Lawson West Solicitors

03/09/2026

What legal rights do cohabiting couples actually have?

Many people are surprised to learn that living together does not provide the same legal protections as marriage. When relationships break down, the rules surrounding finances, property and responsibilities can be very different.

Understanding the distinction between divorce law and cohabitation law is essential for protecting your interests and planning for the future.

Read our latest article to learn more: 🔗 https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/divorce-law-and-cohabitation-law-what-is-the-difference/

If you have questions about your rights or your circumstances, our Family Law team is here to help.

Divorce Law and Cohabitation Law: What Is the Difference? Divorce law applies when a married couple separates and legally ends their marriage. Cohabitation law applies when an unmarried couple who have been living together separate.

02/09/2026

What happens when someone dies? Understanding the Estate Administration Process

Administering an estate can feel overwhelming, especially during a difficult time. From obtaining the death certificate to distributing assets, there are several important legal and financial steps that must be completed.

The key stages typically include:
-Registering the death
-Locating the Will (if one exists)
-Valuing assets and liabilities
-Reporting Inheritance Tax (where applicable)
-Applying for Probate or Letters of Administration
-Collecting estate assets
-Settling debts and liabilities
-Distributing the estate to beneficiaries
-Closing the estate

Understanding the process can help executors and families navigate their responsibilities with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays.

If you need assistance with estate administration, our experienced team is here to help.

0116 216 2602 | 01858 445 480

02/09/2026

✨ The finalists are in! - The wait is over… and what a shortlist! ✨
CHARITY & BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR
We’re incredibly excited to announce the finalists for this year’s VAL Awards, celebrating the people, organisations and teams making a real difference across the VCSE sector.

View all the finalists here: https://valonline.org.uk/news/finalists-revealed-for-the-val-awards-2026/

A HUGE congratulations to every finalist — you’ve already achieved something incredible by making the shortlist.
Scholars School System Hastings Direct
Helping Hands Advice Centre Lawson West Solicitors Citizens Advice LeicesterShire DHL Midland Langar Seva Society Square Pizza Company Leicester Hospitals Charity NatWest

31/08/2026

When buying a property, providing proof of where your money has come from is a key part of the legal process. This article explains what solicitors mean by Source of Funds and Source of Wealth, and how being prepared can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Read more here: https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/source-of-funds-and-source-of-wealth-what-property-buyers-need-to-know/

Buying a property is an exciting milestone, but it also involves important legal checks that your conveyancing solicitor is required to carry out. One area that often causes confusion is the requirement to provide evidence of your Source of Funds (SOF) and Source of Wealth (SOW).

28/08/2026

Feedback Friday! - Zerin Mustafa

https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/team-members/zerin-mustafa/

27/08/2026

Inheritance Tax is a topic many people avoid, yet understanding the rules is an important part of estate planning. This article explains when Inheritance Tax may be payable and what you should consider when planning for the future.

📖 Read more here: https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/when-do-i-have-to-pay-inheritance-tax-in-england/

26/08/2026

What would happen to your assets if you passed away without a Will? The answer may surprise you. Taking action now can provide clarity, certainty, and peace of mind for those you care about most.

Read more here: https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/why-making-a-will-matters-avoiding-intestacy-inheritance-tax-problems-and-family-uncertaintycan-i-give-my-house-to-my-children-to-avoid-care-fee/

Why Making a Will Matters: Avoiding Intestacy, Inheritance Tax Problems and Family Uncertainty. A Will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family, preserve your wealth and ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes.

25/08/2026

Book Now! - Join Our Webinar on 7th Oct - Probate process & questions answered. Read more & sign-up here: https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/youre-invited-to-our-probate-webinar-7th-oct/

You're Invited to our Probate Webinar - 7th Oct. Join Us on 7th October for an interesting and FREE Webinar event from our leading and recognised team...

21/08/2026

Feedback Friday! Fiona Wilson https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/team-members/fiona-wilson/We pride ourselves on our exceptional client service, but don't just take our word for it, have a read of what our clients say about us...…

21/08/2026

Can I give my house to my children to avoid care fees?

It’s a question many people may consider when planning for the future, but transferring your home to your children isn’t as straightforward as it might seem.

There are important legal, financial and care fee implications to consider, including the risk of a local authority deciding that a property transfer was made deliberately to avoid care fees.

Our latest guide explains what you need to know before making any decisions about your home and future care costs.

Read the full article here:
https://www.lawson-west.co.uk/can-i-give-my-house-to-my-children-to-avoid-care-fees/