If you’re a landlord in the Wirral, Merseyside or the wider Liverpool City Region, the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 (RRA) will be the biggest change to renting law in decades. Crucially, however, the new rules will not take effect all at once.

The Government has confirmed a phased implementation plan, with the majority of changes (Phase 1) taking effect from 1 May 2026, and further obligations arriving later in 2026 and beyond.

As a firm that predominantly acts for landlords across the Wirral, Burd Ward Solicitors has prepared this updated guide to help local landlords understand exactly what changes are coming, when they take effect, and what you should do now to prepare.

1. Overview of the Renters’ Rights Act and Its Phased Implementation

Phase 1 — From 1 May 2026

Phase 1 introduces the most significant reforms affecting day-to-day letting and possession. These include:

• Abolition of Section 21 “no-fault” evictions
• Transition to assured periodic tenancies for all new and existing lets
• Reformed possession grounds (including 3+ months’ arrears, moving/selling restrictions, and updated mandatory grounds)
• Rent increases limited to once every 12 months
• Ban on rental bidding
• Restrictions on rent in advance (maximum one month, or 28 days where the rent period is weekly)
• Right for tenants to request pets (with tests around reasonable refusal)
• Ban on discrimination against benefit claimants, families and other protected groups

Later Phases — From Late 2026 Onwards

Additional reforms — many requiring new digital systems — will be introduced later, including:

• A national Landlord & Property Database (compulsory registration)
• Compulsory Private Rented Sector Ombudsman membership
• Extension of the Decent Homes Standard to the private rented sector
• Implementation of Awaab’s Law response times for damp, mould and serious hazards
• Enhanced investigatory and enforcement powers for local councils

These later-phase measures will be brought into force with separate commencement dates.

2. Key Implications for Wirral & Merseyside Landlords

2.1 Tenancy Structure & Ending Tenancies (Phase 1 – May 2026)

From 1 May 2026, all new and existing assured shorthold tenancies across Wirral and Merseyside will automatically convert into assured periodic tenancies.

This means:

• No more fixed-term ASTs of the kind landlords are used to.
• No ability to serve Section 21 notices.
• Landlords will need to rely on the new statutory possession grounds.
• Mandatory rent-arrears possession will generally require at least three months’ arrears.
• Certain grounds, such as moving in or selling, require a minimum 12 months’ occupation and at least 4 months’ notice.

This will particularly affect landlords in high turnover areas such as Birkenhead, Seacombe, Wallasey and parts of Liverpool.

2.2 Landlord & Property Database (Later Phase – Late 2026+)

Although the national Landlord & Property Database is not expected to go live until a later phase, it will ultimately require:

• Every Wirral and Merseyside landlord to register as a landlord; and
• Every rental property to be individually listed.

In future, the ability to serve certain possession notices may depend on being correctly registered on this database.

2.3 Ombudsman Scheme (Later Phase – Late 2026+)

Landlords will be required to join a national ombudsman scheme. The ombudsman will have powers to require:

• Compensation payments
• Apologies
• Repairs or other remedial steps

This will be particularly relevant for landlords with larger portfolios in areas such as Liscard, Tranmere, Hoylake, Liverpool and Sefton, where tenant complaints are more likely simply due to portfolio size.

2.4 Rent in Advance & Rental Bidding (Phase 1 – May 2026)

From May 2026 the Renters’ Rights Act will:

• Limit rent in advance (for most tenancies, to one month or 28 days).
• Ban rental bidding and require a clear advertised rent.

This is important for landlords in competitive areas such as West Kirby, Caldy, Heswall and Crosby, where rental bidding has sometimes been used to deal with high demand.

2.5 Pets, Discrimination & Property Condition (Mixed Phase – May 2026 & Late 2026+)

From Phase 1 (May 2026):

• Tenants gain a right to request a pet, and landlords will need a good reason to refuse.
• Policies which exclude tenants with children or those in receipt of benefits will be restricted as part of the new anti-discrimination rules.

