Blog

Can I rent out my leasehold flat?

The past few years have seen substantial growth in the number of people marketing their leasehold properties to be let on a short-term basis with...

New associates join Porter Dodson’s Employment Law Team

Porter Dodson has further strengthened its employment law offering with the appointment of two new associates into the Employment Law Team, Sarah...

Ranked in Chambers UK 2022

Porter Dodson, has been ranked once again in Chambers UK (2022).

Residential property tenancy notice period update

On 1 October 2021, the notice period required to be given to tenants occupying residential property in England under an assured shorthold tenancy...

Recommended in the Legal 500 UK 2022

Porter Dodson has once again been recommended in the Legal 500 UK.

Porter Dodson recognised for delivering an exemplary service to clients

Porter Dodson is delighted to be recognised in the Devon and Somerset Law Society (DASLS) Regional Awards 2020 for Corporate Social Responsibility...

New associate joins Porter Dodson Dispute Resolution Team

Porter Dodson has appointed a new associate to the Dispute Resolution Team. Helen Williams joins the firm with more than 15 years’ experience in...

Porter Dodson ranked in Chambers HNW 2021

Once again, Porter Dodson has been ranked in the global Chambers High Net Worth guide.

Leading lawyers promoted to Associates

Law firm Porter Dodson, based across Somerset & Dorset, has promoted two leading lawyers to the position of associate.

Taunton office raises funds for MIND in Somerset

We are very proud of our Charity of the Year programme and the support it receives from our staff. With 8 offices across Somerset and Dorset, we...

No-fault divorce to be implemented in 2022

The Government has announced the date for implementation of a radical overhaul of divorce procedure. The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act...

Sherborne Business Awards 2021

All of our teams are well known for the first-class service they provide to our clients.

Local firms support Dementia Friendly to help reconnect the elderly

We have all been affected by the pandemic, feeling a sense of isolation and loneliness at being cut off from family and friends, but this is...

New corporate partner at Porter Dodson

Law firm Porter Dodson, based across Somerset & Dorset, has appointed David Culshaw to the partnership.

Support for local animal sanctuary during pandemic

We are very proud of our Charity of the Year programme and the support it receives from our staff. With 8 offices across Somerset and Dorset, we...

Covid-19 vaccination and children

Not everyone shares the same views when it comes to vaccinations in general. Mistrust has led to many parents putting off or not vaccinating their...

Local solicitors pledge to make a difference

We would normally host Christmas drinks for all our offices in December. Like many others we have been unable to celebrate Christmas in our usual...

Ranked in Chambers UK 2021

Porter Dodson has again been ranked in leading legal directory Chambers UK.

Coronavirus Job Support Scheme (updated 6 November 2020)

Please note that the Job Support Scheme has been postponed in light of the extension to the Government's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

Recommended in the Legal 500 2021

Porter Dodson has been recommended in the Legal 500 UK's 2021 edition.

Wills witnessed by video link to be made legal

In a controversial announcement made by the Government on 25 July 2020, wills witnessed via video link are to be legalised temporarily. As...

Furlough and EMI share option holders

On 21 July 2020, HMRC published draft legislation proposing changes to the working time requirements for Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI)...

Porter Dodson recommended in Chambers HNW 2020

Porter Dodson has been ranked in the global Chambers High Net Worth guide once again.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme FAQs for unfurloughing employees (reviewed 9 November 2020)

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and unfurloughing employees. When deciding to...

Covid-19 and surrogacy arrangements

For many prospective parents planning or working through a surrogacy arrangement, the government-imposed restrictions due to the coronavirus...

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme FAQs for furloughing employees (updated 11 June 2020)

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and furloughing employees.

Covid-19 and corporate law

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about corporate law during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Covid-19 and commercial contracts

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about commercial contracts during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Covid-19 and buying or selling residential property

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about buying or selling residential property during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Power of attorney FAQs

We recommend that everyone has a power of attorney in place. It will ensure that your affairs can be managed in the event you do not have capacity...

Social distancing and the Family Courts

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about Family Court hearings during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Covid-19 and making or updating a will

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about making or updating a will during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Covid-19 and family breakdown

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about family breakdown during the Covid-19 outbreak.

Covid-19 and the pressure on families

We are certainly living through difficult and challenging times thanks to the Coronavirus. Whilst it is vital that we follow government guidelines...

Do I need a will?

No one is an any doubt that we are experiencing one of the most worrying and challenging times in a generation with the spread of the Coronavirus...

Child Arrangement Orders and Covid-19

In these uncertain times we are all facing daily dilemmas to what is necessary or essential. This can range from buying the extra packet of toilet...

Coronavirus action plan for managing your workforce

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past few weeks you can't fail to have noticed the rapidly escalating concerns surrounding the...

NHS continuing healthcare: a quick guide

A key role not always emphasised is the care of our elderly. Care funding, whether it is in the home or in a residential/nursing home...

What is S117 Mental Health Act 1983 aftercare funding?

Certain people who have been in hospital under the Mental Health Act 1983 (‘sectioned’) can get free aftercare when they leave hospital. Section...

Avoiding care home fees: What are the consequences?

If you, or a loved one, are struggling to manage at home, the thought of getting some kind of care can be stressful, not least because of the...

Parental alienation: What is it and what can I do about it?

What is parental alienation? Parental alienation involves the psychological manipulation of a child by one parent against the other, without any...

Care home top-up fees: Should you be paying them?

What is a care home top-up fee? If you are not eligible for NHS continuing healthcare but you have social care needs and are therefore eligible...

Do I have to sell my home to pay for care?

If you have been told that you need to move into a care home but you do not have a primary health need and are therefore not eligible for NHS...

What is NHS-funded nursing care?

NHS-funded nursing care (FNC) is care that is provided by a registered nurse for people who live in a care home and require it. The care home...

The NHS continuing healthcare assessment: What is the process?

The assessment for eligibility for continuing healthcare (CHC) funding is complex. Unfortunately, there are no strict or simple definitions of...

Once again ranked in leading legal directories

The firm and several of its lawyers have recently been ranked in independent legal guides, The Legal 500 UK and Chambers UK. The guides recommend...

Porter Dodson Great British Bike Off!

Sometimes a challenge can seem unattainable, but Porter Dodson’s riders were determined not to let this one beat them! Led by experienced rider, ...

Residential Property Partner recognised for National Award

We are delighted that newly appointed partner, Michelle Wilson, has been recognised by the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx)...

Guide to prenuptial agreements in England and Wales

Are you considering a prenuptial agreement? According to a recent survey*, if you’re under 25, the answer is yes. Of the 136 respondents aged...

The 'Tryhard Ten' Prepare for the 'Great Eight'

A bike repair masterclass took place last Wednesday for the 'tryhard ten' taking on the ‘great eight’ office cycle challenge on 5th September in...

Using a surrogate mother – do you both need legal advice?

Yes! With surrogacy in the UK becoming an increasingly mainstream way to build a family and more clinics than ever before treating surrogates and...

Peloton Perils

With the day of our ride fast approaching, many of us are trying to strike the balance between getting in plenty of last minute rides, but without...

Time for an update

Training seems to be going well to date. We have managed two big training rides, both around 80 miles, and team morale seems good. Time is ticking...

