James Fay Solicitors

14/06/2026

⚖️ LEGAL MYTH OF THE WEEK ⚖️
“If it’s not in writing,
it’s not legally binding.”

I hear this one quite a lot. Many people think that if an agreement wasn’t written down and signed, it can’t be enforced. That isn’t necessarily the case.

A verbal agreement can form a legally binding contract.
The difficulty is usually proving exactly what was agreed.

Things that may help include:
• Text messages • Emails
• Witnesses • Payments made
• What the parties did afterwards

For example, if someone agrees to carry out work, you pay them and they start the job, there may still be a legally enforceable agreement even though nothing was signed.

Of course, every case depends on its own facts, and verbal agreements can sometimes be difficult to prove. That’s often where disputes arise.

Getting important agreements in writing is always sensible and can help avoid problems further down the line.

If you need advice on contracts, disputes or any other legal matter, contact us for a free, confidential initial discussion.
Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]

07/06/2026

Dog Bite Injuries: You Could Be Entitled to Compensation

A dog bite can happen in seconds, but the effects can last much longer. Victims often suffer painful injuries, scarring, infection and, in some cases, lasting anxiety or a loss of confidence around dogs. Children are particularly vulnerable and can be left with both physical and emotional injuries.

Many people are surprised to learn that they may be able to bring a claim following a dog attack. Some are reluctant to make enquiries because the dog belongs to a friend, neighbour or family member. However, in many cases, any claim may be handled by the dog owner’s pet insurance or household insurance policy rather than being paid personally by the owner.

Every case is different, and obtaining legal advice can help you understand your rights and whether a claim may be available in your circumstances. It can also help ensure that relevant evidence is preserved and that important time limits are not missed.

If you or a family member has suffered a dog bite injury, get in touch for a confidential, no-obligation discussion. We are happy to explain the process and answer any questions you may have.
Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]

31/05/2026

Breach of Contract?
Have you paid for work that was never completed? Received goods that were not as promised? Or has someone simply failed to do what they agreed to do?

A breach of contract can leave you out of pocket and unsure of what to do next.

Common examples include:
• Failure to pay for goods or services
• Work not completed as agreed
• Poor quality workmanship
• Failure to deliver goods or services
• Failure to comply with agreed terms and conditions

We can assist by:
✔ Assessing your legal position
✔ Explaining your options in plain English
✔ Contacting the other party on your behalf
✔ Trying to resolve the dispute through negotiation
✔ Pursuing or defending court proceedings

Many contract disputes can be resolved quickly and cost-effectively through correspondence and negotiation. Where this is not possible, we can advise on and pursue the appropriate legal remedies, including court proceedings where necessary.

If you believe someone has failed to honour an agreement, get in touch to discuss your options.
Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]

23/05/2026

WE ARE HIRING
Solicitor – General Practice (Dungannon)

James Fay Solicitors is seeking to recruit a general practice solicitor.

Experience in conveyancing/property, wills/probate and family/matrimonial law is desirable but not essential.

Both full-time and part-time applications will be considered. Hybrid working can be accommodated for the right candidate.

Ideally 5 years’ PQE or above, however applications from solicitors at all levels of PQE will be considered.

The successful candidate will manage their own caseload with a high degree of autonomy, with appropriate support provided.

Salary commensurate with experience and PQE.

All enquiries will be treated in strict confidence.

For further information or a confidential discussion, please email
[email protected] or call 02887658155

Solicitors in Dungannon

17/05/2026

Self-Defence
What Is It?

Self-defence is a legal defence which can apply if a person uses reasonable force to protect themselves, another person, or their property.

However, the force used must be reasonable in the circumstances. Using more force than necessary can still lead to a criminal charge and prosecution.

When deciding if self-defence applies, the courts will look at all of the circumstances.

This can include what happened, the level of threat involved, and how the person reacted at the time.

Every case is different and depends on its own facts and evidence.

This is why early legal advice is so important.

Simply claiming self-defence does not automatically mean that no offence has been committed.

If you are facing any kind of police interview, or believe you may have acted in self-defence, early legal advice is a must.

