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Crime Domestic Immigration Legal Updates

What Unmarried Mothers Need to Know About Their Financial Rights

Unmarried mothers often face unique challenges when it comes to their financial rights. In this blog post, we will explore what unmarried mothers need to know about their financial rights and how they can protect themselves and their children.

Understanding the Legal Rights of Unmarried Mothers

Under UK law, unmarried mothers have the same legal rights and responsibilities as married mothers. This means that they have the right to make decisions about their child’s upbringing, education, and healthcare. They also have the right to financial support from the child’s father.

However, unlike married mothers, unmarried mothers do not automatically have legal rights over their child’s inheritance or property. To secure these rights, unmarried mothers need to take additional legal steps, such as creating a will or entering into a cohabitation agreement.

Financial Support from the Child’s Father

Unmarried mothers have the right to financial support from the child’s father. This includes child maintenance payments, which are intended to cover the child’s everyday living expenses. The amount of child maintenance will depend on various factors, such as the father’s income and the child’s needs.

If the father refuses to pay child maintenance or fails to meet his financial obligations, unmarried mothers can seek legal assistance to enforce their rights. This may involve going to court and obtaining a court order for child maintenance.

Securing Financial Rights through Cohabitation Agreements

A cohabitation agreement is a legal document that outlines the financial arrangements between unmarried partners. It can help unmarried mothers protect their financial rights by specifying how assets and property will be divided in the event of a separation.

By entering into a cohabitation agreement, unmarried mothers can ensure that they have a legal claim to any property or assets acquired during the relationship. This can provide them with financial security and peace of mind.

Creating a Will

Creating a will is essential for unmarried mothers who want to secure their child’s inheritance. Without a will, the child may not automatically inherit any assets or property from their mother.

By creating a will, unmarried mothers can specify how their assets should be distributed in the event of their death. This can ensure that their child receives their rightful inheritance and is financially protected.

Seeking Legal Advice

Understanding and navigating the legal complexities surrounding the financial rights of unmarried mothers can be challenging. It is advisable for unmarried mothers to seek legal advice from a qualified solicitor who specializes in family law.

A solicitor can provide guidance on the specific legal rights and options available to unmarried mothers. They can also assist in negotiating financial settlements and representing their interests in court, if necessary.

For more information on the financial rights of unmarried mothers, you can visit LBMW.com.

Remember, unmarried mothers have legal rights and protections in the UK. By understanding these rights and taking the necessary legal steps, unmarried mothers can ensure their financial security and protect the best interests of their children.

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Crime Domestic Immigration Legal Updates

Your Guide to Resolving Disputes in Today’s Business Landscape

Resolving disputes in today’s business landscape is a crucial skill for legal professionals and enthusiasts alike. With the ever-evolving nature of business and the complex web of relationships that exist within it, understanding how to effectively navigate and resolve disputes is essential. In this guide, we will explore the various methods and strategies for resolving disputes in today’s business world.

Understanding Dispute Resolution

Dispute resolution refers to the process of resolving conflicts or disagreements between parties. In the context of business, disputes can arise from a variety of sources, such as contractual disagreements, intellectual property disputes, or conflicts between business partners. Resolving these disputes in a timely and efficient manner is crucial to maintaining positive business relationships and ensuring the smooth operation of a company.

The Importance of Effective Dispute Resolution

Effective dispute resolution is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to minimize the negative impact of conflicts on businesses. Disputes can be costly, both in terms of financial resources and time. By resolving disputes quickly and efficiently, businesses can minimize these costs and focus on their core operations.

Secondly, effective dispute resolution helps to preserve business relationships. Disputes can strain relationships between business partners, clients, or suppliers. By resolving conflicts in a fair and respectful manner, businesses can maintain these relationships and foster a positive reputation within their industry.

Lastly, effective dispute resolution promotes a healthy business environment. When businesses are confident that disputes can be resolved fairly and efficiently, they are more likely to engage in new ventures and collaborations. This fosters innovation and growth within the business community.