Porter Dodson shortlisted for prestigious legal awards

We are delighted to be shortlisted in the Medium Law Firm of the Year category at the Law Society’s prestigious Excellence Awards 2019, the...

When should I instruct my solicitor when buying or selling a house?

The earlier the better is the answer. Property sales and purchases are often fraught with unnecessary difficulties and delays, such as chains...

Introduction of no-fault divorce

The law is changing for divorcing couples. On 13th June 2019, the Justice Secretary, David Gauke, introduced the Divorce, Dissolution and...

Porter Dodson recommended in Chambers HNW 2019

Porter Dodson has been ranked in the global Chambers High Net Worth Guide for a consecutive year.

Parental orders after surrogacy for single parents

If you are a single parent through surrogacy or considering pursuing this route, you may be wondering whether a parental order is available, or in...

Midsummer Garden Party

Having been invited to attend our Garden Party to promote our bike ride which is taking place in September in aid of the RNLI, I was slightly...

Money raised for Yeovil Freewheelers

Porter Dodson's Yeovil office has presented their charity of the year 2018-19, Yeovil Freewheelers, with a cheque.

Porter Dodson recognised again as an Investor In People

Porter Dodson is delighted to have retained the Investors in People Gold standard accreditation after being assessed against the new framework,...

Porter Dodson shortlisted for National Award

Porter Dodson is delighted to be shortlisted in the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) National Awards 2019 for the Law Firm of the...

September is only three months away: our second training ride

Kate, Robyn, Scott, Barnaby, Rob Titcombe and I converged on the village of Yetminster south of Yeovil and Sherborne for a second ride out this...

The highs and lows of our first training ride together

Our first joint training ride started well with a bright sunny morning. The team assembled and was ready to go at the appointed time. There were...

Why I am riding to raise funds for the RNLI

I feel the 5th September is creeping closer now and negative thoughts are starting to sink in. So was I absolutely crazy to sign up to the Porter...

Money raised for Somerset Sight

Local charity, Somerset Sight, has been presented with a cheque by Porter Dodson's Taunton office.

Yeovil Young Professionals with Fordington Gin

Last night our young professionals hosted their second Yeovil Young Professionals (YYP) event, this time held in our offices at Telford House.

DASLS Awards 2019

Last November, the firm entered the Devon & Somerset Law Society Awards (DASLS). We put forward five individuals, one team and two firm-wide...

FAB (Dorset) with Fordington Gin & Baboo Gelato

Last week we were delighted to relaunch our FAB (Dorset) forum at the Shire Hall in Dorchester. Local businesses, with an emphasis on those in the...

A Blustery Day at Wincanton Races

We were joined at Wincanton last week by clients and professional contacts for a day at the races. Despite placing an order for good weather, the...

Wine Tasting at Dorset Wine Company

Porter Dodson and Milsted Langdon were delighted to co-host a wine tasting evening at Dorset Wine Company in Poundbury on Wednesday 6th March.

St Margaret's Hospice Fundraising Quiz

Porter Dodson was delighted to welcome local businesses to a fundraising night for St Margaret's Hospice at Lanes Hotel on Thursday evening.

Unfair dismissal: an employer's quick guide

When it comes to employment-related disputes, most employers immediately think about unfair dismissal. Thanks to the abolition of fees in July...

YRBF: Black Cow Vodka

Porter Dodson, Symonds & Sampson, Handelsbanken and Albert Goodman set up the Young Rural Business Forum (YRBF) to support young people working in...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Baboo Gelato

We've only just started working with Baboo Gelato, so the relationship is still in it's infancy. It happened by accident really. We publicised our...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Langham Wine

We've been working with Justin and his team at Langham since 2014. Each year, we buy their wine, specially branded with our logo, for gifts to...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Ford Farm

It was absolutely brilliant meeting Martin Crabb from Ford Farm. From having a tour of the factory to seeing their fantastic onsite cave which was...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Piddle Brewery

Based in Piddlehinton, Piddle Brewery produces a selection of bottled and cask beers and also some ciders. Look out for them at various events in...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Palmers Brewery and Wine Shop

Located just down the road from our office, touring this bastion of Bridport life should be on everyone’s bucket list. Why not enjoy one of their...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Fordington Gin

We're currently working with Fordington Gin to host a tasting evening at the Shire Hall in Dorchester with Baboo Gelato. This is part of our FAB...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Dorset Blue Vinny

What could be better than to make history bringing Thomas Hardy's favourite cheese back to life? That's exactly what the Davies family did,...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Dorset Shellfish

Dorset Shellfish is a family run business based in Portland and owned by Caroline Dever. Whilst husband Graham and son Karl are out on their...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Bayside Bakery

We first met Katy from the Bayside Bakery at the Honiton Show in 2017 and were taken by her Bayside Blondie brownies. Since then, we've regularly...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Capreolus Fine Foods

We went to visit the wonderful Capreolus Fine Foods and were fortunate enough to be given a tour of the premises by Karen herself. Seeing all of...

#LoveDorset - An interview with Dorset Market Kitchen

We've been working with Dorset Market Kitchen (DMK) since early 2016. They have catered for our private party at The Melplash Show, a Partners'...

Family law: What is Resolution?

Resolution is a group of family lawyers, and other professionals, that promotes a non-confrontational approach to resolving family disputes....

Whistleblowing: an employer's quick guide

Most people have heard of whistleblowing and associate it with sectors such as the NHS or care industry. However, the legislation applies to all...

Financial proceedings during divorce

When couples divorce, if they are unable to agree on how their assets should be split, the Court can be asked to determine how their resources...

What is the difference between annulment and divorce?

There are two ways to bring an end to a marriage – annulment or divorce. While a divorce legally ends a marriage, an annulment declares the...

Recommended in Chambers UK 2019

Porter Dodson has once again been ranked in Chambers UK, a leading legal directory.

Paying for care: When should I not be paying care fees?

If you, or a loved one, are struggling to manage at home, the thought of getting some kind of care can be stressful, not least because of the...

Legal 500 2019 recognition

Porter Dodson has been recommended in the leading industry guide Legal 500 UK (2018-19).

Ant’s not so quickie divorce

Recent press reports suggest that Ant McPartlin and his estranged wife, Lisa Armstrong, were granted a divorce, “in (just) 30 seconds”. In fact,...

How quickly can I get a divorce?

How often have you read in the news about celebrities and footballers achieving a “quickie divorce”? In fact, there is no such thing – not even...

World Mental Health Day – 10th October 2018

The World Mental Health Organisation has designated 10th October each year as a day to raise awareness for mental health and for people/businesses...

What is collaborative law?

Collaborative law is an alternative way of dealing with divorce, children issues and the resolution of financial matters following the breakdown...

Can siblings reduce Inheritance Tax?

The position of siblings under UK Inheritance Tax (IHT) law received further media coverage last week, prompted by the Utley sisters and also by a...

What is unreasonable behaviour in divorce?

In order to obtain a divorce, you must prove that your marriage has irretrievably broken down. You must rely on one of five facts, one of which is...

The myth of common law marriage

Cohabiting couples are the fastest growing family type in the UK, with approximately 3.3 million in 2016. Unmarried partners often assume they...

