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How to Prove a Beneficial Interest in a Property

Property ownership is not always as straightforward as the name listed on the Land Registry title. In many situations, someone may have contributed financially to a property or been promised a share of it, even though they are not the legal owner. This can lead…

What Are the Responsibilities of a Commercial Landlord?

Letting commercial property is very different from renting out a residential home. Many landlords assume that commercial tenants take on most responsibilities for the premises, but this is only partly true. In reality, a commercial landlord’s obligations depend heavily on the terms of the lease,…

Renting a Business Property: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Renting commercial premises is one of the most significant commitments a business will make. Whether you’re opening a café in Brighton’s North Laine, launching a professional office in Hove, or securing retail space along the seafront, understanding your responsibilities is critical. Unlike residential tenancies, commercial…

DIY Wills and Legal Risks: When Cost-Cutting Becomes Costly

DIY Wills have become increasingly popular in the UK. Online templates, downloadable forms, and low-cost Will-writing platforms promise a quick and affordable way to “get your affairs in order” without involving a solicitor. For many people, particularly those with modest estates, this can seem like…

Want of Knowledge and Approval” — What It Means in Will Disputes

When a Will is challenged in England and Wales, one of the most complex — and often misunderstood — grounds is want of knowledge and approval. This issue commonly arises in probate disputes in UK courts, particularly where vulnerable testators, late-life Wills, or unexpected beneficiaries…

What Happens If a Will Is Lost or Cannot Be Found?

Losing a Will can be deeply unsettling, especially at an already emotional time. Families are often left asking urgent questions: Was there a valid Will? What happens now? Who inherits? And just as commonly: how do I get a copy of a Will? In England…

10 Steps to Take Before Signing a Commercial Property Lease

Renting a commercial property is one of the biggest decisions a business can make. Whether you’re opening your first retail shop, moving into a larger office, or expanding into warehouse space, signing a lease is a serious legal commitment. While it is an exciting time…

Undue Influence and Wills: How to Prove It in Probate Disputes

When a loved one passes away, families expect their Will to reflect that person’s true wishes. Unfortunately, there are times when a Will may have been made under pressure, manipulation, or coercion — something known in law as undue influence. Undue influence in Wills occurs…

How Long Do You Have to Contest a Will in England and Wales?

If you believe that a loved one’s Will does not properly reflect their intentions, the question of how long you have to contest a Will becomes pressing. Whether it’s because you were omitted, the Will appears unfair, or you suspect that the deceased lacked capacity…

Writing a Will: Essential Tips for Blended Families

Blended families are now one of the most common family structures in the UK. Whether you’ve remarried after divorce or bereavement, or your partner has children from a previous relationship, it’s important to think carefully about how your estate will be divided. Wills for blended…

How much can a landlord increase rent by?

Landlords often face challenges in understanding their responsibilities and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. If you are a landlord considering a rent increase and you are unsure where to begin, our guide below is designed to help. At Burt Brill & Cardens, we specialise in…

What Evidence Do You Need to Contest a Will?

Challenging a Will’s validity is a serious legal issue that can be emotionally taxing and complicated. If you suspect a loved one was coerced into making a Will or think it does not truly represent their wishes, you might be able to contest it with…