Methods of Dispute Resolution

There are several methods of dispute resolution available in today’s business landscape. The choice of method depends on the nature of the dispute, the preferences of the parties involved, and the desired outcome. Let’s explore some of the most common methods:

1. Negotiation

Negotiation is a voluntary and informal method of dispute resolution. It involves direct communication between the parties involved, with the goal of reaching a mutually acceptable solution. Negotiation allows for flexibility and creativity in finding a resolution that meets the needs and interests of all parties.

2. Mediation

Mediation is a facilitated negotiation process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps the parties reach a resolution. The mediator does not make decisions or impose solutions but instead assists the parties in identifying common ground and exploring potential solutions. Mediation is often less adversarial and more collaborative than other methods of dispute resolution.

3. Arbitration

Arbitration is a more formal method of dispute resolution in which a neutral third party, known as an arbitrator, makes a binding decision on the dispute. The parties present their cases to the arbitrator, who then renders a decision based on the evidence and arguments presented. Arbitration is often used when the parties want a final and binding resolution without going to court.

4. Litigation

Litigation is the process of resolving disputes through the court system. It involves presenting the case before a judge or jury, who will make a final decision on the dispute. Litigation can be a lengthy and costly process, but it provides a formal and enforceable resolution.

Dispute Resolution and Corporate Arrangements

Dispute resolution is particularly important in the context of corporate arrangements. Business entities, such as partnerships, corporations, or limited liability companies, often have complex relationships and agreements. Disputes can arise from disagreements over management, ownership, or financial matters.

Having a clear and comprehensive dispute resolution mechanism in corporate arrangements is crucial for maintaining the stability and longevity of the business. It provides a framework for resolving conflicts and ensures that disputes are addressed in a fair and efficient manner.

Dispute resolution and corporate arrangements go hand in hand. By incorporating dispute resolution mechanisms into corporate agreements, businesses can proactively address potential conflicts and minimize the risk of costly disputes.

In today’s business landscape, effective dispute resolution is essential for maintaining positive business relationships, minimizing costs, and fostering a healthy business environment. Understanding the various methods of dispute resolution and incorporating them into corporate arrangements can help businesses navigate conflicts and ensure their long-term success.

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Crime Domestic Immigration Legal Updates

Your Guide to Resolving Disputes in Today’s Business Landscape

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, disputes are an inevitable part of doing business. Whether it’s a disagreement between business partners, a contract dispute, or a conflict with a customer or supplier, resolving disputes effectively is crucial for the success and reputation of any business. In this guide, we will explore the various methods and strategies for resolving disputes in today’s business landscape.

Understanding Dispute Resolution

Dispute resolution refers to the process of resolving conflicts or disputes between parties. It involves finding a mutually acceptable solution without the need for litigation or going to court. There are several methods of dispute resolution, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Negotiation

Negotiation is a common method of resolving disputes, especially when the parties involved have a good working relationship. It involves direct communication between the parties to reach a mutually acceptable solution. Negotiation allows for flexibility and can often lead to a win-win outcome.

However, negotiation may not be suitable for all disputes, especially when there is a significant power imbalance between the parties or when emotions are running high. In such cases, alternative methods of dispute resolution may be more effective.

2. Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third party, known as a mediator, helps the parties involved in a dispute to reach a mutually acceptable solution. The mediator does not make decisions or impose solutions but facilitates communication and assists the parties in exploring options and finding common ground.

Mediation is often preferred in complex disputes or when there is a need to preserve ongoing relationships. It allows the parties to maintain control over the outcome and can be more cost-effective and time-efficient compared to litigation.

If you are looking for professional assistance in mediation, you can reach out to Stirk Law, a leading law firm specializing in dispute resolution and corporate arrangements.

3. Arbitration

Arbitration is a more formal method of dispute resolution in which the parties present their case to a neutral third party, known as an arbitrator, who makes a binding decision. Unlike mediation, arbitration is more similar to a court process, but it is less formal and more flexible.

Arbitration can be a faster and more cost-effective alternative to litigation, especially in international disputes or when confidentiality is a concern. However, the parties must agree to be bound by the arbitrator’s decision, and there is limited scope for appeal.

