Private Client Issues – November 2020

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 team 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.

Dealing with pensions upon divorce

There are several ways in which pensions can be dealt with upon divorce. Our experts focus on pension offsetting.

Read more about pension offsetting.

What is an unnecessary application when child arrangements are disputed?

A recent case has highlighted the importance of only involving the Court in child arrangement disputes where absolutely necessary.

Read more about how we can help with child arrangements.

A smarter way to pass on your wealth and planning for the future

Together with Tilney, our Succession & Tax experts discussed a smarter way to pass on your wealth and plan for the future during a webinar, which you can watch again.

View the webinar recording here.

Beware of the hidden nutrition claim

With a lot of people potentially going on a health kick following a prolonged period of time spent at home, it is a good time for manufacturers and retailers of health foods to promote their products. However, an Advertising Standards Authority ruling highlights a warning about nutrition claims.

Read more about nutrition claims here.

Who won the latest battle in the argument about the state pension age?

In the latest battle between women born in the 1950s and the Government, about the state pension age, the women were unsuccessful at the Court of Appeal. It upheld the earlier decision of the High Court that introducing the same state pension age for men and women did not amount to unlawful discrimination. However, the fight may not be over.

Read why this may not be over yet.

Investing in Success webinar – Survive and thrive: in conversation with Viv Groskop and Harriet Hastings

During a thought-provoking discussion, Viv Groskop, an award-winning comedian and author, and Harriet Hastings, founder of the luxury biscuit company Biscuiteers, will bring together their knowledge and experience to consider how businesses can survive and thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sign up for the webinar here.

Brexit Virtual Conference

The window to clarify key issues around our future relationship with the EU is closing. Register to attend the Blake Morgan Brexit Virtual Conference on 24-26 November. The conference will open with a presentation and discussion with James Sloan, CBI’s Senior Brexit Policy Advisor, and include panel discussions, webinars, and networking opportunities.

Read more and register 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.