As UK law firms continue to digitise, cyber threats are escalating. From ransomware to data theft and email compromise. This article from Debra Cairns of Net-Defence explores real cases and highlights practical steps firms can take to strengthen defences, protect client data and maintain trust.
You are invited to join Cansford Labs for a live Q&A in September with their Head of Lab Operations James Nutt and Deputy Lab Manager Abbi Holloway. This is your opportunity to ask them any questions about the science of sample testing and detection windows.
Insider threats occur when employees misuse access to steal or leak data, causing legal, financial, and reputational damage. This article from Debra Cairns examines three UK cases, ICO responses, warning signs, and effective data loss protection measures.
Since June 2025, private children law cases in West Yorkshire follow the Pathfinder Pilot, a new child-focused process. Sophie Jensen of Duncan Lewis Solicitors explain how the scheme improves efficiency, supports self-represented parties, and centres the child’s voice in court.
Motoring offences don’t always warrant standard penalties. Leah Hester of LMP Legal explores how “special reasons” arguments can protect drivers from disqualification, using real case examples to show how legal knowledge and preparation can influence outcomes in high-stakes situations.
Returning to legal practice after a career break can feel daunting, but with the right support, it can be made easier. Nikki Alderson shares practical strategies for HR teams, barristers’ clerks, and returners to create confident and sustainable return to work in law.
In his first article for Chronicle Law, Jay Sahota the Masala Mentor, discusses practical ways law firms can improve cashflow and boost profits through smarter pricing, better billing practices, and stronger financial discipline.
Supply chain cyber threats are a growing concern for UK law firms. In this article, Debra Cairns, Director at Net-Defence, explores how legal practices can strengthen resilience by addressing third-party risks, embracing compliance, and investing in proactive cybersecurity strategies.
In this case study from Cansford Labs, a parent facing child custody concerns used PEth alcohol testing to provide court-admissible evidence of responsible alcohol use. The accurate results helped resolve the dispute and support a positive outcome.
Legal advisors can strengthen client relationships by exploring legacy giving. This article from Remember A Charity highlights key moments like; estate planning, life events, or financial reviews, when values-based conversations can have lasting impact.
23es barristers Brad Pomfret KC and Qasver Khan explore the surge in Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) claims in 2025. They examine key legal risks and insurance trends, and highlight what solicitors need to know when navigating the complexities of SPAs—from warranties and disclosure letters to indemnities and limitation clauses. Their specialist insight offers valuable guidance on understanding claim pitfalls, the role of valuation, and how to approach SPA disputes effectively.
In this exclusive family law blog for Cansford, legal expert John Bolch examines the persistent and complex issue of domestic abuse in the UK. Drawing on recent headlines, government reports, and court statistics, he highlights how domestic violence continues to challenge both victims and the family courts tasked with protecting them.
Oscar Davies critiques recent court rulings on gender critical beliefs, arguing they misapply the law and risk undermining trans and non-binary rights. This summary explores how belief protection under the Equality Act may be eroding legal safeguards for trans people.
In this article, Debra Cairns of Net Defence outlines five practical, budget-friendly actions law firms can take today to strengthen their cyber security posture; covering backup, phishing, password protection, mobile safety, and basic technical controls.
Ashley Murray, retired family law barrister, provides a breakdown of the 2025 judgment in Standish v Standish, offering expert insight into its implications for financial remedies on divorce
In this article by Leah Hester of LMP Legal, she explores the Sentencing Council’s new guidelines for careless driving, highlighting key legal changes, increased penalties, and what they mean for individual drivers and commercial fleet operators alike.
Join Cansford Labs on the 16th July to explore how drug detection works in hair testing.
Spencer West are pleased to provide Law Firms with a free webinar about the handling of subject access requests. Guided by specialist speaker Kristy Gouldsmith.
New research from Remember A Charity reveals a growing trend in legacy giving, with more people considering gifts in wills.
In an exclusive article for our trusted legal partner Cansford Labs, John Bolch explores the recent Family Court decision not to name a teacher and barrister found responsible for the abuse and neglect of their adopted children.
LawCare and the University of Leeds have launched a new reverse mentoring toolkit to help legal workplaces become more inclusive, supportive, and fairer. The toolkit offers step-by-step guidance to create safe, respectful spaces where junior staff can share lived experiences with senior colleagues, helping drive real change in culture and wellbeing across the legal sector.
Family law solicitor Estella Newbold-Brown shares her emotional IVF journey, navigating same-sex parenting, and celebrating Pride with her wife and children. A powerful piece about love, resilience and how inclusive law can support LGBTQ+ families.
