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Service Category: Services for Individuals

Separating together

Separating or divorcing can feel overwhelming, even when both of you want to approach it in a calm and respectful way.

Many couples want to avoid unnecessary conflict, protect their children from stress, and reach agreement without the emotional and financial strain of a prolonged legal process.

Separating Together is our modern approach to separation and divorce, based on the Resolution Together model. It offers an alternative route where, in suitable cases, one solicitor advises both of you jointly, helping you resolve matters by agreement.

This is often referred to as the One Couple, One Lawyer approach.

At Blaser Mills, our Family & Divorce solicitors Naim Qureshi and Kate Jones are trained in the Resolution Together model and can support couples in reaching fair, practical outcomes without unnecessary dispute.

What is Separating Together?

Separating Together is a way of working where one solicitor provides joint legal advice to a couple, rather than each person instructing their own lawyer.

It is designed for couples who want to:

  • separate in a calmer and more constructive way
  • reduce conflict and stress
  • focus on practical solutions
  • manage legal costs more effectively
  • prioritise the needs of their children

This approach supports open discussions and forward planning, with clear legal guidance throughout.

How does the One Couple, One Lawyer model work?

Under this model, you will individually meet with your solicitor for advice so your solicitor can assess whether it will be appropriate to use Separating Together. If suitable, you will meet together with your solicitor, who will help guide discussions and provide advice on the legal framework and options available to you.

Depending on your circumstances, this may include support with:

  • Child arrangements
  • Finances and property matters
  • Separation agreements
  • The divorce process and next steps

The focus is on reaching workable agreement, rather than escalating disputes.

What can Separating Together help with?

Separating Together can assist with a wide range of family law matters, including:

  • Arrangements for children
    Helping you agree practical arrangements, including where children will live, how time will be shared with each parent, and how decisions will be made moving forward.
  • Financial and property matters
    Support with reaching a financial agreement, including property division, savings, pensions and ongoing financial support where appropriate.
  • Separation agreements
    Where couples want to formalise their arrangements, we can help prepare a written agreement reflecting what has been agreed.

What are the benefits of separating together?

Many couples find this approach provides:

  • A calmer process, with fewer confrontational steps
  • More constructive discussions, supported by legal guidance
  • Reduced legal costs, compared with instructing two separate solicitors
  • Better communication, particularly where children are involved

A more respectful way forward, helping you move on with clarity and dignity.

Is Separating Together right for you?

Separating Together is suitable for many couples, but not all. It may be appropriate if:

  • You are both willing to engage openly and respectfully
  • You want to resolve matters by agreement
  • You are both able to speak freely in joint discussions
  • You are committed to sharing information honestly, particularly regarding finances

If there are concerns around safety, coercive control, or a significant imbalance of power, this model may not be appropriate. Suitability will always be assessed carefully at the outset.

Why choose Blaser Mills?

At Blaser Mills, we are known for providing practical, compassionate advice through some of life’s most difficult transitions.

Our Family & Divorce team focuses on resolving matters constructively and supports clients in exploring non-court options wherever possible. Our Separating Together service is led by Naim Qureshi and Kate Jones, who have completed the Resolution Together training programme and are experienced in supporting separating couples with both child and financial matters.

Speak to our Family & Divorce team

If you are considering separation or divorce and want a calmer and more constructive approach, our team is here to help.

To find out whether Separating Together is right for you, please contact us to arrange an initial discussion with Naim Qureshi or Kate Jones.

Retirement homes

Buying a home to retire in is a big commitment and it is important to us that you make the right choice of home for this stage of your lives. We want your time at your new home to be relaxing, with well-run and properly maintained amenities. A big part of this is ensuring that the conveyancing process is as stress-free as possible.

Clear advice and recommendations

When we act on your behalf to buy a retirement home you can be sure that you’ll be closely supported throughout the transaction. We’ll liaise with the retirement complex manager as well as the seller’s estate agent to minimise their need to contact you directly.

Throughout we will aim to take away the pressure and we’ll always be available to talk you through each stage of the transaction and answer any questions you may have. To make the process as simple to manage as possible, our online portal allows you to access documents and check our progress for any internet-connected device. Just talk to a member of our team about you walking you through how to use it.

What is different about buying a retirement home?

The purchase of a retirement property is more onerous than buying a normal residential house. This is because it may often, but not always, form part of a complex or even a retirement village with services and other amenities included, and the paperwork will cover all the rights and responsibilities that affect the buyer, such as the need to pay management or service charges and strict regulations about use.

We have wide experience of acting for clients who are buying retirement homes and we know exactly what to look out for. We know that the sheer volume of documentation can be overwhelming, and we take great care to explain all aspects of the purchase as we move through the conveyancing process.

Choosing your retirement home

When you are deciding on a property for this phase of your life, there are several things to consider.

Firstly, you should make sure that the location offers everything that you might need for the future, such as public transport, healthcare services, nearby shops, cafés and a library. If you can, have a chat with the current residents of the complex or village to see if they are happy there. You should also try and ascertain whether properties are being resold easily or whether residents who want to leave are struggling to find buyers. The retirement property market is not huge, and some areas are oversaturated, meaning residents cannot sell and are stuck in flats they no longer want, paying substantial monthly management charges.

You will also need to look into whether any facilities are offered onsite. This may not be the case for the property you intend to purchase. Some retirement complexes offer extensive services, such as swimming pools, restaurants, gyms, hairdressers and various social activities. You should consider whether this is something you want, bearing in mind that you will need to pay towards these facilities by way of your monthly service charge.

We’ll let you know the amount that will be payable in maintenance and service charges. This could be amount to hundreds of pounds each month, so you should make sure that you’ll be happy paying this into the future. We’ll also advise you as to whether these charges will continue to accrue after you have left the property and before it is sold.

Our conveyancing services for retirement home purchases

We understand the complexities of the retirement home buying system and will explain them clearly to you. We also ensure that we carry out all necessary investigations into the property. This includes far more information than with a normal property purchase as we will look into details such as whether the management company is the member of a recognised professional body and whether the terms of the lease are acceptable or onerous in any way.

We will advise you on the amount of any event fees that you will have to pay. Also known as exit or transfer fees, this is a charge made by the management company if you sell the property or sublet it. The fee is often a percentage of the sale price or market value of the property, so it can be a substantial sum.

We also make sure that any ground rent provisions are fair and that the lease does not allow the management company to put the cost of this up exponentially in the future.

Often the details are not particularly clear at first glance, so we always make sure that they are clearly identified and explained to you so that you can be sure that you are happy with your purchase.

Selling a retirement home

The retirement homes company may require you to sell the property through them and charge a fee for this, on top of the exit fee. This may also limit your exposure to the open market. We’ll let you know if this is the case so that you can consider whether it is something you can agree to.

Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme

We are members of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home-buying process. The rigorous assessment by the Law Society, to secure CQS status, marks us out as a team that consistently meets high standards in residential conveyancing processes and also delivers excellent customer service.

Contact us

To speak to one of our expert property solicitors, contact Shabina Hussain on 01628 567 759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk, you can also fill in our contact form.

Motorsport

We have been advising teams, drivers, manufacturers and sponsors from the F1, F2, World Rally, BTCC, Le Mans, IndyCar, Indy Lights and Formula E formats from our Silverstone office for over 20 years.

From contracts to sponsorship and recruitment, our expert lawyers help our clients excel at the highest level in one of the most popular sports on the planet. Speed, accuracy and passion are not just the keys to success on the road – they are the foundations of our track record in the motorsport industry too.

Commercially focused motorsport law expertise

In the modern world, race teams need to be more than fiercely competitive on the track. They need to be legally compliant, with robust contracts and agreements, and make the best use of their intellectual property and other brand assets.

We have a deep understanding of motorsport as both fans and trusted strategic advisers to teams, drivers, manufacturers and sponsors. Working from our Silverstone office we provide clear, pragmatic and commercially minded advice to our clients, helping them operate with confidence.

The breadth of the expertise that Blaser Mills Law brings to the table allows us to offer complete support to each of our clients. For teams, manufacturers and sponsors we provide full commercial legal and strategic assistance regarding people, assets, disputes, contracts and agreements. For drivers, this means not only negotiating contracts but protecting privacy and image rights.

Winning a race comes down to more than the individual performance of the driver. Success is built through the effective collaboration and shared passions of race teams, manufacturers, sponsors and more. The legal and commercial services we provide help facilitate better working, better strategies and better results.

Services we offer our motorsport clients:

Contracts and agreements

  • Driver and team contracts
  • Supply chain and supplier contracts, orders, deals and negotiations
  • Confidentiality agreements and NDAs
  • Sponsorship and merchandising agreements

People and assets

  • Team and driver employment and HR advice
  • Intellectual property licensing
  • Brand and reputation management
  • Commercial property

Dispute resolution and arbitration

  • Property transactions
  • Wealth protection, planning and trust creation
  • Matrimonial and divorce matters

Personal affairs for individuals

  • Property transactions
  • Wealth protection, planning and trust creation
  • Matrimonial and divorce matters

A global motorsport law network

We also head up a global network of specialist sports lawyers working from 29 countries. This means that we have a wealth of local knowledge to call on in every corner of the globe, and can act quickly and decisively with any issues that you face. Our clients value the comprehensive and collaborative approach we bring to every challenge they face. We believe that we are smarter together and that through diversity and creative thinking, we can always find the most effective solution to any issue.

Motorsport memberships

An excellent team, with an outstanding client list. Blaser Mills has a very good track record in the area.

THE LEGAL 500

Contact us

For all sports related matters call Colin Smith on 020 3814 2020 or email sport@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Football

We provide legal services, representation and strategic guidance to clubs, managers, players and retired sports professionals from across the world of football.

Our clients range from owners to athletes in the Premier League, English Football League (EFL) and internationally – and our clear, pragmatic advice helps them with every aspect of their operations. From contracts and agreements to corporate, commercial property and brand management, we protect our clients’ assets and ensure they are best placed for success.

Legal expertise, commercial insight and strategic focus

Our firm is made up of a diverse range of passionate legal experts, and our clients can be confident that we are always able to build the right team to service their needs. For all stakeholders in the business of football, we advise and guide on every aspect of the legal and commercial performance of their assets, agreements and people. We are also effective representatives of our clients in disputes, helping them reach constructive resolutions and ensuring they are treated fairly.

For active and retired players, we review, draft and negotiate contracts and agreements relating to employment, sponsorship and ambassador positions. For people who are prominent public figures, it is important that they are able to live their lives free of unnecessary intrusion. Our team protects privacy and image rights and also assists in defamation cases as well as employment and regulatory issues.

Contracts and agreements

  • Player and team contracts
  • Supply chain and kit supplier contracts, orders, deals and negotiations
  • Confidentiality agreements and NDAs
  • Sponsorship, merchandising and endorsement agreements
  • Ambassadorial agreements, advertising and marketing
  • Financial protection and interests
  • Licencing and broadcasting
  • Third-party ownership

Corporate and commercial

People and assets

Dispute resolution and arbitration

  • Player disputes and disciplinary proceedings
  • Training compensation disputes
  • Equipment issues and decisions appeals
  • Appeals before governing bodies – FA Rule K, FIFA and Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)
  • Debt recovery and overdue payables
  • Procedural guidelines – i.e. salary caps, FFP
  • FA IRC submissions
  • Solidarity mechanism
  • Contracts and transfer disputes
  • Contract termination
  • Mediation

Personal affairs for individuals

Immigration for individuals and organisations

  • (Sportsperson) T2 visa
  • (Temporary Worker – Creative and Sporting) T5 visa
  • Worker or Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence

Legal services with a global reach

Modern football is truly global, and it is important that our services reflect that. Whether helping clubs negotiate and work with foreign investors or helping players and managers complete the necessary immigration policies, we help our clients access a world of talent and opportunity. We are founders of a global network of specialist sports lawyers from over 29 countries. This network allows us to boost our capabilities with local knowledge and expertise from every corner of the world, so that we can provide quick answers and solutions to any challenges our clients face.

Their knowledge and expertise in football legal matters has been a real benefit to me and my family.

SCOTT TAYLOR, FOOTBALL MANAGER AND COACH

Contact us

For all sports related matters call Colin Smith on 020 3814 2020 or email sport@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Disputed wills and trusts

If you’ve been left out of a Will or received a much smaller inheritance than expected, promised, or needed, we can help.

The English legal system prizes testamentary freedom above all else. Individuals are free to express their instructions in a Will, no matter how unfair they seem. However, there are certain occasions when you may be able to make a claim against an estate for financial provision or dispute the validity of a Will.

Emotions can run high following the death of an individual. Our team knows from years of experience that disagreements over an estate need careful handling. We offer thoughtful yet commercial and sensible advice designed to help parties reach an amicable conclusion. Where a settlement is not possible, we will guide you through the court process. We will provide clear, understandable legal advice that highlights the risks and the costs of each step of the process. 

A personal approach

Our team is renowned in the region and well-regarded nationally for our expert, resilient and strategic approach to contentious probate. We have taken many clients through the processes of securing inheritance provision and contesting questionable Wills.

Our honest and personal approach to litigation sets us apart. We believe you benefit the most when you know exactly where you stand, so we take the time to get to know you and give you a clear view of your rights and options, in a way that makes sense to you. Wills are emotive subjects and we’re not here to take the emotion out of the matter. Rather, we get to know your concerns and what you want to achieve, so that we can help you resolve the dispute quickly and cost-effectively.

When to contest a Will

When it comes to contesting a Will, it is important to act quickly. Contesting a Will after probate is granted can make the situation more complex. It is far less complicated and more cost-effective to find a resolution before a grant of probate is obtained and certainly before an estate is distributed. 

You may wish to enter a caveat to prevent the grant of probate or letters of administration being obtained. The process is outlined here: Challenging a Will – Caveats – Blaser Mills Law

Investigating a Will’s validity

A Will needs several features to make it a valid, legal document. You can challenge a Will for the following reasons:

  1. Lack of proper execution, i.e., the Will was not signed, or the Will was not witnessed, not dated etc.
  2. Lack of testamentary capacity – the person making the Will did not fully appreciate the effect of what they were signing as they lacked mental capacity, usually due to a disease of the mind, such as dementia.
  3. Undue influence – the person making the Will was unduly influenced by someone into making the Will.
  4. Fraudulent calumny – this is an archaic way of simply describing fraud in relation to a Will. Usually, two or more persons have conspired to make a false Will on behalf of the Deceased.
  5. Lack of knowledge or approval – where the person making the will has mental capacity to make the Will but is not aware of the full effect of the content.

Challenging a Will under the Inheritance Act 1975

The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (“the Act”) provides a method whereby a Will can be challenged on the grounds that reasonable financial provision has not been made. Certain people can claim for reasonable provisions if they have been left out of a Will or not been adequately catered for, based on their needs. For example, spouses, partners, children, and others who relied on the deceased financially.

Whether or not you can claim, and how much you can claim, will depend on your financial circumstances, the estate and the circumstances of other beneficiaries. Our solicitors will give you a clear indication of your rights and the outcome you can expect, helping you plan for your future while we take you through the claim process. The factors the court will consider can be found here: Challenging a Will under the Inheritance Act 1975 – Blaser Mills Law.

Removal of executors

Executors have a duty to follow the instructions in the Will and the law. If you feel that they are not following the Will or are delaying the process, it can be most effective for the beneficiaries to remove an executor.

Blaser Mills are the go-to firm in the Thames Valley for private wealth disputes, especially those concerning property and estates.

