Affordable Home Ownership Schemes

There are various government schemes available to help potential and existing home owners. It can be very confusing choosing which option may suit you, so we are giving you an overview of the different options. 

Fitzhugh Gates solicitors can refer you to Independent Financial Advisors who will help you…

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Employment Tribunal Claims Decline

Statistics relating to the Employment Tribunal Service show that there has been steep decline in claims since the introduction of fees for claimants.

Figures obtained from the Ministry of Justice show the number of claims accepted by the Employment Tribunal Service fell by 55% in August 2013 to 7,448, showing…

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Refuse dispute mediation at your peril!

In the case of PGF II SA –v- OMFS Co 1 Limited, the Judge decided that the failure by the Defendant to agree mediation was so serious that he made the Defendant pay its own costs for a very significant period of the case amounting to £250,000 in costs on…

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Fee Versus Free Legal Advice

What is the difference between paying for legal advice from an expert Solicitor and free legal advice?

Sometimes only the cost.

Access to legal services is under greater threat now than at any time since legal aid was introduced, but the private client department at Fitzhugh Gates has a history…

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Contesting Wills - Ilot v Mitson & Ors

In the case Ilott v Mitson & Ors [2014] the Court found that the Deceased’s will failed to make reasonable financial provision for Mrs. Ilott and awarded her £50,000.

The Judge said: “The rejection by the mother of her only child at the age of 17, and which she then…

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There's no such thing as a simple will

Most people who come to us believe that their wills will be straightforward, yet more often than not, we pick up on issues which could lead to disagreement amongst those left behind or even potential claims against their estate.

The phrase "I haven't thought of that" is a familiar one…

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Landlord and Tenant - Tenancy Deposits

Gaining possession where landlord has not protected deposit in tenancy deposit scheme.

Failure to protect the tenant's money deposit in an authorised Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) on commencement of the tenancy and provide prescribed information about it as required by the Housing Act 2004 can prevent the landlord from gaining possession by…

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