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Workplace Harassment and Discrimination: Expert Employment Tribunal Representation

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:35:27 GMT

Workplace Harassment and Discrimination: Expert Employment Tribunal Representation

Facing harassment, bullying, victimisation or discrimination at work is distressing and can seriously impact your health, livelihood and dignity. North Ford Solicitors provides clear, strategic advice and robust representation to protect your rights and secure fair outcomes, with a focus on swift, practical resolutions wherever possible. We act with discretion and determination from the outset, guiding you through every step.

Our expertise includes:

Equality Act 2010 claims: harassment, victimisation, disability discrimination, and discrimination arising from disability. We also advise on failures to make reasonable adjustments and the creation of a hostile or degrading working environment.
Breach of the implied term of mutual trust and confidence, including situations that may lead to constructive unfair dismissal where an employer’s conduct amounts to a fundamental breach of contract.
A safe working environment and proper grievance handling, ensuring employers meet their duty of care.

Signs you should seek advice now:

You are being subjected to harassment or victimisation and management’s response has been dismissive, delayed or inadequate.
Your disability is not being accommodated and reasonable adjustments are refused or ignored, exacerbating your health condition.
You feel unsafe at work or the working environment has become hostile or degrading, impacting your mental or physical health.
The relationship of trust and confidence between you and your employer has broken down.

What success can look like
A safe working environment—practical measures that protect you from further harm and ensure dignity at work.
Proper investigation and accountability—ensuring your concerns are treated seriously and handled lawfully.
Settlement where appropriate—through ACAS Early Conciliation or, if necessary, at the Employment Tribunal.

Why instruct us
Specialist employment law expertise focused on Equality Act 2010 claims, constructive unfair dismissal, and the duty to provide a safe working environment.
A structured, evidence-led approach designed to secure early resolution where possible and to position you strongly for litigation if required.
Practical, empathetic support that prioritises your well-being, dignity and long-term career.

Your next step
If you are facing harassment, victimisation, disability discrimination or a breakdown in mutual trust and confidence, act now. The earlier you obtain advice, the stronger your position. We are ready to help you take the right steps—quickly and confidently.

If you are experiencing unlawful treatment at work—such as harassment, victimisation, disability discrimination or a breakdown in mutual trust and confidence—contact us. We will help you take the right steps quickly and confidently, starting with a well‑crafted grievance and, if necessary, moving through ACAS Early Conciliation to issuing an Employment Tribunal claim. Based in Romford, we support clients across the UK. [1]

Protecting Your Home: Specialist Legal Support for Anti‑Social Behaviour and Statutory Nuisance

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:12:43 GMT

Protecting Your Home: Specialist Legal Support for Anti‑Social Behaviour and Statutory Nuisance

Persistent anti‑social behaviour, excessive noise, harassment, intimidation or suspected drug‑related activity can devastate your peace of mind. When councils or social landlords fail to act, you still have strong legal options. North Ford Solicitors helps tenants and leaseholders secure decisive remedies to reclaim quiet enjoyment of their homes and hold public bodies to account.

What we do

Public law challenges: We challenge unlawful or irrational decisions where authorities close cases prematurely or fail to investigate and enforce against serious and persistent anti‑social behaviour, ensuring proper consideration of the impact on your health and well‑being.
Human Rights Claims: We protect your right to respect for your home and private life, seeking declarations, compensation for distress, and directions compelling the authority to act where it fails to take reasonable steps in the face of ongoing nuisance and harassment.
Statutory nuisance and noise enforcement: Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, councils must investigate statutory nuisance. We push for abatement notices, noise monitoring equipment and effective out‑of‑hours witnessing to address excessive noise and related disturbances.
Landlord enforcement of tenancy breaches: We press for enforcement where tenancy conditions are breached, including Community Protection Warnings and Notices, injunctions, demoted tenancy orders, notices seeking possession and possession proceedings for persistent and serious nuisance or harassment. Where relevant, we also seek seizure of equipment causing nuisance.

Who we help
Social housing tenants and leaseholders facing serious and persistent anti‑social behaviour, including excessive noise, harassment, intimidation and suspected illegal activity, especially where a council or social landlord has failed to investigate properly or has closed a case after suggesting unsuitable mediation.

Why choose North Ford Solicitors
We understand how authorities should investigate and enforce statutory nuisance and anti‑social behaviour.
We combine public law, human rights and housing enforcement tools to deliver swift, practical outcomes.
We provide clear advice on options, timescales and likely remedies at each stage of your matter.

Take the first step today
If you feel let down by your landlord or local authority and need decisive action, contact North Ford Solicitors for a focused consultation. We will assess your position, set out a robust plan and pursue the right mix of remedies to protect your home and well‑being.

Successful Defence in Neighbour Dispute Case

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 12:31:34 GMT

Representation by North Ford Solicitors Leads to Successful Outcome in Neighbour Dispute Case

North Ford Solicitors is pleased to share the successful outcome of a recent case in which we acted for the Defendant in a neighbour dispute involving property matters. Our Client was represented by Salmaan Islam and Fabbiha Chowdhury of North Ford Solicitors, and Counsel was Thomas Dawson from Tanfield Chambers. The case was heard at the County Court.

The dispute arose between the Claimant and our Client concerning neighbouring properties. The Claimant alleged that works carried out by our Client’s contractors caused trespass and property damage, claiming damages capped at £20,000. Our Client denied the allegations, asserting that liability for the contractors’ actions was misplaced and that the Claimant’s claims were exaggerated. Our Client also lodged a counterclaim, citing nuisance caused by vegetation on the shared fence and aggressive behaviour by the Claimant, seeking damages and an injunction to prevent harassment.

The Claimant’s case was struck out due to non-compliance with an "unless" order application that we submitted on behalf of our Client to the Court requiring document disclosure. The Claimant’s subsequent application for relief from sanctions was dismissed, with the court emphasising that being unrepresented does not excuse procedural failings. The court upheld the overriding objective of the Civil Procedure Rules, citing consistent procedural non-compliance and lack of evidence as reasons for denying relief. Our Client was successfully awarded costs, with partial deductions for withdrawn counterclaims.

This case highlights the importance of procedural compliance in litigation and the challenges of resolving neighbour disputes. The court’s decision underscores the need for parties to adhere to court orders and provide timely evidence. We are proud to have successfully represented the our Client, achieving a favourable outcome that reflects the merits of their defence and counterclaim.

For further information or assistance with similar disputes, please contact North Ford Solicitors.

North Ford Solicitors Secures Tribunal Victory for Client in Unfair Dismissal and Breach of Contract Case

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 16:00:50 GMT

North Ford Solicitors Secures Tribunal Victory for Client in Unfair Dismissal and Breach of Contract Case

North Ford Solicitors is pleased to announce a successful outcome in a case where we acted for the Claimant at the East London Hearing Centre. Our team, led by Salmaan Islam and Azra Mumtaz, worked diligently to secure justice for our client. Counsel for the claimant, Theo Lester of the 36 Group, provided exceptional advocacy throughout the hearing.