Choosing the Right Method

When it comes to resolving disputes in today’s business landscape, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The choice of method depends on various factors, including the nature of the dispute, the relationship between the parties, and the desired outcome.

It is important to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each method and seek professional advice if needed. A skilled legal professional can help you assess your options and guide you towards the most appropriate method of dispute resolution.

Conclusion

In today’s business landscape, disputes are a reality that cannot be avoided. However, by understanding the various methods of dispute resolution and choosing the right approach, businesses can effectively resolve conflicts and maintain positive relationships. Whether it’s through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration, finding a mutually acceptable solution is key to success in today’s competitive business world.

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Domestic Legal Updates

What are local authority searches when buying a property?

What You Need to Know About Planning Permissions, Building Regulations, Environmental Issues, Highways Information, and Conservation Areas When Buying a Property

Buying a property can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, especially if you don’t know what to look for. It’s not just about finding the perfect location or a beautiful house; there are legal and practical matters to consider. In this blog post, we’ll discuss five critical elements that you need to know about when buying a property: planning permissions, building regulations, environmental issues, highways information, and conservation areas. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better idea of what you need to look out for when purchasing a property.

Planning permissions are crucial if you’re looking to extend, alter or build on the property. The local council will provide information about any planning applications or permissions that have been granted in relation to the property or land. It’s essential to check this information as it will affect what you can and cannot do with the property. For example, if there is a planning restriction on the property, you may not be able to extend it.

Building regulations are also essential to consider when purchasing a property. The local council will provide information about any building regulations that have been enforced and whether there have been any breaches of these regulations. It’s important to check this information to ensure that any work carried out on the property was done correctly and safely. If there have been breaches, it could potentially be costly to rectify.

Environmental issues are also critical to consider when purchasing a property. The council will provide information about any environmental issues that may affect the property, such as contaminated land, flooding, or noise pollution. It’s important to check this information to ensure that the property is suitable for your needs, and that you are aware of any potential hazards that may affect your living conditions.

Highways information is also essential to consider when purchasing a property. The council will provide information about any public highways that affect the property, such as whether it is on a main road, whether there are any rights of way or if there are any proposed road developments. It’s important to check this information to ensure that the property is suitable for your needs and meets your expectations.

Conservation areas are vital to consider when purchasing a property. The property may be situated in a conservation area where there are restrictions on what you can and cannot do with the property. The local council will provide information about any conservation areas and the restrictions that come with them. It’s important to check this information to ensure that any plans you may have for the property do not violate these restrictions.

Overall, when purchasing a property, it’s not just about the aesthetics or location. It’s crucial to consider the legal and practical matters as well. In this blog post, we’ve discussed five elements that you need to know about when buying a property: planning permissions, building regulations, environmental issues, highways information, and conservation areas. By doing your research and checking this information, you can have peace of mind and ensure that the property you’re interested in is the right fit for your needs.

Contact Lynwood Solicitors for more

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Crime Domestic Immigration Legal Updates

Proven Strategies for Resolving Shareholder Spats

Shareholder disputes can be a common occurrence in the business world, and resolving them effectively is crucial for the smooth functioning of a company. In this blog post, we will explore proven strategies for resolving shareholder spats, providing valuable insights for legal professionals and enthusiasts in the UK.

Understanding Shareholder Disputes

Before delving into the strategies, it is important to have a clear understanding of what shareholder disputes entail. Shareholder disputes arise when disagreements occur between individuals or groups who hold shares in a company. These disputes can arise due to various reasons, such as differences in opinion regarding the company’s direction, conflicts of interest, or disputes over financial matters.

Mediation: A Powerful Tool

Mediation is a highly effective strategy for resolving shareholder disputes. It involves the intervention of a neutral third party who facilitates communication and negotiation between the conflicting parties. Mediation provides a platform for open dialogue, allowing shareholders to express their concerns and work towards finding mutually agreeable solutions.

One key advantage of mediation is its confidentiality. Unlike court proceedings, which are public, mediation allows the parties involved to maintain privacy and confidentiality. This can be particularly beneficial for businesses that wish to avoid negative publicity or damage to their reputation.

