Veitch Penny

20/01/2023

Helping Farmers @ Gilbert Stephens

We have a team of experienced and knowledgeable solicitors who can help you with all aspects of agricultural law. We are familiar with the complexities that may arise in relation to land ownership, farm sales and purchases, succession issues, diversification projects, deals and disputes arising from such matters.

We have years of experience advising farmers and land owners on a range of matters and are well-versed in the complexities of farming law. In addition we have a depth of expertise within our 6 Devon branches and draw on these to advise on related matters such as tax, civil litigation, employment, personal injury or environmental law.

Our team can provide comprehensive legal advice on all aspects from farm sales and purchases to tenancy agreements, succession issues, diversification projects, renewable energy deals and more.

It is essential that you get professional legal advice when dealing with agricultural assets or property. We will provide you with clear advice and realistic solutions to help you achieve your goals. We understand the pressures on the rural community and will do our best to ensure that any issues are resolved quickly and cost-effectively. Get in touch today and find out how we can help.

We have a long tradition of acting for local farmers & landowners in both Devon and further afield. If you're looking for an agricultural legal advice then we can help.

19/01/2023

Antonia D'Alessio and Sarah Heath were both recently recognised for their successes in the Women in Property magazine.

What makes these remarkable women stand out? Not only are they both incredibly hardworking with a vast knowledge and skill set in their field, but they also strive to make sure that other like minded female professionals have resources and support when it comes to making progress in their own careers. Antonia and Sarah are both founding members of Exeter Property Circle, a local networking event for property professionals, as well as being committee members for Gilbert Stephens’ Young Professionals Network. Through their extraordinary efforts, Antonia and Sarah aim to facilitate the growth of young women trying to make it big in the property world. These inspiring ladies provide solid examples for any aspiring female property leader looking for guidance or motivation along the way!

18/01/2023

17/01/2023

Gilbert Stephens @ Crediton Rotary Club

We are looking forward to joining the Crediton Rotary Club this evening at which Conall Ryan will be talking about Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) are important documents to have in place, as they can provide invaluable security and peace of mind for individuals. LPAs allow a person to plan ahead, so that should they become unable to make decisions regarding their finances and/or health and welfare at some point in the future, they have the person or people who they trust, known as attorneys, to legally manage their affairs on their behalf, setting out any preferences or instructions they have. There are two types of LPAs, being one for financial affairs and, the other, for health and welfare. Once registered the LPAs are ready to be used straight away if needed.

If a person does not have LPAs in place, and they lose capacity, it would be necessary for someone, such as one of the relatives or friends of the person who has lost capacity, or even the local authority, to make what is known as a Deputyship application. A Deputyship is not normally granted for health and welfare, due to the personal nature. There are also various other implications and complexities, when a Deputy is appointed, including but not limited to, the initial application taking several months, the costs involved running into several thousand pounds, needing to set up a security bond and pay an annual fee.

By having LPAs in place, it is a bit like having an insurance policy as you have set out who and how you would like things to be dealt with should the worst happen, it gives peace of mind not only to you but also your loved ones that you have things in place to make sure your affairs can be dealt with as smoothly as possible at this difficult time. People tend to think that these are only needed by people who are of the older generation or if they have been diagnosed with a certain condition but people of all ages should set these up.

16/01/2023

Today we'd like to give a huge 21st birthday shout-out to Molly!

She is such an incredible asset to our firm. As part of the team in the Crediton office, Molly works hard as a legal secretary, often going above and beyond her job requirements. Her friendly attitude and bright smile make it easy for clients to feel at ease when visiting our offices. We want to extend a heartfelt "Happy Birthday!" to Molly and hope she has the most wonderful day!

16/01/2023

Separation @ Gilbert Stephens

When a relationship breaks down there are a number of reasons why a divorce may not be the preferred way forward. It is possible for spouses simply to live apart or, if they want the arrangement to be more formal, one party to apply to the Court for a judicial separation. Whatever parties decide to do, it is important that various issues such as children and finances are properly dealt with. Whether you are married or not, it is important that any arrangements or agreements that are made are properly recorded in a legally binding way, so the possibility of any dispute in the future is greatly reduced or removed altogether.

Whether you have been married or simply living together, this is a complex area of law and it is in your best interests to contact our family team for specific advice about your particular situation.

If you are looking for a Family Law Solicitors in Exeter, Devon, then our approachable team can offer leading advice on a range of different family law problems.

13/01/2023

One for the dog lovers!

Paw and order: Lucy the labrador provides support as Australia’s first full-time court dog

“In Melbourne’s family court, Lucy visits hearings, legal interviews and mediations – all to relieve people’s stress as they navigate the justice system”

In Melbourne’s family court, Lucy visits hearings, legal interviews and mediations – all to relieve people’s stress as they navigate the justice system

10/01/2023

Move home with Gilbert Stephens!

Are you looking to move home in 2023? If so there’s a lot to think about and it can be overwhelming. To make the process of transitioning easier, here are some moving tips:

1. You can start the first one even before have found a property to buy… declutter. You may do this regularly anyway but if you don’t the earlier you start the better, having a good clear out means there will be less to pack and sort out when you move!

2. When you’ve found your property instruct your solicitor.

3. Start planning ahead and create a timeline for your move. Make sure to note specific dates for packing and unpacking, scheduling movers, cancelling services at your old home, and setting up new services at your new home.

4. Create an inventory of all your belongings to ensure that nothing gets lost or left behind in the move. This includes making sure that all your valuables such as jewellery and important documents are securely stored and packaged.

5. Schedule movers in advance and do research on different moving companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Make sure to get multiple estimates, read reviews, and compare quotes before making a decision. Once exchanged, book your removals.

6. When packing your belongings, use durable boxes or containers that are labelled with their contents. Be sure to properly wrap all delicate items in cushioning materials such as bubble wrap or packing paper.

7. Make sure to plan out your transportation from your old home to your new one. If you are driving, map out the best routes and make sure that you have enough space in the vehicle for all of your belongings.

Moving home can be a stressful process, but with these tips you can make the process much easier. Keep these tips in mind when getting ready for your move in 2023 and you will be well on your way to a successful transition.

Good luck and happy house hunting!

If you are looking for a well-established, reliable and affordable Conveyancing Solicitors in Exeter, then look no further than the Devon Law Firm Gilbert Stephens.

07/01/2023

Listen to Graeme Fraser, chair of Resolution’s Cohabitation Committee, on BBC Radio 4’s Law in Action programme where he discusses the rights of cohabiting couples.

“With 3.6 million cohabiting couples in the UK, they are the fastest-growing family type and currently have few legal rights when the relationship ends or if one partner dies. Many are caught out by the ‘common law marriage myth’ – believing they have legal rights when, in fact, no such protections exist.”

Graeme Fraser BBC Radio 4 cohabitation law reform

01/01/2023

Happy New Year from Gilbert Stephens

As we move into the new year, we would like to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished together. We’re proud to have worked with so many amazing clients and service providers, and we’re looking forward to continuing our partnerships in the year ahead. We are incredibly grateful for the relationships we have built and the amazing team we have at Gilbert Stephens.

Thank you for your continued support. We wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year!

#2023

28/12/2022

With offices in Okehampton we of course know just how much the area has to offer its residents and visitors. However, if you’ve not been before this article gives some great suggestions of places to visit.

We highlight a day of things to do and see in and around Okehampton.

25/12/2022

Gilbert Stephens Solicitors would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our clients and suppliers for your continued support. We hope that you have a wonderful Christmas filled with joy and cheer!