Case study: Planning for tomorrow
Partner and Head of Private Client James Cohen and Senior Associate Natasha Southam recently advised a high-profile individual on a bespoke cross-border succession planning structure. The plan was designed to support his family, safeguard his legacy and address the complexities of holding assets across multiple jurisdictions. In our latest case study, we highlight how tailored Wills, trusts and […]
Suitability refusals: when immigration decisions go beyond eligibility
Suitability refusals: when immigration decisions go beyond eligibility For many people, a successful immigration application is often viewed as a question of meeting the relevant requirements. The correct visa route, supporting evidence and eligibility criteria are usually the primary focus. However, there is another consideration that can be equally important: suitability. Under the Immigration Rules, […]
Invalid Immigration Application UK: When a Simple Mistake Has Serious Consequences
An invalid immigration application UK can have serious consequences — even for those who are otherwise eligible. Submitting an application is often viewed as the beginning of a decision-making process, but before it can be considered on its merits, it must first satisfy a series of validity requirements. While this may sound procedural, the distinction […]
Muca v El Amrani and Harker v Hubert & Hamdaoui
What you need to know Gas Safety Certificates confirm that all gas appliances throughout a rental property have been inspected by a registered Gas Safe engineer, making them safe to use. They are meant to be renewed annually, and breaches of the regulations exposes landlords to a liability to large fines. With the Deregulation Act, […]
Family proceedings and immigration appeals: which takes priority?
Family proceedings and immigration appeals: which takes priority? Where immigration proceedings and family court proceedings run alongside one another, the question of timing can become increasingly important. A recent Court of Appeal decision has reinforced that, in some circumstances, immigration proceedings may continue before related family court matters have concluded.¹ On one level, this provides […]
Adequate maintenance and accommodation: clarity in principle, complexity in practice
Adequate maintenance and accommodation: clarity in principle, complexity in practice The requirement to demonstrate adequate maintenance and accommodation sits at the centre of a number of UK immigration routes. On its face, the concept appears straightforward. Applicants must show they can support themselves and their family without relying on public funds, and that suitable accommodation […]
Continuous residence under the EU Settlement Scheme: a changing approach to cancellation
Recent developments in the Home Office’s approach to continuous residence under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) suggest a shift towards a more automated and data-driven system. On one view, these changes introduce greater efficiency. On another, they raise questions about how secure pre-settled status may feel in practice. A more flexible approach to continuous […]
Neil Russell Features on LBC Discussing Cohabitation in the UK
Neil Russell, Partner and Head of Family, spoke with Henry Riley on LBC about the rise in cohabiting couples and evolving marriage trends in the UK. The discussion explored the persistent “common law marriage” myth, the potential for legal reform, and the steps unmarried couples can take to protect their financial position. When asked whether […]
Head of Family Neil Russell Discusses Financial Dispute Resolution in The Financial Times
Partner and Head of Family, Neil Russell, has been featured in the Financial Times responding to a reader’s question about the pros and cons of financial dispute resolution as a method for out-of-court divorce solution. Neil highlights how “courts have become incredibly supportive of the use of private FDR appointments. The advantages include some opportunity […]
Rethinking the Presumption of Parental Involvement: Reform, Not Repeal
It has long been accepted by Judges that it is in a child’s best interests to have a relationship with both their parents. In 2014, this principle was formalised through the introduction of a statutory presumption into the Children Act 1989, providing that parental involvement will further a child’s welfare unless the contrary is shown. […]