The case centred on our Client's claims for unlawful deductions of wages, wrongful dismissal, breach of contract, and unfair dismissal following his dismissal from his role as Club Secretary and Treasurer at a Social Club. Our Client had served the club for over 27 years, managing its day-to-day operations, including payroll and pension administration. His dismissal arose from allegations of payroll mismanagement and subsequent financial actions, which he firmly denied.

The Employment Tribunal found in favour of our Client on all claims. Our Client was awarded compensation of £29,538.73 for unlawful deductions of wages, wrongful dismissal, the respondent’s unreasonable failure to follow the ACAS Code of Practice, breach of contract, unfair dismissal, and the respondents failure to provide a written statement of employment particulars.

The tribunal’s judgment highlighted the respondent’s procedural failings during the dismissal process, which contributed to the findings of unfair and wrongful dismissal. While the respondent sought to justify the dismissal on grounds of alleged misconduct, the tribunal determined that the procedural deficiencies and the lack of adherence to statutory obligations undermined their position.

This case underscores the importance of employers adhering to fair procedures and statutory requirements when managing employment disputes. It also demonstrates the critical role of experienced legal representation in ensuring that employees’ rights are upheld. At North Ford Solicitors, we are proud to have supported our Client in achieving this outcome and securing the compensation he deserved.

If you are facing issues related to unfair dismissal, breach of contract, or other employment disputes, our dedicated team at North Ford Solicitors is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore how we can assist you in achieving a fair resolution.

North Ford Solicitors Prevail in High Court: A Pivotal Ruling on Solicitor Negligence Claims

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 15:27:04 GMT

North Ford Solicitors Prevail in High Court: A Pivotal Ruling on Solicitor Negligence Claims

North Ford Solicitors achieved a significant victory in the High Court, successfully defending a case involving allegations of professional negligence against their client. The case, Davis Solicitors LLP v Raja and another , centred on a landlord-tenancy dispute and highlighted the importance of compliance with court orders in litigation. Represented by Salmaan Islam of North Ford Solicitors and Mr William Dean, Counsel, the Defendant prevailed against an appeal brought by Davis Solicitors LLP (the Claimant). The appeal was ultimately struck out due to the Appellant's failure to comply with court orders, resulting in an order for the Claimant to pay £21,613 in costs and damages to our Client.

The dispute originated from a landlord-tenancy matter concerning the disrepair of a boiler at a property where the Defendants were co-tenants. The Appellant, sought to appeal a decision that had been unfavourable to their firm. However, the appeal process was marred by procedural non-compliance. Specifically, the Claimant failed to adhere to an 'unless' order issued by the court, which ultimately led to the striking out of the appeal. This decision was upheld by the High Court, with Mr Justice Supperstone affirming that the procedural breaches were significant and that the lower court had acted within its discretion in striking out the appeal .

This case underscores the critical importance of adhering to procedural rules and court orders in litigation. The High Court’s decision serves as a reminder that non-compliance can have severe consequences, including the dismissal of claims or appeals. North Ford Solicitors’ meticulous approach and robust representation were instrumental in securing this outcome, ensuring that their client was not unfairly burdened by the Claimant’s procedural failings.

The case has garnered attention within the legal community, including coverage in the Law Society Gazette, further emphasising its significance. It stands as a testament to North Ford Solicitors’ expertise in handling complex litigation and their commitment to achieving the best outcomes for their clients. A link to the Law Society Gazette's publication is as follows: https://www.lawgazette.co.uk/law/solicitor-loses-21k-negligence-strike-out-appeal/5047312.article

Permission to Appeal Granted Following Oral Renewal Hearing Before Circuit Judge

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:35:55 GMT

Permission to Appeal Granted Following Oral Renewal Hearing Before CIRCUIT JUDGE

North Ford Solicitors successfully secured permission to appeal in a significant civil dispute concerning the implementation of parking controls on a housing estate in north London. Our Client was represented by represented by Salmaan Islam and Alex Braidwood of North Ford Solicitors, alongside Dr Liam Wells of Fraser Chambers as Counsel.

The case, which was initially decided in favour of the Claimant at the Edmonton County Court in October 2024, revolves around the Defendant's refusal to pay a parking charge. The Defendant argued that the parking controls were introduced without adhering to the consultation procedures mandated by the tenancy agreement. At trial, the District Judge concluded that these procedural requirements applied only if the Defendant held a proprietary interest in the land used for parking.

Following the trial, the Defendant sought to appeal the decision on three grounds, challenging the District Judge's interpretation of the tenancy agreement. Permission to appeal was initially refused on the papers by the County Court. However, at an oral renewal hearing, our Team successfully persuaded the Circuit Judge to grant permission to appeal on two of the three grounds. This decision highlights the importance of oral renewal hearings in cases where the initial refusal of permission to appeal may warrant reconsideration.

The full appeal will address the critical legal question of whether the consultation procedures under the tenancy agreement apply irrespective of the Defendant's proprietary interest in the land. This case underscores North Ford Solicitors' expertise in navigating complex procedural and substantive legal issues, ensuring that their clients' rights are robustly defended at every stage of the litigation process

County Court At Central London Sets Aside Judgement Made Against Incorrect Party & Dismisses Claim Due To Improper Service

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:21:46 GMT

County Court At Central London Sets Aside Judgement Made Against Incorrect Party & Dismisses Claim Due To Improper Service

North Ford Solicitors successfully represented a Client in a recent case where a Company sought to pursue a claim for non-payment of utility invoices against our Client. Our Client was represented by Salmaan Islam (Solicitor) and Fabbiha Chowdhury (Solicitor) of North Ford Solicitors, with Nazifa Chowdhury of Pump Court Chambers acting as Counsel.

Our Client claimed that he was not a party to any contract with the Company and therefore sought to oppose the claim. However, unknown to our Client, Judgment had already been entered against him. Our Client sought our Firm’s assistance to set aside the Judgment against him and have the claim dismissed.

We filed an application at Court on behalf of our Client. The application to strike out the claim was based on two primary grounds: the claim being brought against an incorrect party under CPR 3.4(2)(a), and improper service of the Claim Form and Particulars of Claim under CPR 3.4(2)(c) in conjunction with CPR 6.9(2)2.

Our Client was incorrectly identified in the contract by the Claimant and was not served at his usual or last known residence. The Claimant served the documents at an address that was neither our Client’s residence or last place of business. This improper service was a significant factor in our representation to strike out the claim. The improper service of documents was a critical issue that led to our Clients successful application to strike out the claim.

Furthermore, our Client sought to have the Default Judgment set aside based on the improper service. The court's power to strike out a statement of case under CPR 3.4(2)(a) and (c) was instrumental in this matter, as it allows the court to strike out a claim if it discloses no reasonable grounds for bringing the claim or if there has been a failure to comply with a rule, practice direction, or court order. We were successful in having the Judgment set aside against our Client.