From later phases:

• The Decent Homes Standard will be extended to the private rented sector.
• Awaab’s Law will set strict timeframes for responding to damp, mould and serious hazards.

Wirral and Liverpool councils already focus on housing conditions and enforcement, so landlords should assume this will be a priority.

2.6 Enforcement Changes (Later Phase – Late 2026+)

In later phases, local councils will gain stronger enforcement powers, including:

• Civil penalties (with higher maximum penalties for serious or repeated breaches)
• Longer rent repayment orders (up to 24 months’ rent)
• Greater access to information, including financial records in some cases
• Increased powers of inspection and proactive enforcement

This will particularly affect enforcement hotspots such as Birkenhead, Rock Ferry, Toxteth and Bootle.

3. What Wirral & Merseyside Landlords Should Do Now

Even though most of the changes do not go live until 1 May 2026, responsible landlords should use the lead-in period wisely. Key steps include:

• Review all current tenancy agreements and be ready for the shift to assured periodic tenancies.
• Audit property standards to prepare for the future extension of the Decent Homes Standard and Awaab’s Law.
• Update rent-increase processes so that increases are compliant and properly documented once the new limits apply.
• Review tenant application procedures to ensure they are free of criteria that could be challenged under the new anti-discrimination regime.
• Prepare for the landlord database by collating EPCs, gas and electrical safety certificates, licence details and other key property information.
• Establish or tighten your complaints handling system so you can deal with tenant complaints promptly and reduce the risk of ombudsman referrals.
• Seek early legal advice, particularly if you currently rely on Section 21 or fixed-term ASTs as part of your letting strategy.

4. Why Responsible Wirral Landlords Will Benefit

While the Renters’ Rights Act introduces more regulation, responsible landlords in Wirral and Merseyside can benefit from a more level playing field. Potential advantages include:

• Less competition from non-compliant or rogue landlords
• Longer, more stable tenancies from good-quality tenants
• Reduced void periods and fewer avoidable disputes
• A clearer and more predictable legal framework
• Improved reputation with tenants, agents and lenders

Landlords offering good-quality accommodation in areas such as Wallasey, West Kirby, Hoylake, Heswall, Moreton and the Liverpool suburbs are likely to stand out even more once the reforms are fully in place.

5. How Burd Ward Solicitors Support Wirral & Merseyside Landlords

Based in Wallasey, Burd Ward Solicitors acts for landlords throughout the Wirral and Merseyside region, including:

• Birkenhead
• Wallasey
• West Kirby
• Hoylake
• Heswall
• Liverpool
• Sefton
• Cheshire West

We provide practical, cost-effective legal advice for private landlords, portfolio investors and property companies.

Our landlord services include:

• Updating tenancy agreements for the May 2026 reforms
• Reviewing possession strategies for the post-Section 21 regime
• Drafting and serving possession notices and dealing with court proceedings
• Advising on rent arrears, damage, anti-social behaviour and other breaches
• Resolving tenancy deposit disputes and alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
• Carrying out landlord compliance audits
• Preparing for the national landlord and property database
• Advising on licences, HMOs and local authority enforcement

The Renters’ Rights Act will transform renting law, but importantly, not all at once. With the bulk of reforms arriving on 1 May 2026, and further obligations being rolled out later in 2026, now is the ideal time for landlords across Wirral and Merseyside to prepare.

Burd Ward Solicitors can help you understand the phased changes, update your documentation, plan for new compliance duties and safeguard your property portfolio.

If you are a landlord in Wirral or Merseyside and would like tailored advice, please contact our expert landlord solicitor, Martyn Green, for specialist guidance on the Renters’ Rights Act and how it will affect your properties.

A recent report published in BMJ Medicine and covered by The Guardian has revealed that a third of women who died during or shortly after pregnancy in the UK had prior involvement with children’s social care services.

What the Study Found

Between 2014 and 2022:

• 1,451 women died during pregnancy or within a year of giving birth.
• 33% of those women were known to social care.
• Many had prior experiences of domestic abuse, childhood trauma, or were already involved in care proceedings.