LEGAL 500

Contact us

For our help with contesting a Will, or to simply discuss your options, call Ed Capstick on 01628 567 759, send an email to litigation@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Sport

Sport is all about competition both on and off the field, and when you are in the business of winning it is essential to have the right team behind you.

Blaser Mills is one of the leading sports law teams in the country, advising some of the biggest names in sport, including clubs, teams, professional athletes, agents, organisations and governing bodies. We regularly advise clients across a range of sports including football, rugby, cricket, motorsport, athletics and horse racing.

Our sports lawyers are not just passionate about sport, but also delivering a high standard of service with fast response times, effective communication, technical advice and commercial guidance.

Lawyers for sports professionals, teams, clubs, agents and governing bodies

We help individuals with every aspect of their professional and personal lives, so that they are free to focus on performing at their best.

Our team works with players, intermediaries and other professional advisers, helping them negotiate the best employment contracts, make the most of sponsorships and endorsements, and protect their brand and image rights.

Our lawyers also represent sports professionals in dispute resolution and help them protect their reputation and privacy. We understand that when working in such a public sphere, it is important we always act with discretion. But it is equally important we act with clarity and authority.

Commercially focused support for clubs and organisations

We work with our clients to maximise their commercial position, comply with regulations and promote their brands. Our corporate team has advised both organisations and investors on the acquisition of clubs, securing the best sponsorship and attracting the brightest talent. Investment and sponsorship agreements play a crucial role in driving the development of the sports we all love, from training academies to the latest technological innovations.

Our commercial lawyers provide guidance on every aspect of our clients’ legal needs. We can draft contracts, advise on acquisitions and disposals, manage brands, support with merchandising, licensing and franchising, as well as issues relating to broadcasting, digital media and technology.

Supporting professionals in personal matters

We also help sports professionals structure their wealth, complete residential property transactions and deal with the full range of family issues from pre-nuptial agreements to divorce and childcare. Because we work collaboratively across the whole of Blaser Mills Law, our clients benefit from a wealth of specialist expertise on everything from immigration to intellectual property.

Our sports-related services include:

  • Sports regulatory and governance
  • Sports disputes
  • Employment and immigration issues
  • Corporate transactions, mergers and acquisitions and restructuring
  • Sports commercialisation
  • GDPR/Data protection
  • Team/club/athlete representation
  • Image rights and brand reputation management
  • Wealth planning, wills and trusts advice
  • Residential property
  • Family and divorce law

The world of sports law is complex, but our approach never is. You can count on us for straightforward, pragmatic guidance every time.

An excellent team that provides a City of London service. Technically very able with excellent client handling skills.

THE LEGAL 500

Contact us

For all sports related matters call Colin Smith on 020 3814 2020 or email sport@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Property disputes

Dealing with property disputes can be incredibly stressful and time-consuming. We understand you want to resolve these issues swiftly and fairly.

Our property litigation team is here to support you, supporting your best interests and striving for the best solution to your concerns.

About us

At Blaser Mills, our dedicated property litigation team is committed to helping businesses as well as individuals and navigate through property disputes, however complex they may seem. We understand that property issues can affect your business or your home significantly.

As leading property litigation lawyers, we take a strategic approach to protect your legal rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Whether you’re a business owner, property owner, landowner, landlord, developer, or a tenant, our team is here to provide practical advice for your circumstances.

We handle disputes including:

  • Contested Landlord & Tenant business lease renewals;
  • Break Notices
  • Dilapidations
  • Lease enfranchisement (freehold acquisition);
  • Lease extensions;
  • Breaches and enforcement of covenants
  • Discharge/modification of covenants
  • Easements
  • Land registry title and boundary issues
  • Private Nuisance disputes

How we will support you

We take a personal approach at Blaser Mills, starting by understanding the circumstances that led to your property dispute and listening carefully to your desired outcome.

Property law can seem daunting, but we’re committed to clarity. We explain everything in straightforward terms so you’re always informed about developments and decisions. We’ll clearly explain your legal rights and discuss the best ways to resolve the dispute.

If circumstances change, we’ll reassess and explain how this affects your case, ensuring you’re confident in your next steps.

Facing landlord and tenant disputes can be intensely stressful. For instance, if rent payments are in arrears, or your property has been entered illegally, or you have troublesome tenants, then we can advise as to the complex procedure required to intervene and, if necessary seek recovery of your property.

In cases where discussion is likely to assist in a resolution, we may explore alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to find common ground. If court action is necessary, we will help prepare you thoroughly and step in to represent you.

The firm is efficient and offers straight forward information in a swift manner.

LEGAL 500

Contact us

For expert advice from a specialist property litigation solicitor, call Jonathan Lilley on 01628 567 759 or email propertylitigation@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Employment for individuals

We understand that navigating the complexities of employment law can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with issues that affect your livelihood, career, and well-being.

Our team of experienced employment lawyers can assist if you need help understanding your rights, negotiating a settlement or where you are facing a dispute at work.

About us

Our specialist employment lawyers are here to protect your workplace rights as an employee. We are not just legal experts; we are also skilled in negotiating effectively with employers on your behalf.

We understand that workplaces are ever-changing environments where factors like business growth, health concerns, and staffing issues arise. However, these should never compromise your legal rights as an employee. Every employer has a legal responsibility to treat their workforce fairly, regardless of the business needs.

Our team helps individuals with:

  • Settlement Agreements and Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)
  • Redundancy
  • Unfair dismissal
  • Discrimination, bullying and harassment
  • Restrictive covenants
  • Whistleblowing

What can we help with?

Employment contracts

When entering an employment or consulting relationship with a company you may wish to have an experienced lawyer review the terms of your contract. We can assist in highlighting red flags, negotiating terms and advising on restrictive covenants.

As part of our work with our international networks we also regularly advise employees who are redeployed across jurisdictions.

Termination of employment

If your employment has been terminated for unfair or wrongful reasons, we can help you to understand your rights and receive compensation.

Negotiating settlement

We regularly advise on and negotiate settlement packages for senior employees, including reaffirmations and the incorporation of share schemes.

Grievances, investigations and disciplinaries

Our team can guide you through workplace processes whether you are raising a grievance or subject to an investigation or disciplinary. Our experienced lawyers can provide you with strategic advice on maximising your position.

Restructuring and redundancy

When an employer seeks to restructure their business, this can result in redundancies and the processes involved may appear complex. We can provide advice on the steps that your employer should be taking and how to protect your rights.

Who have we helped?

Our team have provided guidance on a full range of employment matters, which notable include:

  • Advising a senior executive of a large financial institution and negotiating a settlement sum in excess of £1.1m.
  • Advising an employee in relation to post-employment restrictive covenants and their enforceability in the context of a competitive industry.
  • Advising a senior individual and investigating grounds relating to sexual orientation discrimination; and achieving a six-figure settlement.

Why choose our employment solicitors?

Our team can provide you with clarity and a clear framework for action. We will help you understand your rights, the processes involved and advise you on a cost-effective way forward to help you achieve your desired outcome. The Legal 500 continues to rank our Employment team in top Tier 1, maintaining our exceptional standing with testimonials describing the team as “very approachable, efficient and providing a thorough service”.

The team at Blaser Mills Law have the ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters. The team are professional, calm and pragmatic.

CHAMBERS UK

Contact us

For specialist advice contact Noel Deans on 01628 567 759 or email employment@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Residential sales and purchases

Buying or selling a home can be stressful, but at Blaser Mills, we make the process quick and easy. We keep you informed every step of the way and are always available to help. Our exceptional service is why so many clients recommend us to friends and family.

We ensure that you are always kept up-to-date with the progress of your transaction and that you understand the next steps. We are always available to speak to you and our excellent service is why so many of our clients recommend us to their friends and family.

Communication, advice and clear explanations

We keep clients informed throughout the sale or purchase process. Our online portal provides 24/7 access to key documents, ensuring constant oversight and minimising surprises. We’re always available to discuss your case and answer any questions.

Securing the property you want often depends on being able to complete the legal work in time to meet deadlines. We make it a priority to respond quickly to all correspondence and make sure you understand what is needed from you.

We work proactively throughout your sale or purchase to give you the best chance of an early completion.

Ensuring your property purchase is legally sound

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving, we ensure you have the full picture and a sound investment. Our conveyancing team gets involved as soon as your offer is accepted, contacting the seller’s solicitor to request the initial documents.

As well as giving our details to your estate agent, you should also let any mortgage lender know that we will be acting on your behalf. They will then be able to send your mortgage offer to us as soon as it is available.

Once we receive the initial paperwork from the sellers’ solicitors, we will carry out the relevant property searches. At that stage we also go through the legal title to the property and raise enquiries.

We provide regular updates throughout the conveyancing process, giving information in manageable steps. This allows you to address any issues as they arise and make informed decisions on how to proceed.

When you are ready to exchange contracts, we work with you and the other parties in the chain to agree on a completion date. We ensure you know exactly how the residential property transaction will take place.

Ensuring a smooth residential property sale

You can instruct us as soon as you decide to sell. We’ll start preparing paperwork, obtain your title deeds, and draft the contract, ready to send once you accept an offer. We’ll keep you updated, handle inquiries from the buyer’s side, and work with the estate agent and buyer’s solicitor to agree on a completion date. After completion, we’ll discharge your mortgage, pay estate agent fees, and register your purchase with the Land Registry.

Mortgage and re-mortgage

If you are obtaining a mortgage to fund your house purchase, we will liaise with your mortgage broker or lender, check through your mortgage offer as soon as we receive it and make sure that you understand its terms and conditions. We will report to your lender as soon as we have all the necessary property information from your sellers’ solicitors and ensure that we have ordered your mortgage funds in plenty of time for completion.

We can also act on your behalf if you are re-mortgaging a residential property, by processing the new mortgage and redeeming the old one.

High-net-worth conveyancing

The specialists in our residential property and conveyancing team will act as a dedicated partner for your property transactions. Our tailored service always starts with your exact needs and financial goals, as well as the specifics of your property. Whether this is your first high-value property purchase, or you are expanding your portfolio, we will guide you through the process and work within your timescales and transaction terms.

We have a wide range of experience when it comes to high-value property transactions, and we can make sure that you don’t run into any unnecessary delays and any unexpected issues are resolved quickly.

Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme

We are members of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home-buying process. The rigorous assessment by the Law Society, to secure CQS status, marks us out as a team that consistently meets high standards in residential conveyancing processes and also delivers excellent customer service.

Contact us

For all residential property matters call Jane Hannaway on 01628 567 759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Lease extensions

When the length remaining on the lease of a house or flat falls below a certain number of years, it can impact the value of the property. We act on behalf of clients who own leasehold properties to extend the length of their lease and protect the value of their asset.

Advice and representation

Leasehold properties can be confusing, but it’s crucial not to let your lease drop too far. If you have a short lease, we’ll clearly explain your options and guide you through the process. With extensive leasehold property experience, we’ll discuss the best course of action and remain available to answer any questions. Our online portal also provides 24/7 access to key documents and updates. We’ll work hard to secure your lease extension or a share of the freehold.

Protecting the value of your home

If a house or flat has a lease with less than 80 years remaining, the value of the property can be adversely affected. Mortgage lenders’ rules mean that most will not lend money where the remaining term on the lease is below 70 years and, generally speaking, they insist on a lease that extends at least 30-40 years after the term of the mortgage.

A short lease means that no-one needing a mortgage will be able to buy the property and this will affect its value and saleability. If the term remaining on a lease falls below 80 years, it will cost considerably more to extend it. We can help you address this problem as soon as it arises by arranging an extension to the lease.

Extending a lease

Once you have owned a leasehold property for two years, you are entitled to a 90-year extension of the lease of a flat or a 50-year extension to the lease of a house.

In addition to extending the lease, if you and other leaseholders in a block of flats agree, you also have the right to buy the freehold of the building.

Also known as leasehold enfranchisement, the process of extending a lease and/or buying the freehold can be lengthy and complicated, but it is necessary to address the situation in order to protect the value of your investment. At Blaser Mills Law we are experienced in dealing with both lease extensions and freehold purchases, as well as related matters such as setting up a management company and transferring the freehold to it.

Our clients appreciate the clarity we bring to difficult leasehold issues. We explain the process clearly and are always available to speak to you to answer any questions you may have. We ensure that you are kept up to date with progress throughout.

The process of extending a lease or buying a freehold can take a considerable amount of time, particularly as a landlord may not be in any hurry to deal with the matter. We always work proactively to ensure that the transaction is dealt with without delay.

The lease extension procedure

It may be possible to negotiate informally with your landlord to reach an agreement on the cost of extending and the amount of years they are prepared to add to extend your lease. Otherwise, it can be extended by following the statutory route for lease extension.

This requires a notice to be served on the landlord making a formal offer. This should be based on a valuation of the lease and be a realistic sum. You will also be required to pay the landlord’s reasonable costs for any legal work or valuation.

If your lease is approaching the 80-year mark, you should consider extending it as a matter of urgency as once less than 80 years are left on the lease an additional payment, known as marriage value, is payable to the landlord. We can advise you on the potential costs of extending a lease and buying the freehold, then register your ownership at the Land Registry.

Owning a leasehold property

Leasehold property ownership involves far more considerations than freeholder ownership. There are a number of potentially expensive pitfalls, such as onerous ground rent provisions, which can make a property very difficult to sell. At Blaser Mills Law, we ensure that our clients understand the extent of their leasehold liabilities to make sure that any investment in property is sound.

Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme

We are members of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home-buying process. The rigorous assessment by the Law Society, in order to secure CQS status, marks us out as a team that consistently meets high standards in residential conveyancing processes and also delivers excellent customer service.

Contact us

To speak to one of our expert property solicitors, call Jane Hannaway on 01628 567 759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Investment property

We also act for those buying second homes or holiday properties. We are on hand to advise throughout your property ownership and provide ongoing legal help, to include the drafting of rental agreements and leases and to give advice in respect of tenancies.

Expert and insightful commercial advice

Whether you are buying your first buy-to-let property, or you already have a substantial portfolio, our expertise allows us to work proactively to ensure that any deadlines are met and that your purchase proceeds smoothly.

We’ll represent you throughout any sale or purchase, keeping you updated and ensuring that you have all the information you need to make your investment decisions. We’ll report to you regularly, so that you don’t have to wait for details about any property you are buying, and we’ll make sure that we are available to answer any questions you may have. Our online conveyancing portal allows you to access documents and monitor progress from wherever you are, ensuring you never feel out of the loop.

Investing in buy-to-let property

Many people are turning to property as a solid investment for the future. We’ll help you navigate your legal and financial obligations to ensure your purchase not only goes smoothly but that it is a sound investment.

As well as the standard property purchase procedure, which is set out in more detail here, buying an investment property involves additional legal considerations.

We ensure that your buy-to-let property can be used in the way that you wish, for instance, that an investment flat can be rented out or a house can be used as a bed and breakfast establishment.

If you are obtaining buy-to-let finance, your lender will have many conditions and requirements which they will need you to comply with. As your legal adviser, we will be able to go through every detail and sign them off as needed.

Regarding leasehold property, we will carefully check your lease to ensure that you have the appropriate rights and advise you of any notices that will need to be served if you rent the property out. We are also able to deal with lease renewals or extensions.

Support after completing an investment property purchase

Our role as legal adviser often continues after a purchase is completed. We draw up documents such as tenancy agreements and we can advise on Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax implications, which should always be considered when investing in property.

We also act on behalf of developers who buy property to convert into flats. We advise on matters of planning and environmental law and ensure that all the legal permissions are in place to allow the development to go ahead without hindrance or objection.