Sexual harassment in the workplace: an employer's quick guide

Not a day goes by at the moment without sexual harassment claims being splashed across the media. You might think that this is a problem reserved...

No, you still can’t have a divorce, Mrs Owens

To the frustration of many family lawyers, who strive to help clients end unhappy marriages with as little blood on the walls as possible, the...

Porter Dodson recommended in Chambers HNW 2018

Porter Dodson has once again been ranked in the global Chambers High Net Worth guide.

A guide to the divorce process

Your marriage has broken down. You’re already going through an incredibly emotional and difficult time. On top of that you now also need to...

Corporate commercial associate appointment

Porter Dodson has strengthened its Corporate Commercial offering with the appointment of David Culshaw. He joins as an Associate Solicitor,...

Mental health in the workplace: an employer's quick guide

Let’s be frank, talking about mental health is an awkward process. Awkward for the sufferer and awkward for the listener. Take by way of...

Personal Representative: Will I be personally liable?

It is likely that at some point either you, a family member or a friend will be appointed to act as a Personal Representative of an estate.

Money raised for League of Friends Musgrove Park

Local charity, League of Friends Musgrove Park, has been presented with a cheque by Porter Dodson.

GDPR: Who is the data controller, who is the data processor and what is the lawful basis?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on 25 May 2018. The new regulations place new and greater responsibilities on data...

Stress in the workplace - as an employer, what can you do about it?

An estimated 57% of all working days lost to ill-health are due to stress, depression or anxiety *. Stress is the most common cause of long-term...

Senior Judge warns divorced couples they aren’t actually divorced

Senior family Judge, Sir James Munby, has today issued a warning that staff at the so-called divorce centres have made a number of errors in...

Is DIY divorce worth the risk?

With divorce rates increasing each year and the enticement of cheap, online do-it-yourself divorce services, it's no wonder that more people are...

Commercial surrogacy vs altruistic surrogacy – what is the difference?

Commercial surrogacy is widely thought of as the preserve of the rich and famous. But what makes a surrogacy arrangement commercial rather than...

Sawing the dog in half: How to deal with pets during a divorce

When it comes to deciding who keeps what following a divorce, some personal belongings, often termed as ‘chattels’, are more emotive than others....

How do I obtain a copy of my deeds for my property?

‘Deeds’, as most people remember, is a large parcel of old documents, such as conveyances. These show how the property has passed between each...

New family partner at Porter Dodson

Porter Dodson has appointed a new partner to its family team. Cathryn Smith joined the firm in 2015 and works in the Yeovil office with some 75...

Can my ex-wife get my pension?

With the introduction of workplace pensions, pension benefits are fast becoming one of the most valuable assets that will need to be taken into...

Which countries allow surrogacy? A guide to surrogacy options globally for UK parents

When considering surrogacy, one of the first questions you may stumble on is where to pursue an arrangement. Online search engines provide a...

GDPR, a benefit for consumers; a headache for small businesses

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on 25 May 2018. GDPR compliance captures all manner of personal data processed by...

If you haven’t got something nice to say: 7 rules for communicating with your spouse during a divorce

It is well-known that divorce can bring out the worst in people. Relationships that were once happy can turn into bitter feuds about who should...

What is a common law marriage?

Common law marriage is fake news A ‘common law marriage’ does not exist. It is a myth, a figment of the imagination, a fiction, a nonsense: it...

What is a clean break order in divorce?

The divorce process is stressful enough. Whilst getting a Decree Absolute legally ends a marriage, many do not realise that obtaining a divorce...

Nisi to see you, to see you Nisi: applying for a Decree Nisi

If you are considering getting a divorce, you may have heard the Latin phrases Decree Nisi and Decree Absolute being used by friends, family or...

Mediation vs collaborative law

Although both mediation and collaboration are alternative methods of resolving issues between divorcing and separating couples, they differ...

Employers urged to use surveillance with caution

Frustrating, isn’t it? As an employer, you naturally expect to be able to control things within the workplace but then some clever legal judgment...

Diversity in the workplace – are developments at the FA a game changer?

Football, they say, is a game of two halves. However, the concern has been that when it comes to recruitment, FA recruitment policy has been...

What are the grounds for divorce?

Under the law of England and Wales, a divorce cannot be applied for until a couple has been married for one year. There is one ground for divorce,...

Apprentices & Employment Law: Understanding their legal status

Apprenticeships are like the ‘little black dress’ of the employment world; they never go out of fashion. Indeed, the Government is keen to create...

Adoption vs Surrogacy – what do they entail?

There are now many options outside traditional family-building for those who need or wish to pursue another route.

Self-employed worker can claim 13 years of unpaid holiday pay

The European Court decided that a self-employed window salesman, who successfully claimed worker status, was entitled to claim unpaid holiday pay...

Always use professionals when choosing a Power of Attorney

Elderly Theft: Robbing the Relatives, which was broadcast on ITV1 on Thursday 30th November, certainly sets out in no uncertain terms the...

Fired after using a crisp packet to block PDA

As an employer, you may sometimes despair at the antics of your staff. If so, perhaps spare a thought for an Australian employer who was left with...

Do you need a Change of Name Deed following divorce?

You may think that once you are divorced, your surname will revert to your maiden name or whatever surname you used before your marriage.

GDPR - Some of the most significant developments to be aware of

Following on from part one of our GDPR update - GDPR – What does it mean and is your business compliant? - below are some of the most significant...

Stamp Duty Relief for first-time buyers

At last, we have had some long-awaited good news from the budget for the housing market.

Sexual harassment complaints and whistleblowing

The resignation of Michael Fallon last week from the role of Defence Secretary was notable in being the first resignation from a senior government...

Wills & surrogacy – how do they fit together?

It is widely acknowledged that Wills are one of the most important documents to arrange during your lifetime. They formally record your post-death...

GDPR - What does it mean and is your business compliant?

On 25th May 2018, a little over six months away, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will come into force, replacing the Data Protection...

National Fertility Awareness week 2017

This week marks annual fertility awareness week in the UK. It aims to change perceptions of fertility issues, raise funds to support the 1 in 6...

Recommended in Chambers UK 2018

Porter Dodson has once again been ranked in legal directory Chambers UK.

Are your employees too busy to take a break?

Most employees who work for more than 6 hours are entitled to a rest break of 20 minutes, but what if your employees are too busy to take their...

Somerset Business Awards 2017 Sponsor

Porter Dodson was proud to sponsor the Technology & Innovation Award at the recent Somerset Business Awards 2017.

Pension Sharing Orders in divorce

Results from a recent survey by The Office for National Statistics identify that the number of couples divorcing has risen for the first time in 7...

ACAS releases new guidance on mental health in the workplace

The Government’s Department of Health advises that one in four of us will experience mental ill health at some point in our lives.

Co-parenting by choice – what is it and what do you need to consider?

When faced with the term ‘co-parenting’ many people, understandably, think of divorced or separated parents who are sharing the care of their...

Grieving parents to be given two weeks' statutory paid leave

Under measures announced by the Government today, all parents in full-time and part-time employment would be entitled to two weeks' bereavement...

Recommended again in the Legal 500

Porter Dodson has been recommended in the latest edition of the Legal 500 UK (2017).

