View the complete library of articles from Nantes Solicitors. Find trusted guidance on property, family, wills, probate, and commercial law, written by our Dorset legal team to help you make informed decisions.
Renters’ Rights Act: Dorset Landlord Checklist 2026
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has changed how Dorset landlords manage rent increases, evictions, pet requests and compliance. Here is what landlords should check in 2026.
Read MoreNantes Wins Community Service Award in Weymouth
Nantes Solicitors has won the Community Service Award at the Weymouth Business Awards, recognising the firm’s continued commitment to supporting local people, charities, schools, sports clubs and businesses.
Read MoreListed Building Consent & Conservation Area Guide
Buying or selling a listed property? This guide explains listed building consent, conservation areas, planning rules, and the risks of unauthorised works, helping you avoid costly legal issues.
Read MoreDo I need a solicitor to update my will after life changes?
Major life events such as marriage, divorce, new children or buying property can affect your estate planning. This guide explains when updating a will becomes important and how reviewing your will ensures your wishes remain clear and legally effective.
Read MoreWhat Counts As Domestic Abuse In Family Court?
Understanding the domestic abuse definition is essential in family proceedings. We explain what behaviour qualifies under the law and what evidence courts consider when deciding cases involving abuse.
Read MoreRenters Rights Act 2025: What Landlords Should Do Now
The Renters Rights Act 2025 will bring major changes for landlords. Here are the key steps to take now to stay compliant, protect your interests, and be ready before the new rules come into force.
Read MoreEvicting Tenants Under the New Renters Rights Rules
The Renters Rights Act 2025 will change how landlords can evict tenants, replacing ‘no-fault’ evictions with stricter grounds under Section 8. Here’s how the new process will work and what landlords need to prepare.
Read MoreLandlord Database and Ombudsman Scheme Explained
The Renters Rights Act 2025 will require landlords to register on a national database and join a new Ombudsman Scheme. Learn how the system works, when it starts, and what it means for your rental properties.
Read MoreEnd of Section 21: What Landlords Need to Know
The Renters Rights Act 2025 will abolish Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions, changing how landlords regain possession of properties. Here’s what landlords need to know about the new Section 8 process and their legal rights.
Read MoreRenters Rights Act 2025: Key Implementation Dates
The Renters Rights Act 2025 is set to change the private rental sector from 2026 onwards. Here are the key implementation dates landlords should know to stay compliant and prepared for the upcoming changes.
Read MoreThe Renters’ Rights Act 2025. What happens now?
The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduces major changes for landlords and tenants, including the end of fixed-term tenancies and ‘no-fault’ evictions. Here’s what to expect as the new legislation begins to take effect in 2026.
Read MoreDi Jenner on Good Divorce Week 2025
Family lawyer Di Jenner reflects on why children’s wellbeing must stay at the heart of every separation and how Resolution’s Code of Practice guides her calm, child-focused approach.
Read MoreCherise Luke-Bennett on Good Divorce Week 2025
Cherise Luke-Bennett explains how Resolution’s Code of Practice shapes her approach to helping separating couples find fair, practical solutions while keeping families out of court.
Read MoreCarolyn Harmer on Good Divorce Week 2025
Family lawyer Carolyn Harmer shares how the principles of Resolution’s Code of Practice guide her collaborative approach to helping couples reach fair settlements outside of court.
Read MoreMy First Year as a Trainee Solicitor in Dorset
Gus Johnson reflects on his first year as a trainee solicitor at Nantes Solicitors in Dorset. From Private Client to Property, he shares lessons in learning, resilience, and the value of mentorship that have shaped his journey so far.
Read MoreGood Divorce Week 2025: Putting Children First
Good Divorce Week 2025 focuses on putting children first when parents separate. Our Family Law team shares how Nantes Solicitors supports respectful, child-focused separations through Resolution’s principles and our Separate Together service.
Read MoreHow to Navigate Pet Disputes on Divorce
Pet disputes can be one of the hardest parts of divorce. We explain how UK law treats pets, what other countries are doing differently, and how mediation or a ‘pet-nup’ can help couples make fair, compassionate arrangements.
