Practical and straightforward legal advice
A team of specialist solicitors in four locations across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
Open from 9am - 5pm, Mon to Fri | info@bowcockpursaill.co.uk
A team of specialist solicitors in four locations across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
Founded in 1927, Bowcock & Pursaill has been our clients’ number one choice for solicitors in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and Cheshire for almost 100 years. We also act on behalf of clients throughout the country.
The firm prides itself on its customer service, offering detailed and bespoke advice to clients thanks to our small and highly specialised team of partners, solicitors and legal executives based in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
Are you interested in joining Bowcock & Pursaill? We have a friendly and supportive atmosphere, where everyone knows everyone else and there’s a good team spirit.
Thank you again for your help. Without realising that getting a Will in order was something I needed to attend to, getting it finalised is actually a real weight off my mind. I can only re-iterate how much I appreciated your pragmatic approach to the situation, staying focused on what needed to be achieved now, rather than getting both of us distracted by approaches that could be taken further down the line. You really are a breath of fresh air to work with … but then, so is everyone I come into contact with at B&P!
Our legal services team can help you on a wide range of personal issues – everything from buying or selling your home to getting divorced, tax planning and making a will. For many of our clients, we are their ‘family solicitor’ – trusted advisers who they can turn to when required.
We provide a wide range of legal services for business clients which are delivered in a cost-effective and timely manner to meet their needs. Our team of specialist professionals have extensive experience and expertise in all areas and use these to add value to any transaction.
As experienced conveyancing solicitors, we understand that buying or selling a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. It is an exciting time but can also feel complex and stressful. That is why choosing the right solicitor is so important. Bowcock and Pursaill are proud to hold the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accreditation, a mark of excellence that reflects our commitment to delivering a consistently high-quality, transparent, and reliable conveyancing service. In this blog, we will explore what CQS status means for you as our clients. What is the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS)? The...
The recent change in the law to make anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime an aggravated offence shows a significant shift in the UK’s approach to protecting LGBTQ+ people. While the amendment sits within criminal legislation, it has clear implications for employers and HR teams responsible for maintaining safe and inclusive workplaces. This is now the ideal moment for organisations to review their policies, culture and risk exposure, and for employees to understand their strengthened protections. A Stronger Legal Backdrop for Tackling Discrimination The Equality Act 2010 already prohibits discrimination, harassment and victimisation on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender reassignment. The new aggravated status-offence status reinforces the seriousness of...
Regulations surrounding anti-money laundering are continually evolving, with more scrutiny, more accountability, and more personal responsibility for senior managers of businesses. The key takeaway for firms is not just understanding the rules but embedding them into their everyday working practices. What anti-money laundering regulations are changing? Regulators are focusing on the following: Source-of-funds verification Documented risk assessments Enhanced due diligence for higher-risk clients Ongoing monitoring, not just onboarding checks Ensuring training is role-specific and up to date. Supervisors are asking firms to show that their policies are actually being followed by staff. Internal Practices Are Crucial Effective anti-money laundering (AML) compliance relies on five key elements: A realistic, companywide assessment –...
Divorce among couples aged 50 and over is often called grey divorce, and this has risen significantly in recent years. Longer life expectancy, financial independence and changing expectations of later life can all play a role. But divorcing later in life brings a new set of challenges, particularly around pensions, property and long-term financial security. Pensions are the Most Overlooked Asset For many couples over 50, pensions are the largest marital asset, often exceeding the value of the family home. Yet they are frequently overlooked or misunderstood. Here are four key considerations: Pension sharing orders State pension entitlement Defined benefit versus defined contribution schemes Lifetime planning...
Securing investment is a real game changer for growing businesses. Whether the funding comes from angel investors, venture capital, private equity, or strategic partners, the legal groundwork beforehand can help speed up the process and ensure its successful. Investors are increasingly selective, and will expect clarity, structure, and evidence of good governance. Businesses who prepare in advance, will move through due diligence smoothly and will often secure better terms and stronger long-term relationships. In our latest blog, we will talk you through the importance of preparing for investment. Why preparation matters Investment is about capital but also credibility. Investors are looking for businesses that are...
Cybersecurity remains one of the most important legal and operational challenges for businesses. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, with regulators tightening reporting obligations and increasing fines for non-compliance. As corporate law specialists, Bowcock & Pursaill are here to talk you through the types of cyber threats, updates for reporting, the definition of cyber insurance and response plans if you suffer a data breach. What are cyber threats? Ransomware, phishing, and supply chain attacks are still the most common types of cyber threats in 2026. Attackers are employing AI-driven tools to automate intrusions, making even the tightest security systems in organisations of all sizes vulnerable. SME’s especially...
