Meine Work-Life-Balance repräsentiert mehr als nur eine einzelne Rolle

Autorin: Helen Miles (Partnerin). Um den originalen Artikel zu lesen, klicken Sie hier. Nach fast 20 Jahren auf Partnerebene in globalen Anwaltskanzleien suchte ich nach Möglichkeiten zur persönlichen und beruflichen Weiterentwicklung. Überraschenderweise bot die traditionelle Struktur großer Kanzleien nicht die erwarteten Chancen. Die Möglichkeit flexibel auf Mandantenbedürfnisse einzugehen Mir fehlte die Flexibilität, um die Bedürfnisse meiner Mandanten auf eine […]

gunnercookes Transportteam in Hamburg baut Expertise durch grenzüberschreitende Zusammenarbeit mit spanischer Partnerkanzlei aus

Die auf Transportrecht spezialisierte Praxis von gunnercooke in Hamburg, geleitet von Partner Alexander Werner und seinem erfahrenen Team von Transportrechtsspezialisten, gibt die Erweiterung und Stärkung ihrer Expertise und ihres Netzwerks durch eine strategische Zusammenarbeit mit Valleon, einer renommierten spanischen Kanzlei für Transportrecht, bekannt. Mit der Partnerschaft zwischen Hamburg und Oviedo baut gunnercooke seine Fähigkeit weiter […]

gunnercooke unterstützt bei Erstellung erster Standardvertragsmuster für den deutschen PPA-Markt  

Die Marktoffensive Erneuerbare Energien, initiiert von der Deutschen Energie-Agentur (dena), dem DIHK und den Klimaschutz-Unternehmen e.V., hat unter Beteiligung der internationalen Anwaltskanzlei gunnercooke und weiteren führenden Kooperationspartnern den ersten PPA-Mustervertrag (Power Purchase Agreement) für den deutschen Strommarkt entwickelt. Dieses zukunftsweisende Musterdokument zielt darauf ab, die Hürden für kleinere Akteure wie KMU und Stadtwerke zum Abschluss […]

gunnercooke unterstützt Berliner Klima-Initiative „BaumEntscheid“

Jonas Lowack ist Associate bei gunnercooke und vor allem in den Bereichen Erneuerbare Energien, ESG und Compliance tätig. Das flexible Modell von gunnercooke bietet den Freiraum sich neben der anwaltlichen Tätigkeit auch anderen Projekten über z.B. Stiftungen oder innerhalb der Gemeinden zu widmen. Jonas nutzt diese Flexibilität und unterstützt nun leidenschaftlich die Initiative „BaumEntscheid“ mit seiner rechtlichen […]

“Eine kollaborative und kreative Umgebung”

Zwei Jahre später – Partner Alexander Werner gewährt uns einen Einblick in seine ersten Jahre bei gunnercooke… Q: Kannst du uns ein bisschen zu dir und deiner Praxis erzählen? Absolut, gerne. Mein Name ist Alexander Werner, und vor zwei Jahren bin ich dem gunnercooke-Team als Leiter des Transportrechtsteams beigetreten. In meiner Praxis fokussiere ich mich […]

Wie können Anwaltskanzleien langfristig Anwältinnen und wichtiges KnowHow halten?

Autorin: Pania Charalambous (Partnerin). Um den originalen Artikel zu lesen, klicken Sie hier. Ein zentrales Thema im juristischen Bereich ist die Weiterbeschäftigung von Frauen. In der produktivsten Phase ihrer Karriere entscheiden sie sich oft (oder werden eher “gezwungen”), die Branche aus verschiedenen Gründen zu verlassen. Hauptgründe hierfür sind die langen Arbeitszeiten, unvorhersehbare Zeitpläne, Gehaltsunterschiede und […]

Mögliche Ansprüche von Käufern der Siemens Gamesa Windturbinenplattformen 4.X und 5.X

Um diesen Artikel auf Englisch zu lesen, klicken Sie hier. Den Artikel auf Spanisch finden Sie hier. Unser Partner Felix Thiede wirft einen Blick auf die Probleme der Windturbinensparte des deutschen Technologieriesen Siemens Energy und untersucht die daraus resultierenden finanziellen Folgen, mit denen Betreiber von Windenergieanlagen nun konfrontiert sind. Ist Ihr Unternehmen von Problemen mit […]

WrapUp Berlin: gunnercooke unterstützt bei erstmaliger Initiative im Kampf gegen Kältenot

Berlin, November 2023. Vom 14.-16. November versammelten sich über drei Tage hinweg freiwillige Helfer (rund 50 Helferanmeldungen), darunter Anwälte der internationalen Kanzlei gunnercooke , am Berliner Hauptbahnhof, um im Rahmen der „WrapUp“ Initiative Winterjacken zu sammeln. Diese Aktion sollte dazu beitragen, dass zum einen dicke Jacken für den Winter für bedürftige Bevölkerungsgruppen in Berlin gesammelt […]

gunnercooke unterstützt Hithium, Chinas führenden Hersteller für stationäre Batterien, bei wegweisendem Energieprojekt in Bulgarien

Die international renommierte Anwaltskanzlei gunnercooke steht Hithium, dem führenden Hersteller für stationäre Batterien in China, tatkräftig zur Seite, während das Unternehmen sein erstes großes europäisches Projekt in Bulgarien umsetzt. Hithium hat kürzlich eine strategische Partnerschaft mit Solarpro, einem Experten für EPC-Dienstleistungen im Bereich Solarprojekte, bekanntgegeben. Gemeinsam realisieren sie ein ehrgeiziges Vorhaben: den Bau einer 55 […]

gunnercooke unterstützt als Sponsor bedeutendes Solarenergie-Event in Berlin

Das alljährlich in Berlin stattfindende Forum Solar PLUS hat sich in den vergangenen Jahren zu einem entscheidenden Treffpunkt für die Solarenergiebranche etabliert. Das breite Themenspektrum reicht von Solartechnologien und -trends bis zu politischen und überpolitischen Entwicklungen sowie Nachhaltigkeitszielen, wodurch eine Vielzahl von Experten aus verschiedenen Disziplinen zusammenkommt. Dieser interdisziplinäre Ansatz verspricht einen wertvollen und facettenreichen […]