North Ford Solicitors' diligent representation and strategic application of the relevant Civil Procedure Rules ensured a favourable outcome for the Defendant, demonstrating our commitment to achieving justice for our clients.

Kings Bench Division Grants Injunctive Relief to Applicant in Libel Claim

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:20:15 GMT

North Ford Solicitors successfully represented a Claimant in a High Court libel claim for damages of over £100,000. The case, heard in the Kings Bench Division, resulted in a significant victory for the Claimant, who was awarded a default judgment, injunctive relief, and costs. The Claimant was represented by Salmaan Islam and Alexander Braidwood of North Ford Solicitors, with Dr. Liam Wells from Fraser Chambers acting as Counsel.

The background of the case involves defamatory statements made by the Defendant on a Facebook group, alleging that the Claimant had bugged her phone and tracked her location without consent. These allegations were vehemently denied by the Claimant, who maintained that the posts were untrue and had caused serious harm to the Claimant’s reputation. Despite being served with the Claim Form, the Defendant failed to acknowledge service or file a defence, prompting the Claimant to seek summary judgment.

In the submissions, the Claimant argued that the Defendant had no real prospect of success in defending the claim and that the defamatory posts had caused significant reputational damage. The court was urged to grant summary judgment to further the overriding objective of the Civil Procedure Rules, which aims to deal with cases justly and efficiently. The court agreed, noting that the Defendant's non-engagement justified proceeding in the Defendant’s absence.

The court's decision included granting an injunction requiring Meta to remove the defamatory posts from Facebook and restraining the Defendant from making further defamatory publications. Additionally, the court awarded the costs of the application hearing to the Claimant. The quantum of damages is to be assessed at a future hearing, ensuring that the Claimant receives appropriate compensation for the harm caused by the defamatory statements.

This case underscores the importance of addressing defamatory statements swiftly and effectively, particularly in the digital age where such statements can spread rapidly and cause significant harm. North Ford Solicitors remains committed to protecting the reputations of our clients and ensuring that justice is served in cases of defamation. If you feel that you have been the victim of defamation of character, contact North Ford Solicitors for more information on how to proceed with your case.

Consumer Law Solicitors for Cars or Vehicles purchased that are Faulty, Defective, Unsatisfactory and Not Fit For Purpose

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 11:00:11 GMT

Purchasing a car or vehicle can be a significant expense. If the car or vehicle is faulty, develops serious faults not long after you have purchased it, or is not as it was described by the seller, you may have a number of legal rights and remedies.

The situation can be made more stressful and inconvenient if the seller of the car or vehicle either refuses to deal with the fault or let you return the car or vehicle and provide a refund or a price reduction. The seller may also refuse to accept liability for the fault that the car or vehicle has.

If you purchased a car or vehicle from Dealer, Car Showroom or Garage which is faulty, defective, unsatisfactory or not fit for purpose you may have a number of legal rights which include:

Right to Reject: Within 30 days of purchase, you have the right to reject the faulty car and receive a full refund from the seller. The refund should cover the purchase price, any delivery charges, and reasonable costs incurred due to the purchase.
Right to Repair or Replacement: If more than 30 days have passed since the purchase, or the right to reject has been exercised, but you still want to keep the car, you have the right to request the car is repaired by the seller. The seller is responsible for carrying out the repair(s) free of charge.
Right to Price Reduction: If a repair or replacement is not possible, or does not resolve the issue satisfactorily, you can ask for a price reduction. The amount of the reduction depends on the extent of the fault and its impact on the car’s value.

It is often the case that a car or vehicle is purchased with a finance agreement or finance lender. This can cause a number of issues if the car or vehicle is defective, including your continuing liability to the finance company or lender. However, you may be able to seek remedies under Consumer Law and our Firm can certainly represent you in such matters.

We have been regularly instructed on a number of matters involving purchasing of faulty, defective cars or vehicles that are not fit for purpose. We can contact the Dealer, Car Showroom or Garage on your behalf and seek remedies for you. This can include repair to the vehicle, replacement of the vehicle and / or compensation or damages.

Contact North Ford Solicitors for professional legal representation and assistance on your Consumer Law matters.

How to Tell Your Family You’re Divorcing

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 12:36:13 GMT

Going through a divorce can be hard enough on its own, but when it comes to telling your family, it’s even more painful. Finding the right way to tell each member of your family is an important step in making the divorce official. Here are some tips on how to tell your family about your upcoming separation.

Telling Your Kids

If you have children, telling them that you are getting divorced can be difficult but is one of the most important things you do. Make sure that you tell them as soon as possible so that they hear it from you and not from someone else.

Plan to sit them down in a safe space and let them know that you both still love them and share what changes they can expect moving forward. Leave space for them to ask a lot of questions and be ready for emotions. If you are a family who uses therapy, book them an appointment so that they can talk it through with their therapist. When telling children about a divorce, you should try and be a united front for them. Even if you are angry with your partner, it is important that you don’t show that to your children. Be honest with them but also keep the information that you are giving them age-appropriate.

Telling Your Parents and Siblings

If you have been together for a long time, telling your parents and siblings can be difficult because your partner has likely become close with them as well. It is important to tell them soon after you have made the decision. If you tell them before your children or other close members of your family, warn them not to talk about it yet. That way they don’t accidentally say something to someone who is not meant to know until later.

Telling Your Extended Family

Telling your extended family can happen a little bit more naturally. If there are any members who you feel especially close to, you should speak with them directly and in a timely manner. Anyone outside of your closest circle you can choose if you want to let them know yourselves or if you would like the news to trickle out to them through the closer family members who already know the news.

Although this is an incredibly difficult thing to talk to loved ones about, it is an important step and needs to be done carefully. Family members may feel very invested in the decision and you must be firm that this is the best decision for you as a couple.

Are you ready to file for divorce? Northford Solicitors is here to help.

Professional Negligence Claims: What You Need to Know

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 12:00:25 GMT

Professional negligence is when a professional does not perform their responsibilities to the required standard or when they breach the duty of care. This can cause a large number of issues including financial loss, physical damage, or even injury to the client or customer. It’s an incredibly serious allegation and if there’s a claim made against you, there are five elements of negligence that will need to be proved against you.

Duty

First of all, the complainant will need to prove that the defendant owed them a duty of care not to cause them or others harm. They have to prove that you have agreed to or legally have a duty to prevent them from coming to harm.

Breach of Duty

They also need to prove that a violation of standard care resulted in the accuser being harmed either financially or physically. They need to present proof that you actively refused to perform your duty. This element is more difficult to prove and is often where a litigation lawyer will step in to fight any alleged proof that they may have.

Cause in Fact

The accuser must prove a correlation between the alleged negligence and the negative consequence that they suffered. There should be a link between what happened to them and the duty that was supposed to be upheld.