Our commercial property lawyers are experts in landlord and tenant law and can ensure that an investment property portfolio is problem-free and properly structured.

We deal with sales of investment property, and we work proactively so that these are completed quickly and without hitch to enable you to move invested funds as needed.

Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme

We are members of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home-buying process. The rigorous assessment by the Law Society, to secure CQS status, marks us out as a team that consistently meets high standards in residential conveyancing processes and also delivers excellent customer service.

Contact us

To speak to one of our expert property solicitors, call Jane Hannaway on 01628 567 759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Help to buy

If you are purchasing a new build property with the aid of the government help to buy scheme, please read the following guide and supply the documentation requested in this checklist.

Help to buy process

At any early stage, you must liaise with your mortgage broker with the Help to Buy process. They will complete various documents as well as the main application. You will need to provide your reservation form and a completed PIF (a special HTB form) to submit your application and this should be submitted as soon as possible.

Help to Buy will issue as Authority to Proceed: confirmation that the Developer has allocated funding available and that you have qualified to be accepted for the Help to Buy scheme.

The legal formalities in your transaction will usually begin and (if not already done so) the developers’ solicitors will provide us with the plot contract documentation to enable us to report to you and detail the next steps for you to take as we work towards exchange.

We must also be in receipt of your mortgage offer. This is something your broker / financial advisor will be dealing with on your behalf, and you should liaise with them to ensure this is being dealt with as quickly as possible.

Once we are in receipt of the Authority to Proceed, the documents below and the mortgage offer (as well as completing the other legal formalities), we will then need to apply for the Authority to Exchange to allow us to proceed to exchange. This can take several days to obtain and is necessary to commit you to exchange of contracts.

Help to Buy are exacting in their standards and requirements. Even the most minor errors in the Authority to Proceed (for example, spelling errors in your details or the property address which must exactly reflect the reservation form) could cause delays later as this may need to be reissued. It is important you provide your broker/financial advisor with accurate information and check the Authority to Proceed carefully.

With this in mind, we ask that you supply us with additional documentation so that we can comply with the Help to Buy Requirements.

Checklist

Certified copies of your identification

  1. Certified copy of your valid full passport; or a valid HM Forces identity card with signatory’s photograph; or a valid UK photo-card drivers licence AND
  2. A utility bill in your name no less than three months old.

You have various options in relation to the certified copy of your documents;

  1. Attend a Blaser Mills Law office at a mutually convenient time (and by appointment only). We charge £35 plus VAT per person for this service.
  2. Attend at a local firm of solicitors to you and have your ID certified. Please note there may be a charge for this service.

Unfortunately, this is an additional step required by Help to Buy, and we cannot rely upon your Credas checks carried out as part of the firm’s AML policies and procedures. Help to Buy are very strict with their requirements.

Source of Funds

We will need to supply certified copies of the documents which make up the source of the funds required for your purchase. Help to Buy ask for this. We refer you to our source of funds questionnaire for further information. Help to Buy will be looking for bank statements showing the funds being available from the relevant source, wherever possible. If you are unsure as to what to provide here, please contact a member of the team to discuss in the first instance. Please ensure that the documents supplied are certified. This can be done as above.

First Time Buyers Declaration

At the same time as the Authority to Proceed is issued, Help to Buy will produce a First Time Buyers Declaration for you each to sign and return. This will be sent to you by us and should be signed and returned as quickly as possible. This declaration sets out and confirms your eligibility for the Help to Buy scheme.

Mortgage Valuation

Please ensure that you send us a copy of your mortgage valuation as soon as it is available so that we can supply the same to Help to Buy. Blaser Mills Law are legal experts and have a dedicated New Homes Team who can guide you through this daunting process. There is a great deal of paperwork that you will be asked to read and sign. We can assist you with any queries or concerns that you may have.

Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme

We are members of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home-buying process. The rigorous assessment by the Law Society, to secure CQS status, marks us out as a team that consistently meets high standards in residential conveyancing processes and also delivers excellent customer service.

Contact us

To speak to one of our expert property solicitors, contact Shabina Hussain on 01628 567 759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Buying a new build property

Buying a new build home involves considerably more paperwork than buying a second-hand property. In addition, there is usually pressure from the builder or developer to meet tight timescales.

Our team routinely acts for buyers of new build properties, and we ensure that deadlines are met and all of the extra title documentation is carefully checked.

Service that goes the extra mile

We have extensive experience in acting for clients who are purchasing a new build and we’ll keep you updated throughout the process as well as liaising with your estate agent in any related sale and the developer’s solicitor and site office.

We work hard to develop a good relationship with everyone involved in the transaction to give you the best chance of completing your purchase.

We’ll explain the paperwork to you as the purchase progresses, giving you regular reports and updates. We’re always available to speak to you to go through any queries you may have and ensure that you understand everything clearly. Our online portal also means that you can check important documents and view progress 24/7 from any device, ensuring that you are always fully informed.

We’ll also make sure you have a full list of the legal fees involved, to include Stamp Duty Land Tax, search fees and the Land Registry’s fee for registering the property into your name.

Buying a new build home

Purchasing a new build home can be even more stressful than a normal house purchase because of the extra pressure from the site sales office to exchange contracts quickly, often within 28 days of the contract papers being sent to your solicitor. The developer will usually take a reservation fee from you and if you fail to meet their deadline, you may forfeit the fee and lose the property.

We work proactively with you to ensure everything possible is done to exchange contracts quickly, tying in any related sale at the same time. Our experience means that we have an intimate understanding of the process, and we know exactly what paperwork you should receive and what rights and responsibilities it should contain.

We will update you regularly during the pre-contract process, sharing documentation with you as it becomes available and explaining it clearly. We keep things simple, so you know exactly where we are and what needs to happen next. It’s important that you are involved throughout and that you have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and raise enquiries.

Checking the documentation on a new build purchase

When a new build home is part of a development, the contract documentation will include information about access rights, infrastructure agreements in respect of roads and sewers, detailed planning consents, building regulations approvals and a contract that is likely to include many restrictive covenants, detailing what you may not do at the property.

We are used to dealing with the substantial amount of information provided by builders and developers and we can check that the essential conditions are included and that all of the necessary planning permission, infrastructure agreements and maintenance provisions are in place and satisfactory.

We will go through the contract conditions with you and explain exactly what you are signing. This is likely to include a retention, a sum of money held back until the builder has dealt with any repairs, known as snagging issues, that you may discover are necessary after you move into the property.

Completing a new build purchase

Completion of a new build will be on notice if the property has not yet been finished. This means that you will not be given a fixed completion date on exchange of contracts. Instead, the developer will give you 28 days’ notice of completion.

If you have a sale that you are tying in with the purchase, we will ensure that your contract for sale has similar terms, so that your buyers are required to complete on the same day.

Should completion take several months, we will keep an eye on your mortgage offer and remind you if you need to contact your mortgage lender to renew. They are usually only valid for six months.

We will liaise with you and the builder over your snagging list, a detailed list of work you require to be done to the property after you move in. However good the builder is, there are usually several minor issues that need attending to. Once you are happy that everything has been made good, we will arrange for the release of any retained monies.

We pay Stamp Duty to HM Customs & Excise on your behalf, and we will register the property in your name at HM Land Registry.

Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme

We are members of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme, the mark of excellence for the home-buying process. The rigorous assessment by the Law Society, to secure CQS status, marks us out as a team that consistently meets high standards in residential conveyancing processes and also delivers excellent customer service.

Contact us

We have wide experience in the field and understand the importance of working proactively to complete new build transactions as quickly as possible.

To speak to one of our expert property solicitors, contact Shabina Hussain on 01628 567 759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Residential property

Moving home is a significant milestone in life, but it can also be stressful, especially if the process is complex or involves a chain of transactions.

At Blaser Mills, our residential property team understands the importance of this moment. We’re committed to making the process as smooth and efficient as possible. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way with clear communication, ensuring you always know what’s happening.

About us

At Blaser Mills, our dedicated team of residential property lawyers have years of experience in dealing with property matters, handling both complex and high-value transactions.  We understand the conveyancing process can be notoriously lengthy, and our expertise lies in identifying and resolving problems to avoid unnecessary delays.

What sets us apart is our communication and commitment to building strong client relationships. Whether you’re a property buyer, seller, investor, or developer, we prioritise understanding your needs and goals. Many of our clients come to us through personal recommendations from friends, family and local estate agents reflecting our trusted reputation.

We act in matters including:

  • Residential sales & purchases
  • Lease extensions or leasehold enfranchisement
  • Retirement homes
  • Buying a new build property
  • Investment property

Our conveyancing solicitors are accredited by the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme.

How we will support you

No matter the value or complexity of your property transaction, we will guide you through each stage of the process, reporting to you on each stage along the way.

We understand that purchasing your first property can be particularly daunting.  If you’re a first-time buyer, we will take the time to explain the conveyancing process and address any questions you have.   

Buying a new-build home, a retirement apartment or a leasehold property involves substantially more paperwork than most other property purchases, in fact in some cases it can seem overwhelming. We are experienced in dealing with leasehold properties where a lease extension or leasehold enfranchisement is needed and for shared ownership and right to buy purchases.

You can also use our client portal to access documents and track progress of your transaction at your convenience. We’re here to make your property journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Contact us

To speak to one of an expert property solicitor, call Jane Hannaway on 01628 567759 or email residentialproperty@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Wills

Making a Will is an essential part of financial planning. It can help you structure your estate efficiently, support your loved ones and ensure they benefit from tax exemptions. It’s also an important opportunity to ensure your family understands your wishes, helping to avoid disagreements in the future.

A tailored Will writing service

We work collaboratively with our clients to create a plan for the future that is tailored to their individual requirements. We know that making a Will is an important moment, so we’ll ensure you clearly understand the process and the implications of any decisions you make.

We like to meet with clients in our offices or at their homes to take instructions, so that we can ensure we understand their unique concerns. Our Wills, trusts and probate solicitors will draw on their in-depth experience to create the right Will for you and your loved ones – ensuring it delivers on your wishes after you are gone.

Why make a Will?

If you die without making a Will, your estate will pass under the terms of the intestacy rules to close family members, in a strictly prescribed order and in precise sums. This may not be what you would choose, and it can cause resentment and ill-feeling if some people are excluded. For example, step-children or unmarried partners would not inherit anything.

Making a Will with the support of an expert ensures your wishes and financial requirements are taken into account, giving you peace of mind that your family and loved ones will be provided for in the future. You also have the opportunity to structure your estate in a way that protects your assets as far as possible from Inheritance Tax and other claims.

Choosing your executor

When you write a Will, you can decide who you would like to carry out the administration of your estate after you die. This can be a difficult task and it is important that those who are called upon to be an executor are both willing and capable.

Estate administration involves the collecting in and valuing of all of the deceased’s assets, clearing and sale of property, calculation and payment of tax and other debts, preparation of estate accounts and distribution of the estate. If you feel there isn’t anyone who could take on this role for you, we can appoint a professional executor to act on your behalf.

Appointing a guardian

Within your Will you can appoint a guardian or guardians for your children who are aged below 18, or who are adults but unable to manage their own affairs. We can also help you to set up a trust alongside your Will to provide for your children’s financial needs and to look after funds until they reach the age at which they are to inherit them.

Wills with overseas assets

Any assets held overseas must be carefully considered in estate and tax planning. Other jurisdictions have their own rules concerning the passing on of property and other assets. If you have international connections and assets, we can help you ensure that the whole of your estate, wherever it is held, is passed on to your beneficiaries exactly as you’d like.

Find out more

For expert advice, get in touch with the team on 01628 567 759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Trusts

Setting up a trust to protect and control your assets can be an efficient way of controlling the amount of Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax you pay. A trust can also be used to look after loved ones and ensure that they have financial security, even if they are not in control of the capital themselves.

Bespoke advice for you and your family

We can provide ongoing guidance and support to ensure your assets are working for you in the way that you want. We take the time to get to know you and to understand how you want to look after your family and loved ones, both now and in the future.

Our advice is always clear and straight-forward, and we make sure we are always available to talk through any concerns you may have and answer all of your questions. Our trust fund and tax planning solicitors have worked across a range of high-value matters involving high-net-worth individuals, including sports professionals. We have helped them to effectively manage their wealth in a way the ensures the long-term prosperity of their family. We aim to provide peace of mind as well as financial security for you and those you care about.

Trusts and Inheritance Tax planning

By putting funds into a trust, they are no longer part of your estate. This means that ultimately any assets that have been transferred to a trust may not be included in the calculation for Inheritance Tax. Trust monies are also protected from relationship or business difficulties.

This means that by creating a trust, you can direct your assets where you want them to go, for example, to provide for children or grandchildren, as well as reducing your overall Inheritance Tax liability.

Setting up a trust

To set up a trust, you need to choose trustees and have a trust deed or Will drawn up appointing them to control the trust. You would then transfer the assets to the trust, or this would be done during the administration of your estate. These assets could be property, cash, business interests or other investments. Our team will discuss with you how to choose the right trustee and advise you on the transfer of assets.

A trust deed can contain rules, set down by the person putting funds into the trust, known as the settlor. Different types of trust give trustees and beneficiaries varying rights to the funds in the trust. When setting up a trust, we’ll help you decide which type of trust will be most suitable for your situation and explain the advantages.

A common type of trust is the discretionary trust, where the trustees have discretion to pay income and capital from the trust to the beneficiaries as they see fit.

A life interest trust is also often used to give someone the use of an asset during their lifetime, for example, a spouse with a life interest in a property could live there for as long as they wish, then when they leave or die, the property would be passed on in accordance with the owner’s Will. This is particularly useful in the event of a second marriage, where a new partner can stay in their home for the rest of their life but ultimately the property would pass to the children of a first marriage.

Trust funds for future generations

If you have children whom you wish to provide for after you are gone, you can use your Will to create a trust with the purpose of funding their needs until they reach adulthood. Your assets will be transferred to the trust on your death and the trustees would be responsible for looking after these funds and paying for your children’s needs in accordance with your wishes. This could include living expenses, education and money for a car or other expensive item.

When setting up the trust in your Will, you can choose the age at which your children are to inherit the money in the trust outright. If you have a child who will not be able to manage their own affairs, then the trust can continue for as long as needed.

Contact us

For expert advice, get in touch with the team on 01628 567 759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Tax and estate planning

We are here to support you throughout your life and ensure your wealth is managed and distributed in the way you want. This includes mitigating Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax where possible to ensure that your estate is protected for the next generation. Our in-depth expertise and pragmatic advice means that you will benefit from a bespoke service that puts your family’s security first.

We work with clients, often over the long term, to implement tax-efficient succession plans. This can include trust creation, putting the right Will in place, giving lifetime gifts, charitable donations and various asset protection strategies.

We specialise in complicated and high-net-worth finances, and our tax experts deal with assets both in the UK and overseas. You can be confident that we won’t miss any opportunities to put in place structures that comply with legislation in any other jurisdictions that are relevant to your circumstances.

Expert Inheritance Tax planning

We can assess your current Inheritance Tax liability and advise you as to the tax reliefs and exemptions that we can apply to reduce this. Our expert team can also set up trusts and restructure your estate to substantially reduce the amount payable.

This is a complex area of law and our team have decades of experience, meaning we can look at the overall picture and advise on the most cost-efficient ways of protecting your assets.

How we help with efficient succession planning

Our tax and estate solicitors will work with you to identify the assets within your estate and the various possibilities for the future. Our team will take the time to get to know you and understand your situation so that you can be assured their advice is right for your situation.