Who said tax doesn't need to be taxing

The new corporate offences of failing to prevent the facilitation of UK and non-UK tax evasion create potential liability on employers for their...

Estranged daughter awarded money in Wills dispute

An estranged adult child who, along with her siblings, had been disinherited from benefitting from her late father’s estate worth in the region of...

Porter Dodson recommended in Chambers HNW 2017

We are delighted to have been ranked in the global Chambers High Net Worth guide.

Snooping on your employees - did it just get more difficult?

A recent case in the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has been big news in the past week and heralded by some as a victory for the employee...

Sellers beware...

When you come to sell your property so much happens very quickly, especially if you are lucky enough to find a buyer promptly.

Are you right to suspend your employee?

The odds are you’ve reserved the right to suspend employees accused of misconduct whilst you investigate the allegations against them, either...

Will reform proposals: from paper to electronic?

It may come as a surprise but the laws governing Wills date back to 1837. In the last 150 or so years, there have been many changes within...

As an employer, whose actions are you responsible for, anyway?

Life is complicated enough for employers. Any sensible business worries about its staff, its duty of care to staff and its compliance with a long...

Is having a Power of Attorney a risk?

A retired senior judge, Mr Lush, has commented today warning about the risks of Powers of Attorney. Whilst his warnings are valid, the concern is...

Will discrimination compensation increase?

Employment Tribunals are currently consulting over increasing compensation for discrimination claims.

Cheque presented to the Rosie Crane Trust

Employees at the Taunton office held regular fundraising events and activities, such as dress down days, bake sales and Office Olympics, to raise...

Employment Tribunal fees found to be unlawful

The Supreme Court has confirmed that Employment Tribunal and Employment Appeal Tribunal fees are unlawful and will be quashed.

Court of Appeal provides clarity on ‘public interest’ whistleblowing cases

The recent case of Chesterton Global Limited -v- Nurmohamed 2017 has allowed for the first time the Court of Appeal to consider what it means for...

Moles Brewery sold to South West drinks company

Founders of the well-known South West based Moles Brewery, Black Rat and West Country Gold Cider brands have recently sold the company to...

Too much social media usage on holiday could ruin your relationship

A recent report* highlighted that too much time spent checking social media whilst on holiday could result in arguments and even complete...

Latest update from Stephen Mahoney – Vice President of DASLS

Since Stephen Mahoney, Partner at Porter Dodson, took over as Vice President of the Dorset and Somerset Law Society (DASLS), his involvement has...

Charlie Gard's parents lose their final ECHR appeal

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) yesterday refused to intervene in the case of terminally ill baby Charlie Gard.

Father directly discriminated against by employer's shared parental pay policy

You may have heard about the recent case of Ali v Capita Customer Management Limited - a case which found that a new father had been directly...

Surrogacy - keeping it in the family

As surrogacy continues to grow into a mainstream pathway to parenthood, more intended parents are looking to family members or close friends to...

Law Society President visits the Taunton office

On Monday, members of our Taunton office had the opportunity to meet with the President of the Law Society, Robert Bourns, to discuss issues...

Three month gap will break series of deductions in holiday pay claims

In the long-running case of Fulton & anor v Bear Scotland Ltd, the Employment Appeal Tribunal has confirmed that in claims involving ongoing...

A cautionary tale when sending an email

It’s not uncommon. You’re busy and trying to multi-task and accidentally hit ‘reply all’ or ‘forward’ when you shouldn’t. Before you know it, your...

Psychometric test used in recruitment process found to be discriminatory

The recent case of The Government Legal Services (GLS) v Brookes has highlighted the need for employers to exercise caution when using selection...

Money raised for Mosaic by Dorchester office

Dorset charity, Mosaic, has been presented with a cheque by Porter Dodson.

Is surrogacy legal in the UK?

One of the biggest surrogacy myths is that it is illegal in the UK to pay a surrogate mother. However, surrogacy has been a viable family-building...

Partner elected as DASLS Vice President

Stephen Mahoney, Partner and Wellington Office Head, has recently been elected Devon and Somerset Law Society's (DASLS) Vice President.

Porter Dodson is supporting local charity, St Margaret’s Hospice

With the new regulations surrounding communications coming into force in May 2018, St Margaret’s Hospice is asking their supporters to complete a...

Supreme Court rules in favour of animal charities in will dispute

In March 2017 the Supreme Court’s ruling in Ilott v The Blue Cross and others (previously known as Ilott v Mitson) was handed down. Despite a...

Inheritance tax – will your family qualify?

Next month (April 2017) sees the introduction of a new inheritance tax allowance that is going to significantly improve the tax position of many...

Do you need a donor agreement?

If you are hoping to enter into a donor arrangement, either with someone you know well or someone you have met solely to conceive a child,...

Attempt to stop spousal maintenance payments defeated

A lawyer ex-husband sought permission to appeal an Order that he continue to pay maintenance to his former wife but permission was refused.

Property fraud: what precautions can you take?

Over the years there have been several cases whereby unscrupulous people have sold or tried to sell properties that are not owned by them.

Please Sir, can I get divorced?

The widely reported case of Tini Owens (66), who is seeking to overturn a decision by Judge Robin Tolson to reject her request for a divorce from...

Desperately seeking surrogacy

Safe and tested surrogacy destinations are becoming fewer and the associated costs as diverse as their geographical proximity.

Inappropriate final written warning can be dangerous to rely upon when looking to dismiss

The recent case of Bandara v British Broadcasting Corporation (2016) highlights the need to think carefully when issuing disciplinary sanctions,...

Chaos at court

A recent report of a hearing in the Appeal Court is a timely reminder that when people divorce, a judge is entitled to take account of all of the...

Recent plumber case puts spanner in the works

The case of a Pimlico plumber who has questioned his precise employment status examines the entitlement of individuals working in an increasingly...

What rights does a surrogate mother have?

If you are considering pursuing a surrogacy arrangement, either in the UK or overseas, one of your first concerns is likely to be what legal...

Deal or no deal

A Judgement of the Court of Appeal is a timely reminder that people who divorce should conclude their financial arrangements, or run the risk of...

Presumption of contact with child after parental separation

A recent hearing before High Court Judge Peter Jackson flagged up the often very difficult decisions the Family Court is forced to make when...

Can you now rely on expired warnings when dismissing employees?

The recent case of Stratford v Auto Trail VR Limited suggests that in some circumstances, you can.

Porter Dodson raise money for Yeovil Hospital Charity

Yeovil charity, Yeovil Hospital Charity, has been presented with a cheque by Porter Dodson.

Ministry of Justice pickle over pensions is a lesson to all employers

Nothing sparks more debate than when the Ministry of Justice falls foul of the law over which it presides.

All I want for Christmas is… a family?

As the festive season surrounds us, it is an opportune time to step back and reflect not only on the last year but also on our hopes for the...

Employer: you may be liable for the improper actions of staff at the work Christmas party

A recent case acts as a timely reminder to employers that they may be held responsible for the improper behaviour of their staff at work social...

Delay in making financial application

Following the case of the wind farm millionaire, Wyatt-v-Vince, where the wife successfully obtained a lump sum payment many years after the...

Porter Dodson move to Telford House

Porter Dodson has moved to new offices in Yeovil, located at Telford House, The Park, which is in a prominent position overlooking the Hospital...