Read MoreOwning a Second Home in Dorset – Legal Guidance
Buying or letting a second home in Dorset? Learn about the legal and tax responsibilities before you invest. Our Dorset solicitors provide expert, fixed-fee advice for landlords and second-home owners.
Read MoreCoady v Coady – Covid-19 Will Dispute Lessons
The case of Coady v Coady highlights why strict compliance with the Wills Act 1837 remains essential, even during exceptional times such as the Covid-19 pandemic, and serves as a key reminder to review any Wills made in that period.
Read More25 Years in Practice: Reflections and Hopes for the Future
In the final article of her 25th anniversary series, Cherise reflects on her career in Dorset, her leadership at Nantes, and her hopes for the future of family law — focusing on collaboration, out of court resolution, and mentoring the next generation.
Read MorePensions on Divorce: 25 Years of Legal Change
In the third of her anniversary reflections, Cherise explores how pension sharing has transformed divorce settlements over the past 25 years, highlighting her experience advising clients across Dorset and the importance of expert guidance in achieving fair outcomes.
Read MoreFrom Fault to Fairness: Reflections on Divorce Law
In the second of her anniversary reflections, Cherise looks back at the evolution of divorce law, from early fault-based systems to the long-awaited introduction of no fault divorce in 2022, and how it has shaped her work in family law and mediation.
Read More25 Years in Family Law: Cherise’s Journey at Nantes
Marking 25 years since qualifying as a Solicitor, Cherise reflects on the life events that inspired her to specialise in family law and dispute resolution, her passion for helping clients, and her role supporting the next generation at Nantes.
Read MoreStephanie Bond Qualifies as Solicitor at Nantes
17 September 2025 Nantes Solicitors Welcomes Newly Qualified Solicitor Stephanie Bond Nantes Solicitors is delighted to announce that Stephanie Bond has now qualified as a Solicitor, specialising in Civil Litigation and Private Client law. Stephanie’s journey with Nantes began in 2021 when she first joined the firm as an Administration Assistant. Her drive and commitment […]
Read MoreAlternatives to Court When Separating from a Partner
Divorce doesn’t have to mean court. From mediation to collaborative law and Nantes’ Separate Together service, there are practical ways to resolve finances and child arrangements while keeping costs low.
Read MoreHow to Navigate September’s Rise in No-Fault Divorce
September often brings a rise in no-fault divorce enquiries as family pressures resurface after summer. Nantes Solicitors explain why this happens and how our Separate Together service helps couples navigate divorce with calm and clarity.
Read MoreBuilding Over Public Sewers: Legal Guidance & Consent
If you plan to build near a public sewer, you may need formal consent from your water company. Learn how to identify public sewers, apply for a build over agreement, and avoid risks of costly repairs or property damage.
Read MoreThe Importance of Financial Settlements in Divorce
A financial settlement on divorce ensures legally binding clarity and security over assets, property, and finances. It prevents future claims and supports children’s welfare, helping both parties move on with confidence and independence.
Read MoreWills Bill 2025: Key Proposals to Modernise Wills Law
The Wills Bill 2025 proposes landmark reforms to the Wills Act 1837, including lowering the age to make a Will, digital execution, and updated mental capacity rules, aiming to modernise and better protect vulnerable testators.
Read MoreAssets of Community Value: Rights, Restrictions & Protections
Assets of Community Value help communities protect important land or buildings and affect how owners can sell them. Get expert advice from trusted solicitors in Dorset to safeguard local interests.
Read MoreRogers v Wills [2025]: High Court Recognises Rights of Unpaid Family Carers
The High Court’s ruling in Rogers v Wills [2025] confirms unpaid family carers may claim reimbursement from estates. It recognises caregiving as a contractual service and provides key legal guidance on assessing mental capacity amid dementia diagnoses.
Read MoreNew OPG Guidance for Property and Financial Attorneys
The OPG has released new guidance for Property and Financial Affairs Attorneys, outlining their roles, decision-making powers, and how to support the donor. Nantes Solicitors can provide expert advice for attorneys needing assistance.