When drawing up trusts, your wishes for your family are the priority. For example, at what age you wish your children or other dependants to manage their own finances and for how long you wish trusts to remain in place.

We will guide you through making lifetime gifts and the amounts and timing needed to maximise tax exemptions.

Working with your family

As an experienced and trusted law firm, we work with families over time as their close adviser, helping to ensure their wealth is passed seamlessly from one generation to the next. By showing our clients how assets can be structured to protect them for the future, we secure the financial benefits for our clients and help them avoid unpleasant surprises and conflict that can arise when dealing with succession.

Effectively planning for the future gives you the certainty of knowing that your loved ones will be taken care of and your wealth will be used in the way you wish.

Contact us

For expert advice, get in touch with the team on 01628 567 759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Probate services

In the difficult period following someone’s death, decisions have to be made about their estate and winding-up their affairs. If they have left a Will, their named executor will be responsible for dealing with the administration.

If they did not leave a Will, a family member will need to apply to be appointed as administrator. We act on behalf of both executors and administrators to ensure estate affairs are dealt with quickly and efficiently.

We have in-depth experience acting on behalf of executors and administrators, particularly in complicated, high-value estates. We understand that it is a difficult time for loved ones and we pride ourselves on our sensitive and pragmatic approach.

By appointing us to deal with a probate or administration, you can be sure the matter will be handled efficiently, with assets protected and the estate passed on in accordance with the deceased’s wishes.

Because the process is often complex, we’ll guide you throughout to ensure you have a full understanding of every stage. Our solicitors are always available to speak to you during the course of a probate and we will keep you up-to-date so that you can focus on other matters.

What is Probate and what is involved?

Unless an estate is small, it is usually a legal requirement that a grant of probate is obtained after someone’s death or, if they did not leave a Will, letters of administration. Applying for probate to the Probate Registry is something we can deal with on your behalf.

The appointed executor or administrator will then need to carry out a number of tasks, in a certain order, to finalise the deceased’s affairs.

Firstly, assets must be identified and valued. Once this has been done, this needs to be reported to HM Revenue and Customs so that Inheritance Tax can be calculated and paid. Any cash gifts given by the deceased in the seven years before death must also be reported.

Once the Inheritance Tax has been paid, the grant of probate or letters of administration are applied for, then the deceased’s assets are collected in and debts paid, to include calculation and payment of all tax liabilities. Property owned by the deceased will also be cleared and sold if necessary.

Estate accounts need to be drawn up and the estate must be distributed in accordance with the deceased’s Will or, if they did not leave a Will, under the rules of intestacy. This is not an exhaustive list of steps and there are a number of other legal requirements that must be met.

How long does probate take?

The actual grant of probate is usually issued by the Probate Registry in around 12-16 weeks. The time taken to wind up an estate depends upon its size and complexity. As a rough guide, it often takes around 6-12 months, particularly if a property needs to be sold. Small estates can be dealt with more quickly, while complicated ones often take over a year.

Advising on complex estate administration

We are experts in the administration of complex estates and in dealing with complicated tax matters following a death.

We can advise on how to minimise Inheritance Tax liabilities, for instance by the drafting of a deed of variation. We also regularly make applications to HM Revenue and Customs on behalf of an estate for business property relief from Inheritance Tax.

If the estate includes overseas assets, we can liaise with authorities and lawyers in other jurisdictions to ensure all liabilities are met and that property is sold where appropriate and other assets collected in.

In the unfortunate event that a Will or trust dispute arises between beneficiaries, we are able to represent you, with the objection of reaching a swift and satisfactory conclusion.

Contact us

For expert advice, get in touch with the team on 01628 567 759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Court of protection

The Court of Protection exists to protect the interests of those who are no longer able to manage their own affairs. It has the power to make decisions for people in respect of their health, welfare, money and property. The court can also appoint a deputy to act on behalf of someone who does not have the capacity to deal with matters themselves.

We understand how painful it is when a loved one reaches the point when they can no longer cope with everyday life without assistance. Our experienced team will act on your behalf to help put the right framework in place to allow you to manage your relative’s affairs.

We always aim to provide peace of mind and clear, pragmatic guidance in what can be a very difficult and upsetting situation. Our lawyers will always take the time to talk through everything with you, answering questions and explaining the process until they are sure that you are happy. Our goal is to make things as easy as possible for you and your loved one, so that you can face the future knowing they will have security and the care they need.

Dealing with the affairs of someone who has lost capacity

When someone loses the ability to manage their own affairs and they have not put a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, no-one else has the right to deal with matters on their behalf without consent. This means that family members will need to make an application to the Court of Protection for someone to be appointed as a deputy if they wish to help with future care, financial and administration matters.

Our team helps the families of those who have lost capacity to go through the required legal process, so that they can continue to care for their relative.

The application requires the submission of four or five detailed forms together with a doctor’s certificate and application fee. The court can take a considerable time to consider the papers, during which the person who has lost capacity may be left in limbo, with no-one to manage their funds or arrange for payment of bills.

When a deputy is appointed, the court will set out the scope of their authority to act. This may include property and financial authority and/or personal welfare authority. The latter allows the deputy to made decisions about personal care and medical treatment.

The court will remain involved to oversee the deputy’s activities and every year the deputy will be required to submit an annual report to the Office of the Public Guardian detailing the decisions they have made.

If disputes arise over the care or financial matters of a Court of Protection patient, the court can step in to make a decision.

Statutory will

If someone has lost capacity and has not yet made a Will, then the Court of Protection can make a statutory Will on their behalf. The family of the person concerned can make the application on their behalf. The application requires extensive details, including a draft of the proposed new Will, an explanation for its terms, details of family members, lists of assets, copies of any existing Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney and financial and other details.

The court will contact any beneficiaries who may lose out if the new Will is made and they have the opportunity to oppose the application.

Lasting power of attorney

If someone has made a Lasting Power of Attorney before they lose capacity, then the process is much simpler. The document will name the attorney that they want to deal with their affairs, either property and financial affairs or health and wellbeing matters, and this person can step in straight away to help.

It is widely recommended that both a Lasting Power of Attorney and a valid, up to date Will should be in place for everyone to avoid the complicated process of involving the Court of Protection. Our team is happy to talk the process through with you and answer any questions you may have.

Contact us

For expert advice, get in touch with the team on 01628 567 759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Lasting powers of attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a document that legally appoints someone to act on your behalf, should you become unable to manage your own affairs. It can save your loved ones from going through difficulties if they need help in the future and it allows personal and financial matters to be dealt with efficiently.

Working with you to plan for the future

We place great importance on helping our clients organise their affairs to give them and their loved ones the best advantage, both now and in the future. Through comprehensive and pragmatic advice, we will help you put the right documents in place and ensure your assets are protected and your loved ones are cared for.

We understand that these conversations are difficult to have but we aim to make the process as easy as possible for you. Together we will take the time to talk through your wishes with you and provide reassurance as well as clear and constructive advice. Our team members are highly experienced in dealing with these sensitive matters and will be able to answer any questions you have. Our aim is to ensure you have complete peace of mind and a full understanding of all aspects of what you are signing.

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney?

A Lasting Power of Attorney is an essential part of planning for the future as it allows a loved one to make decisions on your behalf, should you be unable to do so yourself. Once it has been executed, the document can be stored until such time as it is needed.

You can sign two different types of Lasting Power of Attorney – each taking a different role. Firstly, one that covers property and financial affairs. This includes the power to manage bank accounts, pay expenses, complete tax returns, deal with investments and buy and sell property. Once registered, and unless you have put a restriction on it, this type of Lasting Power of Attorney can be used by your attorney(s) straight away. Lasting Power of Attorney replaced Enduring Powers of Attorney from 1st October 2007, although any Enduring Powers of Attorney made before that date are still effective.

The second type of Lasting Power of Attorney covers health and welfare decisions if you have lost mental capacity. This is for decisions about your personal care, such as where you will live, who will live with you and some medical decisions, including consent to or refusal of life-sustaining treatments.

You can choose different attorneys for each type of Lasting Power of Attorney, and our specialist team of Wills and probate solicitors can help you establish the best options for your circumstances.

Why it is important to have a Lasting Power of Attorney

If you can no longer manage your own affairs and you do not appoint someone into the role of Lasting Power of Attorney, your loved ones could find it difficult to help you as they will not be able to deal with your assets or make decisions on your behalf.

This can cause problems if a property needs to be sold and bills need to be paid, for instance if you need a carer or to pay a nursing home. In some cases, even your spouse might be legally unable to make the necessary decisions or sell a jointly owned home.

In this event, a family member would need to make an application to the Court of Protection to become your deputy. This is more expensive than appointing a Power of Attorney and involves more ongoing expenses as the Court continues to monitor their activities on your behalf, including requiring them to submit annual accounts.

Appointing an attorney to act on your behalf

By deciding in advance who you would like to act as your Lasting Power of Attorney, you can be sure you have the right plans in place by discussing matters with them. It will also ensure you have chosen someone who is both willing and able to take on the role.

When choosing your attorneys, you need to think very carefully. A Lasting Power of Attorney is an extremely powerful document as you are handing over key decisions about your life, your welfare and your assets to someone else. Therefore you should choose people who are responsible, trustworthy and have the appropriate skills to make the decisions you set out in the LPA.

We help our clients and their attorneys understand the responsibilities that are involved as a Lasting Power of Attorney, and that everyone is happy with the arrangement. It is possible to appoint more than one attorney to act for you and our Wills, Trusts and Probate team can explain the advantages and disadvantages of this.

When to make a Lasting Power of Attorney

A Lasting Power of Attorney does not come into effect immediately so, it should be signed well in advance of when it is needed. If it is left too late, it may no longer be possible to sign at that stage, especially if the person signing no longer has the mental capacity to understand what they are signing.

Having a Lasting Power of Attorney in place gives you and your loved ones peace of mind, and at Blaser Mills Law we believe it is an essential part of ensuring financial and personal affairs are well organised for the future.

Can you change your mind once the Lasting Power of Attorney is in place?

You can cancel your Lasting Power of Attorney at any time provided you have the mental capacity to do so, even if it has been registered with the Office of the Public Guardian. If not cancelled it will last until you die.

If you decide to change your attorneys, you will need to cancel your current Lasting Power of Attorney and make a new document. The new document will need to be registered before it can be used.

You may also choose to appoint a successor to your attorney in case the attorney dies or is otherwise unable to act for you. This ensures you create a document that will last any major life changes.

When can the attorney act?

Your Lasting Power of Attorney must be signed by you and by everyone who is to act as your attorney. Your signature must also be certified by another suitably qualified or knowledgeable person, who can confirm that you understand the nature and scope of the Lasting Power of Attorney and have not been unduly pressured into making the power.

Your lasting power of attorney must then be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

A property and financial lasting power of attorney can be used both if you have mental capacity to act and if you lack mental capacity to make a financial decision.

A Health and welfare lasting power of attorney can only be used if you lack mental capacity to make a welfare or medical decision yourself.

Contact us

For expert advice, get in touch with the team on 01628 567 759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Wills, trusts and probate

Making plans to safeguard your future can be daunting, yet it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect your wealth and your loved ones.

No matter what stage of life you’re in, our wills, trust, and probate lawyers are here to support you. Whether it’s drafting a will, navigating inheritance tax, or setting up a lasting power of attorney, our team ensures your wishes are honoured and your family legacy is secure.

About us

At Blaser Mills, our experienced wills, trusts and probate team is dedicated to working closely with families and individuals, including personal representatives, attorneys and court-appointed deputies. We understand that each client’s situation is unique.

Our team specialises in representing high-net-worth clients, sports professionals, and business owners. We have experience in complex family arrangements, intricate financial situations, and cross-border matters, offering you compassionate and expert solutions.

We help clients with:

  • Wills
  • Lasting powers of attorney
  • Tax and estate planning
  • Probate services
  • Court of protection
  • Contested Wills and trusts
  • Trusts

We work closely with our litigation team, who is experienced in dealing with disputes arising over both Wills and trusts, ensuring swift decisions are made to avoid potential distress.

Our team members are part of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), ensuring you receive expert guidance and care.

How we will support you

We take the time to understand your personal and financial situation, as well as your wishes. Our lawyers provide clear legal and financial advice, clearly outlining the options for protecting you and your family’s future.

Planning for the time when someone is no longer able to manage their own affairs or for end of life care can be upsetting. Our team understands how difficult these conversations can be, and we take the time to understand your particular areas of concern.

Most importantly, we will never hurry you and we will always make sure you are completely happy with the plans we put in place for you.

The team has served my family well over the years and is very welcoming and helpful, always there to offer advice.

LEGAL 500

Contact us

To start planning for the future, contact the team on 01628 567759 or email privateclient@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

TOLATA claims

When relationships between couples, family members and friends break down, the last thing you want to worry about is what will happen to your home. There is legislation and case authority which protects people who own a house together but are not married.

Obtaining the right legal advice early in a dispute is essential for protecting your financial interests. When emotions are running high, we’ll be straight-talking, approachable, knowledgeable and level-headed when you need to resolve a matter.

Unpicking the complexities of the law

Family law is traditionally used to decide how families divide assets. However, for families, friends and couples that are unmarried but own or live in properties together, you will need to speak to one of our dispute resolution solicitors if there is a disagreement about ownership of a property or properties. Our team has a deep understanding of the Trusts of Lands and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (“TOLATA”). We have helped many clients like you reach a positive outcome, whether you’re the legal owner or a non-owner.

When your home and finances are at risk, we believe it is essential that you fully understand the potential risks, rewards and costs of any chosen course of action. This is why our solicitors will make it clear exactly where you stand in terms of the law, and then take you through your options for resolution. Going through a TOLATA claim is a complex process and we’ll use our years of experience to advise you at every step of the way.

What is a TOLATA claim?

The Trust of Lands and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA) is in place to protect cohabitees and settle property ownership disputes should a relationship or informal agreement break down. When a TOLATA claim is navigated effectively with the right legal advice, it can enable parties to reach settlement and protects  an individual’s beneficial interest in a property, whether or not they are on the title deeds.

There are many reasons why you might want to start a TOLATA claim, for example, you may want to force the sale to recover your financial interest, or you might want to move back into your home when an ex-partner or friend refuses to leave.

Parents and grandparents who are creditors for the property might also want to recover their financial interest in the property.

The TOLATA process

A TOLATA claim usually starts with exploring alternative dispute resolution (ADR) routes, which is a way of coming to an agreement outside the courts, often through mediation. If you can come to an agreement in this way, it is more likely that one of you will be able to keep the property, as court outcomes tend to state that the property will be sold, and the lump sum is divided in a certain way. For this reason, ADR is more cost-effective and generally more practical. Our dispute resolution team has helped many clients settle matters this way, quickly.

If you can’t reach a resolution, however, you will need to follow court proceedings. The process involves clearly outlined steps to follow, and we will take you through each one to make sure every box is ticked, and you are in a strong position for success.

Contact us

For advice from our expert private litigation team on your situation, call Ed Capstick on 01628 567 759, send an email to litigation@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Professional negligence

If you’ve lost money as a result of poor professional advice, there are steps you can take to mitigate your losses. You don’t need to accept that mistakes were made, deadlines were missed, or that advice was misjudged.

We can help you dispute the bad advice you received in a pragmatic and cost-effective way, making sure you are compensated for any loss you suffer.