Shortlisted for the 2017 DASLS Law Firm of the Year, and Innovation Awards

Porter Dodson is delighted to have been shortlisted for the 2017 Devon & Somerset Law Society Law Firm (11+ Partners) of the Year, and Innovation...

Porter Dodson recommended in Chambers UK 2017

Porter Dodson, has once again been ranked in Chambers UK.

Family breakdown over a property dispute

The legal principles surrounding property ownership can be complicated and promises made can be binding.

National Fertility Awareness Week 2016

31 October – 6 November marks the UK’s annual fertility awareness week, which seeks to promote awareness of the 1 in 6 couples who struggle to...

Be Uber careful if you are an employer

In October 2015, several drivers submitted claims against taxi company, Uber, claiming that they are workers and should, therefore, be entitled to...

Just one point away!

Having signed up for the Moonraker Challenge, committed ourselves to seven miles and taken our compass reading lessons, we set out one sunny...

Can my step-dad adopt me? A guide to step-parent adoption

Thousands of children and young people in the UK are raised by an adult who is not their biological parent. In some circumstances, this may be the...

On the right track?

The Porter Dodson Moonraker team met yesterday with our very own Bear Grylls, Phil Stocker.

Networking with a Difference

As a Firm, we support many local projects and networking events around Somerset and Dorset. Our most recent endeavour was a networking bike ride...

Can anyone use a compass?

So there we all were, sat quite happily at our desks one September afternoon, minding our business, when a very innocent looking email arrived...

Is it ever too late to apply for a parental order?

If you pursue surrogacy, whether in the UK or abroad, it is vital that you obtain a parental order. This is the bespoke legal ‘solution’ for...

Recognition in the Legal 500 once again

Porter Dodson has been recommended in the leading industry guide, Legal 500 UK (2016), once again.

Bringing home baby - how long does it take to travel home with your child after surrogacy overseas?

If you are considering pursuing an international surrogacy arrangement, one of the first questions on your mind is likely to be how long it will...

Family successfully challenged validity of will

In August 2016, a family won their legal battle to overturn their brother’s will after it was found that the deceased, David Poole, did not know...

When is the right time to divorce?

If you are considering getting divorced, you are likely to have many questions about the process. One of the key questions asked is ‘when is best...

Increase in inheritance disputes

Inheritance disputes are never far from the headlines with more people realising that they may (in certain circumstances) be able to bring a claim...

The HR implications of the Leave vote

Following the landmark result of the referendum, interested parties may be inclined to capitalise or speculate on what comes next, but the...

Taunton office raises £822.18 for St Margaret’s Hospice

Somerset charity, St Margaret’s Hospice, has been presented with a cheque by Lesley Gaskell, Partner at Porter Dodson.

Competitive edge or criminal act?

Employees who take customer or client information when they leave their job might want to reconsider their actions following a recent warning from...

Wind farm millionaire: case settles

Despite declaring a decision by the Supreme Court to allow his ex-wife to pursue a financial claim against him twenty years after they divorced,...

Is surrogacy possible for single people?

For many years there has been understandable confusion surrounding whether single prospective parents can pursue surrogacy in order to create...

Porter Dodson recognised as an Investor in People

Porter Dodson has been awarded the Investors in People Gold standard, joining the top 7% of accredited organisations across the UK who believe in...

Euro 2016 & Rio Olympics: How to avoid an own goal and achieve gold at work!

Our television screens will soon be ablaze with some of the biggest events of the sporting calendar – the 2016 UEFA football European...

Cycling… The Coast 2 Coast Event

It has been around two weeks since the cycle ride took place. The “never again” that followed immediately after the event and for the few days...

Change to planning guidance on affordable housing contributions

The provision of affordable housing has been a hot topic both in the media and Government for many years. Local Planning Authorities seek to...

Cycling... Go On! Give it a Go!

Well, a week has now passed since the Porter Dodson Pedalers completed the DSAA C2C cycle challenge. Firstly, I have to say that parading past my...

Time to spring clean your contracts and handbooks?

When advising our clients about various disciplinary and performance issues, one of our first queries is likely to be about the employee’s terms...

Cycling… The set backs

Well I had good intentions, I did the training on the turbo (see last blog post on 17th March) and I even managed to go out and about on some...

No romance without finance

The rather sad tale of equestrian lover Kristin Liden is a timely reminder of the precarious position of the so-called common law wife.

Porter Dodson ranked 7th for economic growth

The Lawyer magazine reported last week that across a spread of financial measures, Porter Dodson showed the 7th best growth performance of the Top...

The lion’s share; fair?

Jane Morris gave up her career after she and her husband decided that she should stay at home and care for their three children. Her husband,...

Judicial Separation vs Separation Agreement

Following on from our previous blog piece regarding the difference between Divorce and Judicial Separation, here we explain how to achieve a Legal...

How to get a parental order in the UK

A parental order is the bespoke legal remedy for families who have pursued surrogacy in order to have a child. Due to our outdated laws in the UK,...

The National Living Wage: are you ready?

From 1 April 2016, workers aged 25 and over are entitled to the National Living Wage, currently set at £7.20 per hour. It is, in effect, a new...

What is UK law on surrogacy?

If you’re expecting a baby with the help of a surrogate based abroad you may be wondering what impact English law has on your arrangement and if...

Cycling… Getting out there

You’d think it would be easy to start training once you’ve got the bike. But then it rains, or it’s frosty, or it’s dark.

National LGBT Adoption and Fostering Week, 7-13 March 2016

This week marks the national Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Adoption and Fostering Week, raising awareness in the LGBT community that...

Maternity and paternity rights after surrogacy

For many years, those who had a child through surrogacy were not afforded the same entitlement to paid time off work as those who had children...

Why not just let the judge decide?

In just about every collaborative case handled, and the same is true for mediated cases, there comes a point where one or other of the parties, or...

Cycling… The Bike

It took at least a week before the enormity of the event and the challenges it would bring really sunk in. In my naivety I assumed I would be able...

A costly reminder to make sure your affairs are in order

In February 2016, a woman won her legal battle to stop her partner’s share in their property passing to his estranged wife, but the matter did not...

Sperm donation – the risks and benefits

For thousands of prospective parents every year, conceiving with donor sperm is a very real prospect. As one of the oldest alternative family...

Starbucks loses disability discrimination case: a reminder for employers to be vigilant

The Employment Tribunal has ruled that an employee at Starbucks was discriminated against on the ground of disability as a result of dyslexia....

Joy's upcoming adventure to darkest Peru!

In May of this year, Joy Woollerton, one of our Residential Property legal advisors, will be trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to raise...

Cycling… Remind me, why did I agree to that?

Signing up for the event... Having joined the Firm last year, I’ve only recently learned of the Dorset and Somerset Coast 2 Coast (C2C) cycling...

Yeovil office raises £900 for St Margaret's Hospice

Somerset charity, St Margaret’s Hospice, has been presented with a cheque by Robert Fox, Managing Partner and Yeovil Office Head.

Planning ahead with a Lasting Power of Attorney

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) are becoming more popular as people plan ahead for a time when they may like or need assistance with their...

Challenge against legal ban on heterosexual civil partnerships

The Royal Courts of Justice is set to hear a challenge against the legal ban on heterosexual couples entering into civil partnerships today, 19th...

