SCOTLAND, UK. 1st April 2025 – The conveyancing industry faces increasing pressure to meet client demands, maintain profitability, and safeguard staff wellbeing. 

Kaur Sutherland Conveyancing Solicitors, with offices in Glasgow, Dumbarton, and Lenzie, is helping to redefine conveyancing business success by ensuring high-quality service without compromising the mental health of its team.

Conveyancing has long been associated with high workloads, intense deadlines, and demanding client expectations. The emotional weight of property transactions and heightened regulatory scrutiny has only intensified pressures on legal professionals. 

Burnout has become a major issue within the sector, particularly due to high levels of exhaustion. The 2020/21 Law in Life Report highlighted that 69% of legal professionals experienced mental health challenges over the past year, with anxiety, low mood, and depression being the most commonly reported issues. Despite this, many firms continue to prioritise speed and financial performance, leading to unmanageable caseloads and a reactive, high-stress environment.

One of the biggest challenges in the industry is the shift from a structured, ‘push and tell’ approach — where cases progress systematically with clear communication — to a ‘store and snatch’ model, where work is pushed forwards only when clients demand updates. This reactive cycle creates unnecessary stress for legal professionals and results in inefficiencies that ultimately impact both service quality and staff wellbeing.

Recognising these challenges, firms are beginning to embrace a more sustainable approach that prioritises structured workflows and proactive communication. Kaur Sutherland is among those leading this shift, ensuring transactions are handled efficiently while reducing unnecessary pressure on its legal team.

Claire Sutherland, Senior Partner at Kaur Sutherland, says: “Firms across the conveyancing sector must prioritise structured workflows to prevent cases from stagnating while ensuring proactive client communication. A sustainable approach benefits both legal professionals and clients, creating a more efficient and less stressful experience for all.”

By moving away from outdated working models, firms can enhance both service standards and workplace wellbeing. A growing number are recognising that long-term success depends on balancing profitability with staff welfare, rather than prioritising speed and cost-cutting.

Sutherland adds: “While Kaur Sutherland is at the forefront of this shift, meaningful change must happen across the industry. Success will only come when firms balance profitability with employee wellbeing. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to fostering a culture that values both excellence and staff welfare. The future of conveyancing depends on a people-focused approach.”

ENDS

London, UK. April 01 2025- Manak Solicitors are delighted to announce the acquisition of Browns Solicitors, a highly respected law firm based in Bromley (51 Tweedy Road, BR1 3NH). This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Manak Solicitors’ continued expansion and further strengthens its presence across London and Kent.

Browns Solicitors was established by Managing Director Christine Brown in 2011 specialising in Private Client Law i.e. Wills, Probate and Power of Attorney. Over the years the firm has built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional legal service. The firm has been a trusted name in the Bromley community for years, known for its Private Client legal expertise. By joining forces with Manak Solicitors, Browns’ clients will gain access to a broader range of legal services while continuing to receive the same high standard of care.

This acquisition follows Manak Solicitors’ successful integration of Ennis-Webb Solicitors in Biggin Hill last year, reinforcing the firm’s position as one of the region’s most forward-thinking legal services provider. With a reputation for innovation, Manak Solicitors continues to lead the way with cutting-edge client solutions, such as the trademarked Instant Instruct tool, which allows clients to seamlessly instruct legal services online.

Surinder Singh Manak, Managing Director of Manak Solicitors, commented:

“This acquisition is a major step forward for us. Browns Solicitors has a long-standing reputation for excellence, and we are excited to add this to our existing teams. Our shared values and commitment to outstanding service make this a perfect fit, and we look forward to serving Browns’ clients with the same dedication and professionalism they have come to expect.”

Christine Brown, Managing Director of Browns Solicitors, added:

“After many successful years serving our clients, I am delighted that Browns Solicitors is joining forces with Manak. Their modern, client-first approach aligns perfectly with our own values, and I am confident that this transition will bring great benefits to our Clients and Team. This merger underscores Manak Solicitors’ commitment to growth while maintaining its dedication to providing best-in-class Legal Services. Clients of Browns Solicitors can expect a seamless transition, with myself, Libby and Becky continuing to support them under the Manak Solicitors umbrella.”

Visit Manak Solicitors’ website here

LONDON, UK. March 12th, 2025 – John Lamb Hill Oldridge, the UK’s foremost specialist protection adviser, is excited to announce the expansion of its office space to the City of London to accommodate the company’s ongoing growth and to better serve its clients.

 

The new office, located at 25 Eastcheap, London EC3M 1DE, provides additional resources and improved infrastructure necessary for enhanced collaboration among team members. This expansion reflects John Lamb Hill Oldridge’s commitment to fostering innovation and delivering exceptional value to its clients.