Proximate Cause

The accuser must prove a direct link between the negligent act and the harm that resulted from the negligence. They need to prove that your action, or inaction, was the direct cause of the injury or harm that they endured. Proximate cause can be a little bit harder to prove than some of the other elements.

Harm

Finally, they need to prove there was actual harm caused by the act. This requires them to provide proof they are actually suffering and it’s not merely a dislike of the situation. This can be one of the easier things to prove, although the evidence the complainant presents is given by an impartial expert. A litigation lawyer can ensure there is a second opinion by a third-party expert to rule out the possibility of fraudulent proof.

If you can defend any of these five elements and prevent the accuser from providing proof on even one of them, the case of negligence will be thrown out. This is where a litigation lawyer will be able to really dig in and find flaws in the opposite side’s proof.

Need help with a professional negligence case? Northford Solicitors can help. Contact us now for more information.

What Do You Do When You Have Been Mistreated By The Police?

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 15:24:37 GMT

Sometimes the police may act in ways that are unethical, unprofessional or illegal. If this is the case, citizens can take action against the police officer. It is recommended that you take action if you have experienced discrimination, human rights breaches, excessive force, false imprisonment, illegal searches or any other transgression in order to hold them accountable and ensure it doesn’t happen to someone else.

It’s vital that we are able to trust our police force and taking action against them if they have done something wrong is vital to uphold standards.

Here’s what to do if you have been mistreated by a police officer.

What complaints can I make?

You may be unsure whether a police officer’s behaviour warrants a complaint, if this is the case, it may be worth talking to a solicitor, particularly if it falls under one of the following categories:

● Assault and battery

● Breaches of the Data Protection Act

● Breaches of the Human Rights Act

● False imprisonment, wrongful arrest, malicious prosecution

● Negligence

● Racial discrimination

● Trespass to goods or property

How do I make a complaint?

If you want to make a complaint against a police officer, you will need to find solicitors that specialise in mistreatment by the police. You can choose to make a complaint or take the case to civil court. The solicitors representing you will need to have plenty of experience to understand what is required when the case is taken to the civil courts. They will handle your case with the utmost care and ensure an outcome is reached that is fair.

What happens if I make a complaint or take legal action?

The police will usually investigate your complaint to understand what happened and why it was allowed to happen and they will likely take one of the following steps:

● Take no further action

● Review or change a policy, process or procedure

● Apologise

● Give officers more training, counselling or advice

● Discipline an officer

While it can be stressful to go through this process and only receive an apology, it’s often much better to do this than nothing at all. It shows the police that they will be held accountable for their actions and are much less likely to do it again.

Are you looking for a solicitor to help you take action against a police officer? North Ford Solicitors are available to help you every step of the way. We work hard to ensure every client we serve receives the outcome they deserve. We feel that it is important to take action if a police officer has acted unlawfully or unprofessionally. So get in touch with us today and we will help you with your case. For more information visit our website .

Your Guide to Family Law Services

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 15:22:30 GMT

Matters of family law are tricky to navigate - they are extremely complex and often very emotionally charged, plus there’s usually an awful lot at stake. For this reason, it’s important to make sure that you find family solicitors you can trust to resolve conflict, minimise the emotional upheaval of family disputes, and obtain the best outcome for you and your family.

Family law covers a wide range of cases, from child custody arrangements and divorce settlements to family mediation and prenuptial agreements. Read on for a brief guide to family law services and how the team at North Ford Solicitors may be able to help you and your family.

Pre and postnuptial agreements

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are not just for the rich and famous - they are widely regarded as a sensible, practical decision that couples can make to protect their assets and make any potential divorce proceedings easier.

A prenuptial agreement can be used to protect any assets or wealth each individual party brings to a marriage, ensuring that they are safeguarded in the event of a divorce. It can also outline child custody arrangements and what will happen to shared property or family pets upon separation.

A postnuptial agreement is essentially the same thing, but it is drawn up once you’re already married. Big life events such as a large inheritance or the birth of a child can prompt people to draft such an agreement.

Cohabitation agreements and disputes

Unmarried couples do not have the same legal protections as married couples, so it might be worth considering a cohabitation agreement. These are often used by unmarried couples who are moving in together, have children together, or are shared owners of a property or business.

A family law specialist will be able to help the couple draw up an agreement that suits both parties. The content of the agreement is usually very similar to a pre or postnuptial agreement.

Family solicitors can offer advice to unmarried couples going through a separation, in exactly the same way as they do to married couples who are divorcing. They will be able to assist you with splitting your assets, inform you of your rights regarding property and finances, and ensure you’re aware of any legal responsibilities you may have.

Family lawyers can also help to make the separation process as amicable as possible, either by providing mediation or by communicating with the other party on your behalf.

Divorce and separation

Divorce is an emotional and stressful time, so you’ll need a legal representative that’s got your best interests at heart every step of the way. This is exactly what a good family solicitor will do. They will listen to your needs and try to understand the deeply personal details of your case but will also give you an upfront, realistic picture of where you stand.

Family lawyers can provide advice on everything from your children, to your home, to your overall financial security. Essentially, they’ll help you take care of the practicalities whilst trying to minimise the emotional upheaval of divorce proceedings.

What does a divorce lawyer actually do?

A divorce lawyer’s responsibilities include:

● Starting divorce proceedings

● Assisting with responding to a divorce petition

● Agreeing on the grounds for divorce

● Arranging a financial settlement

● Negotiating custody arrangements

● Securing court approval or court orders

● Preparing necessary paperwork

Children

Where there are children involved, their needs are always placed at the heart of every decision. In most cases, all parties will want to find the solution that works best for the couple’s children - this is true of not only the couple themselves but also their family lawyer.

Family solicitors often have a lot of experience in dealing with a variety of child-related cases, including representing both parents and children in complex disputes. Make sure you wholeheartedly trust your family lawyer if your case involves children - there is a lot at stake, after all.

Family law specialists can offer support and advice on the following types of cases:

● Adoption

● Custody claims

● Abduction

● Fertility

● Parental responsibility in same-sex relationships

● Collaborative law

● Surrogacy

Child custody

Divorce or separation is often more complicated if there are children involved, but your family lawyer will be more than equipped for it. While they always make the children’s best interests a priority, family solicitors often attempt to make the couple’s ongoing relationship as amicable, positive, and open as possible - this often results in a better outcome for the children.

Children’s law services include making childcare arrangements, deciding where the children will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and how often they see other family members such as grandparents. Family lawyers can also help couples decide who has legal custody regarding decisions such as religion, education, and upbringing.

Child support

Following a divorce or separation, one parent will usually be required to pay child support to the other in order to assist with the cost of raising a child. The payment amount will depend on the parent’s income and the type of custody arrangement that was put in place upon separation.

Family solicitors will be able to assist with the initial arrangements of child custody and child support, but they can also help if any issues arise - for example, if your ex-partner has missed payments, is refusing to pay, or if you want to appeal or dispute the amount of child support you’re paying or being paid. Payments are calculated by the Child Support Agency but, in serious cases, they can be determined and enforced by the court.