Furthermore, mediation is a cost-effective alternative to litigation. Court battles can be lengthy and expensive, whereas mediation offers a quicker and more affordable resolution process. It allows the parties to retain control over the outcome and reach a resolution that best suits their interests.

Arbitration: A Binding Solution

Arbitration is another effective strategy for resolving shareholder disputes. It involves the appointment of an impartial arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators who review the evidence and make a binding decision. Unlike mediation, arbitration provides a final and enforceable resolution.

One of the key advantages of arbitration is its flexibility. The parties involved can choose their arbitrator, ensuring that the individual possesses the necessary expertise and knowledge in the relevant field. This allows for a more specialized and informed decision-making process.

Arbitration also offers a faster resolution compared to court proceedings. The parties have more control over the process, including the choice of venue and the timeline for the resolution. Additionally, arbitration proceedings are private, ensuring confidentiality.

Seeking Legal Advice

When faced with a shareholder dispute, seeking legal advice is crucial. Experienced legal professionals can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the resolution process. They can assess the situation, identify the legal rights and obligations of the parties involved, and recommend the most appropriate strategy.

Legal professionals can also assist in drafting and reviewing shareholder agreements, which can help prevent disputes from arising in the first place. These agreements outline the rights and responsibilities of shareholders, as well as mechanisms for resolving conflicts.

Conclusion

Resolving shareholder disputes requires careful consideration and the implementation of proven strategies. Mediation and arbitration offer effective alternatives to litigation, providing opportunities for open dialogue, confidentiality, and cost-effective resolutions. Seeking legal advice is essential to navigate through these complex disputes and ensure the best possible outcome for all parties involved.

For more information on resolving shareholder disputes, you can visit Adams Law, a leading legal firm specializing in corporate law.

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Legal Updates

Drag Along, Tag Along and Being Forced to Sell

A capital raise for your business is likely to include ‘customary drag and tag provisions’ in relation to VC and angel investors. We’ve outlined below what these clauses imply for you.

What are drag and tag rights?

If a minor shareholder refuses to sell their shares, they are dragged along with the larger investor. The tag along provision allows the minor stockholder to join in on a sale if permitted by the parent company. Both clauses are intended to grant the tiny stockholder the same rights as any other seller when it comes to receiving the same price, terms, and conditions in a transaction.

Your tag along rights

A minority owner’s stake in a company may be sold through a partnership or affiliate membership by organizing with a majority owner to sell his or her shares.

By including minority shareholders in any deal discussions, the majority owner puts them in a position of power. This is significant for you as the creator since your company’s value is directly related to the number and quality of your shareholders.

When it comes to a sale, you as the majority owner have the right to offer the minority owner’s shares at the same price, terms, and conditions as offered to any other party. This is known as tag along rights.

Your drag along rights

A majority owner can drag along a minority owner to force them to participate in the company’s sale if they have rights that allow for this. In other words, if the majority owner wants to sell their shares, they can require the minority owner to sell theirs as well.

On the other hand, drag along rights are intended to safeguard the majority owner and thereby allow for the sale of the entire firm by purchasing out minority stockholders. As your company grows, your investors who are most likely to be the majority owners will value these privileges.

What about co-sale rights?

A co-sale right is similar to a tag along right, but it applies when the majority owner sells only a portion of its shares. The transaction is made contingent on an invitation being extended to minor shareholders to sell the same proportion of their stock as the majority owner.

How to block a sale as a minority shareholder

All company shares are tradeable if the majority agree to a transaction, thanks to tag and drag along rights. This can prevent a small shareholder from stalling a sale by keeping them in the deal on identical terms, allowing for a buyout of the complete business.

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Crime

Jail time for knife krime falls despite increased crime rate

Recent data from the Ministry of Justice reveals that jail time for offenders is not following suit, as knife crime approaches pre-pandemic levels. Is this due to a failing on the part of the Judiciary, or is there something else at work? Hannah Costley, a solicitor in our Crime and Regulatory Department, looks into this and how the statistics might reflect a more sustainable change.

 

Knife crime during lockdown

The knife crime rate in England and Wales has decreased by half from March to June 2020, according to the Ministry of Justice. This significant drop was probably due to the national lockdown. Because businesses, public areas, and people were ordered to stay indoors. There was less opportunity for knife violence.