 

“Today’s announcement marks a significant milestone in John Lamb Hill Oldridge’s journey,” said Alex Gibson-Watt, Managing Director of John Lamb Hill Oldridge.

“As we continue to grow, it is essential that we invest in our workspace to ensure our team has the tools and environment needed to succeed. This new office allows us to take our services to the next level and support the increasing demand from our clients.”

The newly expanded facility features collaborative workspaces designed to facilitate teamwork and creative problem-solving. 

The expansion aligns with John Lamb Hill Oldridge’s mission to provide unparalleled protection and strategic advisory services to high-profile and high-net-worth individuals across the UK. 

 

For more information about John Lamb Hill Oldridge’s services, please visit www.jlho.co.uk or contact mail@jlho.co.uk

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LEEDS, UK. February 27th, 2025 – An expert family lawyer is advising couples to consider a prenuptial agreement before walking down the aisle this year, to help protect the financial future of each spouse.

Claire Chisnall, Senior Associate at Consilia Legal, says the firm has seen an increase in prenup enquiries over the last 12 months before a couple’s big day.

According to independent research carried out by the Marriage Foundation, one in five marriages now involve a prenup, and this number has been steadily increasing over the last 50 years.

Although it may be surprising that so many couples are now opting to sign prenups, what is less surprising is that 44% of them are among higher income couples.

A prenuptial agreement is a legal document that couples sign before marriage, outlining how their assets, debts, and financial responsibilities will be managed if they later divorce. Whilst nuptial agreements are not currently legally binding in the UK, courts are increasingly recognising prenups, provided they meet key criteria such as fairness, full financial disclosure, and independent legal advice for both parties. Additionally, the Law Commission has made a recommendation for a change in the law relating to nuptial agreements which would only strengthen the reliance upon such agreements in the future.

Claire says “With the wedding season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to have an open and honest discussion about financial expectations and protections. We’ve seen an increase in couples opting to sign prenuptial agreements, because of the security they bring. Not only can couples protect personal and family assets, but prenups allow parties to clarify their financial expectations, protect an individual from their partners’ debt liability, as well as ensure any inheritance intended for children from a previous relationship is protected.”

Prenuptial agreements offer several advantages, including giving peace of mind knowing a couple’s financial interests are protected whilst also strengthening relationships from being able to have open conversations before marriage to help build trust and mutual understanding.

In the past, prenups were considered the preserve of the ultra-wealthy, but attitudes are changing. A recent YouGov survey found that 55% of Britons now support prenups, up from 42% just a few years ago, and younger couples are more open to the idea, with 49% of 25–34-year-olds supporting the concept compared to 26% of those over 55.

When planning an upcoming wedding, it’s important to not only plan for the big day but also for the years ahead. A prenuptial agreement isn’t about planning for failure; it’s about ensuring that both partners are on the same page when it comes to finances.

Claire adds “When couples say “I do” they want to start out this new chapter with openness and honesty, and whilst prenups have been considered a taboo subject in the past, there’s nothing more honest and open than discussing finances and how you both want to protect your assets in the future.

“It might feel like it’s going against the grain to be thinking about what might happen if your marriage breaks down, so we want to dispel the stereotype and show couples that a prenup isn’t about planning for failure, but about sensible and prudent consideration for your future that is based on trust and transparency.”

And it’s no surprise that younger couples are more likely to sign a prenup, as we move away from more traditional values and take a more open-minded and pragmatic approach to relationships.

If you’re getting married this year, now is the ideal time to consider a prenup. Speaking to a family law expert can help you understand your options and ensure that your financial future is protected as you embark on this exciting new chapter together.

Consilia Legal, who recently celebrated their 10th birthday, are experts in family law and their experienced team can help you to draw up the right prenuptial agreement that will protect you and your partner’s interests.

For more information, or to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation, visit www.consilialegal.co.uk or call 0113 322 9222.

A Unique Opportunity to Identify Hidden Vulnerabilities and Benchmark Defences This February

MIDHURST, UK. 12th February, 2025 – In response to the growing wave of cyberattacks targeting businesses across industries, FoxTech is launching a £150,000 initiative to offer free cybersecurity services to mid-sized businesses this February. The initiative allows organisations to allocate the funds across a range of critical cybersecurity needs, including internal and external penetration tests, application penetration tests, cloud security reviews, and more.

Anthony Green, CTO of cybersecurity consultants FoxTech, works to prevent cyber-attacks, and helps companies who have experienced a security breach: 

“With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and persistent, it’s important to continuously review and strengthen cybersecurity defences.  By offering this initiative, we aim to provide businesses with a fresh perspective, helping them identify and address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. The flexibility to target specific areas – whether it’s cloud security, applications, or infrastructure – ensures the support is as impactful as possible.”