Debra Cairns, Director at Net-Defence invites you to a free to attend webinar highlighting the latest cyber security trends law firms should be aware of this year.
James Packer, Public Law Director at Duncan Lewis, highlights how digital barriers and systemic discrimination is denying vulnerable people their basic rights.
Lucinda Frostick of Remember A Charity explores why structuring charitable gifts in Wills as a percentage, rather than a fixed sum, can offer clients greater flexibility, protect against inflation and maximise tax benefits.
Chris Lucarelli of Cal Partners explains why strong SEO and strategic blogging are essential for law firms to grow online. With practical tips and thoughts about modern search trends, this article helps legal professionals stand out and attract the right clients.
Richard Moore, Barrister at 23 Essex Street Chambers, explores the Renters Reform Bill and its landmark shift, the end of Assured Shorthold Tenancies. Major changes are on the horizon for landlords and tenants across England’s private rental sector.
Olivia Fishwick, Digital Marketing Lead at Accesspoint Legal discusses tone of voice, blogs, social media, your website, SEO, and most importantly–your branding to lay good foundations for a strong online presence for your law firm.
Vikki Pratley explores how women in law can redefine success, balance motherhood and career, and build sustainable, high-performing lives.
In an exclusive for our trusted legal partner Cansford Labs, family law blogger John Bolch explores how clearer formatting and summaries in family law judgments can improve understanding for both lawyers and the public.
Chris Lucarelli of Cal Partners shares how professional services firms can make the most of LinkedIn’s latest updates to boost visibility and engagement.
Catch up on key employment law rulings from Apr 25–May 24, 2025, with expert case summaries by Bob Spicer, shared via Chronicle Law.
Struggling to get eyes on your blog? You’re not alone. Too many great articles vanish into the digital void, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this insightful piece, our very own SEO advisor, Rich Holgate of Accesspoint Legal, shares five quick and easy SEO fixes that every author should know.
Join Cansford Labs’ Amy Duda as she busts myths on drug detection in hair, from passive smoke to melanin, in this evidence-led webinar.
In this article, Chris Lucarelli of Cal Partners explores how user and usability testing can give law firms a competitive edge by enhancing digital client experience.
In this article, Katie da Gama explores how collaborative legal practice in shared purpose, psychological safety, and client-focused teamwork offers a competitive edge.
Workplace stress can lead to serious mental and physical health consequences, affecting productivity, job satisfaction, and overall wellbeing. In this article, Jessica Rowson of Oakwood Solicitors outlines the legal responsibilities employers have to protect staff from occupational stress, common causes of stress at work, and what employees can do if they feel unsupported.
This is Hannah’s story, a high-performing lawyer close to burnout who found confidence and balance through tailored coaching with Vikki Pratley. By redefining success, setting boundaries, and making small changes, she learned to thrive in her career without sacrificing her wellbeing. In this powerful article, Vikki shares how targeted support can help legal professionals work smarter not harder.
In this Mental Health Awareness Week piece, Satpal Kaur Thompson explores the idea of an ‘inner community, the different parts of ourselves shaped by experience and how recognising, understanding, and integrating these parts can lead to greater self-awareness, reduced internal conflict, and improved mental wellbeing.
In this article, Dr. Catherine Sykes explores how high standards in high-achieving professionals can mask unprocessed stress. She unpacks the “injustice wound,” a subtle emotional pattern tied to early experiences of conditional love and unmet needs, and offers insight into how greater self-awareness can help professionals maintain their drive without the hidden toll.
Legal wellbeing initiatives must go beyond yoga, Nikki Alderson explores real solutions to burnout, overload, and creating lasting change in the profession.
Support Mental Health Awareness Week with LawCare by celebrating the power of community in creating a connected, healthier legal profession.
In a crowded legal market, CAL Partners shares smart, budget-friendly marketing tips to help law firms boost visibility, connect with clients, and grow.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, LawCare highlights how community can support mental wellbeing in the legal sector—no one in law should struggle alone.
Burnout is real, but it’s not inevitable. In this article from Vikki Pratley learn how legal leaders can prevent it and lead real change.
In this article from Cath Brown of Skilful Conversations she explores the topics barristers and solicitors bring to coaching…and the solutions they have found that might work for you too.
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is designed to prevent parental abduction by swiftly returning children to their habitual residence. But does it always serve the child’s best interests? Chartered Legal Executive Rebecca De Stefano examines growing concerns that the Convention, particularly Article 13(b), may fall short in protecting children from domestic abuse, coercive control, and other complex risks.
Robert Spicer’s April round up of case summaries featuring unfair dismissal, discrimination and employment tribunals.
Join LawCare during Mental Health Week
for a webinar on how generational shifts are shaping the legal profession.