Free and confidential initial advice is just a phone call away.
Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]

10/05/2026

INSURANCE CLAIMS

Not all insurance claims are the same. The right advice at the start can save time, stress and money.

• Motor Claims: Road traffic accidents, vehicle repairs, replacement vehicles and injury claims.

• Home and Building Claims: Storm damage, leaks, fire, flooding and accidental property damage.

• Commercial Claims: Business interruption, employer liability, public liability and property damage affecting businesses.

• Personal Injury Claims: Accidents at work, slips, trips and other injury related claims.

Many people only deal with insurance claims once or twice in their lives, while insurers deal with them every day. Understanding your rights and getting advice early can make a significant difference to the outcome of a claim.

If you have been involved in an accident or suffered property damage, getting advice early is always worthwhile.

Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]

03/05/2026

Speeding Offences
Fixed Penalty Explained

If you’re caught speeding, you may be offered a fixed penalty as an alternative to going to court.

This is usually offered where the speed is too high for a Speed Awareness Course, but still within the range for a fixed penalty. It’s a straightforward way to deal with the matter without the stress of court proceedings.

Here’s what that means:

• Fine of £60–£65 depending on age
• 3 penalty points added to your licence
• No court proceedings if accepted

Before accepting, it’s worth thinking about:

• Were you the driver at the time?
• Are you eligible to accept (e.g. points already on your licence)?
• Is there any basis to challenge it?

Once accepted, the matter is closed and can’t be challenged later.

If you’re unsure, a quick bit of advice can help you decide what’s best in your situation.
Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]

26/04/2026

Worked in a loud job and now your hearing isn’t the same?

You might notice:

• ringing or buzzing in your ears

• difficulty hearing conversations

• needing the TV louder than others

If you work or have worked in construction, factories, farming or engineering, this could be down to noise at work, even if it was many years ago.

Many people were exposed to high noise levels without proper ear protection. In many cases, rules were not enforced and the risks were not properly explained.

You may have a claim. Employers have a duty to protect your hearing and reduce noise exposure. If they failed, you could be entitled to compensation.

Get in touch for a free chat and we can talk you through your options.
Call: 02887658155
Email:
[email protected]

22/04/2026

Proud to have sponsored a sign for Brackaville Owen Roes GFC

Our thanks to James Fay Solicitors one of our many new pitch side supporters. 👏🏻

———

Pitch signage plays an important role in supporting the ongoing development of our club, helping to improve facilities, invest in coaching and equipment, and continue the promotion Gaelic Games within our community.

For your business, pitch side sponsorship offers:

• High visibility to players, families, visiting teams, and supporters on a weekly basis

• Strong community association with a respected and active local GAA club

• Brand recognition across a wide demographic within the local area

• Supporter goodwill, as members are encouraged to back businesses that support the club

Your support not only enhances your business profile but also contributes directly to the continued development of our club and community.

• Business Signs (8ft x 2ft): £150 per year
• Family Signs (8ft x 2ft): £150 in year one, £100 per year thereafter

Sign up below or send us a PM

Family Signs - https://pay.gocardless.com/BRT0004YEBT8MJ0

Business Signs - https://pay.gocardless.com/BRT0004YETZRMD3

James Fay Solicitors

19/04/2026

⚖️ Legal Myth of the Week ⚖️
“Common law husband and wife have the same rights as married couples.”

This is a very common myth — and it is not correct.

In Northern Ireland, there is no such thing as a “common law marriage.” Living together, even for many years or having children, does not give you the same legal rights as a married couple.

This often only becomes an issue when something goes wrong — a separation, a dispute over the house, or an unexpected death.

For example, you may have:
• No automatic right to financial support
• No entitlement to property in your partner’s sole name
• No automatic right to inherit
• No claim to your partner’s pension

By the time these issues arise, options can be limited and positions can quickly become difficult.

Getting clear legal advice early can protect your position and avoid costly disputes later.

If you are facing a separation or have concerns about property or financial rights, we can advise you clearly on where you stand.

Call: 02887658155
Email: [email protected]