A salutary tale for Solicitors? Or an unnecessarily harsh Judgment?
The recent case of Peterson & Anor v Howard De Walden Estates Ltd and the subsequent appeal decision is a salutary tale for the solicitors profession – but was the Court’s decision too harsh? In this instance, an underpayment of a court fee by £24 resulted in a claim being out of time. No doubt the consequence for the firm involved will be far ranging and no doubt expensive for them and their professional indemnity insurers. Whilst many will opine on the “lessons” solicitors can learn from this case, perhaps the focus (as the Judge at first instance indicated) should be on reforming legal procedure and thereby allowing Judges to make fair and just decisions when it comes to minor technical matters of this nature.
Other Insights
-
21st May 2026Lifting the lid on claims of “parental alienation” – increased access for journalists in family court proceedings
An overview of a recent High Court decision exploring increased transparency in family courts, with a focus on parental alienation and journalist access.
Read more -
8th May 2026Taxi for “directing mind and will”! A suitable vehicle has arrived: the Crime and Policing Act 2026
From 29 June 2026, the Crime and Policing Act 2026 (“CPA”) significantly expands corporate criminal liability in the UK. Companies and partnerships may now be held liable for any criminal offence committed by a senior manager acting within the actual or apparent scope of their authority, regardless of where the entity is incorporated. In practice, as we discuss in this note, application of the attribution test is not as straightforward as advertised and the likelihood of prosecution will depend heavily on the application of public interest factors.
Read more -
24th April 2026EMI reform now in force: expanded opportunities for growing UK businesses
Significant reforms to the UK’s Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) regime came into effect on 6 April 2026, marking the most substantial expansion of the scheme since its introduction. The changes are intended to modernise EMI for today’s growth economy by widening eligibility, increasing flexibility and simplifying administration. For scale ups and mid market businesses, the reformed regime presents a timely opportunity to revisit long term incentive planning.
Read more