Common Law Marriage Myth: Know Your Rights
Many couples believe living together creates a “common law marriage” with legal rights — but this is a myth. Learn what cohabiting partners in the UK need to know.
Individual Services
The Importance of Making a Will: Lessons from Liam Payne’s Estate
Pop star Liam Payne’s untimely death without a Will left a £24 million estate subject to intestacy laws. This high-profile case highlights the risks of not planning ahead. Learn how making a Will can protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected.
Spousal Maintenance: Not an Automatic Right
Spousal maintenance is often misunderstood. This article explains why it’s not automatically awarded in divorce, debunks common myths, and outlines what courts consider when deciding whether support is appropriate.
Mortgage Rates Fall Amid Economic Uncertainty: Impact of US Trade Tariffs
UK mortgage lenders are cutting rates in response to expected Bank of England interest rate reductions, driven by global economic uncertainty and US trade tariffs.
How Mortgage Lenders Are Easing Restrictions to Help More First-Time Buyers in 2025
In 2025, UK mortgage lenders are easing rules to help first-time buyers. With lower deposits, relaxed affordability checks, and falling interest rates, homeownership is becoming more achievable.
Custody Myths: Why “Custody” No Longer Exists in Family Law
The concept of “custody” no longer exists in family law. Learn how child arrangements after divorce are determined today, focusing on shared parental responsibility and the child’s best interests. We address common misconceptions and clarify what modern family law means for parents.
Making a Will in the UK: 2025 Trends and Common Misconceptions
With more people than ever making a Will in the UK, a recent survey highlights growing engagement, yet confusion remains about the process. Learn why creating a Will is essential, common misconceptions, and how professional legal advice can help ensure your wishes are clearly documented.
Abolition of Section 21: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
The landscape of the private rented sector in England is set to undergo significant change with the upcoming abolition of Section 21 possession claims (often referred to as “no-fault evictions”). The Renters’ Reform Bill continues to progress, albeit slowly, through Parliament. These changes aim to enhance tenant security while also presenting new challenges for landlords.
Make a Will Month: Protect your future and support Age Concern Luton
This April, Machins Solicitors is offering Will-writing services in exchange for a donation to Age Concern Luton. With only a limited number of appointments available, now is the time to put your affairs in order while giving back to the community.
Rent Deductions from Benefits: What Landlords and Tenants Need to Know
The automated system that allows landlords to deduct rent from tenants’ benefits is under review due to concerns that it may be leading some tenants into financial hardship. The process of rent deductions from benefits has been in place for some time, but it is now facing scrutiny, with potential changes on the horizon. Current