The report warns of a lack of coordination between maternity care, social workers, and local authorities—leading to missed opportunities to provide support, protection, and early intervention.

What This Means for Families

While this data is heartbreaking, it also reinforces what many in the legal sector already know: that women facing safeguarding concerns often slip through the cracks when systems don’t communicate effectively.

At Burd Ward Solicitors, our Family Law Team supports parents and carers navigating:

• Public Law Proceedings (Care Proceedings and Pre Proceedings)
• Private Law Matters (including Child Arrangements Orders)
• Domestic Abuse Cases (Non Molestation and Occupation Orders)
• Relationship Breakdown & Separation
• Legal Aid for eligible clients, especially where social services are involved

Our Role in Supporting Parents Through Social Services Involvement

It’s vital that any parent involved with children’s services receives clear, supportive legal advice. These cases often move quickly, and without legal representation, parents can find themselves overwhelmed and unheard.

We offer:

• Advice and representation at PLO meetings (Pre-Proceedings process)
• Support during court proceedings where care orders or supervision orders are being considered
• Applications for urgent protective orders if domestic abuse is present
• Tailored legal support during separation, especially where children are at risk or vulnerable

A Call for Better Joined-Up Support

This report should be a wake-up call for professionals working with pregnant women and new mothers. Timely referrals to legal advice—particularly in cases involving domestic abuse or social services concerns—could help prevent harm and improve outcomes for families.

If You Need Support, We’re Here to Help

Whether you’ve been contacted by children’s services, are worried about your safety at home, or are going through a difficult separation, we’re here to provide calm, clear and experienced legal advice.

The BBC recently uncovered a shocking rise in fake-will fraud across the UK, with criminal gangs exploiting weaknesses in the probate system to steal entire estates. Families of the deceased are being left devastated, often learning months later that their loved one’s property has been transferred or sold — all based on forged documents.

At Burd Ward Solicitors, we understand how important it is to protect your estate and ensure your wishes are respected. In this article, we explore how these scams are being carried out, why the current system is vulnerable, and what you can do to safeguard your legacy.

What Is Fake-Will Fraud?

Fake-will fraud involves criminals submitting forged or counterfeit wills during the probate process in order to gain control of a deceased person’s estate. In many cases, the fraudsters pose as executors or claim to be beneficiaries under the forged will.

The rise in online probate applications — intended to simplify the process — has unfortunately created new opportunities for abuse. In some instances, these criminals have managed to sell homes and access bank accounts without any of the legitimate heirs being aware until it’s too late.

Real-Life Cases That Highlight the Problem

Real-Life Cases That Highlight the Problem:

• Nicole and Lisa, two sisters from London, were shocked to discover that their late aunt, Christine, had supposedly made a new will — one they had never seen. The forged document named an unknown individual as the sole beneficiary, and probate had already been granted without the family’s knowledge.
• In another case, Michael, who passed away in 2020, had his home transferred based on a counterfeit will. HMRC became suspicious after probate was granted and froze the property, preventing a sale.

In both cases, probate was granted with minimal scrutiny, and the rightful heirs were left battling to prove the fraud and reclaim the estate.

How the Scam Works

Fake-will fraud typically follows a pattern:

1. Identifying a Target: Fraudsters find recently deceased individuals — often those who lived alone or had no immediate family.
2. Forging Documents: They create a counterfeit will, often witnessed by fake or untraceable individuals.
3. Submitting Probate Applications Online: The application is made with minimal identity verification.
4. Gaining Control: Once granted, the fraudster can sell property, withdraw funds, and disappear — all before the rightful heirs know what’s happening.

This is not just identity theft — it’s the theft of someone’s entire legacy.

Why the System Is Vulnerable

• Online Probate Loopholes: The 2017 introduction of digital probate forms made it easier for fraudsters to apply without stringent checks.
• Weak Identity Verification: There’s currently no mandatory face-to-face or biometric verification for applicants.
• Lack of Cross-Checking: In some cases, banks, HMRC, and the probate registry aren’t cross-checking declarations in real-time.
• Overstretched Resources: Probate offices and courts have seen cuts in staff and funding, slowing the investigation and reversal of fraud.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Estate?