I spy... Employees private messages at work can be monitored by employers

Judges from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) have ruled that employers can read workers’ private messages sent via chat software and...

Stamp Duty Land Tax changes for second home buyers

It was announced in the Autumn budget last year that an additional Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) charge of 3% on the entire purchase price would be...

Marriage law is outdated and in need of reform according to the Law Commission

The Law Commission, which advises the government on reform, has carried out a scoping review of marriage law and concluded that it is outdated,...

Shortlisted for the 2016 DASLS Law Firm of the Year Award

Porter Dodson is delighted to have been shortlisted for the 2016 Devon & Somerset Law Society Law Firm (11+ Partners) of the Year Award category.

National fertility awareness week, 2-8 November 2015

This week marks National fertility awareness week, highlighting the one in six couples who suffer with infertility in their quest to have a family.

High Court ruling to review child maintenance payments

A well-known football player, in his mid 30s, has won a High Court ruling for a review of the child maintenance payments he had been ordered to...

Taunton office raises £1200 for The Conquest Centre

Somerset charity, The Conquest Centre, has been presented with a cheque for a significant sum of money by Lesley Gaskell, Partner in the Taunton...

Porter Dodson ranked in Chambers UK

Porter Dodson has been ranked in the 2016 edition of Chambers UK once again.

Surrogacy options for gay couples – which destinations are open and what you need to do

Due to the lack of global surrogacy regulation, destinations offering surrogacy services come and go. Thailand, for example, was a popular...

What is working time?

It is becoming increasingly common for employees not to have a fixed place of work. Many sales agents and home-based workers spend their time on...

How to bring your child back to the UK after an international surrogacy arrangement

If you are expecting a child with the help of a surrogate overseas, your first concern, once your baby has been discharged from hospital, will be...

Using a donor to conceive with your same sex partner – who are the parents and what can you do to protect yourselves?

There are now many options for starting a family within a same sex relationship. A popular choice for many lesbian couples is to conceive with a...

Honesty really is the best policy

The Supreme Court has today handed down two important Judgments. These send a clear message to all those involved in settling their financial...

Porter Dodson takes on the Commando Challenge

On 10th October 2015, a team of solicitors, managers, legal advisors and support staff from the firm completed the Commando Challenge in aid of...

Employment law changes - 1st October 2015

Numerous employment law changes came into force today as a result of the Deregulation Act 2015. Key changes include:

Porter Dodson recommended in the Legal 500 again

Porter Dodson, has once again been recommended in the recent edition of leading industry publication, Legal 500 (2015).

Sickness absence doesn't have to be a problem for employers

The average manager spends 20 working days each year dealing with absence issues; that’s one month out of twelve or just over 8% of working time....

What are the legal issues surrounding donor sperm?

News hit the press last week of the national sperm bank’s first birthday. Amongst reports was the revelation that the bank had only recruited nine...

Austen Whetham & Guest joins Porter Dodson

Porter Dodson, a UK Top 200 law firm, has today merged with the highly regarded local solicitors, Austen Whetham & Guest of South Street, Bridport.

The Consumer Ombudsman: A knight in shining armour, or a delay to legal recourse?

Most of us can say that at some point we’ve had a complaint about goods or services, relating to things such as retail companies, home improvement...

3.5 million people in the UK affected by infertility

The NHS has widely publicised statistics that show 1 in 7 couples suffer from some degree of infertility in their lives. As such a widespread...

Fired over a Facebook faux pas...

In the recent case of The British Waterways Board v Smith, the Employment Appeal Tribunal found that Mr Smith was fairly dismissed because of...

Are changes to the tax status of settlement payments on the way?

The Government is consulting on the tax treatment of payments made to employees upon termination of their employment.

Divorce in later life

A recent census by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that 9% of people in the over 65 age bracket had divorced by 2011. Ten years...

Cycling from London to Paris

Our Business Excellence Manager, Phil Stocker, is spending the next few days cycling the long journey from London to Paris to raise funds for...

Summer budget 2015: an outline of the new Inheritance Tax relief for family homes

On Wednesday, the Chancellor George Osborne announced in the summer budget that a special Inheritance Tax relief for family homes will be...

Holiday pay calculations and the inclusion of voluntary overtime

In addition to the current legislation regarding the calculation of holiday pay, there have been a number of recent court judgments on the topic.

Mother on the run

A Judge in the West Country has taken the unusual step of asking for help from the Press to trace a Somerset mother, who has gone on the run with...

Exclusivity clauses in zero-hours contracts banned from today

Employers who do not guarantee staff any hours of work and prevent them from working for another employer will no longer be able to enforce such...

On your bike!

Our Business Excellence Manager, Phil Stocker, and Taunton office head, Stephen Wray, joined nearly 600 other cyclists on Sunday 17 May 2015 for...

Gay beliefs v religious beliefs: gay cake row judgment

Today, a judge in Northern Ireland has handed down an eagerly awaited judgment in relation to a row over a message supporting gay marriage to be...

Overtime & holiday pay – beware but no need to panic!

Over the last couple of weeks, we have fielded numerous calls and emails from worried business owners in respect of the emerging position over...

Break failure

Commercial lease break clauses continue to be a rich source of dispute and a challenging economic climate makes it easy to understand why. For...

Increase to National Minimum Wage – 1 October 2015

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is the minimum hourly rate of pay that the majority of workers should be paid.

Changes in the uses of deeds of variation

The Chancellor announced during the recent Budget that the government will review the uses of deeds of variation as these can currently be used to...

New Commercial Partner appointment at the Yeovil office

Porter Dodson has further strengthened its Commercial services offering with the appointment of Victoria Walker. She joins as Partner in the...

Update on delayed financial relief claim

Further to our earlier post on a former wife making financial claims years after divorcing her ex, five Supreme Court Justices have ruled that the...

Maintenance – not a meal ticket

The press have widely reported the case of Wright, where a divorced wife was told by the court to get a job and not to expect her former husband,...

Making provisions in your Will for family heirlooms

Last summer we were fortunate enough to see a wonderful array of family heirlooms when we hosted an antique valuation afternoon tea at Crowcombe...

New to business?

Coming up with an idea is only just the start for those venturing into new business. Turning that idea into trading reality involves time, energy,...

Convicted after cutting down clematis

Spring will soon be upon us and the green fingered amongst us will be looking forward to getting into the garden to carry out some long awaited...

Avoid the Christmas credit hangover

This time of year is particularly tough for businesses. A number of factors, including the inertia caused by the festive shutdown, can lead to a...

Whither now?

This time last year I commented that the changes in lending rules in the Spring were likely to lead to a flurry of activity before the changes...

Former wife making financial claims years after divorcing her ex

The Supreme Court is dealing with an appeal that could have far reaching consequences for people who divorced decades ago but did not deal with...

European court rules that obesity can constitute a disability

The European Court of Justice (the ECJ) has ruled in the case of Kaltoft v Municipality of Billund (Case C-354/13) that obesity can constitute a...

Back-dated holiday pay claims limited to 2 years

We recently commented on the UK Employment Appeal Tribunal case of Bear Scotland v Fulton (“the EAT case”) which ruled that holiday pay should...

