Author: Ilinca Mardarescu

Free Employment Law Health Check for Small Business Owners

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

Running a small business is exciting, but it also comes with challenges — not least making sure you’re meeting your obligations as an employer. With ever-changing employment laws, contracts to manage, and workplace policies to update, it’s easy for important details to be overlooked. That’s why our Employment Solicitor is now offering a free Employment Law Health Check for small business owners.

Why an Employment Law Health Check?

Employment legislation in the UK is complex and constantly evolving. Even well-meaning business owners can find themselves unintentionally exposed to risk. A simple oversight in an employment contract, outdated policies, or gaps in compliance can leave your business vulnerable to costly disputes, tribunal claims, or reputational damage.

Our health check is designed to give you peace of mind. Think of it as a “MOT” for your business — we’ll review your existing employment practices and highlight any areas that may need attention.

What Does the Health Check Cover?

Our Employment Solicitor will take the time to understand your business and review key documents, including:

  • Employment contracts – are they up to date and legally compliant?
  • Staff handbooks and workplace policies – do they reflect current legislation and best practice?
  • HR procedures – from recruitment and disciplinary processes to redundancy and dismissal procedures.
  • Compliance with recent legal changes – ensuring your business is prepared for upcoming legislative updates.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all exercise. We’ll tailor our review to your business, providing practical, straightforward advice so you know where you stand and what steps (if any) you need to take.

Who Is It For?

This service is ideal for:

  • Small business owners who don’t have an in-house HR or legal team.
  • Employers looking to grow and take on new staff.
  • Business owners who haven’t updated their contracts or policies in the last 12–18 months.
  • Anyone who wants the reassurance that their business is legally protected.

Why Are We Offering It for Free?

We know that legal support can sometimes feel out of reach for small businesses. By offering this complimentary health check, we hope to build long-term relationships with business owners in our community, giving you a taste of the practical, business-focused advice we provide.

Take Advantage Today

Don’t miss the opportunity to protect your business. Our free Employment Law Health Check could save you significant time, stress, and money in the long run.

Get in touch with us today to book your free session with our Employment Solicitor. Spaces are limited, so don’t delay.

Meet our Co-Founder

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

When you meet Duncan, one of the co-founders of Aston Bond, you quickly realise two things:

  1. He’s been in the legal game long enough to know just about everything there is to know about corporate law.
  2. He’s the kind of lawyer you actually want to chat with over a coffee (yes, he’s that approachable).

Duncan helped launch Aston Bond back in 2004, and nearly 30 years of legal experience has given him the kind of expertise that makes clients feel instantly reassured. From the boardroom to the negotiation table, Duncan has done it all. Whether it’s business acquisitions, share sales, management buy-ins, or even the tricky world of distressed businesses and pre-pack sales, Duncan is the guy you want on your side.

And if you think that’s impressive, wait until you hear this: Duncan is also the go-to expert for the buying and selling of care homes—something that requires not just legal sharpness but also a strong sense of responsibility and empathy.

Over the years, Duncan has worked with everyone from small local businesses to large companies with national and international reach. He has this rare ability to cut through the noise, simplify the complex, and guide clients toward the right solution. (Basically, he’s like the GPS of corporate law.)

When he’s not busy shaping deals and advising companies, Duncan is also known for his straight-talking, friendly manner. He’s approachable, practical, and committed—no intimidating jargon, no unnecessary fuss, just solid advice from someone who’s been there, done that, and negotiated the shareholder agreement.

At Aston Bond, Duncan isn’t just a lawyer; he’s a cornerstone of the firm’s ethos: approachable, effective, and genuinely invested in the success of clients. After all, co-founding a law firm isn’t just about legal know-how—it’s about vision, and Duncan has that in spades.

So, if you ever find yourself needing expert advice in the corporate world—or just want to swap stories with someone who’s seen it all—Duncan is your guy.

Residential Property vs Commercial Property — What’s the Difference?

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

When people think about property, they often imagine bricks, mortar, and maybe a leaky tap. But in law, the way we treat residential property and commercial property could not be more different. The distinction isn’t just academic — it has real-world consequences for owners, tenants, and investors.

Think of it like this:

  • Residential: where you live, argue about WiFi speed, and convince yourself that assembling flat-pack furniture counts as DIY.
  • Commercial: where you work, debate who broke the coffee machine, and nod along when someone mentions “service charges.”

Both matter — but in different ways. Let’s break it down.

What Counts as Residential Property?

Residential property is designed for people to live in. Think houses, flats, apartments, or even shared accommodation. The legal system recognises that everyone needs a place to call home, which is why residential tenants are heavily protected by law.

Key points include:

  • Standardised leases: Residential tenancy agreements are usually straightforward and governed by strict regulations.
  • Tenant protections: Landlords must ensure properties are habitable, safe, and properly maintained.
  • Evictions: These follow formal legal processes, and landlords cannot simply change the locks.