We’re known for our calm, focused and personable approach. We work closely with our clients to relieve the pressure disputes undoubtedly bring. Our aim is to reassure you by giving you a clear picture of your situation, your options and the most effective way of claiming compensation. Raising a professional negligence claim needs to be cost-effective for the process to be worth the time and the money, which is why we tailor our costs and approach to suit each situation.

We know that private litigation is daunting for many of our clients, and it is our job to take the stress out of the process. When you work with us, you can expect a prompt and responsive service, with a dedicated point of contact available at all times. We will always provide clear and honest advice on the merits of your claim, ensuring you always know what to expect, from both the procedure and the outcome, so you feel in control at all times.

How to start a professional negligence claim

You usually need to issue the claim within six years of the date the negligence occurred, but this is not always the case. Our solicitors can advise on ways to take action, even if it has been over six years. We will listen to your situation and let you know early on whether we think you have a strong case and what you can expect from the outcome.

A successful claim for professional negligence will need to demonstrate three requirements. You must be able to show that:

  1. A duty of care was owed by the professional;
  2. The professional breached that duty; and
  3. The breach of duty caused loss.

You might not hold the answer, and it is our team’s job to investigate the matter for you and clarify any grey areas to build a compelling case in your favour.

Our professional negligence claim experience

Professionals have a duty of care, and if you feel there has been a breach of duty, you may have a strong claim. We act for businesses but also for private individuals, and we can advise you in connection with potential claims against accountants, financial advisers, solicitors and barristers, surveyors and valuers, tax advisers, architects and engineers.

Situations such as advising beyond their area of expertise, missing deadlines, overlooking important details, making errors on documents and unreasonable delays can all be claimed against. The crucial aspect of all claims is that it was at your detriment – meaning you lost money as a result.

Guiding you through the process

Getting in touch with our team early in the dispute can make a huge difference to the success of your case. You have a duty to mitigate your losses, which means that after the negligence happens, you need to try to avoid losing the money. You will also have to prove you took reasonable steps to reduce any losses suffered when you raise a claim. By working closely with you from the outset, we can outline the steps you should take to demonstrate that you have acted in the right way.

Finding a suitable resolution

Our aim is to recuperate the financial loss you incurred, so you get back the money you lost after the malpractice. Where possible, it can help relieve some of the stress to resolve the matter through alternative dispute resolution, often referred to as professional negligence pre-action protocol. This process involves coming to an agreement with the other party, which is usually quicker and can be the most cost-effective route for you.

Some professional negligence cases are resolved through court proceedings, and if this happens, we will support you to create a watertight case and guide you through the entire process.

Making your claim cost-effective

We know that entering into a professional negligence dispute is daunting, especially if you are concerned about covering the legal costs should the other party win the case. However, there are options open to you if you do face paying the opposition’s legal costs, including insurance known as ‘after the event’ policies.

We are always clear from the outset about your chances of winning and what you can expect should you lose. We will take you through your options, the implications and advise you on how best to proceed.

Contact us

For advice from our expert private litigation team on your situation, call Jonathan Lilley on 01628 567 759, send an email to litigation@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Private litigation

Private litigation is a highly emotive area of law. Our team of private litigation lawyers comes highly recommended and we have a broad range of experience and expertise. Whether you’re contesting a will, in dispute with a tenant, landlord or neighbour, on the receiving end of negligent professional advice or any other manner of dispute, we are on hand to provide you with a clear roadmap to resolution.

We will quickly get to grips with your situation and do everything we can to give you clarity on your position and ensure you are protected.

About us

At Blaser Mills, our experienced team of private litigation lawyers support individuals through a range of personal disputes with empathy and understanding.

Our private litigation lawyers represent clients in matters including:

  • Disputed Wills and Trusts
  • Estate administration / executor disputes
  • Inheritance Act 1975 claims
  • Proprietary Estoppel claims
  • Professional negligence
  • TOLATA claims

We are experienced in helping resolve disputes outside of the courtroom through alternative dispute resolution (ADR), mediation and negotiation. We are able to effectively settle a large proportion of our cases via ADR before reaching the steps of the court.

Our solicitors are ranked in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK legal directories, as private litigation specialists.

How we will support you

We understand how emotional your case may be; especially if it’s your first legal dispute.  Our team prioritises your personal interests and relationships while explaining your legal options clearly and without unnecessary legal jargon.

We will investigate the background to the dispute and explain the strengths and weakness of your case. We’ll then provide a tactical framework to protect your legal position and achieve your desired outcome.

Private disputes can be complex. As a full service law firm we have the benefit of being able to call on the expertise of the other teams we work with. In particular, we work closely with our wills and probate team, property lawyers and the commercial team to ensure you receive the best advice for your unique situation.

We encourage resolving disputes through ADR, such as mediation, before litigation becomes necessary.  Your team will explain how this works in practice and why it is so valuable.

Our lawyers work hard to ensure you always feel in control. We know that the law can be complex but our lawyers will explain the legal process in simple terms, making sure you understand what any implications that may arise.  

We understand you might be concerned about the cost of being involved in private litigation. That’s why our pricing structure is fully transparent , giving you certainty on legal costs and peace of mind.

Contact us

For urgent advice from our expert private litigation team, call Jonathan Lilley on 01628 567759 or email litigation@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Pre-nup, post-nup and cohabitation agreements

If you and your partner have previous assets, brought assets into the marriage, or expect to inherit assets, this agreement can help protect them if the marriage or civil partnership ends. This helps reduce conflict during divorce and ensures your separate assets are treated differently from those gained during the marriage.

Agreements that stand the test of time 

Although they are not automatically legally binding in the UK, a marital agreement whether drafted before or during the marriage or civil partnership will usually be upheld by a Court as long as it meets the qualifying criteria set by the Supreme Court. Our team will draft your agreement and guide you through every step of the process, making sure it effectively protects your assets in the event of a divorce. No matter how complex your financial situation, we will work with your partner’s legal team to create a fair and valid agreement for all parties.

An important qualifying criteria for an effective marital agreement is that both parties need to obtain independent legal advice. But this isn’t just about ticking a box, it is about ensuring you properly consider your circumstances, the rights you are potentially giving up and what is reasonable. Our family lawyers have decades of experience helping couples start their lives together in an open and honest manner. We’ll present you with a clear framework for getting the result you want, and make sure it is legally robust.

Understanding marital agreements 

While they may not seem like the most romantic activity to undertake as part of your wedding planning, pre-marital agreements are always worth considering. The property, pensions, debts, income and other assets you enter the marriage or partnership with could be considered as joint assets after marrying and this will become more likely as the marriage continues. Likewise, money you acquire during the marriage such as inheritance or gifts from parents could be treated as being for both of you unless you have set out that it should not be treated that way. If the marriage breaks down, it can often become difficult to separate the claims each party has, which is where the pre-nuptial agreement is helpful. 

Post marital agreements are agreements that are put in place after a marriage. This might follow a period of separation or when one is likely to benefit from assets that they feel should be protected from the other.

Cohabitation

If you require a cohabitation agreement, we can also help provide peace of mind that you are protected should your relationship breakdown. These agreements are less common than marital agreements, but just as important. They should be prepared properly with care and legal expertise. Entering a relationship does not mean you have to compromise the security of your assets, and our team will ensure you know exactly what will happen to them as you take the next step in your journey. 

Likewise, if you were bringing less to the relationship, it is important for you to understand your legal position and any potential financial vulnerability that could be protected by such an agreement. 

The main purpose of these agreements is to define the claims that can be made, and help you to more easily reach a financial settlement if the relationship ends. Although you cannot stop the other from taking a matter to court, a Judge is unlikely to ignore an agreement you have both entered without good reason. If the agreement is prepared correctly and carefully, both of you have legal advice and the agreement is fair, it can carry significant weight. We will make sure you are in the strongest legal position and have the greatest chance of protecting your assets.

Contact us

For all family and divorce related matters please get in touch with Sadie Glover on 01628 567 759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

Mediation

We believe the most constructive and beneficial solutions to family law issues are often the ones that avoid costly and adversarial litigation. Using family mediation to help you resolve issues when you separate is often a quicker and cheaper route to a fair and reasonable result, facilitating dialogue in an environment where solutions are created, not dictated.

Finding common ground

Family mediation sessions focus on reaching an agreement that works for you, your former partner and any children you have. Our qualified mediators will help you work together to bring your divorce or separation to a conclusion and to consider the arrangements for the children, so that you can continue with the next chapter of your lives as positively as possible. 

It is not the role of the mediator to provide legal advice, however our mediators will listen to your circumstances and use their legal knowledge to help you explore options with you, so each party understands the choices available and the risks and implications of each.

Your mediator will remain impartial throughout the process, and after a proposal has been accepted and developed, we will create a ‘memorandum of understanding’, which can form the basis of a legally binding consent order if it concerns money or property.

The benefits of using mediation to separate

Although mediation is not free it is usually a quicker and cheaper way to reach a resolution than going to Court or negotiating through solicitors and the costs of mediation shared between you. The mediation process gives you more control over the decisions that are made regarding your family, encourages communication and often provides a less stressful way of dealing with sensitive issues. Although you are not legally bound to any course of action, you can incorporate any proposal into a legal document. It also can provide you with a forum to review and adapt arrangements as you and your ex-partner continue living separate lives, particularly in relation to the children.

By focusing on clear and open communication, family mediation has the potential to get you and your partner on the same page. And we will support you every step of the way.

Preparing for family mediation 

You need to be prepared before you begin the mediation process, particularly when it comes to defining what you hope to achieve from the process. If you are trying to reach a financial agreement, you will be asked to fill out a financial disclosure form, where you will provide information on your income, living costs, debts, property and how much you currently have in your bank accounts. The mediator will explain what is required and arrange the first mediation information and assessment meeting (MIAM) where you will meet the mediator on your own. Once both of you have attended a MIAM, we will help you go into your first joint session as prepared as possible.

If you have children, they will usually be the focus of conversation as it is vital that both parties reach an agreement that ensures the children’s needs are met. We also have mediators who are trained Child Inclusive Mediators (CIM) who can speak to your children offline and if appropriate, act as the voice of the child in your mediation sessions. 

If you can’t reach a resolution through family mediation sessions, we are on hand to suggest the other options open to you, including collaborative law and Court proceedings.

Contact us

For all family and divorce related matters please get in touch with Sadie Glover on 01628 567 759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

Finances on separation

Financial divorce settlements are an important part of most marital breakdowns, and it’s easy to see why. The financial agreement you and your former partner reach could have long-lasting effects on your lives, as well as those of your children.

The process can be complicated, but our approach isn’t. We will get to grips with every part of your financial situation and explore every option to make sure we reach a constructive, beneficial solution.

Reaching a fair divorce settlement

Our proven track record of successful results for clients is built not just on our team’s decades of expertise, but also the way we approach each financial settlement. There is very little that our divorce lawyers haven’t seen. As well as dealing with more usual cases, they have specialist experience of complex, high-value matters involving high-net-worth individuals or individuals with more complex financial arrangements. No matter how complex your financial situation, our team will be able to present you with a clear strategy for reaching a fair and reasonable financial settlement and will ensure that all assets are properly and proportionately considered. 

As our client, you don’t just benefit from the expertise of our divorce lawyers. We can call on the specialist knowledge and experience of our entire team to ensure you have the right skills on your side. From pensions to property, immigration to businesses, we’ll provide clear, pragmatic guidance to deliver the right divorce settlement for you.

Building a team around your needs

We have experience of complex English, international and cross-border divorce matters. We have built a reputation for success, and several of our lawyers are individually ranked in Chambers and Partners, as well as the team being recognised in both the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.

In addition, our divorce lawyers are members of Resolution, an organisation of 5,000 family lawyers, and the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme. By creating a tailored team based on your needs, we can keep the costs appropriate at all times.

Ensuring fair treatment

Clients often understandably have a lot of questions about who gets what in a divorce settlement. 

We will help you consider what might be required to allow you, your spouse/partner and the children to rehouse, we will help you understand and decide on the treatment of pensions and will also look at your income and income needs both now and in the future. 

The topic can become quite emotive, so we make sure we always remain realistic and pragmatic with our advice. Although a divorce settlement can be agreed at any time before or after divorce, our experience shows that it is beneficial to negotiate as early in the divorce process as possible. This gives each party certainty and stops the process becoming unnecessarily drawn out. It also ensures that we have a better understanding of the finances early in the separation process.

Acting in the long-term interest of our clients 

There are certain circumstances that can affect your divorce settlement after it is agreed. If, for example, you are paying your former partner maintenance (not including child maintenance), this will usually cease if they remarry. However, if you are receiving maintenance from your former partner and they remarry, you should still receive your payments. We will also advise you on next steps if either of your needs or resources change in the future. 

We don’t view a divorce settlement as mere paperwork, we see it as an integral part of our client’s lives that should change and evolve with them. We always work to ensure every one of our clients gets the result they deserve.

Contact us

For all family and divorce related matters please get in touch with Sadie Glover on 01628 567 759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

Domestic abuse

Our expert team will sensitively guide you through the process of obtaining a Court order to protect and if necessary, safeguard you and your children from abusive behaviour.  

Bringing abuse of all kinds to an end 

Domestic abuse takes many forms, from physical and sexual abuse to emotional abuse and incidents of controlling, coercive behaviour that occur between people in a relationship. Despite its name, this kind of abuse can happen anywhere, including over the phone or social media. People often may feel unsure about whether they have become a victim of abuse or are sometimes unaware that their behaviour could be seen as abusive.

We can provide a clear process and framework for obtaining either a non-molestation order or an occupation order. These make it a criminal offence for the person abusing you to continue their behaviour or live in the same property as you. If they breach these Court orders, they could face prison. We will also guide you through the Family Court process, helping you ensure your children are also protected now and into the future.

Likewise, if a person has made an application for such an order against you, we can act for you to ensure that you are protected.

Is domestic abuse a crime?

Many kinds of domestic abuse are criminal acts and can be reported to the police, and we are here to help domestic abuse victims take legal action and, in some cases, work alongside our criminal lawyers. The team can help you get your property back or help you become the legal owner of a property, ensure the welfare of your children and end your marriage or civil partnership. We will also help you obtain the right Court orders so that you have the full protection of the law on your side.

How to report domestic abuse 

Before you consider legal action, it is important you report the domestic abuse that you or a family member is suffering. Contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline. There are also other organisations that can help domestic abuse victims take steps forward, and many also provide ongoing support.

You can discuss your situation with us first if you’d like. However, if you’re in immediate danger, we urge you to call the police at 999. When you’re ready to take legal action, we’ll be here to do everything we can to secure the best outcome for you.

Contact us

For all family and divorce related matters please get in touch with Sadie Glover on 01628 567 759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

Divorce

With decades of experience, our divorce lawyers provide clear, focused advice to ensure our clients successfully navigate the process and find a constructive solution that works for you.

Always on your side

No two divorces are the same, which is why we base our legal advice on you, your situation and your goals. We will then create a clear, tailored framework for you; one that proactively moves through the divorce process towards a timely and effective resolution. With a breadth of experience and skills, we can explore a wide range of options to avoid costly and damaging litigation but will always advise you if we believe that Court would be the most sensible way forward.

Separation and divorce involve making significant and often difficult decisions. We will help you understand the divorce process step-by-step, and can advise you in relation to other matters that will need to be agreed as part of that process including arrangements for the finances and children. This will ensure you understand the wider implications of your choices, so that you always have a clear view of your options. Even if something unexpected occurs, you can be sure that not only have we likely seen it before, but that it can be managed appropriately.