1. Use a Regulated Solicitor: Ensure wills are drawn up and stored by a reputable law firm.
2. Register Your Will: Services like the National Will Register help prove a will’s authenticity and existence.
3. Name Trusted Executors: Choose executors you trust and discuss their role in advance.
4. Let Loved Ones Know Where Your Will Is Kept: Reduces the chance of confusion or exploitation.
5. Be Cautious with Online Templates: DIY wills can be risky and easier to forge or contest.
6. Consider Adding Safeguards: Talk to your solicitor about extra ID checks for your executors or using a trust structure.

Final Thoughts

Fake-will fraud is a distressing but growing problem in the UK. While the legal system is catching up — with HMRC and the probate registry now launching reviews — prevention is the best defence.

If you’re concerned about the security of your estate or need help drafting a will, speak to our Wills & Probate team today. We’re here to ensure your wishes are honoured and your loved ones protected.

Call us today on 0151 639 8273 or email info@burdward.co.uk for a confidential conversation.
Don’t leave your estate vulnerable — put the right protections in place now.

We are delighted to announce that Meggan Epps has officially qualified as a Solicitor, here at Burd Ward Solicitors.

Meggan has been a valued member of our family law team since she began her legal career, demonstrating outstanding dedication and a passion for helping families navigate challenging circumstances. Throughout her training, Meggan has gained invaluable experience across a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, child arrangements, financial settlements, and domestic abuse cases.

Her commitment to providing clear, compassionate advice has already made a positive impact on many clients, and her qualification marks the next exciting step in what promises to be a distinguished legal career.

Commenting on her achievement, Meggan said:

After years of hard work, long nights and plenty of tears it is all finally worth it for this feeling!

I am so thankful to everyone around me for the constant support they give, especially my Burd Ward family team

Our Head of Family Law, Jenna Ellison, added:

It has been an absolute pleasure to watch Meggan grow from our days at NYAS to now a fully qualified solicitor here at Burd Ward . She is going to be amazing as a family law solicitor and I am very excited to see what comes next!

If you need advice or support on any family law matter, Meggan and the rest of our expert team are here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact us on 0151 639 8273.

Congratulations again to Meggan on this fantastic milestone!

When parents separate, ensuring that their children’s well-being is at the forefront becomes the most important priority. One area where this can sometimes be challenging is during school holidays, particularly half-term breaks.

Here’s a guide to help separated parents work together to create a fair and flexible plan for half-term child arrangements.

1. Put the Child’s Needs First

Regardless of your relationship with your ex-partner, always consider your child’s needs as the central focus. For children, half-term breaks represent an opportunity to relax, enjoy time with their parents, and participate in fun activities. Avoid putting the child in the middle of any conflicts by discussing arrangements calmly and rationally.

2. Plan Well in Advance

Waiting until the last minute to finalise half-term arrangements can lead to unnecessary stress and confusion. Whether it’s coordinating pick-up times, sharing travel logistics, or planning activities, last-minute decisions are more likely to result in conflicts or miscommunication.

Aim to discuss the arrangements a few weeks before half-term begins. This gives both parents ample time to consider schedules, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure there are no overlaps in planned activities.

3. Use a Co-Parenting Calendar or Tool

Technology can be your ally when it comes to managing child arrangements. Shared calendars, co-parenting apps, or family communication platforms can help you both stay on the same page when it comes to picking up and dropping off the kids, scheduling activities, or making last-minute changes.

4. Agree on a Fair Division of Time

One of the biggest challenges for separated parents during half-term is ensuring the time spent with the child is equally divided. While it’s important not to focus on keeping things strictly equal, it’s equally important to make sure the child feels that both parents are invested in their time and well-being. This might mean dividing the half-term into blocks — one parent might take the first few days while the other takes the latter half.

If it’s not possible for both parents to have equal time, find a compromise that works. For example, one parent might have the child for the majority of the half-term, but the other parent gets extra time over weekends or holidays to balance things out.