Participants in the initiative will receive:

Cyberattacks are one of the most significant risks faced by businesses of all sizes and sectors. Industries such as financial services, healthcare, and legal are under constant pressure to protect sensitive data and meet regulatory standards.

According to recent studies, mid-sized organisations are particularly vulnerable, often being targeted due to limited resources or reliance on outdated defences.

“In today’s world, no business can afford to leave its cybersecurity to chance,” added Green. “Even if you’re confident in your current setup, a fresh set of eyes can uncover what others miss. Whether it’s securing your cloud, testing applications, or reviewing defences, this initiative offers peace of mind and a chance to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.”

The £150,000 allocation will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Businesses across all sectors are encouraged to secure their complimentary cybersecurity service before the allocation is reached or by the 29th February deadline.  Details on how can be found here www.foxtrot-technologies.com/free-pentesting 

CARDIFF, UK. February 11th, 2025 – Leading personal injury solicitors in South Wales, Mooneerams, has proudly announced its partnership with the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity as its official Charity of the Year for 2025. The decision follows an overwhelming response of over 2,300 entries from worthy causes across the region.

Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity works tirelessly to create brighter todays and better tomorrows for the 90,000 children cared for at Wales national children’s hospital each year. The charity ensures that treatment and outcomes for young patients continue to improve by funding innovative medical equipment and facilities. It also provides essential emotional support services and play specialists to help make hospital stays less frightening and more positive for children and their families.

Mooneerams Solicitors is renowned for its expertise in personal injury law, offering specialist legal support to individuals across South Wales and beyond. With a strong commitment to justice and client care, the firm has built a reputation for providing high-quality, client-focused legal services. This dedication to making a difference is demonstrated by Mooneerams’ ongoing commitment to supporting charitable causes and giving back to the community.

Alistair Worth, Managing Director at Mooneerams, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are incredibly proud to support the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity as our Charity of the Year for 2025. Their dedication to improving the lives of children and families during what can be the most challenging times is truly inspiring. At Mooneerams, we believe in giving back to our community, and we look forward to raising vital funds and awareness to help the charity continue its incredible work.”

Lucy Jones, Head of Fundraising and Development at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity, also shared her excitement about the collaboration: “We’re delighted at the opportunity to work with Mooneerams as their charity of the year in 2025. The team are already proving themselves to be dedicated and motivated partners, with staff already signed up to a variety of our events!

“As a charity that operates entirely thanks to public support, partnerships like these make a direct and tangible difference to the 90,000 children we support each year. This partnership will help to ensure that treatment and outcomes for young patients at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales can continue to improve – from funding new and innovative medical equipment and facilities to providing much-needed emotional support services for children and their families.”

Through a year-long series of fundraising initiatives and community events, Mooneerams aims to contribute to the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity, helping to provide life-changing support and resources for young patients across Wales.

For more information about Mooneerams Solicitors, visit www.mooneerams.com. To learn more about Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity and how you can support their vital work, visit www.noahsarkcharity.org.

LONDON, UK. February 7th, 2025 – One month ago, Nokia announced a major milestone, declaring 7,000 patent families as essential to 5G technology. Today, Patently is pleased to confirm that this claim has been independently assessed, further solidifying Nokia’s position as a key contributor to 5G innovation.

After a thorough independent review, Patently can confirm that Nokia has declared over 6,300 published standard-essential patent (SEP) families to 5G specifications. Additionally, Nokia has over 700 unpublished families that have been declared essential to 5G, all of which are within the first 18 months after their first filing, highlighting the breadth and ongoing expansion of its contributions.

These figures pertain exclusively to 5G and do not include patent families only declared to earlier generations of cellular technology. Beyond its 5G contributions, Nokia has also declared well over 1,700 patent families essential to earlier generations, further demonstrating its long-standing impact on mobile communications.

Patently’s assessment process considered all of Nokia’s subsidiaries, including Alcatel Lucent, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate evaluation. Nokia is recognized as the Ultimate Declarant in the same way it is acknowledged as the Ultimate Owner of patent families held under its various subsidiaries.

Patently’s verification process is built upon its Six Sigma Declarations and True Essentiality framework, ensuring the most rigorous and accurate declaration matching in the world. With a goal of achieving 99.9997% defect-free declaration matching and true standard-essentiality verified by expert analysis, Patently’s methodology is unparalleled in precision and reliability.  It involves an extensive matching process that cross-references Nokia’s information statements and licensing declarations held in the ETSI special reports on declarations with Patently’s advanced family processing, resulting in highly accurate SEP family counts.

The process accounts for variations in declaration formats, unpublished families, and legal ownership changes across multiple jurisdictions. By leveraging sophisticated data analytics and expert patent analysis, Patently ensured a high degree of accuracy in matching Nokia’s portfolio to the 5G standard-essential patent landscape.