Employment contracts typically drafted prior to someone starting a new job but then left untouched for years. In today’s fast-moving workplace, outdated contracts that omit new legislation, hybrid working, and evolving employee expectations leave employers exposed to unnecessary risk. Our latest blog will talk you through why annual contract reviews are now essential to protect your business, whilst being legally compliant and providing clarity to your employees. Five reasons employment contracts need regular updates Stay ahead of employment law changes – From statutory leave entitlements to flexible working rights, employment law changes each year. Contracts need to reflect current legal obligations, as an...
Workplace grievances are an inevitable part of running a business. Whether they relate to working conditions, relationships, discrimination, or management decisions, employers are legally obligated to handle grievances fairly, consistently and in line with the ACAS Code of Practice. Getting it wrong can lead to costly disputes, reputational damage and tribunal claims. On the flipside, getting it right builds trust, transparency and a much healthier workplace culture. Our latest blog provides the key steps employers should follow to manage grievances lawfully and effectively. What counts as a grievance? A grievance is any concern, problem, or complaint an employee raises with their employer. Examples include: Bullying...
The Employment Rights Act (ERA) represents the largest overhaul of UK employment law in many years.
The Online Safety Act (2026) is expanding, here’s everything you need to know.
Changes to agricultural and business property relief could cut inheritance tax for many families. Learn what this means for your estate from Bowcock & Pursaill.
Get expert guidance from Bowcock & Pursaill on setting up the right legal structure, drafting agreements, employment law, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance to ensure your Staffordshire venture starts strong.
This festive season, we are proud to support Mission Christmas – Cash for Kids, an initiative that helps bring joy to children in need across the UK. Our Leek office is an official drop-off point, and we warmly invite colleagues, clients, and local community members to contribute. Whether it’s a gift or a donation, every contribution helps make a child’s Christmas extra special. Drop off your donations at:54 St Edward Street, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 5DJ Together, we can make a meaningful difference and spread a little extra cheer this holiday season.
The UK government has announced a 4.1% increase to the National Minimum and Living Wage, effective April 2026. Employers should review contracts, adjust payroll systems, and plan ahead to ensure compliance, manage costs, and maintain fair employment practices.
Succession planning for family businesses and agricultural estates is set to change with the 2025 Autumn Budget. Key updates to Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) introduce new rules for sharing allowances between spouses and a £1 million relief cap, affecting inheritance tax planning and future business strategies
Employees will soon have the right to request flexible working from their very first day. Learn what this means for UK employers, the legal obligations involved, and practical steps to implement policies effectively.
Chelsie Cook joins Bowcock & Pursaill as a Private Client Solicitor in the Wills and Probate department. Based in Leek, Chelsie will advise clients across Staffordshire on Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, estate administration, and Court of Protection matters.
Chelsie Cook joins Bowcock & Pursaill as a Private Client Solicitor in the Wills and Probate department. Based in Leek, Chelsie will advise clients across Staffordshire on Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, estate administration, and Court of Protection matters.
Major reforms under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 come into force on 18 November 2025. The changes will require identity verification for directors and PSCs, updates to company registers, and new compliance rules for businesses. Learn how to prepare and avoid penalties.
Bowcock & Pursaill has welcomed corporate solicitor Kyle Gilbert to its Stoke Festival Park office. With expertise in mergers, acquisitions, restructuring and governance, Kyle provides trusted corporate legal advice to businesses across Staffordshire.
Practical insights for business leaders and HR professionals Join our experts as they explore the practical and legal side of employment law, covering workplace challenges from hybrid and remote working to employee wellbeing, contracts, and compliance. Each episode is packed with clear guidance and real-world insights to help business leaders, HR professionals, and teams navigate today’s workplace with confidence. Got a topic you’d like us to cover? Let us know at info@bowcockpursaill.co.uk. Tune in to stay informed, make smarter decisions, and support your people. Listen to the full podcast here: Working From Anywhere – Hybrid | Work, Health & Safety and Data...
We examine some of the changes to the original bill and what this means for both employees and employers in the future.
Discover what deepfakes are, how to spot them and how businesses can protect themselves from the threats of AI.
One of the most effective ways to ensure your wishes are respected is by setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney.
As an employer, it’s crucial to handle redundancies fairly, legally and compassionately to protect both your business and your employees.
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