Welche Rechte haben Sie als Zeugnisempfänger/in? (Teil 6)

Für Empfänger/Empfängerinnen ist das Thema Arbeitszeugnis nicht immer leicht verständlich. In dieser Serie geht gunnercooke Partner für Arbeitsrecht Dr. Karsten Umnuß näher auf einzelne Aspekte von Arbeitszeugnissen ein und gibt hier einen kurzen Überblick über das, was Ihnen als Mitarbeiter/Mitarbeiterin rechtlich eigentlich zusteht. Wenn Sie sich weiter über dieses Thema informieren möchten und zusätzliche Tipps […]

Als Anwältin mit Doppelqualifikation

“Die Flexibilität, maßgeschneiderte Lösungen auf Augenhöhe anzubieten” Elzbieta Burzynski, Partnerin für Commercial, Transport & Employment Law bei gunnercooke, ist sowohl in Deutschland als auch in Polen als Anwältin zugelassen. Sie hat ihre Zulassung als Anwältin (radca prawny) in Polen bereits im Jahr 2011 erhalten und erweiterte ihre Qualifikation im Jahr 2021 um die Zulassung als […]

gunnercooke und Future Planet Capital veranstalten inspirierende Podiumsdiskussion zu ESG und Investment

In Kooperation mit Future Planet Capital veranstaltet die internationale Challenger-Kanzlei gunnercooke am 14. September eine inspirierende Podiumsdiskussion in der eindrucksvollen Brewers‘ Hall im Herzen von London. An der Veranstaltung nahmen angesehene Persönlichkeiten aus den Bereichen Banking & Finance, Investment und Nachhaltigkeit teil, darunter Experten für das ESG-Datenmanagement. Die Veranstaltung bot den Teilnehmern die Gelegenheit, in […]

Aus der eigenen Praxis: Die Kosten eines Liebesbetrugs?

Mit der zunehmenden Anzahl von Online-Dating-Plattformen und florierenden Vermittlungsdiensten wächst gleichzeitig die Gefahr von Ausbeutung und Betrug. Dies geschieht, weil potenzielle Partner, auch aus der Ferne, in einer gewissen Anonymität des digitalen Raums agieren können. Doch wie können solche schwer zu fassenden Betrüger, die sich im virtuellen Umfeld oder gar im Ausland verbergen, rechtlich zur […]

Dr. Dirk Hamann führt inspirierenden Dialog zur Regenerativen Wirtschaft an

Hamburg, August 2023. gunnercooke, eine führende internationale Challenger-Kanzlei, freut sich Dr. Dirk Hamann als neuen Partner in Deutschland seit Juli begrüßen zu dürfen. Dirk Hamann bringt nicht nur eine beeindruckende Fachkompetenz und Erfahrung in unser Team, sondern auch eine leidenschaftliche Verpflichtung zur Förderung einer nachhaltigen Zukunft. In seiner Rolle als Vorstandsmitglied des deutschen Zweigs des […]

gunnercooke Germany wins at 2023 FinTech Awards

Wealth & Finance magazine has revealed the winners of this year’s FinTech Awards with gunnercooke Germany picking up the award for Best Commodity Finance Law Firm. The financial sector is continuing to see an overwhelming need for cutting-edge digital technology in today’s age. In its seventh year, this awards programme exists to showcase businesses and […]

Erbschaftssteuer: Verfassungsmäßigkeit in der Diskussion

Die Frage der Verfassungsmäßigkeit der Erbschaftssteuer hat in jüngster Zeit erhebliche Aufmerksamkeit erregt. Insbesondere ein kürzlich ergangenes Urteil des Bundesfinanzhofs (BFH) sowie die darauffolgende Rechtsentwicklung werfen wichtige Fragen auf, die eine tiefgründige Analyse und umfassende Aufklärung erfordern. Wie könnten sich die Erbschaftssteuerregelungen in Deutschland ändern? Unsere gunnercooke-Expertin für Deutsches Steuerrecht, Antje Krause, beleuchtet den Fall […]

Eintritt eines erfahrenen Experten: Dirk Hamann stärkt das Team als herausragender Corporate/M&A und Finance-Anwalt

Berlin, 1. Juli 2023. Wir freuen uns bekannt zu geben, dass Dirk Hamann als neuer Partner unser Team verstärkt. Mit über 30 Jahren Erfahrung in den Bereichen Corporate/M&A und Finance-Anwalt bringt er eine beeindruckende Expertise und Fachkenntnisse in verschiedenen Industriesektoren mit. Dirk Hamann verfügt über umfassende Erfahrung in den Bereichen Energie und Infrastruktur, Transport/Logistik, Immobilien, Kapitalmarktrecht, Fonds, […]

gunnercooke verstärkt internationales Finance & Crypto Team

Ernennung von vier neuen Partnern Berlin, Mai 2023. Die internationale Anwaltskanzlei gunnercooke hat ihre Expertise im Bereich Finanzdienstleistungen und Kryptowährungen durch die Einstellung der deutschen Partner Sebastian Förste und Anthony Tur sowie Will Foulkes und Gareth Malna in Großbritannien gestärkt und erweitert. Dr. Wolfgang Richter, Managing Partner von gunnercooke Deutschland und Experte im Bereich FinTech […]

Erweiterung für gunnercookes Transportrecht-Team

Drei Neuzugänge in Hamburg Berlin, Mai 2023. Die internationale Anwaltskanzlei gunnercooke hat ihr Transport-Team um Alexander Werner in Hamburg mit Elzbieta Burzynksi als Partnerin sowie Steffen Hasselberg und Karolina Arciszewska als Legal Counsel erweitert. Die drei Experten schließen sich dem wachsenden Transport-Team von gunnercooke Partner Alexander Werner in Hamburg an und bieten somit eine umfassende […]

Fairer Wettbewerb oder nicht?

