23 March 2020
Covid 19 - a reminder for solicitors and law firms about their regulatory obligations
Towards the end of last year I commented, as part of our Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Standards and Regulations (StaRs) blog series, that the introduction of the StaRs on 25 November 2019 was an opportunity to take stock and introduce steps to ensure compliance going forward; it was a time to prioritise, not panic.
19 March 2020
Wills and estate planning - the right time is right now
In the current crisis, we find ourselves with time (perhaps too much time…) for worry and reflection over an uncertain future. That reflection could usefully and responsibly be channelled, in part, to issues of Wills, tax planning and general succession.
19 March 2020
Immigration update: Coronavirus
Further to our last alert of 12 March 2020, we write to update you in relation to the fast moving UK immigration implications of coronavirus. As set out below, there is still a lack of clarity in terms of visa applications being submitted around the world and in the UK. The Immigration team are in touch with Director level staff at the Home Office and seeking clarification on a number of issues affecting visa application and sponsor compliance during the crisis. We are urging UKVI and the Home Office to update its guidance of 27 February 2020 to provide greater clarity. However, in the meantime, through our regular communication channels with senior level contacts around the world, we can provide the following updates.
19 March 2020
COVID-19: 'Remote' justice update - Louise Hodges quoted in New Law Journal
Louise Hodges, Head of the Criminal Litigation team is quoted in New Law Journal on the concerns among those working in the criminal justice system.
18 March 2020
COVID-19 - Managing health and risk whilst in police custody
At the time of this blog, according to officials, the criminal justice system continues to operate ‘as normal’. Whilst it is to be expected that non-essential trials will likely be delayed, certain components of the justice system cannot simply be deferred - crime happens no less in times of pandemic. Police custody is one such area where the wheels will need to continue to turn regardless of COVID-19.
