Read our latest articles, news briefs and legal updates across all our different services.
The maximum fine for employing an illegal worker and failing to carry out the appropriate checks hastripled as part of the Government’s drive to clamp down on illegal migration. Under the new Code of practice on preventing illegal working the civil penalty for employers hasincreased from £15,000 to a maximum of £45,000 per illegal worker
I have just embarked on my final six months as a trainee solicitor, and reflecting on my training contract experience so far, the past 18 months have undoubtedly been an invaluable learning curve. As I progress towards qualification, I have begun to reflect on the lessons learnt and experience gained. As a prospective trainee I
It is important to note when applying for training contracts at regional firms, your role is more than understanding the law in which seat you are training in. Here at Machins, as a trainee you are viewed as the future of the firm and so from day one you will have an active role in
During the application season, it can feel like the whole world is announcing that they’ve accepted an offer for their top choice firm or are choosing between three placements. So, how do you stay focused and avoid the trap of comparison culture? You’re already trying to balance ongoing studies alongside writing applications, attending events, networking
With Family Mediation Week due to take place between 22-26 January 2024, we explain some key points about family mediation and how the process works. Family Mediation – What is it? Family mediation is designed to assist divorcing or separating couples reach an agreement in relation to financial and/or children matters that arise as a
The Law Society has warned that a move to electronic wills could lead to an increase in fraud. It says more research is needed before they are introduced. The concern was raised in the Society’s response to the Law Commission’s consultation on wills reform. The commission is consulting on the issue of electronic wills due
The highly anticipated annual office Christmas party epitomises the perfect out of hours staff get together, but if you’re not careful one too many shots coupled with a clash of personalities could make for a recipe for disaster! Here are Machins’ top tips for a trouble-free night of drinks, dancing and merriment without the throes
Changes to the government’s policy on Immigration announced by James Cleverly, the Home Secretary will have major implications for Employers, Migrants Workers and persons seeking to bring spouses to the UK and other migrants. Its perhaps worth stating that even before this announcement some other notable changes had already been announced earlier this year. Some
The Government has announced changes to the Renters (Reform) Bill to protect vulnerable residents and improve the safety of homes for tenants. It has tabled amendments to make it illegal for landlords and agents to have blanket bans on renting to people who receive benefits or who have children – ensuring families aren’t discriminated against
The Government has announced proposals to cut ground rents to help homeowners in leasehold properties. Housing Secretary Michael Gove has launched a consultation that will set out options including capping ground rents at a so called “peppercorn” rate for existing leaseholders, freezing ground rents at current levels and capping the ground rents at a percentage