During the lockdown we’ve been continuing to support clients across Hertfordshire with their legal needs for both private and business matters. There are several questions that frequently come up from the calls and emails we are receiving. As a result, we’ve compiled the top 10 questions and answers with weblinks for more information.

If you are seeking legal advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Email info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk

Wills, Trusts and Probate

1. Can I still put a Will in place during lockdown?

Yes. We can still guide you through the legal implications of your Will. We have adopted different procedures and can help you by making use of telephone conferences and e-mail correspondence.

We’ll ask you to consider how you will ensure you have witnesses for the signing of your Will. Neighbours are making good witnesses as they can sign on the doorstep and keep to the two metre distancing guidelines. Or you may be able to sign by a window, where your witnesses can engage with you and observe from outside. Read more: https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/news/2020/04/finding-time-for-your-will-and-personal-affairs

2. I want to appoint a Lasting Power of Attorney – is it possible during lockdown?

Yes, our team of solicitors will guide you through the process to grant a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). It means you will appoint someone to look after your affairs if you are unable to manage them yourself. There are two types of LPA. The first deals with your Property and Financial Affairs and the second deals with your Health and Welfare. The persons you choose may differ for each Power.

3. I need help with the probate process. Can you help?

Yes. Our dedicated specialist probate team will provide you with all the support and advice you need during the probate and estate administration process. We can offer a bespoke probate service from obtaining the grant of probate to dealing with every aspect of estate administration. Read more: https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/news/2018/04/probate-what-does-it-mean

Family Law

4. I’d like to discuss divorce. Is it possible during lockdown?

Yes. We have family solicitors here at HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors who can advise you about the options available to you via telephone or video calls. They will give you a positive framework as to the next steps to take. Our solicitors are here to talk you through each stage to assist you and your partner to reach an agreement as to how assets can be divided. We can also prepare any legal documents remotely, with a digital signature when required. Read more: https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/news/2020/03/covid-19-isolating-families-and-relationships

5. I’m worried about my children moving between two homes. What can I do?

Where parents do not agree to vary the arrangements set out in a Child Arrangements Order, but one parent is sufficiently concerned that by complying with the Order, arrangements would be against current government advice, then that parent may exercise their parental responsibility and vary the arrangement to one that they consider to be safe. If a child does not get to spend time with the other parent as set down in the Child Arrangements Order, the courts will expect alternative arrangements to be made to establish and maintain regular contact between the child and the other parent within the Stay at Home Rules, for example remotely – by video call or by telephone. Read more https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/news/2020/04/how-do-you-manage-child-arrangements-under-the-stay-at-home-direction-covid-19

Residential property / conveyancing

6. We’re preparing to sell our house after lockdown. Can you provide us with a quote?

Yes, you can contact us for a quote or get an instant no obligation quote here: https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/legal-services/conveyancing

7. We are going to buy a new property when the lockdown is over – how much will conveyancing cost?

Our conveyancing team are offering free 15-minute consultations to answer your questions. Read more: https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/news/2020/04/get-ahead-with-your-conveyancing-book-a-free-15-minute-call-with-one-of-our-experts

Company Law

8. Can I talk to a solicitor about a redundancy settlement agreement?

Yes, our Company and Commercial team can help you with employment matters related to any issues that have arisen from Covid-19.

9. We’re worried our shareholder agreements don’t consider the implications of Covid-19. Can you help?

Yes. It is possible to create a clause whereby, in the event of one of the shareholders passing, a notice will automatically be triggered to the other shareholders. It will give them an option to buy a deceased’s shares from their estate, for a fair market value. This clause can also apply beyond Coronavirus, where a shareholder becomes incapacitated for a long period of time, or even where a minority employee shareholder ceases to be an employee (perhaps because cutbacks are necessary in the business). Read more: https://www.hrjforemanlaws.co.uk/news/2020/03/business-owners-in-these-uncertain-times-know-that-were-here-to-help

Commercial Property Law

10. As a commercial landlord, what sort of agreement should I make with my tenants about rent?

The latest Government guidelines protect business tenants so they cannot be forced out of their premises if they miss a rent payment as a result of Covid-19. Tenants can ask their landlords for rental holidays. Landlords are not obliged to agree to those requests, but it may be in their best interests to do so. We would recommend that landlords and tenants seek legal advice before entering into new rent arrangements. To help during lockdown, we’re offering free 15-minute consultations for commercial landlords and tenants. To book an appointment email logic@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk with your contact details. Read more: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-support-available-for-landlords-and-renters-reflecting-the-current-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak