Graduate Training Contracts and Vacation Schemes
Discover the potential in yourself and the reward of a career in a dynamic firm.
Showing 250 results of 449 found for Training contract
The Recruitment Process
We seek the most promising graduates to join our programme. To ensure we find you, we’ve adopted advanced techniques to zero in on the true performers.
Employment Law Training
Conferences, seminars, in-house training, tailored sessions and training materials for HR professionals, directors, managers and supervisors.
Tribunal Training – tips, tricks and tactics
There has been a dramatic rise in claims since the removal of tribunal fees in 2017. It is important to understand how the tribunal process works to help you deal with an employment tribunal claim or to provide effective assistance to your solicitors in helping them successfully defend a claim.
Hiring and Firing Senior Employees
Employers need to know how they can attract talented senior employees to their business whilst at the same time ensuring that the contractual terms protect their business. Employers must also understand their employee’s dismissal rights and how they can safely dismiss senior employees in different situations.
Getting to grips with TUPE
When it comes to winning, bidding for (and losing!) service contracts, a good understanding of the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (“TUPE”) is essential. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach so it’s important to understand how the different parts of TUPE can impact in practice. Whilst the basic principles of…
Managing Sickness Absence
A healthy, functioning workforce is central to a productive business. Whether long-term or repeated short-term, sickness absences can be highly problematic for employers as they can easily turn into claims of unfair dismissal and disability discrimination if they are not handled correctly. A confident, competent and legally compliant response from…
Getting To Grips with Employment Law
Whether you have 5 or 5000 employees, a fundamental understanding of employment law is crucial. An overview of the key elements of employment law will help employers and managers deal with common day-to-day employment issues in a confident and professional manner. We will look at the core areas of employment law and provide you with the legal knowledge…
Monitoring Employees
From CCTV to tracking emails and internet usage, workplace monitoring can both safeguard employees and provide an employer with important data that can add real value to their business. However, monitoring must be handled carefully as employees are entitled to some privacy while they are at work. Those involved in monitoring, such as management, supervisors…
Workplace Discrimination
From recruitment to dismissal, this seminar will help you understand the legal issues of discrimination and highlight potential dangers at each stage of the employment relationship. We will teach you how to identify different types of discrimination and the steps you can take to manage the legal risks of discrimination.
Dealing with Discipline and Grievance Procedures
This seminar will explain what you need to do when you are faced with grievances and disciplinary matters to put yourself in the strongest position possible at a tribunal. We will explore the legal claims you might face and how to protect yourself with effective policies and procedures. This session is ideal for those involved with grievances and discipline,…
Redundancy and Restructuring
This seminar will provide an up-to-date assessment of the legal considerations when restructuring or dealing with redundancies. Our experts will show you how best to navigate the legal pitfalls of a redundancy situation by using fair and objective selection criteria and carrying out early consultation.
Disability Discrimination and Stress
Our experts will help you identify disabilities and better understand the types of discrimination that can occur. In a practical and engaging session, you will learn how an organisation’s policies and practices can inadvertently cause discrimination, how to handle absences, how to accommodate disabled employees in the workplace, as well as how to safely…
Mind the Gap: Pay Discrimination in the Workplace
Employers with over 250 relevant employees are required to publish gender pay gap information. Organisations that meet the reporting criteria must be prepared for gender pay gap reporting with an understanding of what the gender pay gap is and how to report on it in compliance with legislation
Sex Discrimination in the Workplace - a new era?
This interactive workshop and discussion group will explore the legal and practical issues around sexual harassment and look at steps to promote an inclusive culture which fosters equality, with a view to protecting against future claims.
Flexing or Vexing? Dealing with flexible working requests
In this session, we will explore a range of issues that can arise when dealing with flexible working requests and provide tips on how best to approach such requests and how to better protect yourselves when facing potential claims.
Redundancy Refresher - ensuring a fair dismissal
In this session delegates will be guided through the key aspects of a fair redundancy process and dismissal. Through case studies, we will help delegates to understand best practice and provide practical tips to ensure a smooth redundancy process. We will also tackle some of the more difficult issues associated with redundancies.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
This interactive and practical session discusses the challenges organisations face in implementing this new obligation and how to comply with the requirements of GDPR. The session will cover the key actions for employers regarding the collection, storage and use of personal and staff data and also considers the main practical impact of GDPR on day…
How to conduct grievance and disciplinary investigations
This interactive and practical session will provide delegates with an understanding of the legal and best practice requirements necessary to conduct an investigation and provides practical tips for the investigators.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
In this session delegates will develop their knowledge of the protected characteristics and be guided through the legal and practical issues around discrimination and harassment. The course looks at which behaviours are prohibited by the Equality Act and provides practical guidance on how to promote an inclusive culture which fosters equality.
The Law of Recruitment, Interviewing and Selection
Getting recruitment right is critical to ensure you recruit the right people for the success of the business. It’s essential that any recruitment process is fair, consistent and complies with legal requirements including discrimination law. Whether recruitment is internal or external, there are many pitfalls for the unwary manager. Implementing a robust…
Working at Howes Percival
People join Howes Percival for many reasons but everyone has a good reason to stay: the culture here is like no other law firm they’ve encountered. It is a genuinely supportive working environment across all departments. There is a high level of respect between people at every level of office or seniority in the firm. Everyone wants you to do well…
Careers
Ours is a continually growing business and we are always recruiting to increase our capacity as well as our capabilities. We welcome applications for current vacancies, for our range of training opportunities, and for our vacation scheme as well as general enquiries about careers at Howes Percival.
Construction
Our Construction team provides specialist, in-depth expertise for clients across the full spectrum of the construction industry, including: developers, occupiers, contractors, investors, banks, consultants and insurers.
Commercial
Our Commercial team can advise you on putting robust contracts in place that manage your risks and can adapt to a changing business landscape.
Employment Tribunal Claims
Employment tribunal proceedings can be brought for various types of claims including unfair dismissal, breach of contract, holiday pay, discrimination and equal pay. They can be complex and time consuming. Our employment team has significant expertise in bringing and defending employment tribunal claims.
Lilika Peutherer
Lilika joined the Employment Team as an Associate in September 2023 after having completed her training contract with Howes Percival
Guy Houldsworth
Guy qualified into the Commercial Property team in March 2013 having previously spent six months in the department during his training contract.
Katherine Channell
Katherine qualified into the Commercial Property team in September 2020 after spending a year in the department during her training contract.
Zara Khan
Zara joined the Intellectual Property and IT team as an Associate in September 2023, having completed her training contract with Howes Percival.
Nichola Constantinides
Nichola is an Associate in the Insolvency and Corporate Recovery (ICR) department.
Paula Dumbill
Paula is an experienced commercial contracts and information technology specialist with particular expertise in advising on complex projects. She has a wealth of experience of commercial trading arrangements across a broad range of sectors and has a keen interest in innovation and technology.
Rachel Leatherland
Rachel joined Howes Percival as an Associate in the Dispute Resolution team and deals with both commercial litigation and contentious trusts and probate claims.
Max Windich
Max is a commercial contract lawyer specialising in the IT, technology, life sciences and academic sectors.
Kristina Blackett
Kristina is an experienced conveyancer providing advising clients on the buying and selling of freehold and leasehold properties, contract negotiation and remortgage work including equity release.
Ben Hancox
Ben is a Director in the Corporate and Commercial Team. Ben provides advice on a range of corporate transactions (including asset and shares sale and acquisitions) and other commercial contracts including terms and conditions, distribution and franchising agreements and advising directors and shareholders on their rights and obligations under company…
Gary Pitt
Gary is a Director in the Commercial Litigation department in Leicester, where he deals with a wide range of commercial matters. His experience includes dealing with contractual disputes in the County Court and High Court, interim applications, urgent injunctions and contentious insolvency matters.
Chris White
Chris is a very experienced commercial and technology lawyer advising on a wide variety of agreements and contracts.
Richard Turner
Richard is a Partner in the Corporate and Commercial team. He advises on a range of corporate transactions including business sales, share sales and acquisitions and corporate restructuring.
Olivia Horseman
Olivia is an Associate in the Dispute Resolution team in Cambridge.
James Stephen
James is a senior corporate lawyer based in the Cambridge office. James acts for clients of all sizes including public and private limited companies, LLPs, partnerships and entrepreneurs. His clients operate across a range of sectors.
Georgina Burrows
Georgina has experience dealing with a wide range of employment law matters – both contentious and non-contentious.
Mayoori Ravichandran
Mayoori is a newly qualified Commercial Associate in the Corporate, Commercial and Banking team and is based in our Milton Keynes office.
Jack Wright
Jack is a commercial lawyer with experience in drafting, advising on and negotiating a range of commercial agreements.
Georgia Short
Georgia joined the Commercial Property team as a Senior Associate in October 2023.
Sam Leaver
Sam joined Howes Percival in 2023 and specialises in commercial dispute resolution.
Alexandra Wilson
Alexandra is a Senior Associate in the Dispute Resolution team, based in our Cambridge office.
Katie Gratton
Katie is an Associate in the Dispute Resolution team in the Leicester office
Will Needham
Will is a first year trainee currently undertaking his first seat in Commercial in the Northampton office.
Natalie Reeder
Natalie joined the employment team as a newly qualified solicitor in September 2024 and works across Northampton and Milton Keynes.
Charmaine Adebare
Charmaine joined the Employment Team as an Associate in September 2024. Charmaine’s background includes working as a tax litigator for the Civil Service, where she handled VAT cases.
Satnam Chayra
Satnam is a leading litigator based in Leicester with vast experience in both property litigation and commercial litigation.Her expertise in commercial litigation includes dealing with: breach of contract claims, misrepresentation, issues relating to the sale of goods and supply of services, consumer credit claims, unpaid invoices, agency claims, director…
Gerald Couldrake
Gerald is an experienced Consultant within the Corporate, Commercial and Banking team. He has extensive experience advising on sales and purchases of businesses, joint ventures and commercial contracts. He advised and is company secretary of both the British Racing Drivers Club (owners of Silverstone Circuit) and the Guards Polo Club (based at Windsor…
Geraint Davies
Geraint heads up Howes Percival’s Litigation and Insolvency practice group and has over twenty years' experience in dealing with high-value commercial and property litigation disputes. He acts on behalf of a wide range of commercial clients, ranging from major PLCs to owner managed businesses. He regularly deals with complex High Court and cross border…
Michael Green
Michael specialises in commercial disputes with a particular emphasis on company/shareholder disputes, partnership advice, restraint of trade disputes, technology based disputes, professional negligence claims, contract disputes, agency disputes, contentious trusts & probate and insolvency. His clients include BDO, Mazars, RSM, Bens Cookies, many…
Lucy Lord
Lucy has wide experience in real estate transactions including residential and commercial development work, acting for national and regional developers. She regularly deals with: all aspects of acquisition and disposal work including options and conditional contracts; freehold and leasehold portfolio acquisitions and disposals; landlord and tenant…
Hannah Ball
Hannah specialises in all aspects of Employment law and advises on both contentious and non contentious matters. Hannah has defended a range of Employment Tribunal claims including unfair dismissal and discrimination. Hannah regularly advises clients on non-contentious matters, such as contracts of employment. In addition, Hannah provides advice on…
Matthew Thompson
Matthew is a Partner in our Corporate, Commercial and Banking team. Matthew provides advice on a broad range of corporate matters (including corporate deals of various sizes and restructurings), commercial matters (including commercial contracts, standard terms and conditions and franchising), loan agreements, and refinancing transactions.
Shital Odedra
Shital specialises in company transactions including mergers and acquisitions, disposals, restructures and reorganisations. Shital also advises directors and shareholders with their legal requirements such as directors’ duties or shareholders’ agreements. Shital also has experience in company refinancing, share schemes and commercial contracts.
Sobia Ahmad
Sobia advises clients on a wide range of employment law matters – both contentious and non-contentious – and adopts a clear, commercial and practical approach.She has acted for employers and employees within a range of sectors and has experience of handling employment tribunal claims, advising on day-to-day employment issues and drafting and negotiating…
Graham Irons
Graham provides advice to clients in both the private and public sectors and has been recognised in the Legal 500 as being "very responsive", having "a deep knowledge of UK employment law" and providing "practical and creative advice".Graham is a regular speaker at a range of events and has a reputation for delivering fun and practical seminars and…
Deborah Caldwell
Deborah has been working as a professional support lawyer in the real estate sector for the past 15 years, supporting lawyers within private practice by drafting documents, keeping clients informed through regular briefings, researching complex areas of law and delivering updates and training. Deborah keeps a close eye on legislative changes, and analyses…
Five things that make Howes Percival’s training contract stand out
There are a myriad of reasons why undertaking your Training Contract at Howes Percival is excellent, Eliza Kay highlights her Top 5!
Are you a paralegal looking for a training contract?
Throughout law school it is drilled into students that experience is the key to unlocking the door to a training contract, a role that sometimes feels like gold dust. However, experience can come in all shapes and sizes, whether it involves showing dedication through a part time job, completing various vac schemes or working as a paralegal.
Howes Percival Class of 2023: A Reflection on our Training Contracts
Starting a training contract can be daunting, exciting and nerve-wracking all at once. Here our recent trainees reflect on their experience.
The Benefits of Being a Paralegal Before Starting a Training Contract
Anyone who is in the process of applying for training contracts will know that it can be a frustrating and worrying time, with fierce competition meaning that hundreds of people could be applying for just a handful of spaces. Many may lose faith that they will ever secure a place, and may feel forced to give up on pursuing law as a career. When competition…
Top Tips for Making Terrific Vacation Scheme and Training Contract Applications
Fortunately, a new year comes with new opportunities to learn, grow, and pursue your goals. Therefore, if one of your goals for this year is to secure a vacation scheme or training contract, now is the perfect time to get started.
Learn as You Earn: The Importance of Personal Development Courses during a Training Contract
Howes Percival trainee, Daniel Ingle discusses the importance of personal development courses during a training contract.
Training Contracts – Expectation vs Reality
Before I started my training contract here at Howes Percival, I had a number of ideas about how I envisioned the two years to be. Now, mid-way through my second seat, I realise that a number of those ideas were misconceptions. I will share five of them with you now.
How will the coronavirus affect my vacation scheme and training contract?
In light of this unprecedented situation, many of you may understandably be worried about how the Coronavirus will affect our summer vacation scheme and graduate recruitment. Therefore, I will do my best to address your concerns below.
Five things no one tells you about starting your training contract
1. When your phone rings, it’s not always for you. On my first day in the office, my phone rang and it was an existing client that the previous trainee had been dealing with. At that point, I had no chance of being able to answer their questions. In situations like that, just take down a note of what the client is asking, and make sure you get back…
Applying for Training Contracts
Applying for a training contract can be seen as a time consuming and somewhat daunting task. I personally spent many hours applying for training contracts before I was fortunate enough to obtain one with Howes Percival. Although different firms may run their application processes differently, many firms will cover the process of an initial application…
Top Tips for Your First Training Contract Seat
Trainee Solicitor, Iona Palmer offers her top five tips for your first seat of a training contract.
Why Howes Percival? A Trainee Perspective
When it comes to applying for training contracts, there are hundreds of firms to choose from. Of course in today’s competitive environment, acquiring that training contract is the most important goal. However, looking forward, being selective about the firms you apply to is key. Different firms have different attitudes, and training can differ greatly…
Meet Howes Percival’s New Trainees of 2019
Howes Percival has appointed seven new trainee solicitors across its offices in Cambridge, Leicester, Milton Keynes, Northampton and Norwich.
Six new trainee solicitors join Howes Percival
Howes Percival has welcomed six new trainee solicitors. The firm has also appointed five new solicitors who have recently completed their training contracts with the firm.
Seven New Trainees Join Howes Percival
Howes Percival has welcomed seven new trainee solicitors to its offices across the East Midlands and East Anglia, while three new solicitors have been appointed having recently completed their training contracts with the firm.
1 year down, 1 to go: a second year’s TC update
So, we’re now 1 year into your training contract and 1 year closer to qualifying. You’re hopefully more confident in yourself and perhaps a step closer to picking your future career area. What’s happened in the first year?
Howes Percival Winner in 6 Lex 100 Categories
Howes Percival has been announced as a winner in six categories in The Lex 100 – a comprehensive guide to training contracts at the UK’s top law firms.
The Ongoing Fear of the Unknown
Trainees are in a unique position where every six months brings a new department, area of law, skills, experiences and concerns.
Why I Chose Howes Percival? How Does it Fare Against Expectations So Far?
Daniel Giblett is a second-seat trainee solicitor in our Norwich office. Here he explains what attracted him to Howes Percival and how the firm compares against his initial expectations.
Looking forward to qualification
I know I am not the only third seat trainee feeling anxious and apprehensive about qualification. Not only is there the pressure of attempting to determine exactly which department you would like to qualify into, there is also the fear of not securing an NQ role at all.
Life in Northampton as a Trainee Solicitor
James Pitts is a trainee solicitor in our Northampton Office. Here he explains what Northampton as a town has to offer to potential trainees and the work involved at the office.
How You Can Get Involved with the Equality and Diversity Committee
Howes Percival trainee, Zara Khan discusses becoming part of the firm's Equality and Diversity Committee and the work it does throughout the firm.
An Insolvency Trainee
Having recently started my first seat in Insolvency Department in our Norwich office, I am already taking responsibility for different files and tasks after just a couple of weeks into my seat.
Life as a Trainee: Insolvency and Corporate Recovery to Commercial Property
Nichola Constantinides is a trainee solicitor in our Milton Keynes office. Here she explains what it's like to change seats.
Howes Percival Values, Culture and Networking
Trainee Solicitor, Amy Ward, talks about her experience at Howes Percival since joining in September 2019 and gives some helpful tops for getting involved.
COVID-19: Remote working – will contracts concluded by e-signature be legally enforceable?
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses have been doing their best to keep operational. Although that has become impossible for some, in particular as a result of the unprecedented measures announced on Friday 20 March 2020 and Monday 23 March 2020 by the government, there are those which have been able to continue by implementing remote working…
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Furloughed Workers
The UK Government announced a plan to avoid mass redundancies through the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic by offering to cover 80% of workers’ wages for four months starting retrospectively from 1 March 2020, known as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“Scheme”).
Do you have contract playbooks in your business?
Brigitta Naunton, a Director in Howes Percival's Corporate and Commercial team, discusses how contract playbooks can benefit your business and explains the stages of setting one up.
Think the LPC is the end of your exams? Think again…
At the end of my LPC, I cheered that I never had to sit another exam again and could move straight onto my training contract and concentrate on the job.
The Life of a Lockdown Trainee
In September 2019 I started my training contract with Howes Percival LLP, by March 2020 the world was in a tailspin and we were in lockdown. When I started my training contract I never thought I would have to adapt to working almost entirely from home. So let’s talk frankly about what that means as a trainee, trying to forge your way in the crazy legal…
Making a Success of your Vacation Scheme
As we reach the end of October, application deadlines for winter vacation schemes are fast approaching. A vacation scheme is a fantastic way to understand the inner workings of a law firm and, at the same time, evaluate whether a career in law is likely to be suited to you. Schemes come in all shapes and sizes and are offered by firms from City to…
Howes Percival welcomes eight new trainees and its first solicitor apprentice
Howes Percival has welcomed eight new trainee solicitors to the firm and has appointed its first solicitor apprentice. It has also appointed four new solicitors who have recently completed their training contracts with the firm. Trainee SolicitorsThe eight new trainees are Eliza Kay, Lauren Farthing, Lilika Peutherer,Iona…
Vacation Schemes - The Dos and Don’ts
Securing a place on a vacation scheme can be difficult, but if you are able to prove yourself in what is essentially a week long interview, you are much more likely to secure that elusive training contract.
Emerging from lockdown – managing the risks
Health and safety risk management issues employers may need to consider when the lockdown ends.
Ten top tips for trainees
When starting your training contract, it is hard to see yourself as the sparkling legal eagle that you see and hear around the office; offering excellent legal advice as standard, consistently bringing in business for the firm and being invited to speak at industry events.
Approaching Qualification
So what goes on in a solicitor’s office behind the doors located next to the reception desk? Well, 18 months in and approaching qualification you would think that I would have an idea by now. Hopefully I do, but you can be the judge of that. Through this article I am going to provide you with an account of my training contract with Howes Percival.…
Top Tips for your Vacation Scheme Application
The application deadline for our Vacation Scheme is fast approaching so log on and apply before 31 March 2016! Most of the current trainees completed a vacation scheme at the firm so it really is worthwhile applying now if you are considering a training contract here. This is your opportunity both to get to know us better and to show us your potential…
My First Seat – Commercial Property - Cambridge
When I initially accepted a training contract with Howes Percival, I had expected to be based in either Leicester or Northampton. However, over the course of the next two years the firm grew significantly and my first seat has instead been in the new Cambridge office, as part of the Commercial Property team.
My First Seat - Company Commercial
After a few months of relaxation over summer, I began my training contract in September 2015 within the Company Commercial department in Milton Keynes.
Musical chairs – how to ace changing seats and cities
At Howes Percival, trainees are encouraged to move offices during their training contract. Not only do you benefit from the experience of different specialisms, you get to meet more of your colleagues and build your professional network. Who doesn’t want more LinkedIn connections?
Seven new trainees join Howes Percival
The leading regional law firm has welcomed seven new trainee solicitors to its offices across the East Midlands and East Anglia. The firm has also appointed four new solicitors who have recently completed their training contracts with Howes Percival.
Furloughed Employees Should Receive Full Redundancy Payments And Notice Pay
The Government have introduced the Coronavirus, Calculation of a Week’s pay Regulations 2020 effective from the 31st July 2020. It ensures furloughed employees receive statutory redundancy pay and statutory notice pay based on their normal pay if they were working, rather than a reduced furlough rate.
Getting to Grips with Networking
Attending networking events is one of those daunting tasks that many new trainees do not expect will be on their to-do list when they first walk through the door. In my first few weeks at Howes Percival I was asked to attend networking events and thought ‘I should not be going to this, I’ve just started training - nobody will be interested in talking…
An IP/IT Trainee
I am nearly half way through my third seat in the Intellectual Property/Information Technology (“IP/IT”) department in our Leicester office, and I can’t quite believe I only have 9 months left to go of my training contract. Below is an example of what you might be asked to do as a trainee in the IP/IT department.
Making the Most of Your Law Fair
I am now four months into my training contract and have thoroughly enjoyed the work I have undertaken in the Commercial Property team. However, life as a trainee solicitor has been far more varied than I ever could have imagined! So far I have decorated the boardroom for Halloween and Christmas events, attended the Norfolk YPG Ball and represented…
New training and networking programme for in-house lawyers hailed a success
Howes Percival’s new ‘In-Howes’ programme of training and networking events aimed at in-house lawyers has been hailed as a huge success
Top tips for employers when recruiting
Employers are facing a challenging time at the moment in recruitment with a UK-wide labour shortage. If you are lucky enough to find some good candidates it’s important to ensure that your recruitment process does not fall foul of employment law. This article provides some top tips to help you get it right.
Responsibility as a Trainee
When choosing a law firm, some common questions asked by aspiring trainee solicitors are, “Will I be given enough responsibility?” “How much client contact will I have?” and “Will I be given my own files?”
Pro-Bono Volunteering
As it is National Pro Bono Week, I decided to share with you my experience of volunteering at Norfolk Community Law Service (“NCLS”). NCLS is a registered charity providing a range of free, independent legal advice services including Employment, Family, General and Domestic Abuse in Norwich, Cromer and Great Yarmouth. They also provide free Debt and…
Pay protection in lesser role could amount to a reasonable adjustment
NEWSThe Employment Appeal Tribunal has held that the duty to make reasonable adjustments for a disabled employee could extend to continuing to pay a higher salary to an employee who is moved to a lesser role.IMPLICATIONSThe Employment Appeal Tribunal’s view was that there was no reason in principle why the duty to make reasonable adjustments should…
50 Years of the Equal Pay Act
To mark 50 years since the Equal Pay Act 1970 was passed, Acas have issued updated advice on equal pay including good practice guidance for employers on how to try to prevent discriminatory practices in their workplace.
Facilities Assistant - Northampton
A Facilities Assistant performs daily maintenance operations to support our Facilities and Health & Safety Manager and staff across all of our office locations.
Grenfell Tower: An end to the merry-go-round of buck-passing?
Howes Percival’s construction and property lawyers summarise the findings and recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry’s final report published earlier this month.
Howes Percival trainee lawyer wins prestigious award
Kirsten Tinline, trainee solicitor at Howes Percival, has been named ‘Trainee Lawyer of the Year’ at the Year at the Cambridgeshire & District Law Society Legal Excellence Awards 2019. The awards ceremony and dinner were held at Trinity Hall, Cambridge.
Section 1 statements are changing - make sure your business isn’t caught out
With effect from April 2020, changes to employment Legislation mean that employers must issue not just employees but all workers with a new style of statement, setting out the key terms of their employment. This statement must be provided from day 1 of employment. Matthew Potter, Partner, at Howes Percival takes us through the proposed changes.
Utilising other types of work experience
We have all heard the phrase “any publicity is good publicity” but I would also say the same is true for “experience”. I think there can sometimes be a misconception that firms are only interested in your legal work experience and not all the other types of work you may have previously undertaken. I have to say that was definitely not true for me and…
GDPR Update: Are you ready?
The heavily anticipated EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will become effective on 25 May 2018. The GDPR will bring considerable changes to data protection law in the UK and across the European Economic Area (EEA) more widely, and will include significantly greater fines of up to €20 million or 4% of total worldwide annual group turnover…
The Value of Contributions to a Marriage
For the past few days, we have been able to enjoy the Olympics and have had the privilege of watching elite sports men and women compete. The competition represents the culmination of years of training and dedication to their sport, with people striving to be the best.Many of the competitors will be married and have children; Tom Daley has said that…
Promotions for Howes Percival’s Insolvency Team
Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced two promotions in its Norwich-based insolvency team. Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced two promotions in its Norwich-based insolvency team.
Fire safety in care homes
Robert Starr, Director in the Regulatory Team at Howes Percival, provides an overview of the legal framework for fire safety in care homes ahead of anticipated changes early next year.
Employment law specialist joins Howes Percival’s Norwich office
Howes Percival’s employment law team in East Anglia continues to grow from strength to strength with the arrival of Laura Brown, who has been appointed legal director. Laura joins the firm’s Norwich office from Birketts LLP.
Howes Percival expands Employment Law team to meet growing demand
Howes Percival has expanded its Employment Law team in the MK/Northampton region, following an increase in new instructions over the last six months.
Cambridge Launches Contract Masterclass for In-House Lawyers
Howes Percival's Cambridge office's inaugural event for in-house counsel will be held at The Trinity Centre on 29 November 2017.
April 2020 Employment Law Changes
April is always a busy month in the employment law calendar and this year is no exception. There have been a number of key changes to legislation that you need to be aware of as well as several increases to payments.
Modern Slavery Act (MSA) Statement Reminder
The first 6 month deadline for the publication of an annual Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement (SHT Statement) under section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (MSA) is 30 September 2016. This will be for entities affected by MSA with a financial year ending on 31 March 2016. Affected entities should publish an SHT Statement as soon as reasonably…
Howes Percival announces promotion of two new partners
Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival, has announced seven senior promotions, including two new partners. Justine Flack and Tom Lawrence have been made partners in the firm; Katharine Danks and Helen Stewart have been promoted to the level of director; Hannah Ball, Alexandra Kirkwood and Matthew Thompson have been promoted to associate level. Tessa…
Mind the knowledge gap – what you are not taught on the LPC
The LPC is specifically designed to prepare you for a career as a solicitor, and the start of that is, of course, becoming a trainee. So this begs the question – what issues will you face as a trainee that are not dealt with on the LPC?
A Commercial Property Trainee
8.30 Marks my arrival into the office. I am currently in my first seat (Commercial Property). Whilst waiting for my computer to load, I compile my initial “to-do-list” for the day. I then check my emails for any overnight developments that may have come through.
Top ranked employment law team announces expansion as turnover up 23%
Howes Percival has expanded its highly rated employment law team in response to an increase in instructions over the last year.
Three new partners among nine senior promotions at Howes Percival
Howes Percival has announced nine senior promotions across its Cambridge, Norwich, Leicester and Northampton offices, including three new partners.
Here’s to a successful vacation scheme
The hard part is done and you have secure a place on a vacation scheme, but now the time for the scheme has actually arrived. It’s important to remember that a vacation scheme is your opportunity to both sell yourself to a firm, but to also make sure a firm is the right fit for you.
UK Government announce increase in fines for illegal working
Employing an illegal worker has always carried significant consequences, but the financial burden of doing so will soon triple in the biggest shake up of civil penalties since 2014.
Does anti-harassment training give employers a defence to harassment claims?
Employment expert, Nick Benton, partner at Howes Percival, comments on the importance of having effective anti-harassment training in the workplace, to give employers the option of the reasonable steps defence if faced with a harassment claim.
COVID-19’s impact on supply chains: what should you look out for in your contracts?
First it was the ‘B’ word, now it is the dreaded ‘C’ word. The widespread impacts of COVID-19 on supply chains is impacting us all, both in the business world and at home.
Injury to feelings: middle band Vento award for one-off act of discrimination
In Base Childrenswear v Otshudi, the EAT has upheld a Tribunal decision to award compensation of £16,000 for a one-off act of race discrimination. The case also suggests employers are obliged to deal with post-employment grievances, in accordance with the ACAS Code on Disciplinary and Grievance procedures.
Employment Law Update Webinar
Howes Percival's Employment team is pleased to announce their spring employment law update webinars.
Employment Law Update Webinar
Howes Percival's Employment team is pleased to announce their spring employment law update webinars.
Employment Law Update Webinar
Howes Percival's Employment team is pleased to announce their spring employment law update webinars.
Are your contracts disaster proof?
How can your commercial contracts enable a means of escape for performance in the event of such unforeseen disasters?
Contracts and Coronavirus - What are your rights?
If you think COVID-19 is likely to affect a party’s ability to perform a contract, what can you do? In this article, Dispute Resolution Partner Satnam Chayra and Associate Gary Pitt explain the contractual rights which could assist.
Is greater transparency required on contractual control agreements? The Government launches its consultation on contractual controls on land.
The government has launched its consultation along with draft Regulations, to seek views from individuals, organisations and businesses on the implications of collecting and publishing information on contractual control agreements.
Public Sector Contracts – What to watch out for
With the demise of Carillion, public sector contracts are back in the headlines. However, while the press has focussed on the implications of such contracts for the Government and the tax payer, little has been said about how such contracts work for the businesses that enter into them.
Get it right: The importance of carefully answering replies to pre-contract enquiries
One of the first steps in a commercial property transaction is for the buyer to raise pre-contract enquiries of the seller. The legal principle “caveat emptor” is a Latin principle meaning “let the buyer beware” and, in the context of a property sale, it requires the buyer to investigate the property it is buying to discover any issues before committing…
How to future proof your contracts and adapt to the ‘new normal’
Covid-19 has challenged us to create better and more flexible contract mechanisms to deal with the greater uncertainties that this pandemic has brought. Making good use of these mechanisms, combined with a robust force majeure clause, will help to future proof business arrangements and promote the stability required to adjust to the new normal in which…
Implied Contract Terms and Long-Term Disability
The EAT in Awan v ICTS has held that there was an implied term in an employment contract requiring the employer not to dismiss the employee by reason of ill-health capability if that would result in the employee no longer being entitled to long-term disability benefits.
When the Diggers stop…how does your building contract deal with COVID-19?
The COVID-19 virus will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the construction industry, given its reliance on a readily available supply of labour and materials. Contractors, sub-contractors and professional consultants are all likely to be affected, and construction projects at every stage will face potential delays and disruption.
(Not) signed, sealed and delivered – do you need to sign a contract to be bound?
A recent case has seen the courts confirm that a binding contract can exist even if it’s only been signed by one of the parties.
ChatGPT 101: The Essential Guide for Contracts
Howes Percival’s commercial team explore and comment on the recent development of AI in the form of ChatGPT, discussing the benefits and the cons of using ChatGPT to help draft commercial contracts.
Paying chicken feed renders company’s officers liable for inducing breach of contract
Sue Austin considers the decision in Antuzis v DJ Houghton Catching Services Ltd [2019] EWHC 843 (QB) in which employees successfully brought claims of inducing breach of contract against the directors of a company.
Employment contract split between multiple transferee employers
The recently decided European Court of Justice (ECJ) case, ISS Facility Services v Govaerts, could have significant implications for UK employers, specifically affecting the way the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE) are applied where a TUPE transfer involves multiple transferees.
ESG in Commercial Contracts – How to Get Started
ESG can be a daunting area for those trying to tackle it for the first time, so we’ve set out below some easy ways to start incorporating ESG consideration into your commercial contracts.
Employer not vicariously liable for actions of self-employed contractor
In Barclays Bank plc v Various Claimants the Supreme Court has confirmed that an employer will not be vicariously liable for the actions of genuinely self-employed contractors it has engaged.
HMRC clarify that furlough pay can be used for contractual and statutory notice pay
Following a series of requests to HMRC to clarify the position on notice periods the government guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) has once again been updated.
Brexit-proof your commercial contracts
From the Covid-19 pandemic to the Suez Canal blockage in March this year, the past year and a half has highlighted the need for businesses to be prepared for the unexpected.
TUPE: Contractual variations void despite being beneficial to employee
In Ferguson and ors v Astrea Asset Management Ltd, the EAT has confirmed that variations to an employment contract are void if the sole or principal reason for the variation is a TUPE transfer, even where the variations are beneficial to the transferring employee.
Supreme Court confirms 'Pimlico Plumbers' decision that independent contractor was a worker
The Court of Appeal’s ruling in Pimlico Plumbers Limited v Smith, that a plumber whose contract described him as an independent contractor was a worker under the Employment Rights Act 1996 (ERA) and Working Time Regulations 1998 (WTR), and in employment for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010, has been upheld by the Supreme Court.
No Claim to Interest Where the Contractual Rate is Not Pleaded
Mr Justice Foxton in the case of Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc v Goodrich Corporation [2023] EWHC 2002 (Comm) determined that a party who fails to plead contractual interest is not entitled to statutory interest.
A helping hand for insolvent contractors?
A decision in the Supreme Court has restored the right for companies in liquidation to commence adjudication proceedings.
Webinar: Development Agreements - Contractor Insolvency Risk
On 19 July 2022, Howes Percival and Miller Insurance held a joint webinar to discuss contractor insolvency risk in the context of development agreements negotiations and potential solutions.
Directors personally liable for breach of employment contracts
In Antuzis and others v DJ Houghton and others, the High Court found directors of the defendant company personally liable for breaches of the claimants’ employment contracts.
Tips on handling contractual issues caused by Coronavirus
The coronavirus outbreak and restrictions put in place to combat it, have meant that it is impossible to proceed with events resulting in widespread cancellations. There is also an impact on the ability of businesses to performance of contractual obligations.
2021 – The Year for Recovery, the Year for Construction
In early March 2020, nobody could have anticipated the impact the COVID pandemic would have on the UK economy and Britain as a whole. No business or individual can fail to have been affected in some manner. Howes Percival and Price Bailey have joined up to highlight some of the hurdles the construction sector may find along its path, and how to approach…
Help for businesses managing supplier contract delays
New step by step guide helps businesses navigate disputes with poorly performing suppliers
Insolvency: Directors liable on creditors’ claims in tort for placing company into liquidation
Sue Austin considers the decision in Palmer Birch (a Partnership) v Michael Lloyd and Christopher Lloyd [2018] EWHC 2316 (TCC), where a creditor successfully brought claims against the de jure and de facto directors of a liquidated company.
It’s all good, right?
In a decision by the Technology and Construction Court (TCC) a tenant has had their claim against a contractor for failure to identify and rectify defects dismissed.
Insolvency: Is the tide turning in favour of petitioning creditors?
In the case of Cod Hyde Limited v Space Change Management Limited, heard on 7 April 2016, an application to restrain the presentation of a Winding up Petition on the grounds of dispute and counter-claim was refused because of the failure, by the claimant, to adhere to the provisions of a bespoke JCT Design and Build contract entered into between the…
A Contract for Mutual Wills
Contentious probate solicitor Rachel Leatherland looks at the recent case, McLean v McLean [2023] EWHC 1863, which dealt with what amounts to an agreement for mutual Wills.
Practical Completion: Easier To Recognise Than Define
Practical completion is a term that is used to describe building works which are substantially complete and capable of use, notwithstanding there may be some outstanding snagging items.
Howes Percival wins major central Government contract as part of PwC consortium
Howes Percival, in consortium with PwC, Holman Fenwick Willan LLP and Sharpe Pritchard LLP, is delighted to have been selected to the Crown Commercial Services General Legal Services Panel for Central Government as a Tier 1 Provider. Tessa Haskey, Howes Percival’s Chairman, commented: “This is a fantastic achievement for the firm. We are…
Government Consultation: Reforming non-compete restrictive covenants
The Government has recently announced that it is consulting on proposed reforms to non-compete restrictive covenants used in employment contracts.
JCT Update
JCT have launched a series of contract administration “packs” for use with the 2016 editions of its Standard, Design and Build and Intermediate contracts.
Adverse Weather – an employer’s guide to weathering the storm
Do I have to pay employees unable to get to work because of bad weather conditions?
Howes Percival appoints senior commercial and technology specialist
Howes Percival has appointed specialist commercial and technology lawyer, Chris White, as a Director within its Corporate, Commercial, and Banking (CCB) practice.
Government Scraps New Right to Request Predictable Working Pattern, For Now…
The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 would have created a new statutory right for certain atypical workers – for example, those on zero-hours contracts – to request a predictable working pattern.
Working notice period after resigning in response to repudiatory breach could constitute affirmation.
The High Court in Brown & Anor v Neon Management Ltd & Anor has ruled that employees working a notice period of six months or more could result in them affirming the contract and waiving the employer’s repudiatory breach, although in this case the claimants had not done so as the employer committed further breaches in their notice periods.
Welcoming furry friends
Announcing an overhaul of the government’s model tenancy contracts last month, the Housing Secretary called on landlords to make it easier for responsible tenants to have well-behaved pets in their homes. As more and more young people and families are forced into long-term renting, the government says its mission is to improve life for tenants.
Extension of ban on exclusivity clauses
The government are proposing a widening of the ban on exclusivity clauses in workers’ contracts.
Restrictive Covenants: unreasonable restriction made enforceable with deletions
In the case of Tillman v Eghon Zehnder Ltd, the Supreme Court has confirmed that words can be deleted from a restrictive covenant in order to make an otherwise void restriction enforceable.
Seven top tips to think about before selling your business or company
If you’re considering selling your business / company, ensuring it is ready for the legal sale process before a buyer is found will facilitate a smooth and straightforward transaction. Brigitta Naunton, a Director in the Corporate and Commercial Team, outlines some important considerations and tips.
“Self-employed” bike courier establishes worker status
NEWSIn Dewhurst v CitySprint UK Ltd, a bike courier succeeded in her claim for two days' holiday pay after an employment tribunal determined that despite her contract describing her as self-employed she was still a “worker”.DETAILSD works as a bike courier for Citysprint (UK) Limited (CS Ltd). D normally works four days a week between the hours of…
Employment status - what does the future hold for the gig economy?
Employment status has become a hot topic in recent months, with a number of high profile cases grabbing the headlines. Graham Irons from Howes Percival, explores the recent Uber and Citysprint cases, which determined that “self employed” contractors were actually workers and the impact that this could have on the growing gig economy in the UK.Why does…
Howes Percival Delivers Final Success for Theatre in Long-Running Discrimination Dispute
The Court of Appeal has delivered its Judgment rejecting in full the claimant’s application for permission to further appeal against the Employment Appeal Tribunal’s decision in the long-running case of Seyi Omooba v (1) Michael Garrett Associates Ltd (T/A Global Artists) (2) Leicester Theatre Trust Ltd.
Howes Percival completes £477m worth of corporate deals
Howes Percival’s rapidly growing corporate, commercial, and banking (CCB) team completed in excess of 80 deals in the first three quarters of the year, with a combined value of £477 million.Howes Percival’s CCB practice advises clients on significant and transformational acquisitions and disposals and the full range of contractual matters. It also…
Have you looked at your purchasing terms recently?
Standard terms and conditions are one of those things, much like regular dentist check-ups or funeral plans, we all know we need but we’d rather not think about them on a daily basis. After all, who has the time to ponder their own mortality or whether they’re flossing enough every day? We’ve all got better things to do!
What Happens Next?
There are two stages to the sale or purchase of land in England and Wales. The first is an exchange of contracts and the second is completion.
Insolvency: The Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 2010 is good news for creditors.
BackgroundThe Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 2010 (“the 2010 Act”) has been brought into force on 1 August 2016 by way of provisions in the Insurance Act 2015. The 2010 Act replaces and deals with some of the shortcomings within the Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 1930 (“the 1930 Act”). The legislation deals with rights of…
Five top tips to protect your business
In light of the collapse of Carillion, businesses have contacted us to ensure that their position with suppliers and customers are as robustly protected as they can be. Often they are not. So here are my five top tips:
In-Howes Webinar: Heads or Tails?
In the next webinar of the series, Employment Partner, Matthew Potter will take us through a whistle stop tour of the tricky issue relating to employment status.
Supply, Demand and Price Regulation in Light of COVID-19
Consequences for those raising prices unfairly during the Covid-19 pandemic? This article looks at the guidance issued by the Competition and Markets Authority.
Litigation: When does a limitation period run on loans where there are no terms regarding repayment?
In this article Gordon Simpson, Commercial Litigation Solicitor, considers the obiter comments of the Judge.BackgroundThe case of Goldsmith v Chittell [2016] EWHC 630 (Ch) involved a claim by the claimant, Jonathan Goldsmith, for repayment of a loan of £663,232. Mr Goldsmith claimed that he had loaned the sum of £718,232 (the equivalent of $1.3 million)…
Does a divorce settlement survive a death?
English law (oddly perhaps) provides that marriage revokes an earlier Will but a divorce does not. As a result, divorcing couples are quite properly advised to make a new Will when they contemplate a divorce to ensure that their wishes are expressed.
Right to Participate in Share Incentive Plan May Transfer Under TUPE
In the recent case of Ponticelli UK Ltd v Gallagher [2023], the Inner House of the Court of Session (Scotland’s equivalent of the Court of Appeal) ruled that an employee’s right to participate in a share incentive (“SIP”) plan arose “in connection with” their contract of employment for the purposes of the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment)…
No Time to Lose: How Time Can Affect Property Arrangements
Alice Liddle discusses how time can affect property arrangements as well as some of the traps and tricks.
E-Signatures in Property Law
E-signatures are seen as a new, accessible and fast way to conclude deals. Property law, however, is a minefield of statutory requirements, making it important to know where and how e-signatures can be accepted during property transactions so that you are not caught out.
Covid-19 Update: The Furlough Scheme and Insolvency
Following on from our previous updates on the effect of the Government’s furlough scheme (the “Scheme”) and its impact on sales out of administrations, the Government has provided a further update, and the High Court has made its first decision on the interrelation between the Scheme and insolvency practice in the context of the recent administration…
Employer required to pay settlement payment regardless of employee’s breach of confidentiality clause
In Duchey Farm Kennels Ltd v Steels, the High Court has confirmed that an employee’s breach of a confidentiality clause contained within an ACAS-negotiated settlement agreement (COT3) did not release the employer from its obligation to pay outstanding settlement sums.
Selling your care home? Here is what you need to know
If you are planning to sell your care home, or if you are considering the succession of your care home business, read this article to discover what you need to keep in mind, and how to get your business ready for a smooth transaction.
Working with influencers…what do I need to know?
Social media is a powerful tool and influencers are the orchestrators of the complex machine. A successful social media campaign can rapidly boost a brand’s visibility and traction, but an unsuccessful one could damage the reputation of both the brand and influencer.
"Can We Have your Retention please?"
The use of retentions in the construction industry is a well-established practice. A percentage of each payment made under a building contract or sub-contract is retained by the “payer”, primarily as a safeguard against failure on the part of the “payee” to rectify defects in the works.
Insolvency: Dismissal of a winding-up petition where the petition debt is disputed
Background and Key FactsThe Applicant, Ro-Bal Steel Fabrications Limited (“Ro-Bal”), sought an order to strike out a winding-up petition presented against it by the Respondent, G Jones Site Services Limited (“G Jones”), and/or to restrain the advertisement of the petition on the basis that there was substantial grounds for dispute over the debt that…
“Self-employed” plumber held to be a worker
NEWSIn Pimlico Plumbers Limited v Smith, the Court of Appeal has upheld the decision of the Employment Appeal Tribunal to find that Mr Smith, who was engaged as a self-employed contractor, was also a “worker” under the Employment Rights Act 1996 and the Working Time Regulations 1998, and an “employee” under the wider definition of that term in the…
Insolvency/litigation: Director’s duties and when not to make a claim
BackgroundPro4Sport Limited (“the Company”) was incorporated in 2007 and traded as a supplier of high end sportswear and equipment, mostly by way of internet sales. Mr Adams was a director and the majority shareholder of the Company and also of Pro4Sport.co.uk Limited (“Pro4Sport.co.uk”). The Company made nominal profits in its first three years of…
Beware of Business Rates Reduction Scams
If you use a building or part of a building for non-domestic purposes, you will be familiar with the business rates tax which is charged on your business property whether it is a shop, office, pub, warehouse, factory, holiday rental home or a guest house. The amount of business rates tax you have to pay depends on the rateable value of your business’…
COVID-19: Should you get the deal done?
The COVID-19 virus is impacting on pretty much everything at the moment, and this includes corporate transactions. We have identified our top 5 issues for anyone who might be undertaking (or in the process of negotiating) the sale of a business or company during this challenging and uncertain period.
Cladding and commercial property: Asset or liability?
In this article, we turn our attention to the challenges arising from the presence of defective external wall systems (EWS) in commercial buildings, a topic that has not received much recognition from government or the media but which is no less important for occupiers and owners.
Redundancies: Unfair for employers to decide on a selection pool of one employee without consulting on selection criteria first
In the recent case of Mogane v Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, the Employment Appeal Tribunal has held that the dismissal of a nurse was unfair where the selection criteria put her in a selection pool of one and no consultation took place before deciding on the selection pool.
Legal Update: Major Changes in Consumer Law
This article focuses on how some of the changes proposed by the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill could impact consumer-facing and e-commerce businesses
To be or not to be Code for Home Builders compliant
Long gone are the days when developers had the freedom to insist that a buyer enters into a sale and purchase contract for a new build home with scant specifications, only a vague idea of the estimated completion date and with an open-ended contract allowing the developer carte blanche to have the new home ready whenever it got around to completing…
EAT holds that Uber drivers are ‘Workers’ in the next round of “Gig Economy Saga”
The EAT has upheld the Tribunal’s decision that Uber drivers are ‘workers’ under the Employment Rights Act, the National Minimum Wage Act and the Working Time Regulations. In doing so, the EAT confirmed that the Tribunal was entitled to look beyond the contractual documentation which described drivers as self-employed.
Zero hours security guard was agency worker and entitled to same basic terms as hirer's permanent employees
The Employment Appeal Tribunal in Brooknight Guarding Limited v Matei has held that a security guard on a zero hours contract was an agency worker under the Agency Worker Regulations 2010, and was not a permanent employee.
Selling and Buying Property at Auction
Selling and buying property at auction is an increasingly popular way of disposing of or acquiring property. Auctions usually result in a speedy transaction avoiding the lengthy conventional buying process. At the fall of the hammer, contracts are exchanged and the parties are bound to complete the sale and purchase, usually 28 days after the auction.…
"It's About Time"
Construction law expert Simon Franklin discusses the importance of strict compliance with contractual payment terms
Voluntary overtime and holiday pay
The EAT has ruled in Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council v Mr G Willetts and others that remuneration linked to overtime work performed on a voluntary basis could be included in normal remuneration for the purpose of calculating holiday pay.
On the 40th anniversary of the Early May Bank Holiday law firm reminds employers of the rules concerning public holidays
This year marks 40 years since the introduction of the Early May Bank Holiday, which is celebrated on the first Monday of May. Leading regional law firm Howes Percival is using the anniversary to remind employers of the law surrounding bank holidays.
Insolvency: Obligation to pay for shares not a liquidated sum
Adila Malik, from our insolvency team, reviews the Court of Appeal decision in Doherty v Fannigan Holdings Ltd [2018] EWCA Civ 1615 which considered whether a payment obligation in a share purchase agreement gave rise to a claim for a liquidated sum.
To Build or not to build?
That is the question. Soon after Boris Johnson’s announcement that all non-essential work should stop, a tweet from the Communities and Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, caused confusion by stating that work on construction sites could continue. Clearly that raised a number of concerns regarding the welfare of workers on, and travelling to, site and…
Pre-pack sale administrations of companies with furloughed employees and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
The Government introduced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme on 20 March 2020 (the “Scheme”). The Scheme is open to all UK employers which operate a PAYE scheme and which have a UK bank account. The Scheme is intending to operate for at least three months starting from 1 March 2020.
Employment Law 2021: What to expect
2020 has been an extremely busy year for employment law, with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic placing both employers and employees in uncharted territory. This year saw many employers needing to get to grips with the new concept of ‘furloughing’, keep up to date with ever-changing Government guidance and adapt to homeworking (a change likely to…
Howes Percival appoints new senior Partner and Head of Commercial
Howes Percival has appointed Paula Dumbill as a partner and head of its commercial team within its Corporate, Commercial, and Banking (CCB) practice.
Do employees get a day off for the state funeral on 19 September 2022?
The Government has also confirmed there is no statutory entitlement to time off for the additional bank holiday to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's state funeral, sparking controversy on social media and causing confusion amongst both employers and employees alike as to what employees are actually entitled to in respect of bank holidays.
The Future of the Workplace: Labour’s Key Proposed Changes
Labour promised a whole host of changes to employment law in their manifesto and a “new deal for working people”. Now that Sir Keir Starmer has taken the reins as Prime Minister, employers and HR professionals are left wondering: what do these proposals actually mean?
ESG Issues for Business Leaders and In-house Lawyers Webinar
Join Howes Percival's Commercial experts as they discuss the prominence of the ESG agenda and how those responsible for contracting arrangements, including in-house lawyers, are working to promote that agenda.
Our award-winning team of commercial property lawyers acts for many household names, including some of the country’s largest housebuilders, commercial developers, investors, lenders, business owners, charities, landowners, construction firms and public sector organisations.We regularly advise on:Acquisition and disposal of residential and commercial…
Government Publishes ‘Good Work’ Report: Taylor Review
The Government has published the eagerly awaited ‘Good Work’ report setting out the findings of the Taylor Review of Modern Working Practices.
Suspension can breach trust and confidence
In Agoreyo v London Borough of Lambeth, the High Court held that the suspension of a teacher because of allegations that she used unreasonable force against two children was a breach of the implied term of mutual trust and confidence.
Key Employment Law Changes in April 2018
This newsflash looks at the key employment law changes taking place in April 2018.
Sanctity of Copyright Is Not a Protected Philosophical Belief
In the case of Gray v Mulberry Company (Design) Ltd, the EAT have found that the employee’s belief in protecting ownership of her artistic creations was not a protected belief.
A 5 Month Gap in Operations Does Not Prevent a TUPE Transfer
In the Spanish case of Colino Sigüenza v Ayuntamiento de Valladolid and others the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has held that a gap of 5 months in the operation of an entity does not preclude a TUPE transfer.
Break right conditions: how strict are they?
Whether you are a landlord or tenant, the inclusion of a break clause within a lease can be vitally important. A break clause allows the lease to be terminated early (by the landlord or tenant (or both)) if specific conditions are met.
Howes Percival acts for Braintree District Council on innovation park acquisition
Leading regional law firm, Howes Percival has acted for Braintree District Council (BDC) in relation to the new Horizon 120 business and innovation park.
Trio of appointments for Howes Percival’s Leicester office
In response to an increase in new instructions, leading regional law firm Howes Percival has expanded its Leicester office with the appointment of three associate solicitors – Gary Pitt, Santino Stifanelli and Kiran Vohra.
Changes to IR35 rules postponed
The government has announced that the extension of IR35 to medium and large companies in the private sector is being postponed by a year, to 6 April 2021.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Holiday Entitlement and Pay Guidance
The Government has published guidance covering how holiday entitlement and pay operate during the coronavirus pandemic, including for those who continue to work and who have been furloughed in accordance with the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).
Can you continue furlough payments during redundancy notice periods?
Caroline Illing, associate in the employment team at Howes Percival, explains the legality of using the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to cover the cost of redundancy notice periods.
Furlough to remain open until December 2020
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on 31 October 2020, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”), which was due to end, is being extended until December 2020 and the cost to employers will reduce compared to October 2020. The Job Support Scheme will be postponed until the CJRS scheme ends.
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – Updated Guidance and New Treasury Direction
Updates to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”) guidance and a corresponding Treasury Direction were published on 13 November 2020. The Treasury Direction, which formally extends the CJRS from 1 November 2020 until 31 March 2021, outlines how it will operate between 1 November 2020 and 31 January 2021.
Updated guidance from the Competition and Markets Authority for care homes to comply with their consumer law obligations
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has updated its guidance on consumer law advice for UK care home providers. As care home providers, it is important for you to understand and comply with consumer law obligations.
Holiday entitlement: Harpur Trust v Brazel – Supreme Court decision
The Supreme Court’s recent judgment in the case of The Harpur Trust v Brazel will have substantial implications for many sectors who regularly engage permanent part-year or casual workers.
Holiday entitlement in the care sector - Harper Trust v Brazel
Many businesses rely upon ‘part-year workers’ or casual workers in order to meet seasonal or market demands. The recent additional pressure placed on the care sector as a result of both the pandemic and the concurring staffing issues, may have resulted in a number of care sector operators relying on casual workers to cover any staff shortages they…
Legal consortium confirms new Government instruction
A legal consortium including Howes Percival and Sharpe Pritchard has been reappointed to the Government’s Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Public Sector Legal Services Panel for four years, following a successful bid.
Preparing for a Smooth Transaction: From the Perspective of a Corporate Trainee
No deals are the same but there are common issues that often appear during Corporate transactions. The good news is that businesses can do something about these issues at an early stage to avoid loss of a sale or investment or a reduction in value.
Government Announcements & Consultations: Changes to Working Time Regulations, TUPE Consultations and Non-Compete Clauses
The Government has announced several employment law changes, to be brought in as part of a series of regulatory reforms intended to boost economic growth and cut costs for businesses across the UK. These are set out in the ‘Smarter Regulation to Grow the Economy’ paper and are being driven in light of the UK’s departure from the EU
The Building Safety Act 2022 and lease extensions – fixing a flaw?
By now, you should be somewhat aware of the Building Safety Act 2022 (the Act), the government’s attempt to give homeowners more rights, powers and protections following high profile building safety scandals.
The Effects of a Marriage after Execution of a Will and Marriage-Proofing a Will
Contentious probate solicitor Rachel Leatherland looks at the effects of a marriage after execution of a Will and marriage-proofing a Will.
What options does a landlord have where its former tenant's possessions are left at its property?
What options does a landlord have when a former tenant has vacated but their possessions remain at the property?
Seasonal workers and irregular hours workers – the new approach to holiday pay
Do you employ ‘seasonal’ workers or workers on flexible, ever-changing hours? If so,The Government has recently released new guidance on changes to holiday pay for seasonal and irregular hours workers that you should probably get familiar with.
Four new faces for Norwich property development team
Howes Percival has expanded our specialist Development team with four new appointments following a sustained increase in new instructions.
Law Firm Aiming to Become Dementia-Friendly
Howes Percival is working towards becoming a dementia-friendly business. So far, over 60 staff across the law firm’s six offices have received training and have become Dementia Friends.