5. Communicate with Flexibility and Respect

Effective communication is vital for creating a positive experience for both the child and parents during half-term. Be transparent about your schedules and any potential conflicts. If changes need to be made to the original plan, discuss them respectfully.

Avoid using your child as a messenger. It can create unnecessary tension and put the child in a difficult position. Instead, deal directly with your ex-partner in a calm and respectful manner, remembering that your child’s well-being should remain the priority.

6. Consider the Child’s Routine

While the half-term break is an opportunity for fun and relaxation, it’s also important to consider your child’s routine. Keeping things as familiar as possible will help minimise any stress or anxiety. If your child has certain bedtimes, meal schedules, or activities they enjoy, try to integrate these into both parents’ time during the break.

If one parent is planning a trip or holiday, ensure there’s an understanding about how it fits within your child’s usual routine and what the child will need to adjust.

7. Incorporate Some Fun and Meaningful Time

Half-term breaks should be a time for the child to enjoy fun, relaxation, and special moments with both parents. Plan activities that are meaningful and exciting, whether it’s a day out at an amusement park, a visit to the cinema, or a quiet evening at home baking cookies.

8. Be Ready for Changes

Life is unpredictable, and things might not always go as planned. One parent might fall ill, work commitments may arise, or a new issue might come up that requires rearranging plans. If this happens, work together to find a solution.

Flexibility and patience are essential. If something needs to change, communicate promptly, and be willing to accommodate the other parent’s needs when necessary.

The overall goal is to create an environment where the child feels loved, supported, and secure during the break — no matter how the arrangements unfold. With patience, respect, and a focus on cooperation, separated parents can turn half-term into a time of connection and fun.

From 1 April 2025, significant updates to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) will come into effect, potentially reshaping property transactions across England. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a property investor, or an existing homeowner, understanding these changes is vital. At Burd Ward Solicitors, we’re here to guide you through these updates and help you navigate their impact on your property dealings.

What is SDLT?

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) is a government tax applied to property purchases in England. The amount payable depends on the property price, with higher-value transactions incurring higher rates. Knowing the SDLT rules is essential for anyone buying residential or commercial property.

Key SDLT Changes from April 2025

The upcoming SDLT changes aim to improve housing affordability and influence market behaviour. Here are the main updates:

1. Revised SDLT Rates for Residential Properties
   • Up to £125,000: 0% (no SDLT)
   • £125,001 to £250,000: 2%
   • £250,001 to £925,000: 5%
   • £925,001 to £1.5 million: 10%
   • Above £1.5 million: 12%
2. Updates for First-Time Buyers
   • SDLT-free threshold increases to £300,000.
   • Purchases between £300,001 and £500,000 will incur a 5% rate.
   • Properties exceeding £500,000 do not qualify for relief.
3. Higher Surcharge for Additional Properties

   The surcharge on buy-to-let and second homes will rise to 5% across all bands:

   • Up to £125,000: 5%
   • £125,001 to £250,000: 7%
   • £250,001 to £925,000: 10%
   • £925,001 to £1.5 million: 15%
   • Above £1.5 million: 17%
4. Green Homes Incentive

   Buyers of energy-efficient homes (EPC rating A or B) will enjoy reduced SDLT rates, paying 1% less across all bands.

5. Commercial Property Updates

   The lower SDLT band for commercial property transactions will increase from £150,000 to £200,000.

Who Will Be Most Affected by These Changes?

1. First-Time Buyers

   The increased SDLT-free threshold will help first-time buyers save thousands on property purchases.

2. Buy-to-Let Investors & Second Homeowners

   The higher surcharge makes additional property acquisitions more expensive, impacting investors and second-home buyers.

3. Sellers of Energy-Efficient Homes

   Properties with high energy efficiency (EPC A or B) may attract more buyers due to SDLT discounts.

4. Commercial Property Buyers

   New thresholds will require careful financial planning for those acquiring commercial properties.