 

Post-lockdown and knife crime

After the lockdown, knife crime is rapidly resuming to pre-pandemic levels. In 2020, there were a total of 18,296 crimes, and in 2021 this increased to 20,202 offenses.

Despite this dramatic rise, Ministry of Justice statistics indicate that more than four in ten repeat offenders are not ending up behind bars. Suspended sentences, fines, community service, cautions and conditional discharges are all more common among offenders.

This new information is remarkable, given the passage of the two-strikes legislation in 2015. This legislation aims to give offenders caught twice with a knife a minimum of six months imprisonment and a maximum of four years in jail.

 

Why are knife crime offenders not receiving jail time?

Some may claim that because offenders are not sentenced to jail time, it is an indication of the court failing since former Conservative Policing and Justice Minister, Sir Mike Penning says, “It’s terrible for both sides [the police and the public]. They’re doing their duty by bringing these people before the court but the judiciary isn’t performing.”

“Judges and Magistrates must be aware that the [two strikes] legislation was enacted for a reason. That is to safeguard victims and give them confidence in the system.”

However, Hannah Costley, a Solicitor in our Crime and Regulatory Team, points out that a reduction in jail time may be considered a positive development and an indication of the shift toward more sustainable intervention.

“I commend and encourage the decrease in offenders being sentenced to immediate custody, as Rehabilitation and Education are a lot more effective at preventing people from committing this sort of crime again. While imprisonment may shock defendants and teach them the consequences of their actions, Some individuals could be susceptible to being groomed by experienced criminals while in jail, and thus commit more serious crimes after they’ve served their terms and gotten out.”

Hannah states, “Interventions from the Youth Offending Team should be encouraged for youth offenders. Funds and resources should be invested in developing Courses and Education tools to prevent reoffending.”

Useful Links

UK knife crime rises as jail time falls

UK knife crime stats

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Domestic

Are you feeling parental alienation?

What to Do When Dealing with Parental Alienation

When parents divorce or terminate their relationship, the objective should always be to co-parent so that the children may maintain a good rapport with both of their parents. In rare circumstances, this might be impossible because one parent may try to impede the kids’ connection with the other parent. When this happens, parental alienation may be to blame. If you believe that your child or someone you know is not able to have the same relationship with their children after a relationship comes to an end, it’s important for them to take action quickly.

When one parent begins using words or actions that may induce a child to form beliefs about one parent, swift legal action should be taken to stop it before the problem becomes more difficult to handle. We’ve seen situations where parents have had an excellent relationship with their sons or daughters suddenly deteriorate. This allows the manipulating parent to say, “It’s not me.They just do not want to be around you. ” Our attorneys have more than 35 years of combined specialty family law expertise, and they understand that coping with parental alienation entails overcoming both emotional and legal difficulties. The O’Connor family law firm is here to help and support you throughout this difficult time.

When dealing with parental alienation, start small.

Parental alienation can occur at multiple stages. It may appear impossible if you or someone you know is in a position where the kids are refusing to see their parents, but giving up is not the answer. Maintaining a relationship with your children, even in minor ways, is an important element of coping with parental alienation. As a result, attorneys frequently advise parents to collaborate with their children or the alienated parent to restore the parent-child connection.

  • Sending encouraging and considerate cards and letters is a wonderful way to show your appreciation.
  • It’s a good idea to keep track of birthdays and special days.
  • It would be better to schedule a bi-weekly phone or video conversations.
  • When there have been allegations of physical abuse, requesting supervised visits away from the home (when possible)
  • Requesting for additional visits that are less lengthy, but more frequent
  • Get to know what’s going on with the kids.
  • Participate in school events or activities, whether you’re sitting in the corner and they don’t notice you.

Find out more about parental alienation here

Get in Touch with a Compassionate Family Lawyer

If a co-parent or child openly disregards all attempts at contact for the sake of a new relationship, you should consult with legal counsel. An attorney from our firm can fight to safeguard or rebuild the bond you once had with your kid that the other parent has worked to destroy.

