Private Client Issues – January 2021

Welcome to this month’s edition of Private Client Issues, Blake Morgan’s monthly round-up of the topics you may find of interest. It features insight and advice on developments affecting private individuals.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the way we work and live, we wanted to take this opportunity to remind you about some of the things we’re doing to help. As always, our focus is on providing you with a high-quality service, while working to keep our staff, clients and contacts safe. Our employees continue to work from home where possible, and are happy to meet with you virtually, or in person where this is necessary and can be done in accordance with Government guidelines. We are really proud of the way that our staff have risen to the challenge to do this without impacting the service we provide.

The situation continues to be fast moving, with new measures being announced as the Government addresses the key issues facing both individuals and businesses. Our teams are here to help you, with the advice and support you need at this difficult time. Please access our COVID-19 hub for up to date information on key issues and please look after yourselves and those close to you.

Appointing a litigation friend

Sometimes in family litigation, a party to the proceedings is deemed not to have capacity to conduct the litigation themselves. Such a party is called a ‘protected party’. In these cases, it might be appropriate for a ‘litigation friend’ to be appointed to carry out the litigation on their behalf.

Read more about the appointment of a litigation friend.

Obtaining a Jewish divorce

Couples of Jewish faith often marry under both civil and Jewish law, in separate ceremonies. If your marriage later breaks down irretrievably and you wish to divorce, it is important to remember that a civil divorce will not also end your Jewish marriage. These need to be dealt with separately.

Read more about the legal issues when it comes to a Jewish divorce.

Tech in the year ahead

The key for small business and entrepreneurs in 2020 was resilience, the driver for this year will be the ability to adapt and change. We look at the technology issues ahead in 2021, including online content, big data and public trust.

Read more about what to expect from a tech point-of-view in 2021.

Immigration developments: what you need to know for 2021

As expected, free movement ended on 31 December 2020. However, European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals can continue to use their passport or national ID card for the right to work checks purposes until 30 June 2021. We look at the recent changes.

Read more about all you need to know for immigration law.

The impact of Brexit on intellectual property

Now that the transition period has ended and we have officially exited the European Union, we look at the subject of intellectual property and the impact Brexit has had on your rights.

Read about the action you need to take when it comes to IP.

Invitation: NED Connect – Leading in a multi-generational organisation: busting the myths lunchtime workshop

Join us for the first in our NED Connect interactive series to hear from Paul Bennett, former Director of Enterprise at Southampton Business School, Managing Director of Metis Corporate Education, and strategic advisor to a number of Boards in the public, private and third sector.

Sign up for our Non-Executive Director online workshop here.

If you are impacted by any of the above topics or you would like further information on how we can help you, please contact your usual Blake Morgan adviser.