Preparing for the SDLT Changes

As the property market reacts to these changes, here are some practical steps to consider:

• Plan Your Purchase Timeline: Decide whether to buy before or after 1 April 2025 based on the new rates.
• Improve Energy Efficiency: Enhance your property’s EPC rating to attract buyers and take advantage of SDLT discounts.
• Seek Expert Advice: SDLT calculations can be complex. Consulting experienced solicitors, like our team at Burd Ward, ensures compliance and maximizes potential savings.

Why Choose Burd Ward Solicitors?

Navigating SDLT changes can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Burd Ward Solicitors, we specialise in property law and offer tailored legal advice to suit your needs. Our team of experts is here to support you with all aspects of conveyancing, from understanding SDLT rules to managing complex property transactions.

If you have questions about how the SDLT changes will affect you, get in touch with Burd Ward Solicitors. Let us provide the clarity and confidence you need for your property journey.

As the festive season approaches, we at Burd Ward Solicitors wish to extend our warmest greetings and thanks to all our clients and partners.

With the holiday spirit in mind, we also understand the importance of spending quality time with family and friends. Therefore, we have adjusted our opening hours to reflect the season’s joy.

Christmas and New Year Opening Hours

• Monday December 23rd: Closed
• Tuesday December 24th (Christmas Eve): Closed
• Wednesday December 25th (Christmas Day): Closed
• Thursday December 26th (Boxing Day): Closed
• Friday December 27th: Closed
• Monday and Tuesday December 30th – 31st: Open
• Wednesday January 1st (New Year’s Day): Closed
• From January 2nd: Normal business hours resume

Drafting a Will is an essential task for ensuring your estate is handled according to your wishes after your death. However, attempting to create a Will without professional guidance can lead to significant complications and unintended consequences. In this blog post, we’ll explore a recent case from our probate department that highlights the pitfalls of an at-home Will not drafted by a qualified lawyer.

In a recent probate case, a testator prepared an at-home Will without consulting a legal professional. The document had several critical issues:

1. No Appointed Executor: The Will lacked a formally appointed executor, only implying the testator’s preference.
2. Overly-Specific Gifts: Specific gifts were outlined, but their execution was problematic.
3. Lack of Consideration for Assets: The testator did not account for the actual assets available at the time of death.

These factors culminated in the testator’s daughter receiving little from the estate, underscoring the importance of meticulous estate planning.

Risks Involved in At-Home Wills

Implicit Executor Appointment

1. Legal Ambiguity: Without a clearly appointed executor, the court must determine who will fulfil this role, potentially leading to delays and disputes.
2. Family Disputes: Implications without clear appointments can cause family conflicts, as multiple parties may feel entitled to the role.

Overly-Specific Gifts

1. Risk of Failure: Specifying gifts too narrowly can result in them not being fulfilled if the items are no longer available.
2. Redundant or Non-Existent Assets: If the specified assets are not part of the estate at death, gifts fail, leading to dissatisfaction among beneficiaries.

Incomplete Asset Planning

1. Limitations and Changes over Time: If the Will does not reflect the testator’s actual estate, it can lead to unequal or unintended distributions among heirs.
2. Economic and Asset Fluctuations: Failure to update a Will with changing asset valuations or new acquisitions can distort intended distributions.

Implications of Inadequate Will Planning

Emotional and Financial Turmoil

1. For the Beneficiaries: They may experience both financial loss and emotional distress due to perceived unfairness or errors.
2. For the Estate: Unclear directives can lead to prolonged legal battles, diminishing the estate’s value through legal fees and taxes.

Legal and Probate Issues

1. Probate Delays: Without clear instructions or executors, probate can be significantly delayed, affecting estate settlement.
2. Court Intervention: The court may need to interpret or decide on items that should have been clear in the Will.

Strategies for Clients to Avoid These Pitfalls

Engage a Qualified Professional

1. Legal Expertise: Lawyers experienced in estate planning can foresee potential issues and advise accordingly.
2. Customized Solutions: They tailor Wills to reflect current law and personal circumstances, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Clarity and Simplicity in Will Drafting

1. Explicit Executor Appointment: Clearly appoint executors to avoid ambiguity.
2. Flexible Gifting Provisions: Include substitute gifts or general gifting clauses for assets not specified.