The Supreme Court reviews a key case on car finance commissions, with £44bn at stake. A ruling could reshape transparency and industry practices
We are excited to feature LMP Legal in our spotlight series this April discussing the fantastic work that the firm does in the transport and logistics industry to bring the law to life.
Our colleague Liam Hill from Oakwood Solicitors shares with us a guide to asbestosis as part of efforts to raise awareness of the disease and the firms work to support victims.
Join experts James Nutt and Abbi Holloway from Cansford Laboratories for a Live Q&A session on the 14th April in they tackle common misconceptions surrounding hair strand drug and alcohol testing.
Chronicle Law provides solicitors with a round up of employment law case summaries for March from Robert Spicer featuring unfair dismissal, discrimination and employment tribunals.
Our legal partner Duncan Lewis Solicitors shares with us an article from Sunil Patel which discusses the areas where company directors may find themselves at risk of being personally responsible for breaches of their statutory duties.
In this case study article learn how Jack Charman of National Private Investigators provided evidence to support a law firm in a high-net-worth case which helped to safeguard the future of their clients company.
We are pleased to notify you of an upcoming free webinar from DG Legal presented by Adam Pipe – The Key Immigration Law Cases From 2025 So Far – details of how to register in full article.
Discover how the Family Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC) is transforming care proceedings by helping parents overcome substance misuse and other challenges. With a problem-solving approach and personalised intervention plans, FDAC offers families a better chance of staying together. Read Lucy Yeung’s insightful piece from Duncan Lewis Solicitors on the benefits, process, and real-world impact of FDAC.
Cansford Labs Kim Bagley shares her thoughts from attending the International Child Law Conference in Jersey last week.
Chronicle Law’s Nicole Keeling reports on the ongoing Cranston Inquiry
In this piece Dr Catherine Sykes considers recent research by academics in the US about suicide ideation and how it is a significant issue in the legal profession due to existing mental health challenges.
In his latest exclusive piece for our legal partner Cansford Labs, Family Law blogger John Bolch examines the Court of Appeal’s decision to name judges involved in the historic Sara Shariff case. He explores the balance between transparency, scrutiny, and the potential risks faced by public servants in the justice system. Read more on the implications of this controversial ruling.
Expert legal advocacy for autistic individuals in the criminal justice system. Leah Hester of LMP Legal explores the challenges neurodivergent clients face and how tailored legal representation can help navigate systemic barriers, ensure fair treatment, and secure the best possible outcomes.
Understand why newsletters remain a powerful marketing tool in B2B strategy. From boosting brand awareness to engaging leads and driving customer retention, Nicole Keeling of Chronicle Law looks at how email newsletters cut through the noise, build trust, and deliver high ROI.
This article from our legal partner Blanchard’s looks at the role of an heir hunter when assisting solicitors in the probate process of an unclaimed estate.
Cansford Laboratories invites you to their upcoming webinar about the important of witness reports in family law childcare cases – all the information and links to sign up are in the article.
In their latest press release LawCare’s Chief Executive, Elizabeth Rimmer, discusses the findings from the 2024 Impact Report in which it was revealed that over 1000 legal professionals reached out for support in the past year. With an increase of 24% since 2021 and a 35% rise in the use of webchat support it is clear that wellbeing challenges in the legal sector remain a pressing issue.
Ashley Murray provides a financial remedies update which examines the Law Commission’s recent report, highlighting systemic failures, unpredictability, and urgent calls for reform. Murray discusses why the current statutory exercise is likened to ‘an emperor with no clothes’ and why action, not further debate, is essential for a more equitable and accessible legal framework.
In this article, Debra Cairns, Managing Director at Net-Defence discusses how cybercriminals exploit unconscious biases and human behaviours to launch successful attacks. From social engineering tactics to psychological manipulation, learn key strategies for law firms to reduce human risks, strengthen cyber awareness, and create a security-conscious team.
Every year in February, the rainbow flag is raised to celebrate the community and highlight the issues it faces. This article from Oakwood Solicitors looks at why February was chosen to celebrate the community and practical steps you can take if you are being discriminated against in the workplace.
Solicitor Amandeep Bains of Duncan Lewis Housing team shares commentary on their recent success at the Court of Appeal, quashing Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council’s refusal of a second homelessness application. This landmark ruling clarifies what constitutes ‘new’ facts for fresh applications and reinforces procedural obligations for local authorities. Discover the significant implications for applicants and legal practitioners
Read about the highlights from a recent webinar hosted by Credas in collaboration with Chronicle Law and Arête. Explore trends in legal compliance and onboarding strategies for law firms in 2025 with a focus on innovative practices to meet regulatory requirements.
