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NEWS & BLOG

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Witnessing Wills Remotely in a Changing World

In order to be considered valid, Wills have historically needed to comply with section 9 of the Wills Act 1837 (amended by section 17 of the Administration of Justice Act 1982). Usual practice dictates that the execution and attestation of Wills must comply entirely with the statutory legal requirements, but global events relating to the outbreak of coronavirus have brought additional challenges on how witnessing Wills remotely could be achieved. What’s Changing? Legal requirements state that a witness must be present and within the testator’s line of sight, which does not allow for witnessing Wills remotely. While this could be...

2 min read.

New legal secretary joins our Uttoxeter office

Bowcock & Pursaill is excited to announce the appointment of new Legal Secretary Kay Johnson at our Uttoxeter office. Kay’s employment comes on the back of the retirement of Legal Secretary, Gillian Elks. Kay has taken on the role and comes to the team with specialisms in probate, wills and both commercial and residential property. Kay, who has 35 years’ experience of working in law firms across the UK, said: “I have covered all aspects of the legal field as both a secretary and legal executive. “I’m excited to be working at Bowcock & Pursaill. They’re a modern, progressive firm...

1 min read.

Staffordshire Legal Secretaries reach combined service of 78 years

After nearly half a century, Bowcock & Pursaill Legal Secretary Carol White is ready to hang up the apron and retire, while Legal Secretary Kay Pickford celebrates 30 years at the Leek office. Carol has been a great part of the team at Bowcock & Pursaill since 1972 and has always been on hand to keep everyone in the Leek office organised. Ian Naylor, partner at Bowcock & Pursaill Solicitors, said: “It’s an incredible achievement for us to see Carol reach 48 years and we wish her all the best in retirement. We know Carol will always succeed in everything...

2 min read.

What is power of attorney?

Granting powers of attorney to a named individual can be a difficult decision to make, but when done correctly and for the right reasons it provides peace of mind during challenging times. Powers of attorney can restore independence and peace of mind when placed in the hands of a trustworthy individual and for the right reasons. It is essentially a document which is designed to authorize a named individual to act on behalf of another person should they be unable to do so themselves. It is a role that comes with a certain level of responsibility, whether the named individual...

3 min read.

Face Masks in Family Court

Recent global events have affected the way courts operate in the UK and special considerations must be made to ensure the health and safety of those in attendance. While wearing masks or other face coverings in court is not mandatory, it is recommended by HMCTS as are alternative approaches such as remote hearings. The recent global outbreak of coronavirus has impacted heavily on our lifestyles and the ways we interact as a society. One of the less disruptive changes that has been recommended is the use of face masks and face coverings in public spaces, particularly indoors. The latest legislation...

4 min read.

No fault divorce: Ending the ‘Blame Game’ with changes to UK divorce law

Changes in divorce law are due to come into effect from Autumn 2021 which will give couples the option to remove fault from the divorce process. This summer, the House of Commons passed the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill in a move that has proven popular with family solicitors as it brings legislation surrounding divorce proceedings into the modern era. More than 30 years of campaigning has led to these changes being implemented in the UK with the bill garnering a large supportive majority among MPs. This procedural shake-up represents a landmark shift in legal culture and helps modernise a...

3 min read.

Employment Newsletter July 2020

This newsletter covers: Flexible Furlough Scheme Returning to Work Discrimination Local Lockdowns Home Working Flexible Furlough Scheme The rules of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme changed from 1 July. There is now no longer a minimum period of three weeks nor is there a rule against working for the employer. This allows rotas to be set with employees working certain hours on certain days and spending the rest of the week on furlough. But employees may only be furloughed from 1 July onwards who have been furloughed for a three week period in the lead up to and including 30...

9 min read.

Stamp Duty Land Tax (“Stamp Duty”) holiday

The UK housing market is open for business and the potential to save thousands on Stamp Duty has created an exciting opportunity for those looking to move house. Our specialist conveyancing team have all the knowledge to assist you with the conveyancing process. Partner, Emma Amat oversees the residential property department, she explains what the Stamp Duty holiday could mean for you. What is Stamp Duty? Stamp Duty is a tax payable when you buy property or land in England and Northern Ireland. Scotland and Wales have a different land tax process. Stamp Duty is calculated at an increasing percentage...

2 min read.

Inheritance tax – and why agricultural businesses can be difficult!

Compared to any other industry agriculture is currently offered the most generous inheritance tax reliefs. An agricultural business will, of course, always have the option if agricultural property relief is not available upon an asset to consider whether business property relief is available. With extra inheritance tax reliefs, one would assume therefore that dealing with the death of a farmer should be simpler than the death of any other businessman – however it usually is not. The common position is that there is an interaction between the farming business, the homes of those involved within the business, other ancillary relatives...

3 min read.
ABOUT US

Offices open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday

Welcome


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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.

Our Team


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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.

Careers


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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.

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