Read MoreWhat Happens to Your Digital Assets When You Die?
Digital assets like social media, emails, and cryptocurrencies form part of your estate. Learn how to protect and manage them after death by keeping records, appointing digital executors, and including clear wishes in your will.
Read MoreLatest Land Law and Renters’ Rights Update – May 2025
Stay informed on the latest land law and renters’ rights reforms for 2025. Learn about the Renters’ Rights Bill, abolition of no-fault evictions, tenant protections, Awaab’s Law, and key leasehold reform updates.
Read MoreNantes Proudly Sponsors Dorchester Stars Under 11s Football Team
Nantes Solicitors proudly sponsors Dorchester Stars Under 11s football team, providing essential support, fostering local youth development, and demonstrating ongoing commitment to the Dorchester community through sport.
Read MoreShould I Appoint One or Multiple Executors in My Will?
Appointing an executor is a key decision when making your Will. Learn whether choosing one or multiple executors is right for you, and how the choice can affect the smooth handling of your estate and beneficiaries.
Read MoreStephanie Bond | Trainee Solicitor, Civil Litigation & Private Client
Stephanie Bond is a Trainee Solicitor at Nantes. Focused on civil litigation, she brings dedication, practical insight, and a growing track record in advocacy to her legal training.
Read MoreDi Jenner | Chartered Legal Executive & Family Law Specialist Dorset
Di Jenner is a Chartered Legal Executive specialising in family law. Her practical, compassionate approach helps parents navigate complex children law and family issues.
Read MoreCherise Luke-Bennett | Family Law, Litigation & Conveyancing Solicitor Dorset
Cherise Luke-Bennett is a Solicitor and Director at Nantes, known for her approachable style, legal expertise, and advocacy in family law, litigation, and conveyancing.
Read MoreCarolyn Harmer | Family Law & Conveyancing Solicitor Dorset
Carolyn Harmer is a Solicitor and Director at Nantes Solicitors with over 25 years' experience in family law and conveyancing. Her calm, compassionate approach helps clients through even the most complex legal matters.
Read MoreDebt Collection: A Legal Overview for Businesses
A clear legal process must be followed when recovering unpaid debts. Learn how to approach business-to-business and business-to-consumer debt collection, from letters of claim to court enforcement.
Read MoreCompleting Form E for Divorce: A Guide to Financial Disclosure
Form E is a vital document in divorce proceedings. This guide outlines what’s required, how to complete it properly, and the importance of full financial disclosure to support a fair settlement.
Read MoreInheritance Tax Changes: Clarity on APR & BPR Cuts
The government’s consultation sheds light on APR & BPR cuts, affecting IHT on business and agricultural assets. With major tax changes ahead, effective estate planning is crucial. Our solicitors can help you navigate these updates with confidence.
Read MoreNantes Solicitors Sponsors the Dorset Spring Show 2025
Nantes Solicitors is proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of the Dorset Spring Show 2025! Join us on 3rd & 4th May at Birch Lane Showground for a celebration of Dorset’s countryside, food, and rural life. Don’t miss ‘Gardeners Avenue’—a must-visit for nature lovers!
Read MoreMatrimonial Homes & Bankruptcy: Key Takeaways from DDR v BDR
The case of DDR v BDR [2024] explores the legal challenges of dividing property in divorce when bankruptcy is involved. Courts considered financial contributions, constructive trusts, and equity, awarding a 50% beneficial interest to the wife.
Read MoreInheritance Tax Hits Record Highs: What It Means for Your Estate
Learn how 2024/25 Inheritance Tax changes, including frozen allowances and relief caps, could affect your estate. Get expert advice to protect your assets today.
Read MoreHow UK Courts Divide Assets in Divorce: Matrimonial vs Non-Matrimonial
Learn how UK divorce courts handle matrimonial and non-matrimonial assets, what factors are considered, and how settlements are determined.
Read MoreDeed of Variation – What is it and how can it benefit me?