Family mediation

Family mediation is a method of resolving legal disputes with the assistance of a neutral third party. A professional mediator oversees sessions in which couples attempt to resolve issues such as custody, visitation rights, child support payments, or division of assets after divorce or separation.

It must not be confused with couples counselling. It doesn’t attempt to address the reasons for the relationship breaking down or try to reunite the couple - mediation is simply a way of sorting out practicalities in a calm, civil manner. It aims to reduce any potential conflict and ensure that both parties reach an agreement they’re happy with and which works for everyone.

Domestic abuse

Family solicitors are able to provide help and support to victims of any type of domestic abuse, whether it’s physical, emotional, verbal, or financial. They can also arrange for immediate legal action to be taken in order to keep at-risk individuals safe from harm.

Domestic abuse services might include filing a non-molestation order (to prevent an abusive partner from contacting, threatening or harassing you), occupation orders (which force your partner to leave the family home), or taking action for a breach of one of these orders.

There is no requirement to be in a relationship with the partner at the time that the legal issue is raised - protection orders can be issued against an ex or current partner, family member or member of your household.

Family lawyers can also arrange for emotional support relating to domestic abuse, whether it’s referring victims to counselling or putting them in touch with a support group.

In Need of Reliable Family Law Solicitors in Essex? North Ford Solicitors Can Help

Family law is challenging and complex. If you find yourself facing a family dispute, you’ll need a reliable legal professional fighting your corner every step of the way. At North Ford Solicitors , our family solicitors can help you with any matter that involves your family.

Whether you are tackling child custody or a divorce settlement, we’re here to support you. We’re committed to helping our clients resolve conflict and obtain the best outcome for them and their families. Our solicitors attend annual courses to develop their professional skills and ensure they are aware of the current developments in family law.

For more information about our family law services, please do not hesitate to get in touch today.

A Guide to Professional Negligence

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 15:44:35 GMT

You’d be excused for not knowing exactly what professional negligence entails or why it’s important. This guide will explain it in simple terms, give examples in different contexts, explain the ways it can negatively impact you and what you can do if you think you need to make a claim.

What is Professional Negligence?

Professional negligence is a form of English tort law that refers to instances where a professional fails to perform their services adequately or breaches a reasonably-expected duty of care. The three conditions necessary for a successful professional negligence claim are:

● That a duty of care was established

● That the duty of care was breached

● That the breaching of this duty of care resulted in a loss.

For example, perhaps a doctor missed a diagnosis that they shouldn’t have missed and this resulted in time off work. Maybe a personal trainer failed to ask you about any previous injuries and, as a result, you further injured yourself following their instructions which now requires considerable amounts of money and time off work to recover. Or maybe a consultant advises you poorly or against their codes of practice and this results in significant negative business impacts like a reduced amount of clients or tax complications.

How Can Professional Negligence Impact You?

Because professional negligence is a bit of a catch-all phrase, spanning a lot of areas and instances, impacts can vary. On the one hand, there could be very tangible impacts such as a decreased income or the damage of the claimant’s property or assets. On the other hand, professional negligence may have refused the claimant a particular opportunity or resulted in reduced clients, for example.

Come what may, the accuser must be able to demonstrate that the defendant’s breach of duty resulted in a loss of some sort. Under contract law, the claimant has six years since the breach of a contract to make a claim.

What Can You Do About Professional Negligence?

One thing you can do to limit your risk when it comes to professional negligence is to do your research before you agree to any services. Checking reviews and testimonials is a good place to start, as is ensuring the person or company is covered by the appropriate insurance and that they have adequate qualifications and certification.

If the negligence has already taken place then you should seek professional legal assistance. Whilst you could try to sort the issue outside of the law, this could have long-term consequences and it would be more difficult in terms of future insurance claims, for example. Going to a reputable solicitors practice like North Ford Solicitors is your best bet.

Here at North Ford Solicitors , we don’t just deal with professional negligence. Our services range from family and employment law to civil litigation issues including landlord disputes, debt recovery, police complaints, and defamation. If you have any further questions about professional negligence, or if you’d like to discuss how else we can assist you, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today by calling 01708 745 609!

A Quick Guide to Prenuptial Agreements

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:43:57 GMT

It may seem cynical to consider worst case scenarios before you’re even married but, if the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s how quickly everything can change. Getting a prenup doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with your relationship, or that there ever will be - it just means you’re preparing for all eventualities.

Whatever your reasons, making a prenuptial agreement is a big decision. North Ford Solicitors are here to explain the basics and help you work out whether it’s right for you.

What is a prenuptial agreement?

A prenup is an agreement made by a soon-to-be-married couple which sets out how they want to divide their assets in the event of a divorce. Its main goal is to clarify expectations about your future and protect what’s yours, in case the marriage doesn’t work out.

Prenuptial agreements are often associated with the rich and famous or perceived as unfair, pointless, and unromantic. In reality, they are a sensible, transparent way to ensure that both parties are on the same page about what lies ahead of them, whether the marriage ends in divorce or not.

Why get one?

It’s natural to want to focus on the happily ever after, but marriage is not just a fairytale - there is a business side to it as well, as with romantic commitment comes financial commitment.

Some people just like knowing there’s a fair plan, to which both parties have contributed and agreed, in place - just in case. Divorces are difficult enough as it is, without having to fight about who gets what after the separation.

For people with assets, wealth, a higher income, or children, however, more is at stake and so a prenup is worth considering. It offers protection and a sense of security for the future, as well as clarity and transparency for both partners about their new financial situation.

Other potential factors include:

● Someone owns a business

● There are debts involved

● Protecting expected future inheritance(s)

● Children and/or pets are involved

The legal stuff

Prenuptial agreements are not automatically legally binding in UK law, but they will be upheld by UK courts if they meet certain criteria:

● It was freely entered into

● The implications are understood by both parties

● It’s fair to everyone

● It’s contractually valid

● It was made at least 28 days before marriage

● There was full disclosure about wider financial circumstances

● Both parties received independent legal advice

● It does not prejudice any children

● Both parties’ needs are met

An upheld prenup may not be followed exactly, as it is still up to the court to decide what happens to finances when a couple divorces, but it is likely to influence the outcome. A judge will want to be sure that neither party was pressured, they both understood exactly what they were agreeing to, and were fully aware of each other’s financial situation. Therefore, it is absolutely crucial that both parties seek independent legal advice when drafting a prenup.

If you’re considering a prenup, North Ford Solicitors will be happy to provide the legal guidance you need to satisfy these criteria and get that much needed peace of mind before the big day. For more information on our family law services , visit our website or contact us today.

Know Your Rights: A Guide to Employment Law

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:32:06 GMT

Employment law can be an arduous matter to tackle on your own, so it’s important to find the best possible legal support to assist you. At North Ford Solicitors , we’re expert employment solicitors who specialise in employment law, representing clients at employment tribunals, appeal tribunals and the higher courts across Essex.