Der Deutsche Gesetzgeber erschuf mit dem Gesetz gegen den unlauteren Wettbewerb (UWG) ein Instrument zur Regulierung des Wettbewerbsverhaltens der Unternehmen auf dem deutschen Markt, um einen fairen Marktplatz für Ideen zu schaffen. Nichtsdestotrotz kommt es regelmäßig zu Verstößen gegen dieses Gesetz. Als ursprünglich die ersten Unternehmen begannen sich eigene Webseiten und ähnliches zuzulegen, wurde häufig […]

2 Jahre gunnercooke Germany

“Eine Kombination aus Unternehmergeist und dem Wunsch nach flexibler Zusammenarbeit im internationalen Kontext” Dr. Wolfgang Richter ist Managing Partner von gunnercooke Germany und hat kürzlich das zweite Jahr der Kanzlei in Deutschland gefeiert. In diesem Interview reflektiert er über die ersten zwei Jahre und erläutert die Fortschritte, die die Kanzlei in dieser Zeit erzielt hat. […]

5 faule Tricks bei der Zeugnisausstellung, die Sie als Mitarbeiter/in erkennen können (Teil 5)

Leider ist nicht immer darauf Verlass, dass jeder Arbeitgeber/jede Arbeitgeberin sich Mühe bei der Gestaltung eines Zeugnisses gibt. Doch wie können Sie als Empfänger/Empfängerin erkennen, ob ihr Zeugnis (absichtlich) schädlich für Ihre Karriere verfasst wurde? gunnercooke Partner Dr. Karsten Umnuß ein Experte im Arbeitsrecht und gibt in dieser Zeugnisserie anhand seines gemeinsam mit Dr. Thorsten Knobbe & […]

CBDC: Logischer Schritt oder überflüssig?

El Salvador hat bereits den Bitcoin als offizielles Zahlungsmittel eingeführt, China testet aktuell den E-Yuan und auch die Europäische Zentralbank untersucht die mögliche Einführung eines digitalen Euros. Kryptowährungen wie Bitcoin oder Ether sind nicht von Zentralbanken ausgegeben und deshalb kein offizielles Zahlungsmedium wie der Euro oder US-Dollar. Daher stellen sich Experten in Bezug auf die […]

Was müssen Sie rechtlich als Zeugnisaussteller oder Zeugnisausstellerin beachten? (Teil 4)

In Bezug auf Arbeitszeugnisse herrschen in jedem Land andere gesetzliche Regelungen und verbindliche Gepflogenheiten. Wenn Sie also in Deutschland für eine Zeugnisausstellung verantwortlich sind, ist es hilfreich zu wissen, was Sie rechtlich beachten müssen. In dieser sechsteiligen Serie gibt gunnercooke Partner Dr. Karsten Umnuß anhand seines gemeinsam mit Dr. Thorsten Knobbe & Dr. Mario Leis verfassten Buches Arbeitszeugnisse für […]

Nordirland-Protokoll – Beginn eines neuen Kapitels?

Lange wurde damals im Rahmen der Austrittsgespräche zwischen der EU und dem Vereinigten Königreich über den Verlauf der Zollgrenzen verhandelt. Sehr früh schon war allen Beteiligten klar, dass ein Austrittsabkommen die besonderen Umstände auf der irischen Insel zu berücksichtigen hat. Das Karfreitagsabkommen aus dem Jahr 1998, wonach eine „harte Grenze“ zwischen Nordirland und der Republik […]

MiCAR: So wird die Kryptobranche fit für die Zukunft

Nachdem die europäische Finanzlandschaft viele Jahre zersplittert war und in nahezu jedem Staat andere Regelungen für die Kryptobranche galten, wird bald die „Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation“ (MiCAR) in Kraft treten und ab Mitte 2024 die stark differenzierende Gesetzgebung in Bezug auf Kryptowerte beenden. Inhalte und Geltungsbereich Das Gesetzeswerk greift bestehende Regularien wie die ProspektVO oder […]

EU-Richtlinie sorgt für weitreichende Änderungen im Arbeitsrecht

Alles neu, alles anders? Seit August 2022 gelten neue Vorschriften im Hinblick auf die Gestaltung von Arbeitsverträgen. Rechtsanwalt Paul-Benjamin Gashon über die neuen Pflichten der Arbeitgeber und die Mindestanforderungen an Arbeitsverträge. Mit den neuen Vorschriften setzte die Bundesregierung die sogenannte Arbeitsbedingungenrichtlinie der EU (2019/1152) und deren Vorgaben zur Förderung von transparenten und vorhersehbaren Beschäftigungsverhältnissen in […]

Mehr Sicherheit für Whistleblower

Das neue Hinweisgeberschutzgesetz, das 2023 in Kraft treten soll, wird den Schutz von Personen regeln, die im Rahmen ihrer beruflichen Tätigkeit Informationen über Verstöße erlangt haben. Gleichzeitig soll ein verbesserter Hinweisgeberschutz mit den Interessen von Unternehmen und öffentlicher Verwaltung in Einklang gebracht werden, sodass bürokratische Belastungen überschaubar bleiben. Und anders als oft gedacht, kann das […]

Die größten Stolperfallen bei Stellenanzeigen

Früher oder später befindet sich jedes Unternehmen auf der Suche nach neuen Mitarbeitern. Dementsprechend gehören Jobangebote zum Alltag – auf die leichte Schulter sollten die Verantwortlichen sie jedoch nicht nehmen, rät ein Fachanwalt für Arbeitsrecht. “Was genau eine Stellenausschreibung beinhalten muss, ist nicht verbindlich festgelegt”, betont Paul-Benjamin Gashon, Rechtsanwalt der Großkanzlei gunnercooke. “Unabhängig von den […]

Krypto-Handel: So gelingt der rechtlich abgesicherte Einstieg

Aktienfonds waren gestern, heute kaufen Experten wie Laien gerne Krypto. Doch während Fans der digitalen Handelsware die hohen Gewinnmargen feiern, sehen viele Anleger eher die Risiken – die aufgrund starker Kursschwankungen offensichtlich sind. Wie Interessierte vorgehen können. Inzwischen gebe es Tausende von sogenannten Token, also die Krypto-Einheiten, die Blockchain basiert gehandelt werden können, erläutert Wolfgang […]

