allow the children to spend quality time with both parents. The goal is always to ensure children feel loved and supported during the holidays and are not affected by any dispute between their parents.Reaching an agreementWe know that it is not always simple to find common ground and reach an agreement with an ex-partner, but there are ways to make the process smoother:Legal Support: our expert team of family solicitors can guide discussions to help you create a fair and practical arrangement that works for everyone.Mediation: this provides a neutral space for parents to resolve differences amicably with the assistance of a trained mediator. These approaches allow families to control decisions for their children more quickly and less stressfully, which can defuse tension between parents. The goal is to create an arrangement that works for your children and meets their physical and emotional needs. Where an agreement cannot be reachedIf mediation and discussions via solicitors do not work, applying for a child arrangements order through the court may be necessary. This will result in a clear, legally binding decision about where your child spends their time, not just for Christmas but for future holidays and day-to-day life.Before applying to the court, you must engage with some form of non-court dispute resolution (NCDR), such as mediation, unless you can claim a valid exemption. If NCDR is not successful, our team can help you prepare your case for court and guide you every step of the way.Focus on What Matters MostAt Manak Solicitors, we understand every family is different. Our experienced family law team provides tailored support to prioritise your child’s happiness. Contact us today at [email protected] or call 01689 870 769. Let us help keep your focus on what truly matters this Christmas.