What’s Employment Law?

Employment law is a vast area of the legal system and covers a whole host of topics that are involved in the employment relationship, largely governing processes and policies you can put in place. Because employment law is such a broad area, it’s important to bring in an expert employment solicitor, should you find yourself in dispute with your employer.

What Does It Cover?

Employment law covers a huge range of topics, but some of the most common areas that are covered include unfair dismissal, constructive dismissal, employment contracts, equal pay, disciplinary procedures, discrimination, sick pay, equality and diversity in the workplace, reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities and much more. An employment solicitor will have expert knowledge on every avenue of employment law, providing counsel and insider advice on a host of topics.

Unfair Dismissal

One of the most common reasons to hire an employment solicitor is unfair dismissal. Unfair dismissal is where an employer terminates an employee’s contract without a fair reason to do so. An unfair dismissal can also be claimed if the employer had a fair reason but is deemed to have handled the dismissal using the wrong procedure.

The Employment Rights Act 1996 states that employees are entitled to a fair reason before being dismissed. UK employment law states that if an employee has two or more years of continuous service with you, they have the right to bring a claim against your business if they believe that they’ve been unfairly dismissed. The kind of issues that would constitute unfair dismissal include (but aren’t limited to):

● Requesting maternity or paternity leave.

● Exposed wrongdoing in the workplace (whistleblowing).

● Raising Health & Safety issues.

● Being part of a trade union.

● Asserting legal rights (e.g. asking to be paid minimum wage).

● Asked for flexible working.

● Refused to give up your working time rights - for example, to take rest breaks.

Should an employee find they have been a victim of unfair dismissal, they will be advised by their employment solicitor to take their employer to a tribunal. If the employment tribunal does find your dismissal to be unfair, then the employer will have to reinstate or pay compensation to the employee.

Constructive Dismissal

Constructive Dismissal occurs when an employer has committed a serious breach of contract, entitling the employee to resign in response to their conduct. The employee is entitled to treat themselves as having been “dismissed”, and the employer’s conduct is often referred to as a “repudiatory breach”. It may not just be one incident that amounts to a breach of contract by your employer. Sometimes there is a continuing pattern of behaviour or incidents which, taken as a whole, amount to a breach. For example, there may be a history of bullying and harassment.

If there is a continuing pattern of behaviour, the ‘last straw‘ which leads you to resign should relate to the previous acts, so that together they will amount to a total breach of trust and confidence.

Examples of breaches of contract by an employer entitling an employee to claim constructive dismissal include:

● A forced reduction of your salary, or the threat of a reduction.

● Being demoted without good reason or in breach of contract.

● Allegations of poor performance are unfounded.

● A complete change in your job expectations.

● Harassing or bullying.

● Stress at work that has not been properly addressed, (this includes being overworked).

● Failing to make reasonable adjustments where you have a disability.

● Being forced to work in breach of health and safety laws

Discrimination In The Workplace

If you’re dealing with workplace discrimination or unfair treatment, an employment solicitor can provide you with the guidance you need to tackle your employment law case. The protected characteristics are outlined in the Equality Act 2010 and are:

● Sex

● Race

● Religion

● Pregnancy and Maternity

● Gender Reassignment

● Disability

● Marriage and civil partnership

● Sexual orientation

● Age

Direct Discrimination

Direct discrimination occurs when an individual is targeted, treated differently or worse than another employee due to an underlying reason, usually related to someone’s race, religion, age, gender or sexuality. These are known as ‘protected characteristics. Direct discrimination is split into three main categories:

● Ordinary Direct Discrimination: This occurs when an individual is treated differently because of a protected characteristic. It’s the only type of direct discrimination which may be lawful, but only if it is ‘objectively justifiable’.

● Direct Discrimination By Association: When an individual is treated differently because of a protected characteristic possessed by another individual with who they are associated. For instance, if you are friends with a work colleague who is discriminated against, it may lead to being discriminated against yourself.

● Direct Discrimination By Perception: People are treated differently because of a protected characteristic other people think they possess, regardless of whether the perception is correct. For example, mistaking someone’s race, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion.

Indirect Discrimination

Indirect discrimination usually happens when new procedures or rules are implemented that place certain individuals with specific characteristics at a disadvantage. An example of this would be an employer implementing minimum height requirements for a job in which height is not relevant. This would then discriminate against almost all women in the workplace, as well as certain ethnic groups or individuals.

Indirect discrimination is a less obvious type of discrimination and is usually considered unintentional.

Harassment

Harassment is a form of bullying or discrimination aimed squarely at a specific individual. Bullying, nicknames, gossiping and inappropriate questions can all be forms of harassment to humiliate, intimidate or exclude someone. Harassment in the workplace can create a volatile environment for employees to work in. If you or your co-workers have been mistreated or faced harassment whilst at work, you will be able to file a claim.

Victimisation

The final type of discrimination in the workplace is victimisation. Victimisation takes effect when an individual becomes targeted for consistent harmful behaviours. Often this behaviour is triggered when an employee either has or is expected to, perform one of the following:

● Make an allegation of discrimination.

● Supported a complaint of discrimination.

● Give evidence relating to a complaint about discrimination.

● Raise a grievance concerning equality or discrimination.

● Bring an employment tribunal claim of discrimination.

By reporting this type of behaviour, you could face victimisation through being labelled a troublemaker, being left out and ignored, being denied a promotion, or being made redundant. However, you don’t need to fear victimisation because you’re protected by the Equality Act 2010.

Sick Leave and Pay

If you need to take time off work because you’re sick, you only need to provide proof of illness after seven days off. You have the right to use your statutory holiday entitlement during your sickness. The weekly rate for Statutory Sick Pay is £95.85 for up to 28 weeks. Your employer can offer more if they have a company sick pay scheme, but can’t offer less.

Gender Reassignment

If you need to take time off in relation to gender reassignment, your employer can't discriminate against you. This should be treated the same as absence because of sickness or injury.

Time Off For Pregnancy

Employers must give pregnant employees time off for antenatal care and pay their normal rate for this time off. The father or pregnant woman’s partner also has the right to unpaid time off work to go to 2 antenatal appointments. Employers cannot change a pregnant employee’s contract terms and conditions without an agreement, if they do they are in breach of contract.

Pregnant employees have 4 main legal rights:

● Paid time off for antenatal care.

● Maternity leave.

● Maternity pay or maternity allowance.

● Protection against unfair treatment, discrimination or dismissal.

If you are faced with any of these issues in the workplace, it’s vitally important you seek the appropriate legal advice from a proven employment solicitor. They will be able to provide you with all the information you need to resolve employment disputes.