Learn how a Deed of Variation allows beneficiaries to adjust inheritance entitlements for tax planning, fairness, or to benefit others. Understand the rules, benefits, and limitations with expert insights tailored to your needs.
Read MoreMarried Women’s Property Act 1882: Impact and Relevance Today
Discover how the Married Women’s Property Act 1882 revolutionised women’s property rights and why its remaining provisions, especially for engaged couples, continue to play a vital role in today’s legal system.
Read MoreCompulsory ADR: New Civil Procedure Rules from October 2024
Discover the October 2024 changes to the Civil Procedure Rules mandating alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in civil claims. Learn how courts can now order ADR participation and the potential cost consequences for non-compliance.
Read MoreProtect Your Family: The Importance of a Regulated Will Advisor
Ensure your Will is legally sound with Nantes Solicitors in Dorset. Avoid costly mistakes from DIY Will kits by choosing a regulated advisor for clear, expert advice that protects your family and assets.
Read MoreGuide To Improvements For Business Tenants
Nantes Solicitors guides Dorset business tenants through legal requirements for commercial property improvements. Our team ensures compliance with lease terms and statutory rights under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927.
Read MoreNantes Solicitors Guide to Conveyancing in Dorset – Part Two
Discover the complete conveyancing process with Nantes Solicitors. From pre-contract to post-completion, learn each step to ensure a smooth property transaction with our expert guidance.
Read MoreNantes Solicitors Guide to Conveyancing in Dorset – Part One
Discover the essential steps in conveyancing with Nantes Solicitors. Learn how this legal process ensures a smooth property transfer, safeguards your interests, and provides peace of mind throughout your property transaction.
Read MoreHow Do Contentious Probate Disputes Arise?
Learn about common contentious probate disputes, including will validity challenges, executor misconduct and claims under the Inheritance Act. Protect your estate with expert legal advice from Nantes Solicitors.
Read MoreAccess to Neighbouring Land Act 1992?
The Access to Neighbouring Land Act 1992 allows property owners to seek court approval to access neighbouring land for essential repairs, resolving disputes when access is refused.
Read MoreEssential Landlord Rules on Holding and Security Deposits
Understanding landlord rules on holding and security deposits is crucial. Learn about the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, landlord rights and obligations to ensure compliance.
Read MoreMy Legal Placement Experience At Nantes Solicitors
Discover the invaluable legal placement experience at Nantes Solicitors, where practical training and expert guidance shape aspiring solicitors into future professionals.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Process of Selling Property After a Death: What You Need to Know
This article guides you through the legal, financial, and emotional steps involved in selling a property after a loved one's death, ensuring a smooth process.
Read MoreWho should I Appoint as an Executor?
Choosing an executor involves considering trustworthiness, availability, and the complexity of your estate. Professional executors may be beneficial for complicated estates, offering impartiality and technical expertise.
Read MoreRenters Reform Bill 2024: New Rules and Regulations Explained
The Renters Reform Bill 2024 proposes significant changes, including abolishing Section 21 evictions, introducing indefinite tenancies, and establishing a Private Renters' Ombudsman to enhance tenant protections and ensure a fair rental market.
Read MoreHow Lifetime Gifts Impact Inheritance Tax: Key Tips & Allowances
Learn about the key considerations for making lifetime gifts and how they impact inheritance tax. Understand exemptions, allowances and strategies to optimise your estate planning effectively.
Read MoreShould I leave a charitable gift in my will?
Considering a charitable gift in your will? Learn how legacies and shares of your estate can benefit both your favorite causes and your tax planning.
Read MoreUnderstanding The Role Of A Certificate Provider
The article discusses the crucial role of a certificate provider in ensuring the validity of a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), emphasising the impact of the TA v The Public Guardian case (2023 EWCOP).
Read MoreUnderstanding the Role of an Executor
This article explains the role of an executor, outlining responsibilities such as asset valuation, tax reporting, settling debts, and distributing the estate per the deceased’s Will.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
This guide explains the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), including its types, attorney obligations, and decision-making considerations under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, prioritising the donor's best interests.