The assumption is that children have benefited the most when two fit parents share custody equally. Advocates in Massachusetts must consider each parent’s readiness to assist healthy connections between children and a co-parent in making custody and visitation decisions. In parental alienation situations, the alienated parent’s ex-spouse or partner will usually attempt to place the blame on them for the problem. He or she was violent, unresponsive to children, or has any other kind of issue that is only meant to “muddy the waters.”It is critical to work with an attorney that recognizes the significance of a merely stated allegation. Working with an attorney who can also examine your actions and propose changes to help strengthen your connection is just as essential.

When faced with parental alienation, you can seek judicial intervention.

Unless compelled to address their behavior, most parents who are attempting to disrupt the other parent’s relationship will refuse to negotiate amicably. They will continue until the kid believes all bad things about the other parent and refuses on his or her own to have a connection. In these situations, you’ll want assistance from a family court. You might be able to.

Parental alienation may also be used as justification to change an existing child custody order, as several courts are recognizing that parental alienation has long-term consequences for children that are just as severely as physical or emotional abuse. Although the routes to correct the problem may be lengthy and tiring, even if you wait to start correcting your ex’s manipulative behaviors, a judge may issue many orders that will help you and your children return on track. A complaint may be filed on your behalf by one of our incredible attorneys with a lot of expertise dealing with parental alienation situations.

When handling parental alienation, don’t involve the kids.

While it’s inconvenient when the other parent refuses you access to see, communicate, or take part in decisions with your children, it’s vital not to involve your children while dealing with parental alienation disputes. Parents are responsible for promoting a good parent-child relationship. You may harm your case if you discuss legal difficulties with your children instead of an attorney, therapist, or the court.

When they are handled correctly, judges typically take emotional manipulation (i.e. Badmouthing the other parent, encouraging the kids to not see the other parent, or treating children as a sounding board for their frustrations about the other parent) very seriously. When Massachusetts family courts create or adjust child custody orders, they consider these activities. Parents have been fined by the judges for discouraging healthy parent-child relationships.

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Crime

Animal abuse in the spotlight

These views are not from this site, but originally appeared on slaterheelis.co.uk.

Animal abuse, no matter who you are, is not allowed. Rachel Fletcher, the Head of Crime and Regulatory comments on a recent video footage of football player Kurt Zouma.

Kurt Zouma, a professional football player for West Ham United and the France national team, was captured on video kicking, slapping, and even throwing items at his pet Bengal cat. Rachel, the Head of Crime and Regulatory is pressing for more action to be taken.

“Kurt is a role model for many people who look up to him, particularly prominent youngsters, and we cannot be seen to support this sort of behavior. A new law passed by Parliament last year allows for stricter penalties against animal abusers, and I would urge the MET to reconsider its decision not to investigate. ”

“We fully support the RSPCA’s demand for a penalty that not only sends the message that this behavior is unacceptable but also seeks an order prohibiting him from having animals in the future. Private prosecutions may be launched against an individual or firm by the RSPCA or in certain situations, local authorities or law enforcement may take action against individuals who harm animals. There is clear evidence of wrongdoing in this instance.”

“It’s really tough to believe this was an isolated occurrence, not only because the video shows the huge amount of torture and abuse that he and his brother subjected the cat to, but also because it shows them laughing and hunting down the cat to attack it again.”

Penalties for animal abuse offences

Here, we have clear instances of someone deliberately harming or abusing an animal. The penalties for animal cruelty, as well as failing to provide for the animal’s welfare, include being banned from owning animals for life, paying a fine of up to £20,000, or serving six months in jail in certain situations.

Further information regarding the law on animal welfare

Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 states: A person who causes an animal to suffer, or fails to act when he should do so, is guilty of an offense if –

(a) His conduct results in the animal’s suffering.

(b) He was aware or had reason to be aware that the consequence would be that effect.

 

(1) A person who is responsible for an animal is guilty of an offence if—

(a) He allows another person’s actions to cause the animal pain.

(b) He fails to take reasonable measures to prevent that from happening, and as a result, the animal suffers.

