A company’s share structure defines how ownership is divided among its shareholders and what rights each type of share carries. For a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), this framework shapes everything from everyday management decisions to long-term succession planning.   When first establishing a company, many business owners set up their share capital and then proceed to leave it untouched for years. Yet businesses constantly evolve. New investors may arrive, founders may leave and key employees who deserve a stake

Many business disputes are resolved by agreement between the parties. That may occur after court proceedings have been issued or before any formal action has commenced. There are a number of ways in which a party can make an offer to settle, and each carries different potential consequences in relation to the court’s ultimate decision on costs. One commonly used mechanism, available to both claimants and defendants, is the making of a formal offer to settle, known as a ‘Part

Making a will is one of the most important steps you can take to safeguard your family and ensure your wishes are carried out after your death. Therefore, the quality of the will itself is critical to avoid leaving your loved ones facing unnecessary stress and expense. Unclear, ambiguous and poorly drafted documents can often lead to confusion, misinterpretations or even spark disputes.   Recent court cases, including Tedford v Clarke & Ors [2025] EWHC 816 (Ch), have highlighted the

It is pleasing to see the introduction of the initiative known as Jess’s Rule, brought in on 23rd September 2023 by the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England.   The initiative follows the tragic death of Jessica Brady, who sadly passed away from cancer in December 2020 at just 27 years old.   In the 5 months before she died, Jessica attended her GP surgery on 20 occasions complaining of various symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting

Buying off-plan means buying a house or apartment prior to it being built. Typically, as a buyer, you must rely on architect’s plans, computer-generated images and other details provided by the developer. However, in some instances, you may have the opportunity to view a show home or the already completed parts of the development.   ‘Buying off-plan can be a good way of acquiring a new build home at a competitive price,’ says Sam Fahey, an Associate in the conveyancing

Dealing with property problems in a divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership can be legally complex. Failing to properly understand how assets are categorised, neglecting to value them correctly, or ignoring potential tax implications can result in an unfair settlement and lasting financial damage. These matters can be further complicated where other family members are involved, such as an elderly parent in a granny annex, or where property is owned via a company.   ‘Among some of the most

If you have a blended family, making a will allows you to establish clear and effective arrangements for your loved ones. You may wish to consider how best to account for the interests of your current spouse or partner while protecting the needs of your children from an earlier relationship, and ensuring that your estate is distributed in line with your wishes. Without careful planning, even the most well-intentioned arrangements can produce unintended outcomes and, in some cases, costly and

With most properties marketed online, they are visible to a global market and you may find that your property is of interest to someone who lives overseas. Whether they are planning to relocate, or purchasing as an investment (perhaps through a company), you may have some additional questions and concerns if you receive an offer from someone in another country.   ‘If you have received an attractive offer for your property from a buyer who is based overseas, the good

Since our establishment in 1783, Nalders has practised litigation in various capacities. We have acted in cases against parties represented by leading law firms, as well as those acting as litigants in person.   Litigation is expensive. That reality is well understood by those working in the field, and it is certainly not lost on those on the receiving end of a claim.   Understandably, some individuals attempt to defend claims themselves. Some even bring claims without legal representation. In

Separating from a partner when children are involved is one of life’s most difficult challenges. While you are navigating emotional upheaval following the breakdown of your relationship, you also need to make clear and practical decisions about your children and their future. One tool that can make this process smoother is a parenting plan.   A parenting plan is a voluntary written agreement between parents (or anyone with parental responsibility for the child) that sets out the practical arrangements for