O'Donnell Solicitors

02/06/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Kenneth Lees on His Promotion to Associate Director 🎉

We are delighted to announce the promotion of Kenneth Lees to Associate Director at O’Donnell Solicitors.

Kenneth heads both our Medical Negligence and Employment Law Departments and has quickly become an integral part of our leadership team through his expertise, dedication and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients.

A specialist solicitor, Kenneth acts for claimants in medical negligence matters and has extensive experience handling complex cases, including delayed cancer diagnoses, birth injury claims, fatal cases and serious orthopaedic injuries.

Before joining O’Donnell Solicitors, Kenneth spent 14 years with a leading regional law firm before progressing to Head of Clinical Negligence at another well-respected practice. He studied Law at the prestigious University of Oxford and has built a reputation for combining exceptional legal expertise with a genuinely caring and compassionate approach to client care.

Beyond his legal work, Kenneth is also Chair of Governors at Coppice and Roundthorn Primary Academies, reflecting his commitment to supporting and strengthening the local community.

This promotion recognises Kenneth’s outstanding contribution to the firm, his leadership of two growing departments, and his continued dedication to delivering the high standards of service our clients expect.

Please join us in congratulating Kenneth on this well-deserved achievement and wishing him every success in his new role.

30/05/2026

🎺🎈 Whit Friday 2026 – What a Fantastic Day! 🎈🎺

Yesterday, the O’Donnell Solicitors team was delighted to be part of the wonderful Whit Friday Walks and Band Contests across the Saddleworth villages.

It was fantastic to see so many local families, friends and visitors enjoying this long-standing tradition, with the streets filled with music, community spirit and celebration.

A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello and collect one of our balloons, cookies and goodies throughout the day. We loved meeting so many members of the local community and being part of such a special event.

As a local firm, we are proud to support events that bring our communities together and help preserve the traditions that make Saddleworth such a unique place to live and work.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Whit Friday and enjoyed the incredible performances from the bands throughout the villages.

26/05/2026

Have you been offered a Settlement Agreement?

If your employer has presented you with a settlement agreement, it is important to understand exactly what you are being asked to sign before making any decisions.

Our latest blog explains what a settlement agreement is, why employers use them, and the key issues you should carefully consider before accepting any offer.

The guide covers:

• What a settlement agreement actually means in practice
• Whether you are legally required to sign
• The importance of independent legal advice
• Common clauses relating to confidentiality, references and compensation
• When it may be appropriate to negotiate better terms
• The risks of signing too quickly without understanding your rights

Settlement agreements are legally binding documents and can affect your future employment rights, financial position and ability to bring claims. Taking advice at the right time can make a significant difference.

Read the full blog here: https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/blog/what-is-a-settlement-agreement-and-should-i-sign-one-a-guide-for-employees/

Please email [email protected] or telephone 01457 761 320 and a member of the team will contact you for a free, no obligation discussion.

21/05/2026

🏡 Moving in together? Protect your future with a Cohabitation Agreement

Many unmarried couples believe they have the same legal rights as married couples — but in England & Wales, that simply isn’t the case. A cohabitation agreement can help clarify finances, property ownership and responsibilities if a relationship later breaks down.

Our latest blog explains:
✔️ What a cohabitation agreement is
✔️ Why “common law marriage” is a myth
✔️ How unmarried couples can protect their assets and interests
✔️ When you should consider putting an agreement in place

Read the full article here:
O'Donnell Solicitors – Cohabitation Agreements Blog https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/blog/do-unmarried-couples-need-a-cohabitation-agreement-understanding-your-legal-rights/

For tailored advice on cohabitation agreements and family law matters, contact O'Donnell Solicitors.

18/05/2026

Prescription & Medication Errors – When can you make a medical negligence claim?

Medication mistakes can happen in different ways — from the wrong drug being prescribed to errors at the pharmacy when medicine is dispensed. While not every mistake leads to a legal claim, some errors can cause serious and avoidable harm.