Wie Hausbesitzer ihre Erben vor Zahlungen schützen

Von Antje Krause & Thomas Schmidt. Schon zu Lebzeiten sein Hab und Gut verschenken? Diese Frage stellt sich vor allem älteren Mitmenschen mit einem gewissen Vermögen – hauptsächlich um ihren Erben im Falle des eigenen Ablebens hohe Steuerzahlungen zu ersparen. Im Jahr 2023 stehen durch eine Anpassung des Bewertungsgesetzes große Änderungen dazu an, denn obwohl […]

So profitieren Arbeitgeber von E-Mobility-Benefits

Eine steigende Anzahl der Bundesbürger kann sich vorstellen, ein mit Strom betriebenes Fahrzeug zu benutzen. Damit rückt das Thema auch für Unternehmen verstärkt in den Fokus. Sie möchten den Bedürfnissen ihrer Angestellten entgegenkommen und bieten zunehmend Mitarbeiterbenefits rund um E-Mobility an. Beachten die Unternehmen dabei die steuerlichen und gesetzlichen Rahmenbedingungen, kann sich das auch finanziell […]

Wissen vermitteln, Strafen vermeiden

Gesetze unterliegen einem ständigen Wandel. Gerade modernisierte die Regierung das Energiesicherungsgesetz von 1975, was besonders Unternehmen dazu zwingt, ihre Prozesse anzupassen. Sie müssen sich schließlich juristisch immer auf der sicheren Seite befinden, da Fehler weitreichende Konsequenzen nach sich ziehen können. Um alle relevanten Veränderungen aufgreifen und entsprechende Verhaltensmuster in ihrem Kollegium integrieren zu können, bieten […]

Kryptische Rechtslage? Das sollten Anleger wissen

Lange hatte es sich angekündigt, nun ist die Insolvenz der Krypto-Bank Nuri, ehemals Bitwala, offiziell. Begründet werden die Zahlungsschwierigkeiten mit der Coronapandemie, Verwerfungen am Kapitalmarkt durch den Ukraine-Krieg und dem generellen Einbruch des Kryptomarktes. Nuri ist bisher eines der ersten Fintechs, bei dem die bittere Konsequenz der Insolvenz von der Geschäftsführung gezogen werden musste. Doch […]

Lieferengpässe unterm Weihnachtsbaum

Für die Vorweihnachtsphase ist der Startschuss längst gefallen. Unbeeindruckt davon ist momentan noch die Kauflaune der Verbraucher, denn aufgrund steigender Energiepreise planen viele verständlicherweise keine großen Ausgaben. Und die Nachrichten über Materialknappheit, fehlende Weihnachtsware, Staus in Häfen und andere Corona-Folgeerscheinungen werfen zahlreiche rechtliche Fragen insbesondere zu möglichen Lieferverzögerungen auf. Können Weihnachtsshopper vom Kauf zurücktreten, wenn […]

Verantwortung made in Germany?

Von Felix Korten & Dirk Voges. Erschreckende Nachrichten über brennende Fabriken, zerstörte Regenwälder und furchtbare Arbeitsbedingungen in vermeintlich weit entfernten Ländern machen seit Jahren die Runde. Was jedoch häufig durch das Raster der Katastrophen-Berichterstattung fällt, ist die Frage nach der (Mit-)Verantwortung deutscher Unternehmen. Dabei sind hiesige Firmen direkt und indirekt an Menschenrechtsverletzungen im Ausland beteiligt. […]

NFTs : Boom or Bomb?

Von Wolfgang Richter & Felix Korten. Während Kryptowährungen in den vergangenen Jahren für Schlagzeilen sorgten, schlagen aktuell vor allem Berichte über sogenannte Non-Fungible Tokens, kurz NFTs, hohe Wellen. ETF-Sparpläne, Wertpapiere, Gold, Immobilien und Co. – für Privatanleger gibt es eine Vielzahl verschiedener Möglichkeiten, ihr Geld mit dem Ziel des Vermögensaufbaus zu investieren. Neben klassischen Optionen mischen […]

Wo Arbeitgeber diesen Winter Energie sparen dürfen – und wo nicht

Gasmangel, kalte Heizungen, steigende Energiepreise, finanzielle Strapazen – die kalte Jahreszeit wartet dieses Mal mit besonderen Herausforderungen auf, die sich nur mit Einsparungen bewältigen lassen. Auch die Regierung hat diesen Umstand bereits erkannt und beratschlagt über entlastende Maßnahmen vor allem für Unternehmen. „All dies stellt Firmen vor eine schwierige Aufgabe. Sie müssen ihren Gasverbrauch reduzieren, […]

Besserer Schutz für Hinweisgeber – Was bedeutet das für Unternehmen?

Am 09.05. hat der Vermittlungsausschuss einen Kompromiss zum Hinweisgeberschutzgesetz gefunden. Dieser Kompromiss enthält Änderungen zu den Meldewegen für anonyme Hinweise, zu Bußgeldern und zum Anwendungsbereich. Mit dem Inkrafttreten des Gesetzes ist jetzt im Juni 2023 zu rechnen.  Das soll für Unternehmen mit regelmäßig mehr als 50 Beschäftigten gelten, die durch das Gesetz zur Einrichtung einer […]

Achtung! 10 Dinge, die im Arbeitszeugnis nicht zu erwähnen sind (Teil 3)

Es ist nicht immer eindeutig, welche Aspekte des Beschäftigungsverhältnisses beim Verfassen eines Arbeitszeugnisses besser vermieden werden sollten. Da sind sich bei einigen Punkten selbst die Experten/Expertinnen nicht einig. gunnercooke Partner Dr. Karsten Umnuß befasst sich in dem gemeinsam mit Dr. Thorsten Knobbe und Dr. Mario Leis veröffentlichtem Buch Arbeitszeugnisse für Führungskräfte (Haufe Group, 2022) ausführlich mit diesem Thema. Die folgenden […]

