Welcome
I’m pleased to be sending you the first issue of the new DWT Legal newsletter. Every quarter, we’ll untangle the latest developments in the law and how they could affect you, your business associates or your family. We’ll also share how we’ve helped our clients, and we’ll try to demystify the world of legal jargon.
In this issue we look at what to do if clients are squeezing your business. Plus an important ruling on pre-nuptial agreements and the implications of dying without a will.If you have any topics that you would like us to cover in future issues, please email them to us.
May I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy & prosperous New Year from all of us at DWT Legal.
Gareth ThompsonDWT Managing Director and head of DWT’s
Commercial team
The law and youCan your client break their contract?
As the economic situation continues to bite, two large companies have been caught squeezing suppliers. Government contractor Serco asked its largest suppliers for a 2.5% rebate saying, “… we are looking to determine who our real partners are that we can rely upon.” Meanwhile, Thomas Cook shaved 5% off its invoice payments to hotel operators.
Smaller companies aren’t immune, with clients trying to renegotiate pay rates or extend payment terms. Could one of your clients do this to you? How should you respond if they do?
If you’re unable to work with what your client is asking, look at your contract. Is there a clause that allows the client to vary the terms in certain circumstances? If they’ve breached the contract, you may no longer be obliged to fulfil your side. You may be able to:
• Negotiate with the client
• Withhold services/goods
• Issue a claim.
If you are experiencing difficulties with a client or need a contract/commercial agreement to prevent this type of situation, please contact
DWT’s Commercial team. We are skilled at helping our clients do business on their terms. Please call 01562 514862 or
email Max Davis.
Automatic inheritance payment goes up, but is it enough?If you die without a will in place, your spouse now automatically inherits the first £250,000 of your estate. It used to be only half that amount. But while £250,000 sounds like a lot, the value of your house and pension payments could mean your estate is worth considerably more. Without a will, you cannot guarantee any additional assets will go to your spouse or the people you care about most.
Our
Private Client team give expert and sensitive advice to help you make a will. We can also help you appoint a Lasting Power of Attorney to act on your behalf should you become unable to manage your property or monetary affairs. Please call 01562 514866 or
email Maggie Reardon.
Pre-nups, worth the paper they’re written on?You may have read about the UK Supreme Court’s ruling that a pre-nuptial agreement between a German heiress and her ex-husband is binding. Previously, pre-nups weren’t enforceable under English law, but the ruling means they will now be upheld, as long as they are considered fair. For example, both parties must have freely entered into one and been fully informed of all the financial and relevant implications.
To discuss pre-nups or cohabitation issues, please contact our
Family team on 01562 514872 or
email Debbie Fowler.