Discover how The Solicitors’ Charity supports legal professionals at every step. From mental health to career transitions, physical wellbeing, and financial guidance, our trusted partners provide tailored assistance when you need it most. Learn more and get help today.
Explore the case of Menzies v Oakwood Solicitors, where the Supreme Court’s decision on Solicitors Act Assessments has significant implications for law firms managing deductions from client damages.
Take part in LawCare’s Life in the Law 2025 surveys and help improve mental health in the legal sector. Open to individuals and organisations, these confidential surveys explore workplace wellbeing, burnout, and more. Share your insights by 21st March to shape a healthier legal profession. Learn more and participate today!
Discover John Bolch’s latest family law blog exclusively for our legal supplier Cansford Labs, exploring key legal updates predicted for 2025, practical insights, and expert analysis on family law issues, from divorce to child custody
In this article we bring you the latest of round-up of Robert Spicer’s ‘Health and Safety Horrors’ from his popular LinkedIn posts of health and safety case summaries.
In his latest financial remedies update, Ashley Murray examines the Law Commissions most recent report titled ‘Financial Remedies on Divorce and Dissolution’ and provides commentary on the proposed reform models and a discussion of Chapter 7 of the report regarding nuptial agreements.
In the article we hear from Amandeep Bains of Duncan Lewis about a pivotal judicial review case which is challenging a Council’s refusal to consider a fresh homelessness application for the firm’s client. The Court of Appeal will address whether an expert report constitutes a ‘new fact’ for such applications and if councils can lawfully refuse to accept new evidence. The case, with potential national impact, could reshape how local authorities handle homelessness claims and may reach the Supreme Court.
In this article Jack Rundall of 1GC provides us with his thoughts as to the shape the recent promised reform to cohabitation laws by the Labour Government may take. Rundall explains why this area of family law is in desperate need of reform and the two most likely paths that reform could take.
In Part 4 of our feature series ‘Mental Health in the Legal Profession’ in collaboration with Jamie Kelly of YTherapy she explores practicalities of choosing the right Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), addressing workplace stress, and fostering engagement with mental health resources tailored to the legal sector.
A must-read for anyone working in sectors where safety and vulnerability intersect. In Part 3 of his Health and Safety Horrors Series, Robert Spicer offers recent case law commentary.
In John Bolch’s latest exclusive blog for Cansford, Family Law blogger John Bolch examines how language and context has played its part, both good and bad in family law cases over the years.
Tanveer Qureshi recently defended a hotel director accused of modern slavery and wage violations, leading to all charges being dropped. The case underscores the hotel industry’s risk of exploitation through supply chains and labour practices. The Modern Slavery Act requires businesses to implement strong anti-slavery measures and maintain transparent compliance protocols.
In this piece Olivia Fishwick of Accesspoint helps to audit your legal website and discusses points for consideration.
A new legal website may be necessary if your current site is Key elements include a modern design, fast loading speed, user-friendly navigation, and mobile responsiveness. Additionally, ensure your content is clear for clients, uses approachable language, and is SEO-optimized.
In this spotlight piece as part of our World Mental Health Day series about Oakwood Solicitors we spoke with Jason Spence and Stuart Jones regarding the support and resources the firm provides for staff well-being.
The legal profession is known for its high standards and relentless demands, especially for Partners who balance leadership, client expectations, and personal lives. In this feature from Dr Catherine Sykes highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by Partners at law firms, including increased risks of depression, anxiety, and burnout.
With National Coming Out Day (11th October) this week Bob Hughes of Switchboard LGBTQIA+ Support Line provides us with an update of the training sessions they have available to help support you in making your workplace more inclusive.
For legal professionals, especially in family law, timely drug and alcohol test results are crucial. In this article Cansford’s Managing Director, Kim Bagley discusses why their three-working-day turnaround sets the standard for drug and alcohol testing.
Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier in the legal profession, making it difficult for lawyers to seek help despite growing awareness. In this article Jamie Kelly explores the unique challenges faced by lawyers, the cultural and systemic barriers to mental health support, and practical strategies to foster a supportive work environment.
Don’t miss out on Will Aid 2024! In this article Peter De Vena Franks invites you to sign up for this year’s campaign. Will Aid is a fantastic opportunity for law firms to attract new clients, enhance their reputation, and support some of the UK’s most-loved charities. Last year’s campaign raised over £770,000, and with demand already building for this November, now is the perfect time to sign up. By waiving fees for Will writing in exchange for client donations to Will Aid, your firm can make a difference while growing your business.
