Kulbir Conner, our Head of Residential Property here at Aston Bond recently attended The Green Room College to give a talk about her journey! The Green Room College is an Independent School in Windsor providing an alternative solution for young people for whom mainstream education is not an option.
Kulbir shared her inspiring journey as a highly regarded property lawyer, giving students a glimpse into her path and the world of work. It was a great session and has sparked some real curiosity about potential legal career paths for a couple of the students who attended.
Many positions at law firms sometimes appear extremely demanding and are described as “professional” and “suit and tie” in nature. Despite the serious atmosphere of law, the solicitors and staff at Aston Bond take pride in maintaining a more approachable and friendly manner.
By participating in these events and educating more people about our experiences and the legal profession generally, we may help to advance this more positive perception of the legal profession.
If you ever need any help with residential property or conveyancing matter, please contact Kulbir Conner at kconner@astonbond.co.uk or ring us on +44 (0)1753 486 777
In his inaugural King’s Speech, King Charles has set the government’s priorities for the coming year. In the speech, ministers laid out their plans to pass twenty-one bills during the upcoming year-long session of Parliament. Approximately one-third were either carried over from the previous session or had already been published. It is the first—and probably the last—such blueprint of Rishi Sunak’s administration before the upcoming general election in the United Kingdom, which is scheduled for next year.
Some of the key changes that were announced in Kings Charles speech were:
A Sentencing Bill would make it more likely that short terms for lesser offences be served in the community, with a mandate whole-life penalties for the worst murder offences as well as preventing convicted rapists from being released early.
The existing Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill will deliver Martyn’s law, forcing UK venues to draw up and adhere to anti-terror plans.
A Leasehold and Freehold Bill will ban leaseholds for new houses, but not new flats, in England and Wales, and increase the standard lease extension period to 990 years.
An Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill will ban the export of cattle from Great Britain for fattening and slaughter.
Pledges to strengthen consumer rights online and tackle fake reviews are contained in the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill.
A Tobacco and Vapes Bill will deliver plans for a (much-discussed) phased ban on smoking, and introduce restrictions on the packaging and marketing of vapes.
An Arbitration Bill will introduce new rules for individuals and businesses to resolve disputes without going to court.
Many more changes were announced with some, such as the replacement of section 21 evictions being kicked to the curb whilst the Courts undergo reforms, being a substantial way off yet. However , these were some of the changes which were more eye catching and could have the potential to affect a greater proportion of the population. The King of England usually gives a speech annually regarding new changes (or updates on older ones). Stay tuned to Aston Bond to always be in the know as to how these Bills develop.
Legislation has been introduced amending the length of time in which individuals have to disclose their (custodial) convictions.
Most convictions can be considered “spent” after a specified period of time. In reality this means, once that time has passed, that an individual is allowed to never mention the conviction again – including on job applications. Legislation also prevents employers from subjecting individuals to any detriment or prejudice where the convictions are spent. There are exceptions for certain types of roles and these are listed in the legislation and should be looked at separately (for instance caring roles or those working with the vulnerable).
Now, . Section 193 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 (which came into force on October 28, 2023) has reduced the time period in which one must declare convictions as follows :
If you commit another offence during the declaration period, the additional deadlines are extended. Any new conviction has its own disclosure period, and until the end of the original conviction’s active period—or, if that occurs later, the end of the new disclosure term applicable to the more recent conviction—both the new conviction and the prior conviction must be disclosed.
Note that the time frames mentioned above apply to offenders who were older than 18 at the time of conviction. This is modified for those under the age of 18.
Employers are responsible for ensuring that all pertinent systems and forms are updated to account for the new time frames. Roles requiring basic or enhanced DBS checks won’t be impacted by these changes.
It is important that you are transparent to your employer about any run-ins you have had with the law previously. If it is found that you are lying and have not declared any convictions which are not spent, you could suffer legal consequences that vary depending on the severity of the lie and the circumstance involved. Some of them are:
Breach of Contract
Fraud or Misrepresentation
Violation of Company Policies
Dismissal for breach of trust and confidence
Conversely, if you are asked about any convictions that are now spent, then you are legally allowed to answer “none”. Even if an employer later finds out about it, they are not allowed to terminate your employment or prejudice you in any way.
For any assistance with any criminal or employment law matters, please do not hesitate to contact us Aston Bond. We would be more than happy to help. You can contact us at info@astonbond.co.uk, use our chat facility or call on +44 (0)1753 486 777.
The necessity of promoting diversity and inclusion has become increasingly apparent in the legal sector in recent years, especially regarding female representation among partners. Even though the legal industry has come a long way in recognising the need of diversity, law firms still need to do more to advance women to partner positions. There is increasing demand on law firms to improve gender balance and foster an environment that supports female leadership as inclusiveness gains prominence and cultural expectations change.
The legal profession has historically been dominated by men, and women have faced numerous obstacles in their quest to overcome the “glass ceiling” and achieve partnership positions. Implicit biases, inflexible work environments, and conventional networking channels are just a few of the obstacles that have traditionally prevented women from advancing in legal companies. But as the importance of varied viewpoints in decision-making processes becomes more widely acknowledged, the legal community is stepping up to address these issues and working to reshape the conventional narrative.