Expertise tailored to your circumstances

We don’t believe in working in isolation, so where appropriate you will benefit from the expertise, insight and skills of the entire team. This allows us to utilise decades of experience dealing with a wide range of clients and divorces, including collaborative and mediation services to help you find the right solution and avoid litigation where possible and appropriate.

We are experienced when it comes to international and cross-border divorce processes as well as UK divorce. A number of our divorce lawyers are individually ranked in Chambers and Partners and are also members of Resolution , the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme and the Law Society’s Family Mediation Accreditation Scheme.

How to start the divorce process?

Before you begin the legal process of ending your marriage, it’s important to understand what you will need to do and the importance of timings. For example, we can make sure the English Courts have jurisdiction to deal with the divorce and can advise you if you married abroad.

Understanding the divorce process

Just as every relationship is unique, our extensive experience shows that every divorce is different. You may be able to end your marriage without a Court hearing if you and your ex-partner can mutually agree on a path forward. But if one of you does not agree to the divorce, the process is likely to take more time and cost more.

The first step is for your divorce application is to consider whether it will be a joint or sole application. Regardless, your marriage certificate and a court fee are required.

Following the application, the court requires a period of 20 weeks before you can apply for the conditional order in the divorce.

Once the conditional order has been pronounced , the court has the power to make financial orders if asked. This includes the power to approve any financial order reached between you by agreement.

Six weeks and one day after the conditional order, the applicant may apply for the final order.  There are often very good reasons for delaying this and it is essential that you seek legal advice before making the application.

The final order finally ends the marriage. It does not, however, sever financial links between the parties.

The final order

The final order terminates your marriage, and you are free to remarry.

It also affects inheritance under a Will. You should review your Will after the final order as some or all its provisions may no longer be valid after divorce.

The final order does not terminate your financial rights and responsibilities against or towards your former spouse. Financial issues must be considered and addressed separately by a court order to achieve finality. This can be done by consent, utilising several different dispute resolution options, or through the court.

Time scales

Most divorces in England that are mutually agreed take between 6-9 months, but we often deal with more complex divorces involving high-net-worth individuals such as business owners, international clients, sports professionals or families who have inherited their wealth. They tend to involve issues around finances and property, and they can sometimes take longer. It is not unusual for the resolution of the finances to take from between 1 – 2 years.

We will ensure we maintain clear and open dialogue with you as your divorce progresses, so that you always know what to expect.

Contact us

For all family and divorce related matters please get in touch with Sadie Glover on 01628 567 759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

Arrangements for children

Decisions about the welfare and living arrangements of your children are a huge part of the divorce process, and emotions can run high for all parties and for others such as grandparents.

We take a calm and methodical approach based on an understanding of your unique situation and decades of legal experience to bring often complex issues to a successful resolution.

Bringing clarity and focus 

We believe there is always a constructive solution to our clients’ issues, no matter how complex or emotive. The broad experience and skills of our team ensure we can consider a wide range of options. The team included collaborative lawyers and mediators (including child inclusive mediators), who can help you find a way to resolve the issue without the need for costly and potentially damaging Court proceedings. But, if that is where the matter ends up, we have a long history of successfully representing our clients in Court too.

We will guide you through the process of considering the arrangements for the children clearly and effectively. One of the values that underpins everything we do is that better results are created when we work together. We facilitate this by always being a reliable, trusted and honest partner in every situation. In times of uncertainty and stress, having an expert team by your side can help you make important decisions with confidence.  

Decades of experience and expertise

Our family lawyers bring decades of experience in successfully resolving a wide variety of child arrangement matters for a broad range of clients and circumstances, from national and international relocations, day-to-day living arrangements and protecting children from harm. Because of our combined skills and depth of experience, no option is off the table, including using collaborative law and mediation services to avoid litigation. 

Experts in UK, international and cross-border issues, the team has reached effective resolutions for clients in even the most complex of situations. That is why a number of our family lawyers are individually ranked in Chambers and Partners, and we have a reputation as dedicated, expert representatives. Our divorce lawyers are also members of Resolution and the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme. 

What is a child arrangement order?

A typical child arrangement order is an agreement about where your child will live and spend time, also including who they will have contact with and how that time should be managed. It will usually be drafted following the breakdown of a parent’s relationship. It is an incredibly important document, and we help our clients understand exactly what the process involves and the implications of the decisions they make. 

For our team, the two essential aspects of the process are guaranteeing the needs of the children are met and the importance of the children’s relationships with both parents and other family members is recognised. One example is the issue of grandparents, and we have helped many seek to establish contact with their grandchildren after divorcing parents have failed to reach an agreement. 

Child arrangements can also include specific issues that arise regarding for example where the children go to school, the faith they observe, medical treatment they might require and even issues concerning their name. Only certain people can apply for Children Proceedings. This includes parents, guardians or special guardians as well as anyone who currently has parental responsibility for the children in question. It is also possible to apply for an order if you are married or in civil partnership with the parent of the child, even if you are not the biological parent. We will be able to tell you exactly what your rights are. Others can apply but they will need permission from the Court prior to making an application.

How a childcare arrangement order can help you

The arrangements for the children are often the most important and emotive aspects of the breakdown of a marriage. When parents cannot come to a decision on their own, a child arrangement order or parenting plan can clarify everyone’s position and sometimes prevent future disputes. This is often a crucial step in determining where the child lives, when the other parent can see them and other aspects of their welfare.

An emergency child arrangement order may become necessary if you have concerns about the welfare of your children or if you are concerned they may not be returned to you. Speed is essential in circumstances like this, and our team is always ready to initiate the process.

Although child arrangements are often agreed informally, we believe there is a benefit in capturing this important agreement in writing. There are many ways to work towards this, and we are able to tailor our services to suit you, your former partner and your children. From family mediation and collaborative law to representing you in negotiations or in Court, the team will do whatever it takes to make sure your children get the most positive result.

When arrangements break down

We can help you communicate with your former partner about any issues in question and facilitate a constructive solution. However, if this is not possible, we have a strong track record of successfully taking such matters to Court.

Contact us

For all family and divorce related matters please get in touch with Sadie Glover on 01628 567 759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

Family and divorce

Family matters following a separation or divorce can be distressing and emotionally overwhelming, especially when children or finances are involved. Finding a path forward to help you move on often seems impossible.

Having a dedicated family lawyer by your side, provides reassurance that your rights and interests will be safeguarded throughout every stage of the process.

About us

Our specialist family and divorce lawyers are known for their compassionate approach and their ability to find practical solutions that work for you.

We regularly handle a wide range of family matters, from cohabitation and pre-nuptial agreements to complex divorces and disputes over child arrangements and finances.

Our collaborative approach extends across our firm, allowing us to provide comprehensive support not only in family law but also in property and commercial matters that may affect your financial settlement, you and your children.

As members of Resolution and the Law Society’s Family Law Accreditation Scheme, and with several team members ranked in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK directories, we bring a wealth of expertise to your case. Our team also includes trained mediators and collaborative lawyers who can help facilitate constructive discussions and resolutions outside of court.

Family and divorce law services

Family and divorce law is broad and continues to evolve, mirroring the diversity of relationships in today’s world.

Our team of family and divorce lawyers brings years of experience advising clients on a range of sensitive matters, including:

  • Divorce and dissolution
  • Arrangements for children
  • Finances on separation for cohabitees as well as couples who are in civil partnerships or married
  • Pre-nuptial agreements, post-nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements
  • Relief in cases of domestic abuse
  • Mediation

Whatever situation you’re facing, we’ll clearly explain the legal process, your rights and responsibilities and how we can best protect your future.

How we will support you

We know that every family is unique, and we prioritise your needs and desired outcomes throughout the process building a team around you who can support you

In suitable cases, we encourage a collaborative approach, advocating for mediation or other forms of non-court dispute resolution to minimise conflict.

Our team will ensure your legal rights are fully protected, whether we’re helping you reach an agreement before a relationship breakdown or securing a fair financial settlement during a divorce.

We will collaborate closely with you to implement practical solutions that reflect your specific situation and needs – always keeping your best interests at heart.

Quickly becoming one of the go to firms for high-net-worth individuals in the Bucks/Berks border, Blaser Mills deal with the full spectrum of family disputes.

LEGAL 500

Contact us

To discuss your matter, get in touch with our family and divorce team, call Sadie Glover on 01628 567759, or email family@blasermills.co.uk.

White collar crime and financial crime investigations

Whether the victim or the accused, we provide professionals, managers, executives and individuals with a set of clear steps to resolve investigations as quickly and effectively as possible.

Our experience and legal expertise mean we can explore every available avenue to avoid going to court. If that is unavoidable, however, we will leverage the skills and experience of our entire firm to protect your business, assets and reputation.

We can support you at every stage of the process, from investigation to resolution.

Removing the uncertainty

White collar crime is a broad category of actions, encompassing money laundering, false accounting, fraud and bribery, among others. These kinds of corporate crimes can not only impact a company’s ability to operate, but also its reputation. Whether you are accused of a crime or involved in a regulatory or criminal investigation, you and your business need clarity and straightforward legal advice from a team of commercially minded legal experts. We can advise on all aspects of criminal and regulatory investigations relating to white collar crime, and for all agencies and prosecuting authorities.

We have guided companies of all sizes through the investigation process, helping to reduce the stress and disruption that such processes can bring. We understand your industry, the regulatory landscape you operate in, and, above all, we are experts in the investigation process. By providing you with a single, dedicated point of contact, we can embed ourselves in your organisation and act as an extension of your team. This allows us to be responsive to any developments and it ensures that you always know exactly what actions are being taken and what the next steps are.

Investigations relating to white collar crime are not usually simple or fast, but having a clear framework makes your life a lot easier.

Taking a proactive approach

Our white collar and financial crime team has been instructed in some of the biggest operations in the UK. This includes Operation MFB, one of the largest VAT fraud cases of recent times. This is due to our reputation as expert partners for businesses across a wide range of industries, as well as our excellent links with leading barristers from corporate-criminal sets. Because of our dedication, hard work and track record of success, we are ranked as a leading firm for crime, fraud and licensing in Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500.

In short, we get results for our clients because we take a proactive and involved approach. We don’t think that sitting back and waiting for you to get in touch will always work best, and sometimes it is more effective if we take the lead and allow you to use your time and resources more effectively.

Identifying white collar crime

White collar crime is a term used to describe a wide variety of activities. The common thread between these different crimes is a financial motivation and the fact that they are committed by professionals.

Fraud involves deceiving individuals or businesses for monetary gain, and we commonly assist in securities fraud or insider trading cases. Embezzlement is a situation where money is removed improperly from a business, while money laundering involves trying to make illegally obtained assets appear legal by passing them through several legitimate transactions. Finally, tax evasion is a common white collar crime that centres on attempts to avoid paying the right amount of tax. 

Understanding the investigation process

White collar and financial crime investigations can often involve multiple jurisdictions. We have a track record of success in even the most complex and large-scale cases. It is this understanding of the process that our clients value, as well as our experience with every major agency. We can clearly lay out the process, what is expected of you and what the range of possible outcomes could be. We are commercially focused legal experts who understand that the law doesn’t exist independently of your commercial landscape. Discouraging prosecution and minimising the damage to your reputation or operations is always our number one priority.

Contact us

For any financial crime or general criminal matters, call Ben Langley on 01628 567 759 or email crime@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Private prosecutions

If you or your business have been the victim of a crime, you can pursue a private prosecution to bring the offending party to justice and deny them of the proceeds of their actions.

We can help you decide on the best course of action to bring about your desired outcome. The Blaser Mills Law business crime lawyers will manage the process for you, making sure you have sufficient evidence and can meet all your legal obligations.

Guiding you through the process

It is important to understand that a private prosecution is a last resort, and you should have tried all other methods of resolving the issue beforehand. The first part of the process is assessing whether the evidence passes the CPS code of conduct. To pass, you must have enough evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction and a case that is in the public interest to bring to court. If the Magistrates’ Court agrees, it will issue a summons to the defendant, and then it is time to prepare for the hearing.

A private prosecution can help you achieve compensation for fraud and other kinds of financial crime, in a faster and more focused way than with public prosecutions. But the process involves a lot of legal complexity and calls for specialist skills and experience. The team at Blaser Mills Law can support you at every stage of the process, from investigation to resolution. Our multi-disciplinary approach means we create tailored teams that utilise the expertise of every part of our firm, while controlling costs.

Helping you settle the matter

Blaser Mills Law is ranked as a leading firm in Chambers UK and the Legal 500. Our reputation is built on the successful results we achieve for our clients. We understand that every client is unique and every circumstance is different, so that’s how we operate too. We approach each case with fresh eyes and innovative thinking to anticipate issues, create opportunities and maximise your chances of success. We are not just experts in the law, we are experts in getting the right results for our clients.

What are private prosecutions?

Private prosecutions allow businesses and individuals to engage in their own privately funded and personally directed prosecution against another party. If the police or Crown Prosecution Service have failed to investigate the crime committed, or the state prosecution has not achieved the result you feel is right, private prosecutions operate as a last resort. We also frequently deal with cases where delays and inefficiencies in public prosecutions services make private prosecutions necessary.

Giving you the best chance of success

There are many potential benefits to private prosecutions, especially when it comes to time. Resolving the matter faster is a more cost-effective solution for your business that doesn’t involve large amounts of disruption. You also get the freedom to pick investigators, barristers and experts, which allows for a more tailored, focused approach to the process. We can make sure that you have exactly the right team in place to give you the best chance of success. Another potential benefit is the cost, which tends to be lower for private prosecutions. We can also help you claim back the costs at the end of the case, no matter the outcome.

Contact us

For any criminal defence matters, call Ben Langley on 01628 567 759 or email crime@blasermills.co.uk  Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Motoring

We can help you from the moment you are charged, summonsed or being investigated for a motoring offence. Getting expert legal advice and insight should be your top priority, and our team has guided lots of people like you through the process and resolved the matter successfully.

From cases involving speeding up to death by dangerous driving, we know the law, the process and exactly what you need to do to achieve the most favourable outcome.

It is essential that you follow the correct procedure and contact us as soon as you are aware of any road traffic related allegation. Our solicitors will give you the clarity you need to understand your options and guide you over the hurdles you’ll need to pass.

Getting you from A to B

There are a wide variety of acts that can be classified as a motoring offence, and our team has dealt with them all. We have successfully helped people avoid fines, disqualifications and harsher punishments, so you can be certain you have the right team in place. From fighting tickets to overturning drunk driving charges or proving that you weren’t to blame for an accident, we can use our expertise and experience to give you the best chance of success.

Being charged or summonsed can be a stressful and disruptive experience, especially when you face the prospect of losing your license or a heavy fine. We can’t make the process entirely stress-free, but we will help take the complexity out of it. Our reputation and success are built on the fact that we are straight-talking and honest partners for our clients. No matter the complexity of the case, you can always expect clear advice and expert insight from us.

Removing the confusion

You don’t just benefit from our knowledge, either. Years of successful results have allowed us to build great relationships with medical practitioners and other experts that match our ambition and dedication. If needed, we can call on them to help us establish an airtight defence against the motoring offence you are charged with.

We also have extensive experience when it comes to helping people avoid disqualification by demonstrating circumstances of exceptional hardship. For many people, their car is an essential part of their life and losing it can affect the ability to work and spend time with family and friends. Every one of our clients is an individual or company with their own story, and we always start by listening and understanding what has brought you through our door.

