Latest Legal News - Cognitive Law

A practical guide to becoming a consultant lawyer in 2026

January 7,2026

January has a funny way of shining a spotlight on what isn’t working. You may love the law; the clients, the problem-solving, the satisfaction of doing a job properly but feel less enthusiastic about everything that comes with “traditional” practice: the billing pressure, internal meetings, office routines, commuting, and the sense that your diary belongs... Read more »

What is Contentious Probate?

November 24,2025

Most people expect that when someone dies, their estate will be distributed in line with their will or, if there is no will, the intestacy rules. Unfortunately, it isn’t always that simple. Disagreements often arise over the validity of the will, how the estate is managed, or whether reasonable financial provision has been made. These... Read more »

Signed, sealed… or simply agreed? What makes a contract legally binding?

November 17,2025

We’ve seen it countless times. A contract is drawn up, sent to the other party, and never signed. Even worse, there’s no written contract at all. When things go wrong, the clients want to know: is this agreement legally binding? Contrary to popular belief, a contract doesn’t need to be signed to be enforceable under... Read more »

I’m a commercial tenant and my landlord is making a dilapidations claim

November 11,2025

If you’re a tenant facing a dilapidations claim at the end of your lease, you might be feeling overwhelmed. You’re not alone as many tenants are surprised to learn that the cost of repairs doesn’t always equal the amount a landlord can claim. That’s where Section 18(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927 comes... Read more »

A kinder, clearer path through separation: why Good Divorce Week matters

November 5,2025

Good Divorce Week (week beginning Monday 10 November 2025) is a timely reminder that, even in the toughest moments, there is a better way to separate. As a member of Resolution, which is a community of over 6,500 family justice professionals committed to reducing conflict, I follow a Code of Practice that puts children’s welfare,... Read more »

The (draft) Finance Bill 2026

September 23,2025

What it will (probably) mean for recruitment businesses The Finance Bill 2026 has not yet been finalised or published, but one of the provisions which will impact recruitment businesses with effect from 6th April 2026 needs preparing for now. It is currently intended that from that date a recruitment business will be responsible for ensuring... Read more »

What to look for when choosing a lawyer to represent your inheritance and probate claims

September 18,2025

Family disputes are emotionally complicated, often long-lasting, and sometimes legally intricate. Whether the dispute concerns inheritance, trusts, or wills, choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting a lawyer to represent your family inheritance dispute. Specialist qualification General civil or family law doesn’t always cover... Read more »

Enduring Powers of Attorney explained: Why they’re still legal but often misunderstood

September 16,2025

Many people believe that Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs) are no longer valid in the UK. That’s not quite true. Although EPAs were replaced by Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) back in October 2007, any EPA that was properly made before then can still be used today. For attorneys who are trying to act under... Read more »

Key considerations when selling a property in Sussex

September 10,2025

Selling a luxury property in Sussex requires expert legal handling. As a conveyancer specialising in high-value residential transactions, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities this market presents. The seller’s conveyancer will: Provide comprehensive, accurate legal documentation to the buyer’s solicitor. Anticipate and address potential title or planning issues. Coordinate effectively with multiple parties, including... Read more »

Are Enduring Powers of Attorney Dead?

August 14,2025

If you’ve ever helped a loved one manage their affairs, you may have heard the term Enduring Power of Attorney or EPA and that they haven’t been available to create since October 2007, when Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) replaced them. But here’s the surprising bit, EPAs aren’t gone completely. They can still be valid... Read more »