The need to establish a more diverse and equitable work environment in law firms has become apparent because of changing legal market dynamics and societal expectations. Clients are prioritising more and more working with firms that represent a variety of opinions because they understand the advantages of having a wider range of perspectives when handling complicated legal issues. In response, there is growing demand on law firms to show their dedication to diversity and inclusion by creating an environment that actively supports women’s advancement into partnership roles.
The advancement of women to partner roles in the legal sector is a tribute to the progressive transition that is currently taking place. It is not just strategically necessary but required by our regulator (encompassed in SRA Principle 6 to encourage diversity, equality, and inclusion. Law firms which pave the way for a more inclusive, inventive, and resilient future by creating an atmosphere that values diversity and supports women’s’ professional development, will strengthen their role as trailblazers in the industry..
These changes are something that all businesses should strive for, not just within law. A few changes that business can do is promote equal opportunities to all employees, flexible work arrangements such as remote work, flexible hours and job-sharing opportunities which can enable women to balance professional and personal commitments effectively. Other things such as companies offering diversity training and employee resource groups can serve as valuable places for addressing common challenges, sharing experiences, and driving initiatives that support the professional development and well-being of women in the workplace.
At Aston Bond, we pride ourselves in our diverse team and strong leaders of both men and women. We are always working towards the goal of promoting diversity and equal rights and responsibilities in our team. Find out more about our team at: https://www.astonbond.co.uk/about-us/#meet-team
Over the past year, I’ve been working at Aston Bond Law as a Digital Marketing Apprentice.
Having completed various exams, training & projects my time at Aston Bond Law Firm comes to an end, so I can carry on my career in the digital realm. I can’t help but look back on the incredible journey I’ve had over the past year.
From the very beginning, it was evident that this would be no ordinary apprenticeship. I was stepping into a world where tradition meets innovation.
I’d like to take this opportunity to share a few words about my time here, and the impact that digital marketing has had on the business.
My journey:
Breaking the traditional educational routes, I left sixth form to start an apprenticeship at Aston Bond. I had little knowledge about the legal industry and how to navigate it online. However, I was welcomed by an incredible team of professionals who were patient, supportive, and eager to help me learn.
Since starting Aston Bond, my digital implementations allowed for our business to:
Have an increased online visibility
Higher rates of client engagement
Access to a broader audience
Enhanced brand reputation
Providing client & connection education
A traditional yet different approach to marketing
Enhanced user experience on digital platforms
Let’s talk about what I’ve achieved in the past year:
Level 3 qualifications in Marketing & Coding Principles
Various digital marketing skills
Real-World experiences
Access to a professional network
Increased job opportunities
Problem-solving skills
Industry knowledge
Personal & professional growth & much more.
If you told me a year ago, I would have achieved this, chances are I wouldn’t believe you.
My digital marketing efforts have been not just about driving traffic or boosting search rankings; it’s also been about providing information, assistance, and a sense of trust to those who seek legal counsel.
As I step away from Aston Bond Law Firm, I do so with the knowledge that this isn’t an end but rather a new beginning.
I’ll carry the lessons I’ve learned here, not just about digital marketing but also about dedication, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.
Aston Bond Law Firm has instilled in me a profound respect for the legal profession, and I’ll always cherish the memories and experiences I’ve gained during my time here.
To the entire team at Aston Bond Law Firm, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.
You’ve made this chapter of my life unforgettable, and I’m excited to see where my journey in digital marketing will take me next.
At Aston Bond, we’re known for our serious commitment to the law and unwavering professionalism. However, when Halloween rolls around, we believe in taking a break from the legal jargon, putting on some spooky costumes, and having a good time.
This year, our office was transformed into a cauldron of creativity and fun as we celebrated Halloween with a costume party that will be talked about for ages.
Have a look at some of our spookiest costumes:
No Halloween party is complete without a spooktacular feast, and we didn’t disappoint. Our lunchtime spread featured an array of piping hot, delicious pizzas.
As we hung up our costumes and returned to our offices, we couldn’t help but reflect on the fun we shared. These Halloween memories will continue to haunt us for years to come. We’re back in our suits and ties, but with a new appreciation for the spooky fun to make our law firm even stronger.
Networking. At Aston Bond, we believe that networking is more than just handshakes and business cards; it’s about building lasting relationships that foster collaboration and growth.
This morning, our talented team, including our experienced Residential Property Solicitor and Trainee Private Client Solicitor, had the opportunity to attend a networking event that not only expanded their connections but also reinforced the values we hold dear.
Kanchana Kumari had the opportunity to introduce herself to the business professionals and share insights into her role as a Trainee Private Client Solicitor.
We believe that this interaction was not just an introduction but a demonstration of the values and expertise that define our law firm.
By sharing knowledge, forging connections, and embracing collaboration, we continue to build a stronger foundation for our clients and their legal needs.