In short: residential law focuses on fairness and security for individuals and families.

What Counts as Commercial Property?

Commercial property is intended for business use. Offices, retail shops, warehouses, and restaurants all fall into this category. The law treats these differently because businesses are generally considered more sophisticated than individual tenants.

Key differences include:

  • Complex leases: Commercial leases are negotiable and often tailored to each business. They may cover rent reviews, repair obligations, insurance, and service charges.
  • Fewer statutory protections: Tenants are expected to negotiate terms carefully and seek legal advice.
  • Higher stakes: Commercial properties often involve longer leases, higher rents, and significant investment.

In short: commercial law emphasises freedom of contract and detailed negotiation.

Why the Difference Matters

It’s not just terminology — the type of property determines everything from the way leases are written to the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants.

  • Residential = more regulation, more protections, and a focus on housing needs.
  • Commercial = more complexity, more flexibility, and a focus on business arrangements.

If you confuse the two, you may end up with the wrong type of agreement — and a costly legal headache.

How We Can Help

Whether you’re:

  • Buying your first home,
  • Letting out a flat,
  • Negotiating an office lease, or
  • Investing in a retail space…

…we can guide you through the process. Our team ensures you understand your rights, obligations, and the small print — before you sign anything.

Just one thing: we can’t fix your WiFi or repair the office coffee machine. But when it comes to property law, we’ve got you covered.

Beata explains the tenant fees act

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

Navigating tenancy laws can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding what fees are legal and which are not. In this blog, Beata breaks down the Tenant Fees Act 2019 and explains which tenants are protected under it, and which types of tenancies fall outside its scope.

The Act was designed to protect tenants from unnecessary and excess fees being charged by agents and landlords. The law can be difficult to navigate.

If you are a residential tenant in the private rented sector living in England or Wales, you might be protected by the Tenant Fees Act 2019. Certain types of tenancies fall under the scope of the Act and restrict the fees a landlord or letting agents can claim from tenants.

The Act applies to Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST), student accommodation tenancies and licences to occupy housing in the private rented sector.

What does this mean for tenants of Common Law tenancies?

A Common Law Tenancy is one  that falls outside the statutory protections afforded to AST’s and are determined by the terms of the contract rather than by housing legislation. Examples of Common Law Tenancies would include for instance tenancies where the landlord lives in the same property as the tenant, tenancies of purpose-built student accommodation, tenancies where the annual rent exceeds £100,000 and tenancies granted to companies.

If you have entered a Common Law tenancy, the Tenant Fees Act 2019 will not apply to you. This means that your landlord and agent can pretty much charge all sorts of extra fees such as check in and out inventory report costs, higher deposits and a host of other “administration” costs. 

If you are a tenant and your tenancy type is protected by the Tenant law Act 2019 and you have been asked by a landlord or letting agent to make additional payments in relation to your tenancy for matters such as check in and out fees, inventory checks and more, be sure to understand  what is and is not payable. 

For more information, please get in touch.

Call us on 01753 486 777 or email us info@astonbond.co.uk

Why Our Conveyancing Team Always Gets Glowing Reviews

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

When it comes to one of life’s biggest milestones — buying or selling a property — the process can feel overwhelming. That’s why choosing the right conveyancing team is so important. And if there’s one thing we consistently hear from our clients, it’s this: “You made it so easy.”

Our conveyancing team doesn’t just get the job done — they do it with a level of care, clarity, and professionalism that leaves a lasting impression. The reviews speak for themselves. Time and time again, clients tell us they felt supported, informed, and truly looked after from start to finish.

So, what’s the secret? It’s more than just legal knowledge (though they have that in abundance). It’s the aura they bring to every case: calm, capable, and completely committed.

1. Clear Communication — Every Step of the Way

No legal jargon. No radio silence. Just straight-talking, timely updates that make clients feel in control. Our team understands how stressful the process can be, and they go out of their way to keep clients informed and reassured throughout.

2. Efficiency That Doesn’t Cut Corners

We know that time matters. Whether it’s a tight chain or a fast-moving market, our team works with precision and pace — without ever compromising quality. That balance is a big reason why our clients come back again and again (and send their friends our way, too).

3. Genuine Care — That You Can Feel

This isn’t just about transactions. It’s about people. Our conveyancers treat every client like a priority — because they are. There’s a warmth and attentiveness in how they work that makes clients feel valued and understood.

Meet Our Commercial Property Powerhouse

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

Behind every successful property transaction is a team that sees more than just land and buildings — they see potential, strategy, and long-term growth. Our Commercial Property Team is exactly that: a group of sharp, solutions-driven legal minds who bring clarity, confidence, and commercial insight to every deal.