Our team of specialist motoring lawyers have a track record of success, which include cases of:

  • Driving while disqualified
  • Driving without a valid licence and/or insurance policy
  • Driving with excess alcohol
  • Drunk in charge
  • Failure to provide specimens for analysis
  • Careless driving
  • Dangerous driving
  • Speeding
  • ‘Totting-up’ disqualifications
  • Fatal collisions

We have an impressively high win rate in contested cases, and we consistently keep our clients on the road. We always listen to our client’s individual circumstances and we offer a range of competitive fixed fees to our clients.

Contact us

For any road traffic matters, call Ben Langley on 01628 567 759 or email crime@blasermills.co.uk  Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Criminal defence

Facing a police investigation or criminal charges can be incredibly challenging and unsettling. It’s natural to feel concerned about your reputation and uncertain about what steps to take forward.

Having a dedicated team of criminal defence lawyers in your corner offers reassurance and expert representation throughout every stage of your case, whether it’s in the Magistrates’ Court or, in more serious situations, the Crown Court.

About us

At Blaser Mills, we understand the personal and often daunting nature of facing criminal charges. Our team brings extensive experience and a strong reputation in handling a wide range of cases, from motoring offences and private prosecution to complex cybercrime and white-collar crime.

We collaborate closely with leading barristers from highly-rated criminal sets, ensuring that only those who align with our team’s proven track record represent our clients. Our expertise spans:

  • Defending Motoring offences
  • Providing advice on private prosecution
  • White collar crime and financial crime investigations

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our recognition as leading criminal defence solicitors Legal 500 and Chambers UK legal directories.

How we will support you

If you’ve been arrested or you’re under police investigation, our criminal defence solicitors are here to guide you through with calmness and focus.  We understand how overwhelming this situation can be, and we will ensure you feel heard and supported every step of the way.

The law can be complicated but we will provide clarity in our explanations and provide an honest assessment of your situation. Whether it’s preparing you for police interviews or representing you in court, we work closely with you throughout.

We recognise that facing the criminal justice system is stressful not only for you, but also your loved ones. Our team is sensitive to these broader implications and is dedicated to managing  the process on your behalf. 

You can rely on us to be there for you, ready to talk whenever you need us.

Contact us

Call us today for urgent advice from expert criminal defence lawyers. Call Ben Langley on 01628 567 759 or email crime@blasermills.co.uk.  Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Special guardianship

It is essential that you follow the correct procedure to have the best foundations for building strong relationships for the future. Our solicitors will give you the clarity you need to understand your options and guide you through the process.

Clear, practical and supportive advice

Becoming a kinship carer is a rewarding prospect. You can change the course of a child’s life for the better, giving them long-term security and a safe home, saving them potentially a childhood in foster care or the permanent separation of adoption. But it is crucial you know your rights and understand exactly what this means for you and your family. That is where we will help. Our broad range of legal expertise in special guardianship, kinship foster care, and other forms of legal framework means we can give you clear advice on your role, on potential support plans and representation through the process of getting the order, which can be complicated too. 

One size doesn’t fit all for kinship care, and that’s because no two families or individuals are completely alike. For this reason, we follow a tailored approach, taking your situation and hopes for the future into consideration to lead you towards a solution that works for everyone. There are several options open to you, and we’ll give you clarity on how each one will affect you and the outcome we think is realistic given the circumstances. 

We’ve successfully helped grandparents, aunts and uncles and friends of the family become special guardians and alternative carers – including many occasions when the Local Authority were not in favour of them. We do this by providing full and reliable advice, writing helpful position statements when the Local Authority supports you, and making compelling challenges to negative assessments when they do not.

What is a special guardianship order?

Not to be confused with Children’s Guardians, a special guardianship order is a Court order under the Children Act 1989 for a child to live with and be cared for by an individual who is not their birth parent. This person will usually be a family member or friend who has been assessed by children’s social care as fit to look after the child. It provides an opportunity to avoid the child living with people they don’t know or being placed for adoption.

In many cases, it also means the birth parents can have more contact with the child. There are a number of options, including wellbeing and financial support and different levels of contact with the birth parents, and we can help you see the full picture. 

Being a special guardian

If you become a special guardian, you have parental responsibility for the child and the power to override the child’s own parents until that child reaches the age of 18. That means you will have to protect and maintain the child and make decisions for them, like where they go to school and agreeing to medical treatments. You can take the child outside the UK for a limited period without needing to get a court order. You may be able to get an allowance, which is means tested and helps cover the cost of the care you provide. 

Being a special guardian can be very rewarding, but it is recommended you get legal advice to make sure you know how it will affect your life, and which legal options are available to you. 

Who can be a special guardian?

If you want to become a guardian of a child, you will probably have already been assessed by local authority children’s services. You don’t need to be a blood relative, but you will likely need permission from the court or local authority to apply, unless the child has lived with you for a certain amount of time. We have taken lots of clients through the assessment process and the hearing, taking away some of the stress and worry they understandably feel.

There are circumstances when special guardianship is not the right fit for your circumstances, and we advise aspiring family carers on the potential alternative options including caring as a kinship foster carer, a child arrangements order, and more.

What if the Local Authority does not believe I am suitable?

Many of our clients come to us with a positive assessment, for legal advice funded by the Local Authority. However, if you wish to challenge a negative assessment, then we have a track record of obtaining family placements for children in the face of opposition from the Local Authority, and legal aid may be available to fund the case.

I am a parent and I am responding to an application for somebody to become my child’s Special Guardian. I don’t agree. What can I do?

Non-means- and non-merits-tested legal aid is now available to challenge applications for Special Guardianship Orders and you should contact us for advice. The Court will decide the application based on whether it is in the best interests of your child. We can advance your case to set out why it isn’t.

I am a parent and I am seeking to discharge my child’s Special Guardianship Order. What can I do?

Legal aid is likely to be available, but you would need the Court’s permission to apply to discharge (cancel) the Special Guardianship Order. The Court will not let your application proceed unless you can show a significant change in circumstances since the order was made. If your application is allowed to proceed then the Court will decide whether it is in your child’s best interests for the order to be discharged. We can advance your case in this respect.

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Legal aid

Legal aid is available for people who can’t afford to pay for legal services or for those who need it for a very serious problem, such as the prospect of losing their child. It enables you to get free legal advice and representation, to make sure you can get your right to a fair hearing in court. In some cases, legal aid is automatically available based on the situation, and sometimes it is awarded based on your income and the importance and complexity of the case itself. 

If your eligibility is means tested, you will get legal aid if you are on Universal Credit, receiving certain other benefits or on an extremely low income. In addition, you need to have savings of less than £8,000. You will be asked to provide financial evidence. You may also need to contribute some money to the Legal Aid Agency, which is the government organisation running the scheme for people in England and Wales. 

The merits test for legal aid considers the complexity of the legal process and the importance of the case to you and your wellbeing. You also usually need to show that your case has more than a 45% chance of being successful.

We apply for legal aid for you, so you don’t need to worry about putting together your application by yourself. When you appoint us, we will let you know what to expect from your legal aid application, such as whether we believe you are likely to get it and how many of our services are likely to be covered. 

Parents or those with parental responsibility automatically get legal aid if they are going through care proceedings, applications for a child assessment order or an emergency protection order, applications for a placement order, applications for an adoption order, applications for a Special Guardianship Order, or pre-proceedings (also known as Public Law Outline).

If you are the biological father, then you can get automatic legal aid in these situations, even if you do not have parental responsibility. In these situations, legal aid is awarded automatically without means or merits testing, meaning you get it no matter what. For any other Child Care Law case, means and merits tested legal aid is likely to be available.

If you have parental responsibility for a child, perhaps because you are already their Special Guardian or there is an order naming you as the person the child is to live with, then you are treated the same as ‘a parent’ for the same applications listed above.

If you are facing care proceedings, a child assessment order or an emergency protection order, you may be eligible for legal aid and advice from a solicitor. It will be means and merits tested. If legal aid isn’t available, the local authority may fund some form of representation. 

When the legal aid agency grants means-and-merits-tested legal aid, this is usually limited to a certain stage in the proceedings. When that stage is reached, it becomes necessary to apply for further extensions of legal aid. We can assist with the entirety of this process.

Legal aid isn’t available for wider family if you are going through the pre-proceedings (PLO) process, unless you have parental responsibility.

For the child this is non-means-and-non-merits-tested. For other family members, iIt may be available based on means and merits, no matter your relationship to the child. 

It may be available based on means and merits, no matter your relationship to the child. 

It may be available based on means and merits, no matter your relationship to the child. 

It may be available based on means and merits, no matter your relationship to the child. 

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Please note: We only offer legal aid in child care matters not in respect of private law.

Emergency protection

As soon as you contact us, we will put a solicitor or barrister in place to represent you with a calm, level-headed approach at this important hearing. Legal aid is available, so you don’t need to worry about the costs.

Our team has been through the emergency care order process countless times. We’ve represented parents, children, guardians and family members during this critical and extremely time-sensitive set of proceedings. Our experience means we can quickly pull a case together in the shortest timeframes and give you sound legal advice straight away about child protection and safeguarding.

We’ll do everything we can to make sure one of our solicitors is by your side or arrange one of the barristers we work closely with to be there for you. You can rest assured that you will have legal representation if you contact us immediately. 

At a time when emotions and stress levels are running high, our team will be a voice of reason and a calm front. Never is our straight-talking approach more valued than when time is short, and you can rely on us to be honest about the situation, the potential outcomes, and the steps you must take. We’ve defended more applications for an emergency protection order than we can count, so we know where the law stands and the test the judge will be applying. No matter how complex your case may be, we will ensure you have fair legal representation.

What is an emergency protection order?

Anyone can apply to the Court for an emergency protection order (EPO) under the Children Act 1989 if they believe the child is in imminent danger or significant risk of harm. However, the application is almost always brought by the Local Authority, because a social worker is concerned about child abuse, violence or abduction. If the Court makes an emergency protection order, the child will be taken into care for a short initial period (no more than 8 days) while the local authority will most likely apply for an interim care order and will at least consider doing so.

These particularly serious cases require a sound knowledge of family law. Whether you are a guardian or a parent, we will help you see the situation with complete clarity so you can navigate the court hearing and take your next steps. What’s crucial is that you contact a solicitor immediately because you will be in Court in a matter of hours. 

Understanding the law

Removing a child from their home with immediate effect requires a very serious concern about the child’s welfare and protection. That is why there is very strict criteria to make this happen. The reasoning behind wanting to remove a child needs to be proportionate to the danger they face, and this danger must be imminent. There has to be compelling evidence in support of the Local Authority’s case. Our role is to show you where the law stands and give you a clear understanding of potential outcomes, which we’ve helped countless clients with before.

Understanding your options

Even at such short notice, there are things we can do and alternative options that might work in this difficult situation. Sometimes, the Court can be persuaded that the child can be kept safe long enough for you to put a defence together, and the emergency protection order is refused on that basis. There may be allowances for the child to have contact with their parents, family members or someone with a child arrangement order for their care. We will always be realistic and honest with you about what you can expect the outcome of these hearings to be.

Even if the order isn’t granted, the emergency protection order is often followed by care proceedings to find a more permanent solution for the child and family. We are always very clear about the next stage in the process from the outset, helping you to prepare yourself. We have seen first-hand how distressing and difficult the process is for everyone, so we continue to provide legal support to our clients while decisions about the future are being made. You need to take sensible steps, and we will make sure you know what you should do next. 

The last thing you want to worry about when you face an emergency protection order is legal costs. Please know that legal aid is automatically available for most parents and relatives with responsibility for the child and is usually means tested for others.

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01923 725015 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Discharge of care orders

If your child has been taken away after care proceedings, the chance of having them back at home with you is incredibly exciting. There is various criteria you need to meet, and what is best for your child will always be the Court’s priority.

We can help you prepare a case to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.

Finding a clear path forward

Our team has helped lots of families reunite with their children who are currently in foster care or being looked after by a kinship foster carer. Taking the local authorities to court to reverse a care order is challenging, but it is not impossible. We know the process and we’ve been through it a number of times. This experience means we can give you a clear indication of your chances, no matter what your situation has been in the past and what it looks like now.

Our approach is centred on honesty and sound legal judgement. We know what you’re up against and we’re realistic about the outcomes you can expect. You can rely on us to be clear with you from the outset. However, we also know we can help you improve your situation, because we’ve done it for others lots of times. Even if the outcome isn’t what you had hoped for, we will help you plan for the future, if and when circumstances change.

We take a personable approach. This means we’ll work closely with you and be there to answer any questions you have, whenever you have them. We take a genuine interest in families and will make sure you always feel supported.

Grounds for discharging a care order

A number of people can create an application to discharge a care order. It could be the child themselves perhaps through an independent reviewing officer, the parent, someone with parental responsibility like a special guardian or sometimes the Local Authority itself. To get the final court order changed, you will need to show that circumstances have significantly improved, which may include having a secure home, signs of improved mental health and a better relationship with drugs and alcohol.  

The Court will consider what is in the best interests of your child and will be particularly interested in what has changes since the original Care Order was made. The Court will also consider whether the Care Order remains necessary and proportionate, based on the new circumstances.

It is not easy to convince a Court to move a child who is potentially very settled in a long-term care arrangement and therefore only the strongest and best-put cases will succeed. Our legal experts will look at your situation and give you a clear expectation on the outcome of your application.

Guidance through the process

There are two main ways to discharge a care order. You may wish to appeal a care order if you believe the judge made a mistake during your final hearing, in which case, we need to act quickly to arrange an appeal, which must be made within a strict time limit. The second, and usually more effective, way is through a discharge of care order, which you could pursue if you have made positive changes in your life and want to try to get your child out of care. 

Discharging a care order takes time and you need to provide clear evidence to the Court that you have taken positive steps forward. For this reason, your application needs to reflect the changes you’ve made. We prefer to advise our clients early in the process, so you are prepared for the assessments which will be a key part of any application to discharge a care order.

It is a formal and complicated process, and we will guide you through an application which is a truthful but persuasive representation of your situation. We will also help you present to the Court all the reasons why it is in your child’s best interests to be removed from a placement where they are settled, and returned home – a sensitive and difficult task, requiring expertise to get right.

You may be entitled to legal aid through the Legal Aid Agency. This will help to cover the costs of our advice while applying to discharge a care order. Whether or not you get this help will be based on your income and other circumstances.

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Contact with children in care

Getting more contact with a child in the care system is a huge concern for any parent who has been through care proceedings. You may be worried that you won’t be able to see your child very often, but we can help you take a practical approach to get the best possible outcome.

Your contact arrangements are always under review, so we will make sure you get a fair assessment of your situation. Legal aid is available on a means-and-merits-tested basis to help parents cover the legal costs involved with getting an order for contact with a child in care, and we can help you apply for the funding.  

Even after your child has been removed by the Local Authority, you are likely to be able to get some form of contact with them. The Local Authority has a duty to support a reasonable level of family contact, and it’s important to stay positive. We understand how hard it is to stay hopeful under a Care Order, but we’ve helped many clients gain more contact with their children and improve their situation. We’re specialists in this area of family law, and we will give you clarity on how the Children Act 1989 affects you based on your current circumstances.

When you want to change the contact you have with your child in care, getting the correct legal advice to challenge the Local Authority is crucial. You need to put across a strong argument about why a different arrangement, proposed by you, is in your child’s best interests, and we are here to help you do exactly that. We’ve been through the process many times and know what judges will want to see in the family court.

Our experience also means we’re realistic about potential outcomes. We won’t give you false hope and will instead be honest about what you can expect and the steps you need to follow to change the restrictions placed on you. Even if the outcome isn’t what you had hoped for, we will give you clear guidance on how to put yourself in a better position for success and reach an agreement in the future. 