This World Mental Health Day (10 October), LawCare is highlighting the importance of mental health in the workplace, focusing on how relationships with colleagues and workplace culture affect wellbeing.
In this article, Alan Baker of Bericon Forensics, presents his views on the significant changes in the forensic science marketplace in England and Wales. Baker questions whether privatisation has worked for criminal justice.
Participating in the Will Aid campaign offers a unique opportunity for solicitors to grow their client base while supporting UK charities. By waiving your fee for writing basic Wills and encouraging voluntary donations, you can enhance your firm’s profile and contribute to important causes. With comprehensive PR support from the Will Aid team, including press releases, local media coverage, and social media tools, you’ll maximise your campaign impact.
Switchboard launched this report in early July, giving insights into the current needs and challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and sharing these with other organisations across the LGBTQIA+ charity and media landscape, enabling these organisations to continue to tailor their support services more effectively and address the needs shared by LGBTQIA+ people across the UK.
Workplace stress is a common issue impacting our health and well-being.
Dr Catherine Sykes, a respected psychologist, explores the signs of work-related stress and offers practical advice on managing it.
This article highlights the importance of early intervention and differentiates between stress and anxiety, providing valuable strategies to help individuals cope and thrive professionally.
This insightful article by Bridget Garrood, Lawyer and LGBT+ Lawyers Division Committee Member, provides personal viewpoints, gleaned from 29 years of lived experience as a lesbian lawyer, talking to / mentoring others, plus their own curiosity and research.
Elon Musk’s fiery remarks at the “Unite the Kingdom” rally in London have reignited debate about the boundaries of free speech. While critics slammed his warning that “violence is coming,” UK law protects even alarming political speech unless it actively incites violence or hatred. Musk’s words may be provocative, but they stop short of crossing the legal line — a sharp contrast to cases where ordinary citizens have faced prosecution for less.
Security testing helps businesses stay resilient by identifying vulnerabilities, ensuring compliance, and building cyber trust.
This case analysis of Re L [2022] EWCA Civ 169 examines whether judges can make findings outside the threshold document, highlighting the Court of Appeal’s approach to fairness, evidence, and case management in family law.
Keyword research is the foundation of SEO and ensures your content matches what people are actually searching for online. This guide walks you through the basics of keyword research, from understanding short-tail vs long-tail keywords to using tools, analysing competitors, and creating optimised content that drives traffic and improves visibility.
Advisers often struggle to convey the true value of estate planning when clients see it as nothing more than writing a Will. ScoreMy solves this challenge by providing a simple process that highlights gaps in existing plans, sparks deeper client conversations, and quantifies the value of professional advice. The result is stronger relationships, recurring revenue, and a clear competitive edge in the estate planning market.
Discover how AI is transforming law firms beyond the courtroom. From smarter billing and real-time financial forecasting to automating operations, learn how legal teams can leverage AI to boost efficiency, improve client service, and drive strategic decision-making
The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 brings major changes for UK law firms. From new ICO compliance rules and client data protections to AI transparency and enforcement powers, discover what the amendments mean for your practice and how to stay secure in a shifting regulatory landscape.
Outsourced HR professionals face unique legal risks when acting on behalf of their clients. A recent Employment Appeal Tribunal case highlights how contractual terms and day-to-day actions can determine whether HR providers are considered their client’s agents—and therefore legally and financially responsible for employment decisions.
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the legal sector, and Philips SpeechLive is at the forefront of this change. By combining cloud-based dictation with AI-powered transcription, summaries, and workflow integration, the platform helps law firms streamline processes, boost efficiency, and focus on high-value work.
The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council has abolished the long-standing “Shareholder Rule” in Jardine Strategic Limited v Oasis Investments II Master Fund Ltd [2025] UKPC 34. Despite arising from a Bermudian dispute, the ruling applies in England and Wales, confirming that companies can assert legal professional privilege against their shareholders. The Board held that the rule lacked a sound legal foundation, overturning a century of precedent and marking a major shift in shareholder litigation and company law.
Search is changing fast. With Google AI Overviews now appearing above traditional results, it’s vital to optimise your content for AI. Learn why it matters, how it impacts SEO, and the practical steps you can take to boost visibility, authority, and future-proof your search strategy.
Ryan Prins discusses how Philips SpeechLive transforms legal dictation. AI-powered, cloud-based, and fully secure, it helps law firms work faster, smarter, and from anywhere; boosting efficiency, cutting turnaround times, and safeguarding client data.”
Dr Catherine Sykes examines why many lawyers lose their sense of agency, the hidden cost it has on wellbeing and performance, and the four core skills needed to rebuild it. Discover practical ways to restore control, boost motivation, and foster long-term resilience in the legal profession.