We look forward to the opportunities that these connections will bring, further solidifying our mission to be the law firm our clients can rely on, every step of the way.
Embarking on a legal journey can be intimidating and complicated, but clients can make the most of their legal consultations and create a positive environment for a successful working relationship with their lawyers being well prepared.
To guarantee that a legal consultation is effective, educational and customised to each clients’ demands, it is important to plan ahead. Clients can maximise their contact with legal professionals and create the foundation for a successful legal strategy by adhering to these rules.
Before the consultation, it is crucial for clients to have a clear understanding of their objectives and expectations.
Whether seeking legal advice for a business matter, personal dispute, or any other issue, clients should be clear in their minds on their primary concerns, desired outcomes, and any specific questions they may have.
Developing a concise list of priorities enables clients to effectively communicate their needs to their legal representative, facilitating a more focused and productive discussion during the consultation.
Clients should come prepared with all essential materials, such as contracts, agreements, letters, and any other pertinent case records, in order to provide their lawyer with a thorough picture of the circumstances.
Screenshots of texts or WhatsApp messages and pictures are also useful and often used in evidence so don’t forget e-documents are just as crucial.
Creating a chronology of events and a thorough description of the circumstances leading up to the consultation can also provide representatives with insightful information about the nuances of the case.
Through proactive gathering of necessary data, customers can expedite the consultation process, enable legal experts to provide more accurate advice and ultimately save them time (and money!).
Making a list of inquiries to bring up during the session may guarantee that clients get thorough and customised legal advice from their advisers.
Clients should ask about the available legal solutions, the expected duration of the case, the related charges and fees, and any particular dangers or difficulties that might occur.
Ultimately, and potentially a bit later down the line, a probability of success should be obtained where possible.
Clients can obtain a better grasp of the legal process and make wise judgements going forward by actively engaging in the discussion and asking questions about any legal complications that may arise.
Equally important is building a solid and cooperative relationship with your adviser and keeping lines of communication open and honest.
Clients should be honest about all pertinent facts and refrain from omitting any crucial factors which could affect the case. Being transparent and upfront about worries or fears enables solicitors to anticipate problems and take proactive measures to resolve them.
It is crucial to approach your first legal consultation with an open mind and a readiness to consider legal guidance and counsel.
Even though clients could have different viewpoints and expectations, it’s important to have an open mind to the experience and perspectives offered by legal experts.
Clients can make better decisions that are in line with their goals and intended outcomes by being open to alternative legal methods (mediation for example), potential risks, and the ramifications of various courses of action.
By adhering to these guidelines and adopting a proactive and prepared mindset during the legal consultation, clients can maximise the benefit of their interactions with legal experts, establish the foundation for a successful legal plan, and ultimately secure a more favourable outcome for their legal cases.
As the leaves change colours and the air turns crisp, it can only mean one thing: Halloween is approaching.
A season of spooktacular fun, creative costumes, and candy-filled adventures, Halloween is cherished by people of all ages.
However, there are many legal implications and considerations that are often overlooked.
In this blog post, we will illuminate the legal issues that can lurk in the dark corners of Halloween and explain how you can stay out of legal trouble while enjoying the festivities.
Offensive Costumes:
While Halloween encourages creative expression, wearing offensive or culturally insensitive costumes can lead to social and employment-related consequences, including complaints and potential disciplinary actions being taken in the workplace.
If your workplace encourages taking part in festivities, ensure everyone is clear on what is expected in your notices and ask staff to be sensitive to others in their choice.
Trick-or-Treating and Premises Liability:
One of the main Halloween activities, trick-or-treating can sometimes lead to injuries. If your property is part of the trick-or-treat trail, you may be liable for accidents that occur.
Ensure your property is well-lit and free of hazards and consider a warning sign to protect yourself from liability.
When handing out sweets, ensure anything being oven out has appropriate labelling, particularly items with nuts, to avoid any injury.
Pranks and Vandalism:
Halloween pranks that go too far can result in criminal charges, such as trespassing or vandalism. It’s essential to understand the boundaries between innocent fun and criminal behaviour. Be mindful of others generally and ensure nothing you do can be taken as threatening behaviour.
In most cases, houses with a pumpkin or other Halloween inspired decorations welcome visitors but stay away from houses with no decorations or lights off.
Noise Ordinances:
If you’re hosting a Halloween party or event, be aware of local noise ordinances. Excessive noise during the late hours could lead to complaints and potential legal consequences.
Pet Safety:
Costumed people and the constant doorbell ringing can distress pets. In some cases, pet owners may be held responsible for their pet’s actions if someone gets injured.
Child Custody Disputes:
Halloween can sometimes lead to custody disputes between divorced or separated parents. Clear custody arrangements and open communication are crucial in avoiding legal conflicts.
While Halloween is undoubtedly a time for celebration, it’s important to be aware of the legal implications that can arise during this time.
At Aston Bond, we’re here to help you navigate these legal shadows and provide guidance should you ever need it.
At Aston Bond, we’re committed to keeping you informed about legal matters that matter most to you.
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