News and Insights

Employment Law changes in April 2026 - Holiday record keeping

tara.searle@porterdodson.co.uk (Tara Searle) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:11:26 GMT

In our recent update, we accidentally left off the 6 April 2026 change in relation to holiday records. It was a late addition to the line up but one you definitely need to know about!

The hidden risks for the bank of Mum and Dad: What parent lenders need to know

matthew.jackson@porterdodson.co.uk (Matthew Jackson) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:49:38 GMT

With world events impacting property prices and interest rates, the Bank of Mum and Dad continue to be a significant source of funding in the UK, particularly for first time Buyers. However, many parents don’t realise that that providing financial support, especially in the form of a loan, can expose them to serious regulatory, legal and financial risks.

Heads of Terms for a new commercial lease: Key considerations

michelle.mallon@porterdodson.co.uk (Michelle Mallon) — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:52:11 GMT

When entering into a new commercial lease, both the Landlord and Tenant typically negotiate and agree on a set of key terms known as the “Heads of Terms”(HOTs). These Heads of Terms outline the fundamental elements of the lease agreement and serve as a framework for the preparation of a formal lease document. While these terms are not legally binding (except where specifically stated), they provide a roadmap for the final lease negotiation and help avoid misunderstandings between the parties.

This article outlines the key Heads of Terms a tenant should consider when negotiating a new commercial lease.

Indemnity policies in residential property transactions

kirstie.headon@porterdodson.co.uk (Kirstie Headon) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:02:53 GMT

When buying or selling a home, unexpected legal issues can arise during the conveyancing process. In many cases, Indemnity Policies offer a practical way to keep a residential property transaction moving without unnecessary delay or expense.

Employment Law changes in April 2026

sarah.young@porterdodson.co.uk (Sarah Young) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:24:52 GMT

Here is a useful round-up of the changes to employment rights coming this month

In addition to the annual minimum wage increases we see every April, this year the Employment Rights Act 2025 and other regulations are responsible for a host of other measures that employers need to know and understand.

What is Form E? A complete guide to financial disclosure in divorce

amanda.jones@porterdodson.co.uk (Amanda Jones) — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:56:55 GMT

In order for solicitors to advise as to an appropriate financial settlement within divorce proceedings, or for a Judge to make a Financial Order upon an application made to the court, there first needs to be an exchange of full and frank financial disclosure between the parties, so that there is an accurate picture of the financial assets and resources available to be divided.

Form E is the standard financial statement used to provide financial disclosure in divorce proceedings. The aim is to provide transparency so that informed decisions can be made and fair outcomes can be achieved.

Form E is compulsory to provide financial disclosure pursuant to a Court Order in Financial Order proceedings issued by Form A, or it can be exchanged voluntarily where a couple are trying to reach an amicable agreement through non-court dispute resolution such as solicitor-led negotiation, collaborative law or mediation.

Common myths about Trusts - Why getting the right advice matters

harriet.matthew@porterdodson.co.uk (Harriet Matthew) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:47:41 GMT

When many people hear the word “Trust”, they often think of tax‑avoidance schemes, complex legal paperwork, or something reserved only for those with significant wealth. However, this perception is outdated and often inaccurate.

Grievances in GP Practices: Are you at risk of a misdiagnosis?

sarah.young@porterdodson.co.uk (Sarah Young) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:18:49 GMT

Handling grievances is always challenging but never more so than in Primary Care. With close-knit environments, teams working under constant pressure and working relationships being long-standing and personal, issues can escalate quickly. There isn’t room for poor communication or unresolved tension, both of which can seriously impact staff morale and, ultimately, patient care.

Porter Dodson helps local family bring new life to The Mount Pleasant Inn

lily.adam@porterdodson.co.uk (Lily Adam) — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:19:59 GMT

Porter Dodson is pleased to announce its role in facilitating the successful purchase of The Mount Pleasant Inn, a much‑loved rural pub in Nomansland, near Tiverton.

Matrimonialisation: When separate property becomes shared

karen.watts@porterdodson.co.uk (Karen Watts) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 09:44:59 GMT

Dividing wealth on divorce is one of the most complex aspects of family law in England and Wales; it is governed by statute and judicial development. The court’s exercise a broad discretion when determining financial settlements. Over time, the judiciary has developed principles intended to achieve fairness between spouses. Within this framework, the distinction between matrimonial and non-matrimonial property has become paramount when considering the resolution of financial matters on divorce.