An der Spitze der Transformation

Q&A mit Dirk Voges: Dirk ist seit 2022 Partner bei gunnercooke Germany. Mit über 25 Jahren Praxiserfahrung bietet er tiefgehende Expertise in den Bereichen Corporate, Energy und Compliance. Vor allem die moderne Kultur bei gunnercooke, jenseits der Hierarchien traditionellerer Kanzleien sprach ihn besonders an. Wir haben uns mit Dirk zusammengesetzt, um die Zukunft der Rechtsberatung zu […]

Fünf praktische Tipps für Zeugnisaussteller/ Zeugnisausstellerinnen (Teil 2)

Zeugnisse können für zukünftige berufliche Erfolge den Weg ebnen, oder aber sie erweisen sich als Stolpersteine. Da ist es nicht verwunderlich, dass beim Formulieren viel Unsicherheit aufkommen kann. gunnercooke Partner Dr. Karsten Umnuß ist ein Experte im Arbeitsrecht und verrät im gemeinsam mit Dr. Thorsten Knobbe & Dr. Mario Leis verfassten Buch Arbeitszeugnisse für Führungskräfte seine Tipps für […]

Als Frau in der Rechtsbranche

Als Partnerin bei gunnercooke – Antje Krause erzählt mehr: Q: Kannst du uns ein bisschen zu dir und deiner Praxis erzählen? Ich habe mich 2001 als Rechtsanwältin in eigener Kanzlei in Berlin selbständig gemacht. Als alleinerziehende Mutter wollte ich meine Arbeits- und Familienzeit frei gestalten, um flexibel zu bleiben. Die klassischen Arbeitszeiten, die in Anwaltskanzleien […]

10 häufige Irrtümer bei Arbeitszeugnissen (Teil 1)

Tipps & Tricks für Arbeitszeugnisse Egal ob Arbeitgeber/Arbeitgeberin oder Mitarbeiter/Mitarbeiterin, Arbeitszeugnisse können durch ihre rechtlichen Aspekte für beide Seiten eine große Herausforderung darstellen.  gunnercooke Partner für Arbeitsrecht, Dr. Karsten Umnuß, klärt gemeinsam mit Dr. Thorsten Knobbe und Dr. Mario Leis in ihrer Veröffentlichung Arbeitszeugnisse für Führungskräfte ein paar häufige Irrtümer auf und zeigt in dieser Serie, wie auch […]

What would life be like in a Security Token Economy? – A Crypto Series, Part 3

With the rapid development of infrastructures and handling of blockchain-based tokens, our communities are acclimatising to the notion of having multiple parallel token payment structures outside our traditional currencies, which can be combined with participation structures. But this unprecedented shift in perception of how we set up participations and make payments poses an important question […]

Money vs. Blockchain: Where could society be heading? – A Crypto Series, Part 1

With rapid and innovative developments in token-related structures, our concept of money and payment is changing. Currencies outside our traditional structures can allow for a variety of benefits. But how could the introduction of parallel alternative renumeration methods transform our society and the way we connect money to potential futures and employment? Based on the […]

“Die Freiheit eines Freiberuflers in Kombination mit der Professionalität einer Großkanzlei”

Ein Jahr später – Partner Dirk Voges über sein erstes Jahr bei gunnercooke: Q: Kannst du uns ein bisschen zu dir und deiner Praxis erzählen? Von Haus bin ich Gesellschaftsrechtler, mein Hauptaugenmerk liegt aber ganz klar im Bereich Energie, insbesondere Erneuerbare Energien. Aus diesem Grund ist es für mich erfreulich, dass es bei gunnercooke Germany […]

Getty Images vs. Stability AI: Millionenfache Urheberrechtsverletzung?

Zusammen mit einer Gruppe Künstlerinnen klagte das britisch-amerikanische Unternehmen Getty Images am 16/17. Januar 2023 gegen das KI-Unternehmen Stability AI.   Der Fall? Es geht dabei um die Behauptung, Stability AI habe millionenfach urheberrechtlich geschützte Bilder und die dazugehörigen Metadaten unrechtmäßig aus der Getty Images Datenbank kopiert und somit gravierend gegen Urheberrechte verstoßen. Der Anlass […]

Fit for 55 & Abgaben an CO2 Importe – Was hat das miteinander zu tun?

Was zu Beginn des neuen Jahres 2023 klingt wie ein Fitnessprogramm für Menschen der geburtenstarken Jahrgänge oder der Werbespruch für ein Fitnessstudio, stellt sich bei näherer Betrachtungsweise als ein Fitnessprogramm für die europäische Klima- und Energiepolitik her, das von der EU in Umsetzung des Pariser Klimaabkommens von 2015 am 14. Juli 2021 vorgestellt und beschlossen […]

Register of Overseas Interests: Wen betreffen die rechtlichen Änderungen für Immobilienbesitz im Vereinigten Königreich?

Gesetzesänderungen: Sind Ihre UK-Immobilien gesichert? Im März 2022 wurde im Kampf gegen die Wirtschaftskriminalität im Vereinigten Königreich nach einer langen Wartezeit der sogenannte „Economic Crime (Transparency and Enforcement) Act“ eingeführt. Betroffen davon sind: Zu den neuen Maßnahmen des Economic Crime Acts gehören: Ab August 2022 traten weitere wichtige Änderungen dessen in Kraft. Wie sehen diese […]

Remote Working: ein sich ändernder Arbeitsalltag

Die Arbeitswelt hat sich in den letzten Jahren, beschleunigt durch die Corona-Pandemie, grundlegend gewandelt. Es hat sich gezeigt, dass der gelebte Arbeitsalltag mit festen Arbeitszeiten, Anwesenheitspflicht im Büro usw. in den meisten Fällen nicht zwingend notwendig und oft unproduktiver war als es die neuen Arbeitsmodelle sind. Mit rasanter Geschwindigkeit haben sich viele Arbeitnehmer an diese […]

Drum prüfe, wer sich bindet:Millionenfache Urheberrechtsverletzung?