 

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 is the legislation that covers this violation, which specifies “Five Welfare Needs’ for domestic pets and livestock. These are:

  • The requirement for a suitable living environment.
  • A healthy diet is required.
  • It is vital to be able to exhibit typical behavior patterns.
  • If an animal is sick or hurt, it must be kept away from other animals.
  • The desire to be shielded from pain, suffering, harm, and sickness.

 

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Legal Updates

Changes to the highway code

Many drivers are unaware of the new Highway Code rules that went into effect in January 2022, which aim to protect vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

It is critical that all road users are familiar with The Highway Code and are considerate to other road users.

Why is the Highway Code important?

The Highway Code which aims to make roadways safer has been updated to include three new rules that place pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists at the top of the hierarchy in the event of a collision – with children, older people, and disabled folks being more vulnerable.

Pedestrians

When pedestrians are crossing or waiting to cross at a junction, other road users must yield. When traffic wishes to turn into the street, the pedestrian has precedence over vehicles. On a zebra crossing and on a parallel crossing pedestrians have priority over cars.

Shared spaces

There are a few new limitations in the code that pertain to shared roadways and sites. People who bike, ride a horse, or use a horse-drawn cart should exercise caution not to put pedestrians at risk while walking in these regions, but people walking should also be cautious not to block or endanger them.

When passing others, cyclists are advised to go slowly and inform others they are present (for example, by jangling their bell) and not pass a horse on its left.

Cyclists

According to new recommendations, cyclists are advised to use the middle of their lane on quiet streets, in slower-moving traffic, and when approaching junctions or where the road narrows. When cycling on busy roads with automobiles traveling faster than them, cyclists should keep at least 0.5 meters (about 1.5 feet) away from the curb.

Bicyclists are now advised to be considerate of the demands of other road users while riding in groups in the new version. When traveling in larger groups or accompanied by children or less experienced riders, they may ride two abreast; nevertheless, they must be cautious of automobile drivers behind them and allow them to pass when it is safe to.

According to the revised code, cyclists should be cautious that they leave room (a door’s width or 1 meter) when passing parked cars so they aren’t hit if a vehicle door is opened. The ‘Dutch Reach,’ a new method for exiting vehicles suggested to prevent such occurrences. To open a door with their hand on the other side of the door being opened, such as when a driver or passenger (when able) must swivel their head to look over their shoulder behind them. They are subsequently less likely to strike cyclists or motorcyclists on the road (or pedestrians on the sidewalk).

A cyclist may lawfully stay in the left-hand lane when trying to cross or circle a roundabout. When driving into a roundabout, motorists should exercise increased caution to avoid colliding with cyclists who are continuing around the roundabout in the left-hand lane.

Overtaking

There’s also new material on safe passing distances and speeds for drivers and motorcyclists when overtaking vulnerable road users, including:

  • leaving at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph and giving them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.
  • passing people riding horses or driving horse-drawn vehicles at speeds under 10 mph and allowing at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space.
  • allowing at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space and keeping to a low speed when passing people walking in the road (especially where there’s no pavement).

If it’s not safe or feasible to satisfy these rules, the driver or motorcycle rider should stay back.

E-Scooters

The new regulation on E-scooters is not entirely clear regarding them. Despite the fact that the use of E-scooters has increased dramatically because of the Department for Transport’s introduction of Rental E-scooters in various parts of England, it is uncertain where E-scooters fit within the new hierarchy of road users.

Common sense?

The vast majority of the Highway Code changes are straightforward common sense which demonstrate respect for other users. Common sense and politeness, on the other hand, aren’t as widespread as they should be and we represent a lot of people who have been injured in ways that can’t be undone because drivers didn’t pay attention or care to avoiding harm.

It is critical to raise awareness of the changes that have been made to improve the safety of all road users, especially pedestrians, cyclists, kids, and elders. “How many vehicle drivers are aware of the improvements?” says Lee Hart, at Clarke Willmott.

“The Highway Code should be required reading for everyone, not just beginners. It is updated on a regular basis, so it’s critical that everyone is aware of the rules in the code ,they are legal obligations and failure to follow them might result in a criminal penalty or be used in civil liability claims to establish liability.”