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RICS Consults on New Party Wall Guidance: Why It Matters for Your Project

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RICS Consults on New Party Wall Guidance: Why It Matters for Your Project

RICS has launched a consultation on the draft eighth edition of its Party Wall guidance. This is a move that is likely to influence how party wall matters are handled across residential and development projects in England and Wales.

While the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 remains unchanged, the guidance plays a critical role in shaping day to day practice. It is routinely relied upon by surveyors, advisers, and increasingly by the courts when assessing whether party wall procedures have been properly followed.

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What happens to jointly owned property if one owner dies?

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For many homeowners in London, Surrey and across England and Wales, property is owned jointly – by spouses, civil partners, co‑habiting couples, family members or friends. A common question we are asked is: what happens to the property if one of the owners dies? Julie West Solicitors private client solicitor Emma Westsmith explains.

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Building Safety Act: What It Means for You and How Julie West Solicitors Can Help

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Building Safety Act: What It Means for You and How Julie West Solicitors Can Help

The Building Safety Act 2022 (as strengthened by the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024) has transformed the legal landscape for anyone owning, managing, or living in a residential block. It is complex, technical, and easy to get wrong — and mistakes can be extremely costly.

At Julie West Solicitors, we specialise in guiding both freeholders and leaseholders through this high risk legislation with clarity, precision, and confidence.

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Hunter's Solicitors LLP closed suddenly - need your file or transaction saved? We can help!

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Hunter's Solicitors LLP closed suddenly - need your file or transaction saved? We can help!

The sudden closure of Hunters LLP and its network of associated offices has sent shockwaves through the legal sector, leaving clients without representation, property chains disrupted, and important documents locked away. With nine offices affected and reports confirming the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has intervened, many individuals have been left unsure of their next steps.

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PM Law closed suddenly - need your file or transaction saved? We can help!

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PM Law closed suddenly - need your file or transaction saved? We can help!

The shock closure of PM Law and its associated 41 firms have left hundreds of clients stranded, with files missing, transactions frozen, and claims on hold. If your matter has been affected, don’t panic. Our team is stepping in to help clients get back on track fast.

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The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: What’s Changing for Landlords and Tenants?

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The Renters’ Rights Act 2025: What’s Changing for Landlords and Tenants?

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is shaking up the rules for renting homes in England. Starting from 1 May, 2026, the law will change how renting works, aiming to make things fairer and clearer for everyone involved - landlords, tenants, and property managers. Specialist conveyancing solicitor Talat Naveed explains what’s new.

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Budget 2024: changes to inheritance tax, capital gains tax and stamp duty land tax

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Budget 2024: changes to inheritance tax, capital gains tax and stamp duty land tax

After much speculation in the press that there would be a complete inheritance tax overhaul especially on lifetime gifts and “loopholes”, our first female chancellor of the exchequer Rachel Reeves announced some surprising changes this afternoon. Julie West Solicitors private client solicitor Emma Westsmith explains.

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Digitisation of probate process 2024 update: delays at Probate Registry still causing problems

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Digitisation of probate process 2024 update: delays at Probate Registry still causing problems

The Chair of the Justice Committee has just published a letter summarising the findings from an inquiry cut short by the announcement of the general election in July. The letter confirms that prior to digitisation and centralisation the probate service worked and now it does not. Emma Westsmith explains the probate process and issues to watch out for caused by Probate Registry delays.

Martin Whitehorn recognised as a Legal Hero of 2023 by the Law Society

Martin Whitehorn recognised as a Legal Hero of 2023 by the Law Society

We are delighted to announce that Martin Whitehorn, who started as a trainee at our firm before qualifying and becoming one of our specialist conveyancing solicitors has been named as one of the Legal Heroes of 2023 by the Law Society.

The Law Society is the professional body for solicitors in England and Wales. It launched Legal Heroes to recognise the solicitors who have made the biggest difference to the lives of others.

Living Wage - Julie West Solicitors is accredited under the Living Wage Employer scheme

Living Wage - Julie West Solicitors is accredited under the Living Wage Employer scheme

We are proud to announce that Julie West Solicitors has been accredited as a living wage employer by the Living Wage Foundation. This means that we pay all our staff, including contractors and interns, at least the real living wage, which is higher than the government’s minimum wage. The real living wage is based on the cost of living and reflects what people need to get by.

We believe that paying the living wage is not only the right thing to do, but also benefits our business and society. By paying the living wage, we can attract and retain talented and motivated staff, improve their well-being and productivity, and enhance our reputation as a responsible and ethical employer. We also contribute to reducing poverty, inequality, and social problems in our community.