Wir wurden von einem Startup beauftragt, eine Unternehmensakquisition auf Käuferseite zu begleiten. Gesellschaftsrechtlich lag der Fall recht einfach, es ging um den Kauf von Anteilen an einer profitablen Gesellschaft bürgerlichen Rechts (GbR) mit einem scheinbar großen Kundenstamm. Die Parteien waren sich über die wesentlichen Eckpunkte der Transaktion einig. Auf Grund der durchgängig positiven Geschäftszahlen und […]

Syndikusrechtsanwalt – Interim Counsel – externe Rechtsabteilung – ja, was nun?

Die Frage, ob ein Unternehmen sich für die Beschäftigung eines Inhouse Juristen entscheidet oder für eine externe Rechtsabteilung, hängt von verschiedenen Faktoren ab. Wesentlich sind dabei die Anforderungen an Erfahrung und Fachwissen. Für die Überbrückung von Zeiträumen bis ca. 18 Monaten kommt auch die Beratung durch einen Interim Counsel in Betracht. Was muss ein Syndikusanwalt können? […]

Tax CMS – das gunnercooke-Konzept

Das Verbandsstaatengesetz ist zwar vorerst vom Tisch, doch muss sich jedes Unternehmen weiterhin die Frage stellen, ob es die Erfüllung der deutschen und aller anderen von ihm zu beachtenden internationalen steuerrechtlichen Pflichten materiell richtig und fristgerecht sicherstellt. Mit dem gunnercooke-Konzept implementieren wir nicht nur ein funktionsfähiges Tax CMS in Ihrem Unternehmen. Wir sorgen durch unser […]

Wissenstransfer-Konzepte in der Rechtsberatung

Anwaltliche Beratung anders gestalten heißt für uns, über den Tellerrand hinaus zu schauen, das große Ganze zu sehen. Für uns ist es selbstverständlich, rechtliche Projekte in den Gesamtzusammenhang zu bringen. Die Verbindung von Recht mit Bildung ist daher für uns naheliegend. Die anwaltliche Tätigkeit in Unternehmen, in Organisationen, in der Regierung befasst sich regelmäßig mit […]

Was sage ich den Erwerbern von Token, wann und wie sie ihr Investment versilbern können?

Alle Investoren, die klassische Equity-Beteiligungen an einem Unternehmen halten, wissen, wie sie ihre Investition versilbern können: Sie müssen selbst, gegebenenfalls über die Einschaltung eines Vertrieblers, einen Käufer für ihre Beteiligung finden (und dabei mögliche Verkaufsbeschränkungen – Zustimmungsvorbehalte, Vorkaufsrechte, drag-along, tag-along Regeln etc. beachten). Eine Token-Finanzierung bietet neue Möglichkeiten: Ich kann meinen Token auf einer sog. […]

Was spricht für eine Kapitalbeschaffung über eine Token-Finanzierung durch ein Genussrecht statt über eine traditionelle Equity-Beteiligung?

Jeder Investor kennt die Equity-Beteiligung, sei es an einer GmbH, AG, Limited oder was immer die jeweilige Rechtsform ist. Es besteht ein generelles Verständnis über Mitspracherechte, über die Vereinbarung zustimmungspflichtiger Geschäfte, über die grundsätzlichen Exit-Möglichkeiten aus der Investition. Einen Exit über ein Listing auf einer (traditionellen) Börse ist eine feine Perspektive, aber wenn das eine […]

Warum ist Token-Finanzierung das nächste große Ding?

Kapitalbeschaffung: Token-Finanzierung oder Verkauf von Gesellschafts-Anteilen? Der Mega-Trend der „Tokenization of Everything” führt unweigerlich zur Möglichkeit der Tokenisierung der Kapitalbeschaffung eines Unternehmens. Dies kann im Hinblick auf ein konkretes Projekt erfolgen, also die Tokenisierung einer Projekt- oder Asset-Finanzierung. Alternativ kommt auch die Tokenisierung einer Unternehmensfinanzierung in Betracht. Die Einräumung von Teilhabe- und Vermögensrechten ist dabei […]

Verschärfung der Meldepflichten zum Transparenzregister – nun wird es Zeit!

Warum wird es nun Zeit? Bis zum 30. Juni 2022 müssen alle Unternehmen in der Rechtsform Gesellschaften mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH), Genossenschaften, Partnerschaften und Unternehmergesellschaften (haftungsbeschränkt) die Angaben zu ihrem wirtschaftlich Berechtigten im Transparenzregister zwingend vervollständigt haben. Für Unternehmen in der Rechtsform eingetragene Personengesellschaften wie GmbH & Co. KG und Kommanditgesellschaften (KG), Stiftungen und alle […]

The Features of a Security Token Economy – A Crypto Series, Part 2

In our previous instalments, we examined why the introduction of token-based structures as participation and renumeration methods alongside our traditional currencies and participation tools could bring a variety of benefits, not least of all in the fight against unemployment (or free capacity, as we have chosen to name it in this context). But what would need […]

Fristlos kündigen – wie funktioniert’s?

Jobverlust, Sperrzeit beim Arbeitslosengeld und Probleme bei künftigen Bewerbungen? Eine fristlose Kündigung hat für betroffene Beschäftigte oft massive Folgen. Kein Wunder, dass der Gesetzgeber hohe Hürden setzt, damit eine solche außerordentliche Beendigung des Arbeitsverhältnisses rechtlich Gültigkeit besitzt. Paul-Benjamin Gashon, Fachanwalt für Arbeitsrecht bei der Großkanzlei gunnercooke, verrät, was das konkret bedeutet. Was ist eigentlich eine […]

Das große Comeback – Schiedsverfahren gegen eine in Not geratene oder insolvente Partei

Mit der Zunahme von Rechtsstreitigkeiten im Zusammenhang mit Covid-19 und den Auswirkungen des Virus auf die Weltwirtschaft leiden viele Unternehmen in diesen schwierigen Zeiten und viele Unternehmen sind insolvent oder drohen insolvent zu werden. In the UK, a company will generally be considered to be insolvent if: i) it is unable to pay its debts […]