Read MoreInheritance tax: Understanding Nil-Rate Bands
Discover how the Nil Rate Band and Transferable Nil Rate Band can significantly impact your inheritance planning, potentially shielding a larger portion of your estate from hefty taxes.
Read MoreUnderstanding the Grant of Probate
Understanding the Grant of Probate is vital for estate management. It enables designated individuals to manage assets, property, and funds. Exemptions apply for low-value estates or jointly owned assets, whereas requirements apply to major assets such as investments or buildings. Nantes Solicitors provides expert guidance for navigating this process seamlessly.
Read MoreWills & Probate: Why Do I Need A Will?
This article explores the vital importance of making a will to ensure that your inheritance is distributed in accordance with your precise wishes after death. It explains how intestacy regulations work and the limits they impose on non-traditional family structures or planned legacies outside immediate family lines.
Read MoreProperty Co-Ownership: Joint Tenants Or Tenants In Common?
Explore property co-ownership options, focusing on the differences and benefits of Joint Tenants, which provide equal shares, and Tenants In Common, for distinct shares and accurate asset distribution.
Read MoreLand Registration: A guide to Compulsory and Voluntary land registration
HM Land Registry manages land ownership in England and Wales, with the goal of completing registration by 2030. This concise guide distinguishes between mandatory registration, which is triggered by events such as transfers, mortgages, or deaths and ensures accurate records. Meanwhile, voluntary registration lowers costs and increases process efficiency.
Read MoreBuying a property with a Section 157 restriction
Explore Section 157 Housing Act restrictions governing property sales. These lifetime covenants protect local affordability and community character but may limit resale value and flexibility for homeowners.
Read MoreWhat is the reality of finances in divorce cases?
Explore the evolving landscape of divorce finances, from historical inequities to modern challenges. Expert insights reveal the importance of legal guidance in ensuring fair settlements.
Read MoreNantes Guide To Moving Home
Ease the stress of moving with the "Nantes Guide To Moving Home." This expert guide, crafted for a smooth relocation, covers everything from confirming your moving date to post-move checks. Discover essential tips for a hassle-free experience, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your new home from day one.
Read MoreConveyancing FAQs
Expert insights on Conveyancing Questions for a seamless property transaction. Navigate legal nuances and documentation with confidence. Your go-to guide for informed decisions in property sales and purchases.
Read MoreA Buyer’s Guide to Conveyancing
Navigate the conveyancing process seamlessly with our simple buyers guide. From making an offer to completing the purchase, it covers solicitor selection, contract review, mortgage considerations, property searches, enquiries, surveys, and the crucial steps of deposit payment, contract exchange, and completion.
Read MorePublic Pressure To Change Laws – Is It Effective & Is It Necessary?
Explore the impact of public pressure on legal change. Learn about Sarah’s Law, Clare’s Law, and Martha’s Rule - campaigns for rights, awareness, and protection.
Read MoreChanges to Civil Procedure Rules for Civil Litigation
Learn about significant changes to civil procedure rules with the introduction of the 'Intermediate track' and Fixed Recoverable costs in 2023
Read MoreWhat is the new divorce law in 2023?
Discover the New UK Divorce Law: No-fault divorce, amicable proceedings, and financial settlement changes.
Read MoreNotes Regarding Intergenerational Sharing of Homes
The pros and cons of Intergenerational Home Sharing. Avoid pitfalls in multi-generation living. Plan wisely!
Read MoreAI, Progressive Technology and Law
Explore the role of AI and progressive technology in the legal sector. Learn how these tools help lawyers but can they replace legal experience?
Read MoreWhat is the difference between divorce and separation?
Explore the differences between divorce and separation. Discuss your options with our expert team of divorce solicitors in Dorset
Read MoreCryptocurrency Assets In Divorce Financial Settlement
Explore Cryptocurrency Challenges in Divorce Settlements: Unpredictable Assets & Legal Implications
Read MoreTrading Names and ‘Passing Off’
There is a potential for an action for ‘passing off’ if someone or a business, passes off another business’s goods or services.