The new Shared Parental Leave Regulations

The Shared Parental Leave Regulations (“SPL Regulations”) provide parents with a new legal right that will allow them to share caring...

Stamp Duty Land Tax changes - how might that affect you?

The Chancellor’s announcement on Stamp Duty Land Tax levels is a positive and welcome move. I welcome the very short notice which meant that...

Is your business prepared for winter workplace problems?

[This post was last updated in December 2017]

Porter Dodson ranked in Chambers UK 2015

Following on from their recent recommendation in the Legal 500, Porter Dodson’s position as one of the leading law firms in the South West has...

Breaking News – Holiday pay ruling may open the floodgates for backdated holiday pay claims against businesses

Today’s ruling in the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has confirmed that holiday pay should include overtime pay. This overturns the UK’s...

Worries over wills and concerns over codicils: Should will-writing be regulated?

In October 2014, The Times wrote an article on the subject of unregulated will-writing. It stated that a legal watchdog report warned that tens of...

Parental involvement provision

Family courts will presume that each parent will play a role in the life of their child as a result of the parental involvement provision which...

Change to employment law: new rights of fathers and partners of expectant mothers

Since 1 October 2014, fathers and partners of an expectant mother are entitled to take unpaid time off work to accompany the expectant mother to...

To register or not to register… that is the question

In England & Wales we operate two forms of conveyancing: one for property which is unregistered and the other where the property is registered...

New relationships a "fly in the ointment”

In a recent ruling regarding financial settlement in a divorce case, Mr Justice Mostyn said that new relationships are a “fly in the ointment of...

High Court voids 180 Italian cases amid fraud

Non-contested divorce cases taken out in Courts in England and Wales by 180 Italian couples have been declared void after a widespread fraud was...

Porter Dodson once again ranked in the Legal 500

UK top 200 law firm, Porter Dodson, has once again been recommended in the leading industry publication Legal 500 (2014), further reinforcing...

Improved intestacy rules?

Having heard there would be a change to the law on 1st October governing the distribution of a person’s estate when they have died without a valid...

Rising interest in the bank of mum and dad

With property prices in the south west remaining high in relation to salaries and more attractive mortgage deals only being available to those...

Tribunal member appears asleep due to medical condition

If an Employment Tribunal member is apparently asleep for 15 – 20 seconds during a hearing and is observed drooling (though presumably drooling...

Support a charity in your Will

With three-quarters of the UK population supporting charities over their lifetime, it’s easy to remember that there is a big difference between...

Theft of customer data

In a recent case a former employee of Enterprise Rent-A-Car was prosecuted under section 55 of the Data Protection Act 1988 (the Act) by the...

The end of Employment Tribunals?

At the TUC Congress today, Shadow Business Secretary Chuka Umunna says he will abolish the current Employment Tribunal system. The clear message...

Where children are concerned, #UseAProfessional

Recent media coverage of the case of a child removed from hospital in Southampton and taken to Spain for medical treatment highlights how...

Landowner’s liability for trees

The recent High Court case of Stagecoach South Western Trains Ltd v Hind (2014) has reconsidered the landowner’s duty to inspect trees on their...

Art or graffiti?

The BBC has today reported on pressure to outlaw discrimination against employees on the grounds of tattoos. “Body art” is enjoying record levels...

ATED – a very uncuddly tax

Stamp Duty Land Tax (“SDLT”) on property acquisitions is expensive. It is a tax which has not kept pace with inflation. The bands for SDLT have...

Tenancy Deposit Scheme – Double trouble for landlords

Landlords of residential properties, and their agents, who may have thought they were up to speed on the regulations governing registration of...

Partner appointments at Porter Dodson

Porter Dodson is delighted to announce the appointment of Nicholas Clegg and Chris Pemberton to the role of Partner following the firm’s...

The end of chancel repair liability?

As we commented in a previous blog post, chancel repair liability still continues to cause headaches for property lawyers and owners.

Periodic tenancy or tenancy at will?

The Court of Appeal has recently given judgment on a case which highlights falling rents following the recession. In the case of Barclays Wealth...

Modern Will planning for the modern family

Making a Will has never been more important. The “traditional” family unit of Mum, Dad and 2.4 children is now merely one of the myriad of family...

Custom build serviced plots loan fund

On 26th June 2014, the Government published their prospectus for a loan fund for custom built homes. The prospectus sets out how to access part of...

Is it time to update our divorce laws?

This week sees the second reading of a private member’s bill, the Divorce (Financial Provision) Bill, which was introduced by Baroness Deech...

Medical Practice Law Update

Over the last few months there have been various legal developments relevant to medical practices. There are also other important changes on the...

What is "Caveat Emptor"?

At Porter Dodson, we try to avoid bamboozling clients with legal jargon, but often get asked what is meant by the term “Caveat Emptor”. Translated...

Think you can do what you like in your Will? Think Again!

When thinking of making a Will, most of my clients assume that they can leave their estate to whomever they please and in any fashion they like. ...

Landlords in distress

Until 6 April 2014 it had long been a cornerstone of a commercial landlord’s powers that, in the event of default in payment of rent, a landlord was...

Renewable Energy: Questions to consider (part 2)

Questions and answers arising from the second in our series of Renewables seminars held across Somerset and Dorset. Additional questions and...

A surge in pre-nuptial agreements?

The Telegraph reported this month that Family Law firms have seen “a surge of interest” in pre-nuptial agreements since the publication of the Law...

Warning - Holiday Pay must include commission!

The European Court of Justice (ECJ), in the case of British Gas v Lock, has held that holiday pay should not be limited to basic salary when the...

Landmark case pushes the boundaries of whistleblowing protection

In the landmark ruling of Clyde & Co v Bates van Winkelhof the Supreme Court has confirmed that a member of a limited liability partnership (LLP)...

Walking for St Margaret’s Hospice

As in previous years, Porter Dodson has sponsored the Great Somerset Walk in aid of St Margaret’s Hospice. As well as being a fund raising event,...

Senior Family Judge suggests divorce should become an administrative process

In a speech made on 29th April 2014 Munby said divorce proceedings should be split from the process of financial remedy so that the divorce itself...

Search properly or pay the price

When you are discussing the costs of buying a house or flat with your solicitor, he or she should mention searches. If you are getting a mortgage...

£1200 raised by the Taunton office for the Beacon Centre

Porter Dodson’s Taunton office has raised £1200 for its 2013/14 nominated charity, the Beacon Centre. The money has been raised by employees...

Are there benefits to Alternative Dispute Resolution?

Written within the lecture notes of a nineteenth century lawyer named Abraham Lincoln are the words “Discourage litigation. Persuade your...

Changes to Child Maintenance

New applications for Child Maintenance are now being dealt with by the Child Maintenance Service. Existing cases using the Child Support Agency...

Porter Dodson Employment team ready to assist in Pre-action Conciliation

On Tuesday 6th May 2014 would-be claimants in the Employment Tribunal will first have to make contact with the arbitration service ACAS. This...

Solicitor retires after 36 years with Porter Dodson

Nick Williams has retired from Porter Dodson after more than 30 years with the Firm.

What is chancel repair liability?

Our property lawyers have been struggling with the knotty subject of chancel repair liability for decades, so why has it only just come to the...