Vermieter und Mieter: Vom Überleben zum Gedeihen

Informieren Sie sich unten über unser neuestes Webinar im Bereich Hospitality. ​Nach einem turbulenten Jahr im Gastgewerbe und im Einzelhandel betrachten viele Unternehmen dieser Branche die temporären Maßnahmen, die sie zum Überleben verwendet haben, und überlegen, ob sie sie in dauerhafte Veränderungen umwandeln, um erfolgreich zu sein In this discussion gunnercooke Partners and Legal Counsel […]

Das Krümelmonster zähmen

Wie viele Websites haben Sie besucht, auf denen Sie sofort mit dieser Popup-Meldung konfrontiert werden – “Durch die Nutzung unserer Website stimmen Sie der Verwendung von Cookies zu. Weitere Informationen finden Sie in unserer Datenschutzerklärung“? The exact wording varies from site to site, of course. Some of them provide a big green button marked “Accept” […]

Der stille Killer

Die vielleicht größte gesundheitliche Herausforderung, der wir uns in den nächsten fünfzig Jahren gegenübersehen werden, ist die Einsamkeit. Es wird auf Augenhöhe mit Fettleibigkeit sein. Tatsächlich zeigt die Forschung, dass es doppelt so schädlich ist wie Fettleibigkeit, von der wir alle jetzt wissen, dass sie ein tödlicher Killer ist. Obesity is obvious and its physical manifestation […]

Veranstaltung: So holen Sie das Beste aus Ihren rechtlichen und professionellen Dienstleistungen heraus

Kauf von juristischen und professionellen Dienstleistungen – jetzt gibt es eine Herausforderung!! Dienstag, 8. Juni | 14:00 – 15:00 Uhr | Zoomen Hier anmelden Machen sie wirklich noch Stundenzettel? Autsch – hat es das wirklich gekostet? Warum habe ich nie das Gefühl, einen Wert zu bekommen? Wo ist der Partner geblieben?They make no effort to […]

Wiederherstellungsdarlehensplan

Was ist es? Das RLS soll Unternehmen helfen, nach der Pandemie und der Übergangszeit wieder auf die Beine zu kommen, sich zu erholen und zu wachsen, und bietet Unternehmen jeder Größe Kredite und andere Arten von Finanzierungen. When did it launch? 06 April 2021 When does the scheme end? 31 December 2021, subject to review […]

gunnercooke set to challenge legal market in Scotland

gunnercooke has announced its launch in Scotland, with new offices in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and with Simon Etchells as its first appointment at its new Scottish practice, gunnercooke SCO LLP. The launch comes with a huge recruitment drive for the firm, who hope to attract talented lawyers across Scotland to join its team. The firm […]

Pure Pet Food receives second multi-million pound deal as pet ownership booms

Yorkshire brand Pure Pet Food has secured another multi-million pound private equity investment, advised by challenger law firm gunnercooke.   The additional deal with NPIF HTV Equity LP and also Mercia Fund Management Limited follows another sizeable deal for the brand with NVM Private Equity, handled by gunnercooke Corporate Partner Asad Ali two years ago.  Pure […]

Making for the Exit

Those public bodies lucky enough to have benefitted from the Private Finance Initiative (PFI) (the Conservative party infrastructure scheme later adopted and greatly expanded by the Blair and Brown governments) will inevitably at some stage need to plan for the expiry of their PFI contract. For those public bodies that were in the first wave […]

Intellectual Property Readiness Checklist

There are many different considerations for businesses with regards to intellectual property, including registered and unregistered rights and various strategies such as anti-counterfeiting. gunnercooke Partner Rosie Burbidge has created a comprehensive checklist for IP readiness, so you can ensure your brand is prepared for every eventuality when it comes to trademark disputes.

The Great Comeback: top 5 books on mindset

From the principles of agile management and leading through crisis, to remote leadership and finding meaning in both work and life, we have collated our Comeback Mindset reading recommendations. Remember – the comeback is always better than the setback. Happy reading! The age of Agile: How Smart Companies Are Transforming the Way Work Gets Done […]

Lessons from Great Comebacks: Marvel Comics – the superhero of the Comeback world

Every great superhero story features a ‘darkest hour’, and for Marvel Comics, that came in the Winter of 1996. The company had grown throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s – with heroes like The Amazing Spiderman and The Fantastic Four as prized possessions in many homes. But more and more, the comics were becoming collector’s […]

A look at Climate Change, Sustainability and Fashion

A webinar hosted by TMA Europe and gunnercooke The Panellists Rashmi Dube – gunnercooke Partner in Corporate Governance & Litigation Clare Press – Presenter, the Wardrobe Crisis podcast, Producer & Co-Presenter of the UN’s Ethical Fashion podcast Marina Bradford – Sustainability consultant & founder of Bemari, a B-Corp certified impact & circularity consultancy Andrew Griffiths – Director, Community & […]

Event – Harnessing the power of data: inside and outside the Boardroom

SIGN UP HERE. COVID-19 has set off the largest wave of digital and analytics transformation in history! The pandemic has accelerated digitization, e-commerce adoption, and a shift to remote working by 5-10 years. Businesses have post lockdown, moved to the use of remote collaboration tools (such as videoconferencing) and set up online customer interactions, made investment in […]

5 Tips for bouncing back with UK Hospitality

As the hospitality industry opens its doors for the first time this year, gunnercooke would like to wish everyone in the sector good luck.  We are a proud partner of UK Hospitality, the leading trade association supporting hospitality businesses across the UK.  In support of our clients and UK Hospitality members, our Partners have shared […]

Event – Beyond Brexit: An Immigration Perspective

10am – 11am | Tuesday 11th May | Zoom SIGN UP HERE Immigration remains a hot topic in policy making and since the start of 2021, the changes due to Brexit have become evident. But they don’t need to be impossible to face.  The United Kingdom is no longer part of the European Union therefore […]

Event – Landlord and Tenant: From Surviving to Thriving

10am – 11am | Wednesday 5th May | Zoom SIGN UP HERE After a turbulent year in hospitality and retail, many businesses in this sector are looking at the temporary measures they used to survive and considering whether they turn them into permanent changes to thrive.  They are now facing many questions on how to […]

The Great Comeback – Disclosure Pilot Scheme 2.0

With the extension of the Disclosure Pilot Scheme (“DPS”) until 31 December 2021 came amendments to the scheme to address feedback received from practitioners by the Disclosure Working Group (DWG).  Governed by Practice Direction 51U (PD 51U), the DPS has been operating in the Business and Property Courts since 1 January 2019 and was introduced […]

Smart Works helps 315 unemployed women through pandemic and joins the gunnercooke foundation to support its endeavours

Smart Works Greater Manchester charity has successfully helped hundreds of unemployed women despite the challenges of the pandemic, benefitting from joining the gunnercooke foundation support network during last year. Smart Works help unemployed women to ‘get the clothes, get the confidence, get the job’, relieving the financial hardship of unemployment through the promotion of economic […]

The Great Comeback Series – Bouncing Back to Happiness (or are we?)

