February 2024. Legal news, hints and tips from HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors

February 2024. Legal matters. Legal hints and tips.

Welcome to our new Legal Matters Newsletter.

Each quarter, we will share legal tips and insights about the areas of law that we believe will be of interest to you.

If you have any questions about anything in this newsletter, don’t hesitate to call us on 01462 458711 or contact us online. 

Personal Matters

What is the best month to sell my property?

March, April, May and June are considered to be the best time to sell a property.  August and December can be considered ‘difficult’ months for property sales. But many people don’t have the luxury of choosing when to put a property up for sale.  So it’s important to note that properties do sell all year round.   If you are working with a professional estate agent, they will advise you on the best way to market your property and recommend a fair and realistic price point. With the right advice, there’s every chance it will sell just as quickly as any other time of the year.

Learn more about selling or buying a property. 

Is a prenuptial agreement worthwhile?

A lot of couples propose around this time of year. And for many, a prenuptial agreement is a consideration that follows.  But are they worthwhile?   A prenuptial may not be the most romantic of topics however, they are becoming increasingly popular.  The reasons vary from those who wish to protect part of their wealth or an inheritance, to those who need to ensure continuity for a family business.

Learn more about prenuptial agreements. 

Can I update my Will?

Yes. If the update is minor, we will be able to draft a codicil for you. A codicil is a legal document that will sit alongside your Will. It will supersede the part of your Will you are updating, whilst the rest of your Will remains intact. If your changes are more significant, it usually makes more sense to write a new Will.

Learn more about the different types of Wills. 

Do I need a solicitor to get a divorce?

You can apply for a divorce yourself online or by post. Each family situation is different, for some it will be an amicable process without any complexities, others may need the support of a solicitor.  However, when it comes to resolving financial matters, we strongly recommend that you seek the support of a solicitor. Without an accompanying financial consent order in place the door remains open for potential financial claims in the future.  Clients also find it helpful to discuss arrangements for their children with a solicitor before speaking to the other parent about their future care arrangements.

Learn more about the divorce process.

Business Matters

My business is struggling, should I declare insolvency?

If you are concerned about the financial position of your company, then please get in touch. It is recommended that directors take advice as soon as the company experiences financial difficulty. This will help you make decisions and put procedures in place to reduce your exposure to liability, in the event of the company’s insolvency. It also increases the chances of successfully rescuing the company and perhaps even avoid it entering an insolvency procedure at all.

Learn more about our insolvency & restructuring services.

What do I need to do before I sign my new commercial lease?

A commercial lease is a legally binding document, so it is essential to obtain legal advice on the terms of your lease, in particular the responsibilities of the landlord and the tenant toward the property. This will include improvements to the property, maintenance, repair and dilapidations, as well as clauses to protect both parties in the event of rent arrears or breaches of the lease. Your commercial lease should also consider the terms for lease renewal, the rights to sublet and conditions to terminate the tenancy.

Learn more about commercial leases. 

Can I make amends to my shareholders agreement?

A lot can change during a business year.  If those changes mean that you need to update or renegotiate an existing shareholders’ agreement, then yes it can be done.  All changes will need to be agreed by all the other shareholders.  If there is a dispute, we can help to negotiate the new terms on your behalf.  If you still need to prepare a shareholders’ agreement, get in touch and we’ll guide you through the process.

Learn more about how a shareholders’ agreement can protect your business.

Contact us for legal advice.

  • Email info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk
  • Call Hitchin 01462 458711, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 887700, Old Harlow 01279 709100
  • Complete our contact form here

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