News & Insights

In Financial Reporter, Partner, Emily Brand examines the Government’s proposed reforms to cohabitation law and what they could mean for financial advisers and their clients. The article examines the potential impact on financial planning, inheritance and estate planning, and highlights the importance of reviewing arrangements in anticipation of possible legal change.

In eprivateclient, Partner, William Rollin discusses the UK Government’s proposed reforms for cohabiting couples and the wider implications for those advising individuals and families. As the legal landscape for unmarried couples looks set to evolve, William outlines the key proposals and explores how advisers can help clients prepare for potential change.

In Estates Gazette, Partner, Sophie Henwood explores the Government’s proposed shift towards EPC B compliance for larger privately rented commercial properties by 2031, and the practical challenges that could stand in the way. Sophie examines how lease provisions, landlord access rights and tenant occupation can affect a landlord’s ability to carry out energy efficiency improvements, particularly in multi-let buildings and across larger property portfolios.

With prenuptial agreements becoming increasingly popular among a wider range of couples, conversations about financial transparency and future planning are moving further into the mainstream. Property appreciation, later marriages and intergenerational wealth transfers are all contributing to growing demand, with many couples’ seeking clarity over how assets, debts and other financial matters would be treated in the event of a separation.

In this edition, we explore the latest legal and regulatory developments affecting property owners, investors, developers and landlords across both the commercial and residential sectors. As the pace of reform continues to accelerate, the focus is increasingly on the cumulative impact of a number of overlapping legislative and policy changes.

As more families consider passing on wealth during their lifetime, striking the right balance between supporting loved ones and maintaining your own financial security is essential. In The Telegraph, Private Client & Tax Partner Clare Stirzaker discusses the importance of factoring in retirement, future care and healthcare costs, and inflation before making significant lifetime gifts.

Why more US UHNW individuals are considering relocation to the UK. As tax, political and economic considerations become increasingly important for US ultra high net worth (UHNW) individuals, a growing number are exploring opportunities to live, invest and structure their affairs internationally.

Could owning a home abroad affect the SDLT payable on a UK property purchase? In recent articles for Taxation and PrimeResi, Private Wealth Associate, Will Timbrell explores how overseas property held through structures such as Delaware LLCs and French SCIs can impact whether the additional 5% SDLT surcharge applies, and why understanding how those assets are held is crucial when assessing the SDLT position before committing to a purchase.

How can art market regulations combat illicit trade without creating challenges for legitimate collectors and owners? In Antiques Trade Gazette, Partner and Arts & Culture specialist, Fred Clark examines the impact of the EU’s cultural goods import regime one year on, exploring the practical difficulties created by historic provenance requirements and whether the regulations have achieved the right balance between protecting cultural heritage and supporting lawful trade.

Private Wealth Partner, Kyra Motley comments in TheWealthNet and eprivateclient on the importance of coordinating advice for ultra-high net worth families with interests across multiple jurisdictions. The article explores how the role of family offices is evolving beyond traditional tax and investment considerations, with increasing focus on stability, cybersecurity, healthcare, education and cross-border planning.

The Cotswolds continues to attract American buyers seeking a second home, family base or long-term investment. However, purchasing rural property in England comes with its own legal, practical and tax considerations, many of which differ significantly from those in the US. With contributions from Partner, Saskia Arthur, Senior Associate, Alex Gamble and John Eric of The Luxury Collective Global Advisory, this guide provides practical insights to help buyers navigate the purchasing process and make informed decisions.

Former school sites can present rare redevelopment opportunities, but no two assets are the same. In Property Week, Real Estate Partner, Sophie Henwood outlines the key legal, planning and commercial considerations investors should assess when evaluating former school properties, from planning and heritage constraints to title, access and infrastructure issues.

While wider reforms are still months away, the transition has already begun. Employees starting work from 2 July 2026 now acquire unfair dismissal protection after the shortest qualifying period there has ever been, with further changes expected from January 2027. Senior Associate, Joanne Leach explores what these developments mean in practice and shares her insights on what employers should be doing now to prepare.