Regular Reviews and Updates

1. Periodic Review: Regularly update your Will to reflect life changes—marriages, births, deaths, or significant asset changes.
2. Consider Future Possessions: Factor in potential acquisitions and disposals of assets to protect against obsolescence.

While the temptation to draft an at-home Will may arise as a cost-saving measure, the potential pitfalls far outweigh the savings. Engaging with a qualified professional ensures Wills are comprehensive, legally valid, and reflective of current wishes and assets. Through careful planning and regular updates, clients can secure their estates are distributed as intended, minimizing disputes and safeguarding their legacy.

Don’t let uncertainty and legal complexities overshadow your final wishes. Ensure your Will is comprehensive and reflects your true intentions by consulting with a qualified estate planning professional. Contact our probate department today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you create a secure future for your loved ones. Protect your legacy with the peace of mind that comes from expert guidance. Call us now on 0151 639 8273 or email us at mpb@burdward.co.uk to learn more!

When it comes to planning for the future, writing a Will is one of the most important steps you can take. Despite this, many people procrastinate or overlook the necessity of creating a Will entirely. At Burd Ward Solicitors, we believe that understanding the importance of a Will is essential for protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are fulfilled after your passing.

What is a Will?

A Will is a legal document that outlines how your assets and estate should be distributed after you die. It allows you to specify your wishes regarding the distribution of your property, the care of your children, and even the appointment of an executor to manage your affairs. Without a Will, your estate may be distributed according to the laws of intestacy, which may not align with your desires.

Why You Need a Will

1. Control Over Asset Distribution

Creating a Will gives you complete control over who inherits your assets, whether they be family members, friends, or charities. By specifying your wishes, you can ensure that your estate is divided according to your preferences, which can prevent disputes and confusion among surviving relatives.

2. Appointment of Guardians for Minor Children

If you have children under the age of 18, a Will allows you to appoint guardians who will care for them in the event of your death. This is an incredibly important decision that can provide peace of mind, knowing that your children will be raised by someone you trust.

3. Minimising Family Disputes

The absence of a Will can lead to family conflicts and legal battles over your estate. By clearly outlining your wishes, you can help minimize the chances of disagreements among your loved ones during an already difficult time.

4. Tax Benefits

A well-crafted Will can help you take advantage of tax allowances and reliefs, potentially minimizing the tax burden on your estate. Consulting with a legal professional can ensure that you utilize all available options.

5. Protection for Your Business

If you own a business, a Will can outline how your business interests should be handled after your death. This can include appointing a successor or outlining the distribution of shares, ensuring your business continues to operate smoothly.

6. Peace of Mind

Knowing that your affairs are in order provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what matters most—enjoying life and spending time with your loved ones. Creating a Will is a proactive step in safeguarding your legacy.

How to Create a Will

Creating a Will doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here at Burd Ward Solicitors, we can guide you through the process to ensure your Will is legally sound and accurately reflects your wishes.

1. Gather Information: Collect details about your assets, debts, and the individuals you wish to name in your Will.
2. Decide on Executors and Guardians: Choose trustworthy individuals to manage your estate and care for your children.
3. Draft Your Will: Work with a solicitor to draft your Will. This ensures that it meets all legal requirements and accurately reflects your wishes.
4. Sign and Witness: Your Will must be signed and witnessed according to legal requirements to be valid.
5. Store Your Will Safely: Keep your Will in a safe place and inform your executors where it can be found.

Writing Your Own Will

While it’s highly recommended to seek legal assistance when creating a Will, some individuals may choose to write their own. In these instances you should take a look at the guide on gov.uk.

Writing a Will is a vital step in estate planning that everyone should consider, regardless of their age or financial situation. At Burd Ward Solicitors, we offer a fixed-fee will writing service and are committed to helping you navigate this important process with compassion and expertise. Don’t wait until it’s too late—call us on 0151 639 8273 or email us at info@burdward.co.uk to start the conversation about making your Will and securing your legacy.