Read MoreSeparate Together
Discover 'Separate Together' with Nantes Solicitors: A unique approach to divorce & separation. Resolve issues amicably with joint advice.
Read MoreWeyPort Business Awards 2023
Nantes Solicitors are proud to have sponsored the 2023 WeyPort Business Awards, and in particular, the Young Entrepreneur category.
Read MoreWidow wins High Court battle despite being written out of Will
Very recently, in the case of Kaur v Estate of Karnail Singh & Ors [2023] EWHC 304 (Fam), it was ruled that 'reasonable provision' was not made for an 83-year-old widow, 'left with next to nothing'.
Read MoreSignificant Changes to Capital Gains Tax – Will you be affected?
At the 2022 Autumn Statement, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced major changes to Capital Gains Tax to commence from April 2023. Whilst the changes will mean that landlords will end up paying more tax, the changes could significantly help divorcing couples.
Read MoreGetting a mains water connection
You may find that such landowners will attempt to charge vast sums of money to allow you to have a pipe across their land effectively holding you to ransom. If this is a situation you have found yourself in, congratulations! you’re in the right place!
Read MoreEnergy Performance Certificates and Listed Buildings
The MEES make it unlawful to grant new leases of properties with an F or G rating. From 2023, these standards will also make subsisting lettings of F or G-rated commercial properties unlawful.
Read MoreMy Will, a public document?
It may come as a surprise however that once a grant of probate has been issued by the probate registry, a Will becomes a public document and anyone can apply to have a copy.
Read MoreGood Divorce Week
Nantes Solicitors are offering free advice sessions to local people during Good Divorce Week (28th November – 2nd December) to promote the benefits of early intervention in family matters.
Read MoreWhen do I need a grant of probate?
There are several types of grant of representation which confirm that person’s right to deal with assets and administration of the estate such as property, possessions and money.
Read MoreRecovering Debts – Advice For Businesses
If you are a company or firm and are owed money, the process for debt recovery should begin with you invoicing your client as normal. You and your clients should already have agreed payment terms and you should therefore wait for confirmation that you have received payment.
Read MoreRelocation Abroad With Your Child – What Do You Need To Do?
Relocation Abroad With Your Child – What Do You Need To Do? If you are considering a move overseas, it is important to obtain the permission from all people who hold Parental Responsibility for the child before removing the child from the jurisdiction of England and Wales. Parental Responsibility is the term used to describe […]
Read MoreLiberty Protection Safeguards – What happens now?
Liberty Protection Safeguards – What happens now? The Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019 received Royal Assent in May 2019 as a means to replace the current Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) with the Liberty Protection Safeguards (LPS). Consultation for the draft Code of Practice closed in July 2022 and there has been a range of […]
Read MoreA New Law Is Set To Raise The Minimum Age To Marry From 16 To 18
The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 has received Royal Assent and is anticipated to come into effect on in February 2023. At the moment, with permission from their parents or a guardian, 16 and 17 year olds can get married. However, from 26 February 2023, the Act will raise the legal age […]
Read MoreCare Home Fee Planning – What Can I Do?
Care Home Fee Planning – What Can I Do? The average cost of care in a residential setting can range from £29,000 – £39,000 a year, and with nursing care fees ranging from £35,000 – £55,000 people now more than ever are looking at ways to protect their assets. The average stay in a UK […]
Read MoreLasting Powers of Attorney and Deputyship
Lasting Powers of Attorney and Deputyship When a family member loses mental capacity, it can be an extremely stressful and at times lengthy process to obtain the legal authority to begin acting on somebody else’s behalf to assist with their financial affairs or their health and welfare affairs. Far too often, a person will delay […]
Read MoreChanges to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on Divorce
Changes to Capital Gains Tax on divorce The government recently announced plans to relax the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rules within divorce financial settlements. They have published a policy paper that stands to significantly improve the treatment of Capital Gains Tax for spouses and civil partners who are in the process of separating. HMRC stated […]
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