Is obesity a disability?

Obesity in the UK is a growing epidemic. The UK is the tenth fattest country in the world and one of the fattest in Europe with levels of obesity...

Renewable Energy: Questions to consider (part 1)

Porter Dodson recently co-hosted a free Renewables seminar alongside Old Mill Accountants and Solar Systems in Somerset. The seminar provided an...

Changes to Statutory Sick Pay

As of 6 April 2014, it is no longer possible for an employer to reclaim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from its national insurance contribution. This is...

Requirement for separating couples to find out about mediation before going to Court

The Children and Families Act was given Royal Assent on 13th March 2014 meaning reforms will be introduced as part of the re-launched family court...

Have you thought about succession planning?

Spring is in the air, Autumn crops are enjoying a respite from the rain, lambing is well under way and the ground is now being prepared for sowing...

What is conveyancing?

We often a get asked for a “conveyancing” quote, so we thought we’d take a look at what the term “conveyancing” means; although we prefer to talk...

Changes to Consumer Contracts

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills has published new regulations on consumer contracts which are intended to harmonise distance...

Leaving money to charities in your Will not only benefits the charity

Making a Will is an important part of planning for the future and, for most, is hugely important in ensuring that their family and friends are...

The new Children and Families Bill

The Children and Families Bill awaits implementation shortly. We used to have “custody” and “access” of children on separation of parents. Then...

Trade mark infringement case: The Glee Club

Comic Enterprise Limited (Comic Enterprise) commenced proceedings against Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation (Fox) for trade mark infringement...

TUPE, what’s changed and for how long?

The Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006, or TUPE, protects employees when they transfer from one employer to...

Who owns the copyright in a photograph?

There has been a lot of media coverage about the most re-tweeted photograph taken at the recent Oscars ceremony. But who owns the intellectual...

New Associate appointment at Porter Dodson’s Taunton office

Stephen Wray (Office Head at Taunton office), Ben Hingley and Bruce Weir

Changes to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and how it affects your school

Current law

What is the difference between divorce and Judicial Separation?

A woman attempted to sue her former lawyers for professional negligence, claiming that they had failed to advise her that finalising divorce...

European Commission unveils White Paper on 2030 climate change

The European Commission has recently presented a new proposed framework agreement with the intention of driving the EU towards a low carbon...

UK residential property market 2014: onwards and upwards?

The short answer is….? Almost certainly, yes. Not so much a question of “when” but “how high”?

Will the UK have its first tidal lagoon power plant?

Plans for the world's first man-made, energy-generating lagoon were submitted for planning approval on 7th February 2014. Swansea Bay Tidal...

Does your business structure work best for you?

With the rush of the 31 January deadline for tax self-assessment behind us for another year, business owners may well turn their thoughts to...

Employment Law Update – February 2014

Calculation of Holiday Pay should include Commission and Over-time: Recent cases of Neal v Freightliner Ltd ET/1315342/12 and Lock v British Gas...

Green Shoots 2014 style?

By Nicholas Clegg, Finance Director

Solicitors get a solar powered boost

Somerset and Dorset solicitors Porter Dodson has recently (January, 2014) installed solar panels onto its roof to help reduce its carbon footprint.

Prenuptial agreements to be made legally binding

The Law Commission has called for pre-nuptial agreements to be made legally binding in England and Wales. This recommendation follows a three year...

Taunton Office sponsored cycling for the Beacon Centre

On the 22nd November members of Porter Dodson’s Taunton office are doing a sponsored cycle ride in the reception area, covering 115 miles, which is...

Porter Dodson ranked in Chambers UK 2014

Porter Dodson’s position as one of the leading law firms in the South West has been further enhanced by its ranking in the latest publication of...

Porter Dodson Fertility ‘Highly Commended’ at Law Society Excellence Awards

Porter Dodson LLP is delighted to announce that their Fertility and Parenting team, headed by Partner Louisa Ghevaert, has been ‘Highly Commended’...

Legal 500 recognition for Porter Dodson

Porter Dodson’s position as one of the leading law firms in the South West has been further reflected in the mention of six of its Partners and...

Porter Dodson is supporting St Margaret’s Hospice Wills Week 2013

Porter Dodson is delighted to be participating in the 2013 St Margaret’s Hospice Make a Will Week initiative which runs from 9th September – 13th...

Solicitors support Charity Ride and Stride event

Volunteers across Dorset are gearing up to pedal for their parish at this year’s Ride & Stride event. The annual fundraising day, organised by...

Lawyers’ Guide published by Legal Ombudsman

The Legal Ombudsman published this week a guide for people considering using a lawyer. The guide, which includes a list of top ten tips, is...

Further accolades for Porter Dodson’s Family Law team

Porter Dodson Solicitors & Advisors is delighted to announce that Partner Louisa Ghevaert has been shortlisted by Jordan’s Family Law for its ‘Most...

Porter Dodson’s Solicitors: “Leaders in their Field”

Leading legal directory Chambers UK has announced that it is to name four of Porter Dodson’s Partners as “Leaders in their Field”.

End of an era as Legal Practitioner retires after 44 years

The end of June will mark the end of an era as wills, trusts and probate specialist Jill Griffin retires after 44 years’ service with leading...

Porter Dodson’s Renewables and Employment teams contribute to the latest edition of Somerset Chamber Newsletter

Catch up on the latest news regarding Renewables and Employment Law in the June edition of the Somerset Chamber of Commerce Newsletter.

Somerset Solicitors support prestigious Business Awards

Porter Dodson Solicitors & Advisors, a UK Top 200 Law Firm with offices in Somerset and Dorset, is pleased to be supporting this year’s Somerset...

Somerset Solicitors support Hospice Walk

Porter Dodson Solicitors & Advisors was delighted to support the Great Somerset Walk in support of St Margaret’s Hospice.

Porter Dodson’s Taunton Office celebrates five years at Blackbrook

Porter Dodson Solicitors & Advisors’ Taunton team recently welcomed more than a hundred guests to its offices at Blackbrook Business Park. The...

Partner retires after more than 30 years with law firm – but won’t be going far just yet!

After more than 30 years with the Firm, Nick Williams retired from the Partnership of Porter Dodson at the end of April.

Hats off to the ladies at Taunton Racecourse

Porter Dodson Solicitors & Advisors hosted a reception for guests at this year’s Ladies Day at Taunton Racecourse.

De-mystifying diversifying for business owners

Ensuring that your business continues to grow year on year can be difficult; particularly in the current climate and it’s understandable for...

Keep it in the family – value of Pre-Nups

Amanda Jones, Associate and Family Law Solicitor, explains the value of pre-nuptial agreements.

Somerset and Dorset solicitors Porter Dodson sponsor Business Awards

Somerset and Dorset Solicitors Porter Dodson are pleased to sponsor the Western Gazette Business Awards 2013 in the category of Great Innovation...

Data Protection: Safeguard your reputation

Data protection is not just for “big business” – protecting customer and employee personal data is a key issue for any business or organisation,...

Porter Dodson Solicitors & Advisors are pleased to announce that Sharon Collier and Kate James have been appointed Partners

Sharon and Kate have been with Porter Dodson, a UK Top 200 Law Firm, since they completed their training contracts and are both members of the...

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