Typical child contact arrangements

There is no typical child contact arrangement because the care plan will depend on your unique circumstances and those of the child. We have seen contact arrangements ranging from more than once a week, to a handful of visits per year, and everything in between.

Types of contact range from direct contact through face-to-face meetings, which may be supervised in a contact centre, to non-direct contact through letters, emails or phone calls. Interim contact should be arranged whilst care proceedings are ongoing and is usually higher than under a full Care Order. We can help you understand the arrangements you are most likely to achieve and take you through the whole process of achieving the best possible outcome.

Reasons for supervised contact

You may be allowed to have supervised contact with your child, which means someone else will be with you at all times. This type of contact may be put in place if the Court or Local Authority believe your child is at risk of harm when they see you. Supervised contact may feel unnatural to you, but it can be an effective way of helping to build your relationship with your child in a safe environment.

The person accompanying your child may be a social worker or a family member who has been suitably assessed. Over time, the level of supervision may be reduced, and we can give you legal advice on how to improve the kind of contact you have with your child.

Getting more contact

The Local Authority that holds the Care Order usually decides how much contact the parent has with the child, and what sort, and it has a duty to keep the arrangements under review. If you, as a parent, are not happy with the level of contact, you can make a Court application. It is then up to the Court to decide the nature and level of contact parents can have with their children based on what is best for the welfare of each child. 

We help lots of parents and family members get more contact with their children. Parents often turn to us directly for legal help after getting nowhere in discussions with their social worker for many weeks and months. It is our job to give you a clear indication on the kind of contact you can expect to have with your child based on your circumstances and whether or not your situation has improved. We will also guide you through the process to make sure you get a fair trial when important decisions are being made about your future and child’s upbringing.

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Public law outline (pre-proceedings process)

Pre-proceedings make many of our clients feel incredibly panicked. It is understandable, with lots at stake for both parents and children. If you find yourself in this situation, you need to get a solicitor to support you as soon as possible.

It’s always best to keep the matter out of Court, and we can help you come to an agreement that works. With pre-proceedings, parents automatically get legal aid. 

Expert advice, every step of the way

When you receive a PLO letter, also called a pre-proceedings letter, it is important that you act fast and get expert legal advice and representation. This is exactly what we provide. With years of experience in child protection and safeguarding cases, we know the right way to handle matters to achieve the best possible outcome. We’re experts in family law, and we will make sure you fully understand your options. If you feel confident in the pre-proceedings meetings and know the implications of any decision, we know we’ve done our job right. 

We will give you complete clarity about the legislation and potential proceedings ahead of you, and work with you to try and avoid it. Family law can be complicated, and it is our job to make it easy for everyone to understand, so you can make confident decisions about how you want to proceed. You can also count on us to be honest. We never shy away from the reality and will be clear about what you can expect from any agreement and the following care proceedings, should they be needed.

It is never too late to get legal advice before a pre-proceedings meeting, especially given that legal aid is available to cover the costs. We have decades of experience and know how to quickly get to grips with new cases, no matter how complex or difficult.

What can social services do?

If a child protection social worker is concerned about the welfare of the child, and steps taken so far have not produced the outcomes they want to see, they can ask the Court give parental responsibility to the Local Authority. It is then the Court’s decision where the child should live. But before the case reaches the Court, the child social worker should try to work with the family and escalate their concerns through a process known as Public Law Outline or pre-proceedings. During this stage, the social worker will usually send a letter outlining their concerns and views on the best solution for the child and how to avoid going to Court. 

Social services involvement does not mean social workers will arrange for a child to be taken away from their parents, as this is for the Court to decide. Instead, pre-proceedings give everyone the chance to try to come to an arrangement about child protection measures, which can be much simpler and allows people more of a say in the outcome. We always reassure our clients that, if the Local Authority have sent you a PLO letter, it usually means they still hope that they can work with you to make the situation better for your family without having to take you to Court. The right choices, and the right legal advice, may mean avoiding a Court case altogether.

We’ve represented mothers, fathers and wider family members with parental responsibility during these important meetings, making the child protection laws abundantly clear and protecting the interests that matter the most. 

Getting prepared 

Pre-proceedings follow a clear process, and we know the steps like the back of our hands. We can guide you throughout, making sure you’re prepared for every meeting, including how to handle assessments such as drug and alcohol testing, paternity testing and psychological reviews. It is crucial that you act in a sensible and calm way to achieve the best possible outcome, and we will give you clear guidance on what you should and, importantly, shouldn’t do. The PLO meetings themselves can be challenging for everyone, but we will be by your side to keep the discussions calm and focused on the outcome, helping you to feel confident throughout.

A wealth of expertise

Having a child taken into care is a serious situation. Social services involvement happens when there is a real concern about a child’s welfare and risk of harm, abuse or neglect. We have been involved in some of the most difficult cases, including cases involving child abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence and drugs and alcohol misuse. There is nothing we haven’t seen, and we deal with these kinds of cases all the time. You can rely on us to listen to you, answer all your questions and give you clear steps to follow. 

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Care proceedings

Whether you need to defend yourself from unfair allegations about your parenting, make fundamental changes in your life, or both at once, we will help you from start to finish to secure the best possible outcome when we represent you in court.

Deciding whether a child should be removed is a serious decision that has life-changing consequences for the child and their family. The 26 weeks you are given to form your case is a time to think sensibly and pragmatically, but we know that isn’t as simple as it sounds. We work closely with our clients, guiding you through the entire process and giving you clear steps to follow at every stage. 

For years, we’ve guided parents, family members, and guardians through the care proceedings process, helping them avoid pitfalls and find the path to success. With our broad experience in children’s law, we provide clear, straightforward advice on what to expect and why. Our balanced, sensitive approach has helped many navigate complex issues like abuse, substance misuse, mental health challenges, and violence. We understand your situation and know how to secure the best possible outcome. Our solicitors will give you the guidance and confidence you need in family court.

What are care proceedings?

Care proceedings is a legal process in the Children Act 1989 that takes place when a Local Authority’s children’s social care department asks the Court to decide whether a child should be removed and/or where a child should live. The result of the process varies enormously, from the permanent removal of a child into public care and placement of a child for adoption to a child remaining with or returning to their parents or family with support and monitoring – and everything in between. 

The entire process is designed to take 26 weeks and can involve a number of hearings. During this time, you and your solicitor will need to collect and review evidence about the situation. In some cases, an interim care order may be put in place, which means the child will be put into care on a temporary basis until the final hearing. Many cases begin with an Interim Care Order application, and you will have opportunity to contest it. On many occasions, we have helped clients successfully defend themselves from an application to remove their children, meaning they can continue to parent whilst the proceedings are ongoing. 

We’ve taken family members and Children’s Guardians through the care proceedings process hundreds of times, and we can help you too.

Getting the best possible result

The Court will decide which order to make based on what is in a child’s best interests. To come to a decision, the Court will consider a number of factors listed in the Children Act’s “Welfare Checklist”. It’s our job to listen to you and help you put forward a strong case for the result you believe is best for your child and why. There are several pitfalls to avoid during Care Proceedings, and we will be by your side to guide you throughout.  

Outcomes from Care Proceedings are decided based on the child’s welfare, not just what the parent or child wants to happen. This is difficult for any parent to come to terms with, and it can be upsetting for children too, but our dedicated legal advice can help you understand your options for the future. Our responsibility as your solicitors is to help you persuade the Court that your proposal is the best outcome for the child. 

If you are a parent in care proceedings, you will need straight-talking but sensitive legal representation to protect your interests. Sometimes, this will involve challenging serious allegations made against you, and sometimes it is about telling (and more importantly showing) the Court that whilst you have made mistakes in the past, you are well on the way to fixing them. Often, it is both. Defending and promoting your position requires expert legal representation to make sure the right evidence, in terms of assessments, reports and statements, are put together and presented to the Court during hearings in the most persuasive way.

Even in circumstances where your child may not be able to safely return home, a solicitor is important in making sure you can maintain a meaningful relationship with your child. It is also our role to ensure the Court makes the order on a fair factual basis and does not take the Local Authority’s view at face value.  

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Acting for children’s guardians

Acting as Children’s Guardian for a child through the care proceedings process is a heavy responsibility. The solicitor you appoint should be somebody you can trust completely to help you to meet it. That is why you need an experienced solicitor who has dealt with the whole range of complex public family law litigation, to really get to the heart of the matter.

Experienced child care solicitors you can trust

We’ve guided many families, children, professional guardians and special guardians through care proceedings, discharging care orders and contact with children processes. Our extensive experience in this unique area of law means we can give you and the child clear guidance every step of the way. We’ve supported children and their Guardians through everything from sensitive and emotive chronic neglect cases, to complex multi-handed fact -finding cases that reach the High Court and beyond. Nothing phases us, and we’ll always be a sound legal adviser no matter the situation or how quickly you need us to represent the child.

Instructing us to represent the child means that both you, and the children whose interests you are tasked with promoting, will get an exceptional standard of legal advice and support. That is why we are always clear and straight-talking with our advice. We never talk in legal jargon and instead we explain things as often as needed. We’ll also be honest and practical, giving the child a realistic impression of how the next few weeks, months and even years could look. 

Our job is to help you get the best outcome for the child, and we do this by giving you the clarity you need to make recommendations that take everything facing a child into consideration. You will be supported in coming to conclusions the Court will respect, and you can have the confidence these will be communicated persuasively with the child firmly at the centre.

Separate representation

If a child disagrees with you, their Guardian, about where they should live or the way in which they have contact with their parents, we will make sure they are represented fairly. It is crucial they fully understand the implications of any decisions they make.

A solicitor’s role is to give them a clear picture of the future and the likely outcomes of their case, so they can think carefully about how they want to proceed. Our honesty-first approach means you can trust us to be crystal clear, but also wholly sensitive, with the child about their situation and how their decisions will affect them, so they can make well-informed, sensible decisions.

The whole range of litigation

Our solicitors represent parents, Guardians, family members and children in every conceivable public family law case, which gives us a rounded view of how each litigant thinks and what is likely to be in the mind of every party. This insight makes us reliable legal advisers to children themselves, and their Guardians, whether the application is care proceedings, applications to discharge a care order, or something else entirely. 

We have helped people in all kinds of circumstances many times. We understand where each party stands and will give you clear steps to follow to make sure the child’s wishes and welfare always come first.

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Adoption

There are ways to change the outcome of care proceedings, and we will help you make sense of your options, so you know exactly what you need to do.

Clear, practical guidance

When children’s services are considering putting your child forward for adoption, it is understandable to feel panicked. There is a chance you lose your relationship with your child altogether. However, we will work closely with you over the coming months to help you get the best possible outcome.

We’ve guided countless families through care and placement proceedings, which can involve applications for a child to be placed for adoption. Our job is to manage what is a stressful situation, and we do this by being honest and realistic so you can work towards building a better future.

We take a positive approach, focusing on realistic solutions, not false hope. We’ll work closely with you and be available to answer your questions whenever you need us.

What are birth parents’ rights?

Before a child is put forward for adoption, the court will want to check whether you, the birth parent, agrees to it. If you do not, then the Court will need to decide if the children’s welfare throughout their lives still requires them to be placed for adoption. The Court will use this basis to determine whether to make an order authorising the Local Authority to place a child for adoption, known as a Placement Order.

Most applications for a Placement Order take place when care proceedings are already going on. The process gives you the opportunity to try to prevent an adoption from happening, but it really helps to have adoption lawyers on your side to put forward the best case. By speaking to us early, our family law team can take you through the entire process. 

Legal aid to oppose the making of a placement order is available on a non-means and non-merits tested basis, whether or not the Placement Application is being made within Care Proceedings.

Stopping the adoption process

Once the Local Authority applies for a Placement Order, it is likely that you are already far along in care proceedings and that they have not gone well for your family. It is difficult, but not impossible, to persuade the Court to refuse the Placement Order application.

Even if the children cannot come home safely, the Court can be persuaded to make a different long-term decision (such as foster care, or care by a family member). If that happens, you may be able to get more contact to your children and the chance that one day they could return home if changes are made. 

Revoking (cancelling) a Placement Order

As long as your child is not placed for adoption already, if there has been a change in circumstances, parents can apply for the Court’s permission to revoke (cancel) the Placement Order. This prevents the Local Authority from trying to place your children for adoption. If a child is about to be placed, we can work extremely quickly to make your application before this happens.

Challenging a Final Adoption Application

In situations where a child has already been placed, and the prospective adopters have made their application for an Adoption Order, you will need the Court’s permission to oppose this application. Non-means and non-merits tested legal aid is available to seek the Court’s permission to challenge an adoption application and you should contact us for advice urgently if this is your situation.

Supporting you

These are always extremely difficult and emotional applications, where sensitivity and expertise is vital. There are circumstances when the Court will almost definitely come to a decision that goes against you. If this is the case for you, we can help you prepare for the outcome and understand your options.

Getting legal advice is essential, whatever your position in contested Adoption and Children Act proceedings, and you may be able to get legal aid to take care of the costs, often on a non-means-non-merits-tested basis. 

Adoption Law for adopters

If you are an adopter involved in a contested adoption case, whether that is a private arrangement or one through a Local Authority, you should contact us for support. The Local Authority may be able to fund some advice, if a birth parent has obtained the leave of the Court to oppose your application.  

Contact us

For all child care related matters please don’t hesitate to call Denise Herman on 01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk for help. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.

Child care

Our Child Care team is here to support you through these challenges, ensuring you can make informed decisions that safeguard your child’s future with confidence. Our team includes three dedicated solicitors including two who are accredited under the Law Society’s Children Law Accreditation scheme (“Children Panel”).

About us

Our Child Care team specialises in handling all types of “public law” children’s matters, no matter how complex and sensitive. We have extensive experience dealing with cases involving non accidental injury, fabricated or induced illness, domestic violence, abuse, coercive control, mental health issues, learning difficulties and issues related to substance abuse.

Where legal aid funding is available, our firm accepts instructions in categories of public family law applications which other firms often turn away, including applications to Discharge Care Orders, Revoke Placement Orders and for Contact with Children in Care.

Our team can represent you in matters such as:

  • Care proceedings
  • Acting for children’s guardians
  • Child protection
  • Emergency protection
  • Special guardianship
  • Contact with children in care
  • Discharge of care orders
  • Adoption and placement applications
  • Public law outline (pre-proceedings process)
  • Secure accommodation orders
  • Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DOLS)
  • Legal aid

We are dedicated to offering you and your family the comprehensive legal support you deserve.

How we will support you

Our Child Care team offer practical guidance on your legal rights and those of the children involved.

Whether you’re navigating care proceedings, responding to an emergency protection order, wanting to reunite with a child who is in care or looking to increase the contact you have with them – we prioritise understanding your unique circumstances.

Once we understand the full picture, we’ll outline your options and carefully guide you through the steps needed to achieve the best outcome for you and your child. If you are eligible, we can also help you apply for legal aid which is often available in proceedings involving Local Authorities. Many applications are non-means- and non-merits-tested.

As well as knowing everything there is to know about Child Care legal processes, we’re also known for our personable service. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from clients about their experience working with us. It’s testament to our hands-on approach and supportive nature. We’re only ever a phone call away and there is always someone to help, whether it is one of our solicitors or a barrister we work with closely.

Contact us

Call us today for advice from experienced child care lawyers. Get in touch with Denise Herman on  01628 567 759 or email childcare@blasermills.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in our contact form.