Care proceedings are one of the most sensitive and challenging areas of family law. If you or a loved one is involved in such a process, it’s essential to understand the steps, rights, and legal obligations involved. At Burd Ward Solicitors, we specialize in providing compassionate and expert legal advice in care proceedings to ensure the best possible outcomes for children and families.

What Are Care Proceedings?

Care proceedings are initiated by a Local Authority when they have serious concerns about a child’s safety or well-being. This legal process begins when the Local Authority believes that a child is at risk of significant harm, and it involves the family court deciding what is in the child’s best interest.

This can involve the child being subject to a Care or Supervision Order.

The primary goal of care proceedings is to protect the child, but the court also considers the rights of the parents and wider family members.

Why Might Care Proceedings Be Initiated?

Care proceedings are usually initiated in response to concerns such as:

• Neglect: Failing to meet the child’s basic needs, such as food, shelter, or medical care.
• Physical or Emotional Abuse: Any action causing harm to the child’s physical or mental health.
• Substance Abuse: Concerns that parents or guardians are misusing drugs or alcohol in a way that endangers the child.
• Domestic Violence: Exposure to domestic violence, which can have long-lasting impacts on children.
• Mental Health Issues: If a parent’s mental health issues impair their ability to care for their child safely.

The Role of the Local Authority

The Local Authority has a legal duty to ensure that children in their area are safe. Before initiating care proceedings, they can often work with families through a process called pre-proceedings. This is an opportunity for parents to address the concerns raised, usually with the help of a solicitor, as funding is available for this. The aim of pre- proceedings is to prevent the matter going to Court.

However, if these efforts are unsuccessful, or the matter requires urgent attention then the Local Authority may issue Care Proceedings. They will ask the Court to make an Interim Care Order. An Interim Care Order gives the Local Authority temporary overriding parental responsibility whilst in proceedings.

At the end of proceedings, the Court will be invited to determine if there is a need for a Final Order to be made, which could be either a Care Order or a Supervision Order.

A Care Order gives the Local Authority shared parental responsibility for the child, allowing them to make decisions about their care.

A Supervision Order, on the other hand, allows the child to remain with their parents under the local authority’s supervision.

Your Rights as a Parent

As a parent, it’s essential to know that you have rights during care proceedings:

• Right to Legal Representation: You are entitled to free legal representation, and it’s crucial to seek expert advice from solicitors experienced in care proceedings, such as Burd Ward Solicitors.
• Right to Participate in Court Hearings: You can attend and present your case during court hearings, explaining your side of the situation with the assistance of representation.
• Right to Challenge the Local Authority’s Evidence: You have the right to challenge any evidence presented by the local authority and present your own evidence to support your case.

The Court Process

Care proceedings usually follow these stages:

1. The First Hearing: Known as the Case Management Hearing, where the court sets the timetable for the proceedings and decides on interim care arrangements.
2. The Fact-Finding Hearing: If necessary, the court examines the evidence to determine if the concerns raised by the Local Authority are valid.
3. The Welfare Hearing: The court considers what’s in the child’s best interests, which could include staying with their parents with a support plan, placed with either family members or foster carers, or adoption.

The entire process is designed to be completed within 26 weeks to minimize disruption to the child’s life. However, in complex cases, this period may be extended.

How Burd Ward Solicitors Can Help

At Burd Ward Solicitors, we understand how stressful and emotional care proceedings can be for parents. Our experienced team provides clear, professional, and empathetic advice tailored to your circumstances. We will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that the court hears your side of the story.

We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your family, working with you and other professionals to resolve issues as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Care proceedings are complex and emotionally challenging, but with the right legal support, you can navigate the process confidently. If you are facing care proceedings or have concerns about your child’s welfare, contact Burd Ward Solicitors for expert advice and representation.

Our expert family law solicitors are here to help you. Call us at 0151 639 8273 or email us at familyteam@burdward.co.uk.