To make a medical negligence claim, it usually needs to be shown that the standard of care fell below what is reasonably expected and the error directly caused injury or worsened a condition.

Our latest blog explains the issues so that you can understand your rights if something has gone wrong with your medication. Read more here:
https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/blog/prescription-and-medication-errors-when-can-you-make-a-medical-negligence-claim/

16/05/2026

BBC Breakfast News is discussing a report from the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners that 19m people do not have a will, 80% of people’s families are unaware of their wishes for when they die, and that this significantly increases the risk of family fall outs and disputes about estates, particularly in blended families.

Our Private Client Team can assist you with wills and estate planning to minimise the risk of these issues arising, providing advice on your options and preparing the documents needed to formalise your wishes.

Read more about our Private Client services on our website - https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/solicitors-for-you/private-client/

Our team of Private Client Solicitors are specialists in court or protection, estate planning, probate, and wills.

11/05/2026

💡 Thinking ahead about inheritance tax planning?

Lifetime gifting and charitable giving can be effective ways to reduce inheritance tax exposure while supporting loved ones and causes that matter to you.

Our latest blog explains:
✔️ Lifetime gifting rules
✔️ The 7-year rule
✔️ Charity gifting benefits
✔️ How careful estate planning can help protect family wealth

Read the full article here:

https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/blog/lifetime-gifting-and-charity-gifting-reducing-inheritance-tax-exposure/

For advice on wills, trusts, probate and inheritance tax planning, contact O’Donnell Solicitors.

PrivateClient

08/05/2026

Medical Negligence Explained: Know Your Rights

Medical negligence can have life-changing consequences — impacting not only the person affected, but their entire family.

In our latest video, Kenneth Lees, Head of Medical Negligence, explains:

✔️ What medical negligence is
✔️ How it can happen
✔️ Common examples, including delayed diagnosis, misdiagnosis, surgical errors, and incorrect treatment
✔️ What patients should know if they believe they’ve been affected

Watch the video on our website: https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/medical-negligence/

If you or a loved one has experienced poor medical care, understanding your rights is the first step toward getting answers and support.

At O’Donnell Solicitors, our specialist medical negligence team is here to listen, guide you through the process, and help you move forward.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

07/05/2026

Transpennine Trail Triumph in Support of the Limbless Association

Today we are reflecting on an inspiring achievement by Derek in support of the Limbless Association.

Derek, an above-knee amputee since 2017, relearned to walk with a prosthetic leg, then went on to master cycling with an electric-assisted bike and has continued riding regularly come rain or shine.

In April 2026, Derek completed an extraordinary challenge—cycling the full Transpennine Trail coast-to-coast from Southport to Hornsea over 7 days. In doing so, he became the first person with an above-knee amputation to complete the route in this way, raising awareness and vital funds for the Limbless Association.
The Limbless Association, the UK’s leading civilian limb loss charity, provides essential advice, support, and community for amputees and their families, ensuring no one faces limb loss alone. Derek’s efforts helped raise awareness and support for their ongoing work.

This was more than a cycling challenge—this remarkable achievement was a powerful demonstration of resilience, determination, and hope.

More information can be found on Derek's JustGiving page - https://www.justgiving.com/page/tpt1in7?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=WA&utm_campaign=020

05/05/2026

🏡 Transfer of Equity – What You Need to Know

Thinking of adding or removing someone from your property title? Whether it’s due to a relationship change, tax planning, or refinancing, a transfer of equity is a key legal step that needs to be handled carefully.

Our latest article breaks down:
✔️ What a transfer of equity involves
✔️ When you might need one
✔️ The legal and financial implications
✔️ Common pitfalls to avoid

Getting the right advice early can save time, cost, and stress later on.

👉 Read more here: https://odonnellsolicitors.co.uk/blog/transfer-of-equity-what-is-it-how-does-it-work-and-how-much-does-it-cost/

If you’re considering a transfer of equity or need tailored advice, our experienced team at O’Donnell Solicitors are here to help.