Preparing expert reports: how far can solicitors go?

Solicitors can work with an expert to narrow the issues on which the opinion is provided so that the report is directly relevant to the…

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Vulnerable parties and settlement approvals

Although courts have a protective role in such settlement approval applications, particular care must nonetheless be taken by those acting for vulnerable parties. By ALEXANDRA…

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Solicitor’s liability to estate beneficiaries

Ensure your client has capacity; consider an informal will in appropriate cases. By PETER MORAN and TOBY BLYTH.

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Client lunch comes back to bite

Keep client lunches focused on building relationships not taking instructions or providing advice. By MELISSA FENTON and CRAIG HOLLAND.

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Dangers in over-reliance on counsel

Solicitors, whatever their level of expertise, must give attention to the issues considered by counsel and not blindly accept counsel’s advice. By MATTHEW HARDING and…

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The risks of mixing legal and financial advice

Solicitors must be conscious of the difference between financial and legal advice and know when to advise a client of the need to obtain independent…

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Protecting against the other party’s actions in family law proceedings

Protect yourself against a client’s anger towards their ex-partner – it can lead to the client looking for someone to blame and a subsequent negligence…

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Do I suggest an informal will? The Howe v Fischer appeal

Claims against solicitors by disappointed beneficiaries on the basis of delay in will preparation are on the increase. By RAY WARD and PETER MORAN.

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Professional negligence: how much will a claim really cost me?

The direct costs for a law practice of a professional negligence claim can include payment of an excess, a possible increase in professional indemnity insurance…

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The risky business of advising on pre-nuptial agreements

Prenuptial agreements are a high risk area for lawyers if detailed advice is not provided. By SIMONE HERBERT-LOWE.  

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