Whether you’re navigating a high-value acquisition, negotiating a lease, managing a development project, or restructuring your portfolio — this team has you covered. With decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving property landscape, they’re not just advisors — they’re your strategic partners.

Known for their:
Meticulous attention to detail
Commercially-minded approach
Clear and pragmatic advice
Seamless handling of even the most complex transactions

From local independents to national developers, our clients trust this team to deliver results with precision and integrity.

Thinking about your next property move? Let’s talk. Your success starts with the right legal foundation — and the right team by your side.

Hitting a social media milestone!

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

We’re so excited to share that we’ve reached 700 followers on LinkedIn – and every single one means the world to us.

When we first started sharing on LinkedIn, it wasn’t about the numbers. We just wanted to give you a little glimpse into our world – sharing legal insight, updates, and our thoughts on the work we do and the values we stand for.

Sure, 700 might not sound like a huge number in the world of viral posts and giant accounts, but to us, it’s a real milestone. Behind the number are people who chose to connect with us, read our content, engage, and follow our journey – and that means everything.

If you’re not following us yet, we’d love for you to join us. And if you already are, tell us what you’d like to see more of!

We’re just getting started and can’t wait to keep growing together.

Give us a follow and help us reach 1000 @Aston Bond Law Firm on LinkedIn!

Have You Ever Lied on Your CV? You Might Want to Think Twice

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

At some point in their career, many job seekers are tempted to embellish their qualifications, inflate their job titles, or extend their employment dates in hopes of landing the perfect role. But have you ever stopped to think about the legal consequences of lying on your CV?

According to a 2024 survey by YouGov, over 1 in 10 UK adults (11%) admitted to lying on their CV. While some may consider it a harmless exaggeration, the law sees it very differently.

Under the Fraud Act 2006, providing false information on a CV can be classified as fraud by false representation. This offence carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years. That’s right — lying on your CV can land you behind bars.

The landmark case of R v. Andrewes (2022) saw a man jailed after faking his qualifications to secure a high-paying NHS executive role. The courts sent a clear message: dishonesty in job applications will not be taken lightly.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re applying for a job, it’s essential to ensure your CV is accurate and truthful. Employers are increasingly conducting thorough background checks, and even minor discrepancies can cost you the job — or worse.

If you’ve made a mistake in the past or are facing an investigation related to CV fraud, it’s crucial to seek legal advice immediately.

Contact our team of experienced solicitors for further confidential guidance on 01753 486777 or info@astonbond.co.uk

Honesty isn’t just the best policy — it’s the law.

Our Dispute Resolution Team Has Arrived in the Heart of Central London

Posted on by Ilinca Mardarescu

We’re thrilled to announce the next milestone in our firm’s journey: our Dispute Resolution team is now based at our brand-new office right in the heart of Central London.

Why This Move Matters

Prime Central Location

Holborn is one of London’s most prestigious legal and business hubs—nestled among top-tier law firms, commercial courts, and corporate clients. This relocation brings us closer to the action and underscores our ambition to grow and thrive in this competitive landscape

A Step into the Future

Our new office reflects a broader trend in the legal industry towards modern, flexible, and wellness‑focused workspaces—blending collaborative spaces with quiet zones for focused work.

We believe this environment will inspire both creativity and wellbeing for our team.

Strategic Growth

Opening this office in Central London is a clear signal of our firm’s ongoing expansion. It gives us a base that is not just prestigious but also practical—improving our accessibility for clients and colleagues alike.

Celebrating Our Litigators

A huge congratulations goes to our outstanding Litigation team. Your tireless dedication, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to delivering results have been instrumental in propelling this growth.

From complex case management to courtroom successes, your work has elevated our firm’s reputation.

This move isn’t merely symbolic—it’s a tribute to your excellence and the confidence our clients place in your expertise.

What This Means for Our Clients

Convenience & Access: Our central location makes meetings, negotiations, and court appearances more seamless than ever.

Enhanced Collaboration: With this upgraded workspace, our teams can work more cohesively, tapping into Central London’s rich network of legal professionals and businesses.

Future‑Ready Service: We are now not only geographically closer to you—but better equipped with the facilities to deliver top-tier, agile, and client-focused dispute resolution services.

Looking Ahead

This move is just one chapter in our ongoing story. We look forward to:

Welcoming clients and partners into our new office.

Hosting events, workshops, and briefings on legal developments.

Exploring further opportunities to expand our service offerings from this strategic base.

Visit Us

505 Holborn Gate

330 High Holborn

London, WC1V 7QH

If you’re in the area, we’d love for you to drop by—whether it’s for an informal catch-up, a strategic planning session, or just a cup of coffee. Here’s to the next chapter of collaboration, excellence, and growth.

Proudly moving forward, together.

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