North Ford Solicitors - Employment Law Experts

Based in Romford, Essex, North Ford Solicitors is a firm of fully qualified and experienced employment solicitors specialising in civil litigation, employment law and family law. From county court actions to major disputes conducted in the High Court of Justice, we have extensive experience in handling varied civil litigation cases, employment claims and family disputes. We have significant experience in this industry and we’re able to represent both claimants and defendants dealing with issues such as constructive dismissal, age discrimination and sexual orientation discrimination. Contact us for all your legal needs.

Have You Been the Victim of Defamation of Character? Here’s What to Do Next

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 13:48:21 GMT

At some point in your life, someone has probably said something unpleasant about you. This is the reality of being alive and being human. Not everyone will like you or be happy with you all the time. However, unpleasant remarks turn into something far more sinister when they cross into the realm of defamation of character.

Defamation of character can cause serious problems in your life and your quality of life or even your career or business could suffer because of it. That’s why you need to fight back if this is the case.

What is Defamation of Character?

First, you should know what the definition of defamation of character is. This is when someone else writes or says something that is untrue about you, your business, your product etc. that will damage your reputation or your business reputation.

If someone simply says something untrue about you or your business to your face, that is not considered defamation. However, if they say it or write it to someone else, such as in a review, this counts as defamation and reputation damage.

Defamation is usually called slander when spoken and libel if recorded in some manner, video, audio, or writing.

How Defamation Can Affect Your Life

Why is someone telling falsehoods about you or your business such an issue? It can destroy your reputation, which has serious consequences.

Here are a few examples of why defamation is so serious:

● If an unhappy ex-employee begins to post videos on popular social media sites, talking about how your restaurant uses poor ingredients in its burgers, this can have drastic effects. While some people won’t believe this, many will and they’ll go on to spread the information. In a few weeks, you could lose all your business and end up with a failing restaurant.

● Another scenario could be where someone tells a potential employer that you have a history of theft in workplaces. This immediately causes the potential employer to discard you as a candidate and, if that same information spreads, it’s possible to be blacklisted in your career.

● Lastly, deformation could take place if a person is rumoured to have a criminal past, perhaps even involving sex crimes. While this is not true and is easily verified, the rumours can cause people to avoid you and even prevent you from getting a job or a position as a volunteer.

In each of these scenarios, the “facts” being told by someone were incorrect and outright lies. However, it’s been proven that most people will pass along juicy gossip before they check the source or verify that the information is true or not. That results in the rapid spread of misinformation and defamation.

Are You Facing Unfair Dismissal Due to Defamation?

In some cases, an untrue statement may cause you to lose your job. If you have been unfairly dismissed due to defamation or if you were unfairly dismissed and then subjected to defamation of character by your employer, you can fight this. In these cases, you would look for a solicitor practising employment law. They will have the necessary experience to determine if you are dealing with unfair dismissal and to help you determine if what you face is defamation of character.

You should always talk to a lawyer as soon as possible, as you could miss out on some vital information as you react emotionally. After all, defamation can hurt feelings, but it’s when you find it hurts your business or reputation that you can do something about it. This is particularly true if you have lost money due to the statement.

Collecting Evidence and Burden of Proof

While in the UK the burden of proof is on the defendant, you should still have proof of what occurred. These are two very separate things, but they are equally important.

First, you need to prove that the defendant really did say or print the false statement - this can be more difficult than you may expect. However, you can collect proof by taking screenshots of any defamation posts on social media, emails, etc. If the defendant has blocked you on these mediums, you may have someone else do the screenshot or save a video, etc. and send you the file.

It may be more difficult to prove when the statement was spoken and not recorded. In this case, you’ll need to talk to the people who heard the defendant speak. Your solicitor can help you with contacting these people and discussing whether they are willing to make a statement or appear in the tribunal if needed. All of this pertains to proving the incident occurred. If you can’t prove that anything was said at all, then it will be very difficult to go before a judge.

The second part of the issue is the burden of proof. Once it has been established that the statement was made by the defendant, it must be proved to be true if the defendant doesn’t want to be charged with defamation of character. Of course, in cases where they have lied, there is no proof and this will immediately ruin their chances of winning the case.

As the plaintiff or the one who has dealt with the consequences of the defamation, you do not have to prove that the statement was false. However, you should provide as much proof as possible. If it affects your career or business, you can provide statements showing the loss of income due to the statement. This will further your case considerably and makes it more difficult for the opposing side to refute the defamation claim.

In any case, where neither side has proper evidence, the side with the burden of proof will lose.

How a Law Firm Can Help

If you’re trying to determine whether or not you have a case, the simplest thing to do is talk to a law firm. A solicitor will look at the information you present and will let you know if you can proceed. They will help you with finding proof, as well.

Even if you are certain that you are willing to sue, there is a process to go through and you will need to work this out with the solicitor. Fortunately, a law firm that has experience with defamation will be familiar with everything necessary to ensure your win. Your lawyer will guide you through the entire process, collecting the necessary evidence and helping you prove that the statement was indeed false and that it has caused problems in your life or business.

In order to sue for defamation, you must make a claim within one year of the statement being made, which means you cannot wait terribly long. You will also need to prove that the allegation was defamatory. For example, it must:

● Reduce your reputation or estimation of the members of society.

● Have caused or is likely to cause serious damage to your or your business reputation, including loss of money.

● Have been published or spoken to a third party and that the defendant was indeed responsible for this.

If you win the case, you will usually be paid compensation by the perpetrator. This is to cover damages caused by their statement and your opponent will likely pay all or some of your legal costs. Remember that your case will be far stronger if you have lost money and can prove it, as a direct result of the statement made. Of course, many throwaway comments will not be taken seriously in this context, but you will be able to prove if you have lost money because of the damage to your reputation or your business reputation.

No one wants to deal with this type of case, but if you are a victim, then you cannot let it go. There is too much that could cause future problems. However, if you do not wish to sue, you can enter mediation and work toward a more amicable solution, such as a public apology from the person who made the statement.

It may not be possible to reverse the damages done by a lie told, but if you have the law on your side, you may recover your reputation over time. Talk to your solicitor about the options and whether you should sue. They’ll have the best advice, based on years of experience in the field.

If you feel that you have been the victim of defamation of character, contact North Ford Solicitors for more information on how to proceed with your case.

Is an Amicable Divorce Possible?

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 13:45:13 GMT

When two people in a marriage feel that it is no longer possible to continue, they can move to divorce. Unfortunately, most of the time, a divorce is unpleasant and causes many hurt feelings. Depending on the reason for the split, the ex-partners may find themselves embroiled in a bitter battle for custody, possession of assets, and alimony. It can be brutal, but there is hope.

Amicable divorces are a possibility, though they do require some work on both sides. It’s natural to feel some animosity as you divide up your belongings and end life together. However, with the following tips, you can keep things friendly.

Determine Your End Goals

Chances are, both of you have similar goals for the divorce. If you have children, you want them to be taken care of and happy, which usually means avoiding conflict involving them.

It’s a good idea to talk with your ex and try to find a middle ground so you can both be content with the way things are. This doesn’t mean you’ll both be happy . . . often a good compromise means neither party is entirely thrilled with the outcome. That’s part of the negotiation.

