News & Insights

Partner, Emily Brand and Senior Associate, Alexandra Hirst reflect on the no-fault divorce system, which, whilst simplifying the legal process, does not necessarily stamp out conflict or the emotional anguish that arises when a marriage is dissolved. Eliminating the ‘blame game’ can often lead to parties channelling their frustrations in other aspects of the proceedings.

In eprivateclient, Partner Fred Clark steps into the spotlight to share insights into his career journey, his passion for his particular legal specialisms and a glimpse into life beyond the office.

Following a flurry of criticism of the previous ‘non-dom’ tax regime, a new ‘foreign income and gains’ system is now being introduced. Senior Associate, Laura Cullinane suggests there may be a silver lining to this change, as it could encourage greater investment in the UK.

The Renters’ Rights Bill moves towards Royal Assent following completion of the Committee Stage. Partner, Naomi Heathcote and Senior Associate, Kate Symons explore the Bill’s latest developments, unresolved amendments, and what lies ahead for landlords and tenants as implementation approaches in 2025–26.

The government’s proposed immigration reforms risk creating labour shortages and discouraging investment – undermining, rather than promoting, economic growth. Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob highlights the urgent need for a more balanced approach that supports skilled migration and incentivises investment, while upskilling the domestic workforce.

England and Wales operate under a feudal property system – vastly different from many other jurisdictions. Understanding lease structures, tenant obligations, and development constraints is critical before committing capital. In FT Adviser, Real Estate Partner Sophie Henwood outlines key considerations for new investors navigating this complex landscape.

Evolving family roles and shifting gender dynamics are reshaping everything from financial planning to parenting and separation. In The Dura Society, Family Partner, Katie O’Callaghan explores how the legal system must keep pace with the realities of modern relationships.

In Property Reporter, Real Estate Partner, Sophie Henwood explores the inevitable clash that is due to happen as a result of the Electronic Communications Code. Considering the growing demand for 5G, telecoms operators are in some friction with property investors on how to navigate these laws.

Inheritance tax reliefs on business and agricultural property are set to tighten significantly from April 2026, putting long-established family succession plans under pressure. In FT Adviser, Partner, Hayden Bailey, and Legal Director, Emma Haley, explore how families and UHNWIs can navigate these changes, and why now is the time to revisit wills and trust structures with trusted advisers.

In eprivateclient, Partner and Head of Family, Emily Brand examines how the landmark case of Standish v Standish is set to test the boundaries between tax planning and family law.

Stricter EU controls on the import of cultural goods are set to reshape the international art market ahead of Regulation 2019/880 coming into force in June 2025. Partner, Fred Clark and Trainee, Abi Meho explore the implications for art market participants—from heightened compliance demands to questions around provenance and personal liability.

Relocating UHNW families often rely on trusted childcare arrangements, but recent immigration changes have made it far harder to bring overseas nannies to the UK. In eprivateclient, Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob and Associate, Rhona Findlay unpack the legal shifts and explain how families can still navigate the evolving system with early immigration advice.