Andrew Samm, Director at Patently said: “Patently extends its sincere congratulations to the entire team for their dedication and expertise in executing this rigorous verification process. Their unwavering commitment to precision and transparency has been instrumental in confirming Nokia’s contributions to 5G. The team’s diligence in handling complex patent data and refining the matching framework exemplifies the highest standards in patent data analysis.

“This independent confirmation reaffirms Nokia’s leadership in 5G innovation and underscores its extensive contributions to the foundational technology that powers next-generation connectivity worldwide.”

For more information about Patently’s methodology and its report on the world’s leading 5G patent owners 2025 visit patently.com/patently100.

ENDS

LONDON, UK. 9th December, 2024 – Triangle Legal Services Limited, a leading conveyancing firm with over 50 years of combined expertise, is revolutionising property transactions through its comprehensive online conveyancing service, meeting growing demand for digital property services across the UK.

Successfully merging traditional legal expertise with modern service delivery, Triangle Legal Services offer property buyers and sellers nationwide access to expert conveyancing services through their digital platform, whilst maintaining the high standards of personal service associated with traditional conveyancing.

Their digital-first approach includes guaranteed weekly updates on transaction progress, proactive communication with all parties, and transparent fixed-fee pricing. This innovative service model is supervised by solicitors Karen Rieveley and Sherine Silva, who bring over five decades of combined industry experience.

“Property transactions shouldn’t be bound by geography.” says Karen Rieveley. “Our online platform, backed by our team of over 30 conveyancing professionals, ensures clients receive responsive, efficient service regardless of their location.”

Triangle Legal Services has strengthened its digital offering through strategic partnerships with respected law firms including Taylor Rose MW Solicitors, Premier Solicitors, and Collective Legal.

The firm’s online conveyancing service covers:

Operating from The Triangle Business Hub in Wembley, the firm continues to expand its digital services whilst maintaining the personal touch that has earned them a loyal client base and numerous positive reviews.

For more information about Triangle Legal Services’ online conveyancing services or to receive a fixed-fee conveyancing quote, visit their website or call 020 3627 0986.

CHELTENHAM, UK. 13th November, 2024 – In a significant High Court decision in the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court, Albright IP has successfully defended its client, Liking Ltd, against copyright infringement claims brought by WaterRower (UK) Ltd. 

The judgement has set a precedent for copyright protection of non-sculptural 3D objects, specifically addressing the criteria for “a work of artistic craftsmanship” under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (CDPA).

WaterRower claimed that their water-resistance rowing machines were works of artistic craftsmanship and were protected by copyright, and that our Hong Kong-based client’s Topiom rowing machines infringed on this protection by allegedly reproducing a substantial part of the machines. 

Liking Ltd argued that the WaterRower machines did not qualify as works of artistic craftsmanship and thus were ineligible for copyright protection.

In delivering his judgment, Judge Campbell Forsyth ruled that WaterRower machines, including its prototype, do not meet the requirements under UK law as works of artistic craftsmanship, and therefore, no copyright subsist in the machines. 

This judgment underscores the divergence between UK and EU interpretations of copyright law, providing greater clarity for the UK’s requirements in assessing copyright eligibility for such 3D functional objects.

Albright IP, Patent Director, Cloe Loo, who served as IP attorney for Liking Ltd, commented: “This judgment provides much-needed clarity in UK copyright law on what qualifies as a work of artistic craftsmanship. For a number of years, conflicting UK and EU case law has created uncertainty around copyright protection for 3D objects that aren’t sculptures. This ruling establishes that such objects must meet the test of artistic craftsmanship to qualify for copyright. It’s an important milestone for the IP sector.”

Loo noted that navigating the case presented unique challenges, including coordinating across multiple time zones and languages to effectively communicate complex legal arguments to her client. 

“Working closely with Liking Ltd required not only a robust IP strategy but also a deep understanding of their language and business culture. Communicating the nuances of UK copyright law in Chinese, for instance, was essential to ensure our client was fully informed and comfortable with each stage of the case,” she explained.

Robert Games, Managing Director of Albright IP, praised Loo’s exceptional handling of the case: “We are immensely proud of Cloe. This was a challenging, multilingual case which was set to impact IP law. Cloe’s ability to build her team and manage these complexities in both English and Chinese is a testament to her commitment and expertise. This outcome is a notable achievement for Albright IP and highlights our team’s strength in high-stakes IP litigation.”

The judgement has implications for the IP industry, particularly concerning copyright eligibility criteria for 3D functional objects. It remains to be seen if an appeal will be pursued, but this case has already marked a turning point in defining the boundaries of artistic craftsmanship in UK copyright law.

Link to judgement in full: https://www.albright-ip.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WaterRower-v-Liking-2024-EWHC-2806-IPEC-Approved-Judgment-11-November-2024.pdf