Pick Your Battles

It’s best to avoid fighting over every little thing. Do you really care if the Christmas tree goes to the other person? By choosing only the most important battles, you’ll find it simpler to work through the divorce and sort everything rapidly.

You may find it helpful to come to agreements on as much as possible and then have your lawyers work out the remaining issues. This eliminates much of the harsher side of divorce and allows for a friendlier discussion. Your lawyer will work with you to help you reach the best possible outcome while your ex’s lawyer will do the same.

Consider Writing Everything

Not only does writing out what you want to say allow you to keep a proper record of the conversation, it has other benefits, too. In the heat of the moment, it’s very difficult to speak civilly to your ex. You’ll find that arguing happens more face to face than via text or email, so it can be useful to write out your thoughts and send them, rather than call and talk to your ex or speak to them in person.

Writing also allows you to think more about what you’re saying and to revise as needed. The other person may then take their time to consider what you’ve written before responding. This can save quite a few arguments over time.

Divorce is never simple or easy and there are bound to be bad feelings from time to time. However, when done with conscious thought to the process and consideration for each other, it is possible to have an amicable breakup.

Are you planning a divorce? Let us help it go smoother. Contact North Ford Solicitors for more information on how we can help.

Tips for Choosing the Right Law Firm

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 09:51:27 GMT

When you need legal help, you may find yourself scrambling to find the right law firm to help you. Unfortunately, most people simply pick the first one they find, which can lead to issues down the road. You need to do a little research, which doesn’t have to take long, but it’s still very necessary.

Here’s what to look for.

Look for Experience

Does the law firm have experience in the area you need them to? Just because you find a solicitor, it doesn’t mean that they have experience in discrimination in the workplace, drug possession charges, or whatever it is that you require.

Ideally, the firm will have multiple lawyers, each with their own specialty, so you can have someone who’s well-versed in your area.

Check Reviews

When people are angry about a business, they’ll often write a poor review. However, if they love it, they’ll leave a good one. These reviews can give you more insight into what to expect with a particular law firm and help you decide if you want to work with them. Keep in mind that not all cases go as expected, so the reviews can be viewed generally as a way to tell how good the team is overall.

Ask About Successes

This is a good time to find out if the firm has handled similar cases to yours before. Ask about previous cases and learn more about their final stages. Do these types of cases usually reach trial or do they tend to settle ahead of time? This information can be quite important to have, as it will help you determine whether you wish to work with these lawyers or not.

Meet the Lawyers

You need to feel comfortable with the people representing you, so take the time to learn more about them. Having a preliminary meeting will give you a better idea of their personality, methods of working, and whether or not you can trust them. Go with your intuition on this one and make sure you ask questions about their previous cases in similar situations. They should be able to explain what potential obstacles there are in your case and how to work around them.

Don’t settle for flashy ads and smooth talking lawyers from firms that don’t really specialize in anything. Instead, look for one that is highly qualified and has the experience your case needs. It is the best way to remove the doubts and to help you win your legal case.

Do you need some help with the law? We’re always available to talk to. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your case.

What to Do When Neighbour Fights Escalate

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 08:34:28 GMT

It’s pretty common to have petty disputes with your neighbours from time to time. After all, whenever people are living in close proximity, issues will inevitably arise. Hopefully, you’ll be able to resolve things quickly, but in the case that it escalates, here’s what you need to do.

Start with a Request

If you have an issue with your neighbour, it’s best to make a friendly request face to face. Even if you know it won’t go well, you should attempt this method first. Then you can at least say you tried, even if you need to take things to the next step, it’s always good to try being friendly first.

Submit Your Request in Writing

If the neighbours don’t heed your first request, the second should be in writing. This can and should be copied for your own files, along with the actual date that you gave it to the neighbour. You have now started a paper trail of the issue and this will need to continue.

Track Everything

If things begin to go poorly, you will want to have a record of this. It’s important to track and keep copies of everything. You may save emails, letters, notes and any threats you receive. If the neighbour has called and left messages, don’t delete them no matter how tempting it is. Instead, save them as evidence of the problem.

You should also keep track of everything you do. Be careful, as the evidence can cause issues for your side too, if you are retaliating. It’s best to remain calm and let them know that you are following the situation.

Try Mediation

In this case, you’ll need the cooperation of the neighbours, but seeking a neighbour conciliation and mediation service may help you come to a decision that works for both sides. However, if both sides are very aggressive, mediation is not likely to work.

Get Legal

A solicitor with experience in handling neighbourhood disputes will be able to advise you on what to do and how to resolve the situation. If you do need to go the legal route, be aware that it may require going to court in order to finish the whole thing once and for all. Once you have a lawyer involved, things tend to get quite inflamed and if you already have tense relationships with the neighbours, be cautious about taking this step.

Are you dealing with a difficult neighbour? Contact North Ford Solicitors today for more information on how to deal with problematic neighbours.

5 Ways to Relieve Neighbour Disputes

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 07:50:57 GMT

Most people dream of living in perfect harmony with their neighbours, but that is not always the case. Living close together can mean some unpleasant interactions and it’s not uncommon for even small problems to spin out of control rapidly. If you’re fighting with your neighbours, here are a few ways to resolve things.

1. Build a Fence

They say fences make for good neighbours and they’re not wrong. A fence delineates exactly where one property ends and the other begins. It can hide you from your neighbour’s eyes and it gives you some space to remain separated. If there are issues with building the fence, you may want to bring out a surveyor to ensure the fence is on the property line.

2. Sit Down and Talk

Communication can go a long way when it comes to disagreements. Both parties should meet in a neutral place to sit down and discuss the problems. This only works if they have not threatened you, however. Try arranging a discussion and have each side bring up their reasons for being upset. You may be able to work out a compromise or find a solution that keeps everyone happy.

3. Speak to the Landlord

Is your neighbour renting their home? If so, you can go directly to the landlord should there be any issues. The landlord is responsible for some problems, such as property disputes and the like. Talk to them about how to resolve the problem and you may find it easier than dealing with the actual neighbour who has no power over the situation.

4. Talk to a Mediator

A mediator is an independent person who will come to you and listen to both sides of the story. They are not actually involved in the issues that have arisen, so they can see things clearly and make suggestions on how you may wish to proceed with your neighbour. Mediators may not always solve the problem, but they can be helpful for getting everyone to communicate.

5. Bring in Legal Council

If none of these lesser methods work, you may end up in court with the disputes. If this is the case, you’ll want to hire a solicitor with experience in handling disputes like this. They will help you build a case and show that you have done everything within your power to resolve things. The solicitor can also give you advice on how to help you win the case.

Neighbourly disputes are not uncommon, but they don’t have to end badly. Take steps to settle the issue and if you can’t do it nicely, then you’ll have to take it to the next level, at court.

Need help with your neighbours? Our solicitors are exports at dealing with problems like this. Contact us now for more information.