Probably. But that depends on your perspective. And happiness, like all things in life except death and taxes, is a matter of degree. Those of us who have operated in the distressed business environment for over 30 years have heard it said many times before: you are very soon going to be so busy. But it has […]

Islamic Family Law – What you need to know

In this webinar gunnercooke Partner Siddique Patel discusses Islamic family law, how it works in practice, an overview of the terminology and the key issues you should be aware of.  You can catch up on the full discussion in the below video, where Siddique answers questions including:

Vision & Strategy – family business webinar

Within a family business, the need for clarity and consensus is more important than ever and although the process of creating such a position can be painful, the benefits are clear for all to see. Join our highly expericienced gunnercooke Operating Partners for this session where they will take you through a structured approach to help you […]

Telecommunications Infrastructure (Leasehold Property) ACT 2021 Receives Royal Assent

The aim of this Act is to help accelerate the delivery of fast, reliable and secure broadband networks.  It was given Royal Assent on 15 March 2021 but is not yet in force.  The aim of the Act is to make it easier to install broadband infrastructure in tenanted property and applies where a consent has […]

More than a lawyer

I love law and enjoy being a lawyer.  But it’s not enough to simply be a lawyer anymore. Businesses need much more. They need a trusted advisor, someone who understands the market in their sector, their challenges, their competitors, the ins and outs of how their business works and even understand the people within their organisations.  […]

The Great Comeback – Anti-suit Injunctions

The English anti-suit injunction had once been a powerful tool in English litigation for claimants. It was an order issued by a court or arbitral tribunal that prevents an opposing party from commencing or continuing a proceeding in another jurisdiction or forum.    There are many reasons a party may wish to obtain an anti-suit injunction […]

Landlord & Tenant Update (What have the Government done now…)

On the10 March 2021, the Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick, at a press conference announced an updated package of measures to support business owners and residential tenants. I have outlined below the key proposals: Business Leases Residential Leases If you require any further assistance in relation to a business or residential tenancy, please contact Claire-Elaine.Arthurs@gunnercooke.com .

Ready for the Children’s Code?

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) Children’s Code on data processing sets out 15 ‘standards’ which data controllers and processors will have to adhere to in six months’ time (2nd September 2021). The objective behind the Code is to enhance the protection of children’s data online. Children need protecting even more than adults, of course. They are vulnerable. Data […]

Navigating the Covid 19 Grant Schemes

There are now numerous Covid19-driven grant schemes in existence. These are intended to provide financial support to organisations operating in the different businesses sectors. This is obviously good news. Increasingly, though, clients are experiencing difficulties both in terms of (a) understanding how to complete the grant applications and (b) challenging or successfully complaining about the […]

TAX BRIEFING NOTE

SDLT surcharge for non-UK resident buyers of residential property From 1 April 2021, non-resident purchasers of residential property in England and Northern Ireland will pay a 2% surcharge on top of all rates of Stamp Duty Land Tax. This is a further measure in an already overcrowded set of SDLT rules. The surcharge applies to […]

Could we see negative interest rates?

We now live in the world of very low interest rates and some financial commentators think we may even enter the realms of negative bank interest rates. What will happen if a Bank Loan to a customer is also linked to an interest rate swap? The floor on the swap could typically be a zero-interest […]

Women in Business Event: Challenge, Change & Coronavirus, where are we now?

International Women’s Day, 8th March 2021 Where are we now and what are the new challenges we face in a remote working environment? If you missed our event and want to catch up, view our recording or write-up below. Panellists Thalis Vlachos – gunnercooke Partner and advocate for the Women in Business campaign. Rashmi Dube […]

The Great Comeback Series: Commercial Lease Negotiations – What Now?

The government has announced our return to normality this summer, meaning an inevitable end at some point soon to the various support packages – the most relevant for the commercial lettings market being furlough (which has just seen what is probably its final extension in the budget) and the protection of tenants from eviction.   This […]

The Great Comeback Series: Future gazing in a time of global crisis – IP insights

There is no doubt that we are living through an unstable time. The pandemic has changed daily life for everyone. Politics are far from stable – this impacts many things, not least international trade. The origins of established brands are coming under the microscope. The economic good times (such as they were in the wake […]

The Great Comeback Podcast: Top Tips for Securing Litigation Funding

As we look towards a future where we can meet with friends, drink in bars, exercise in groups and travel to far off lands – the coming years will be the Great Comeback of our time, and we want to explore what this might look like for our clients and their businesses. The Great Comeback […]

The Great Comeback Series – what do the coming years look like for business?

As we look towards a future where we can meet with friends, drink in bars, exercise in groups and travel to far off lands – the coming years will be the Great Comeback of our time, and we want to explore what this might look like for our clients and their businesses. Over the coming […]

Business Interruption Insurance – what do you need to know?

The Supreme Court recently delivered its judgment in the business interruption test case brought by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and has substantially allowed the appeal on behalf of policyholders.  The new judgement is weighted towards policyholders. So, what are the key things you should know about the new ruling and how it affects claims […]

Compulsory COVID testing at work

There have been a number of recent press reports which have suggested that businesses may introduce policies which require their employees, or prospective employees on recruitment, to have the COVID vaccine. This has been described as “no jab no job” and businesses leaders such as Pimlico Plumbers CEO, Charlie Mullins have already said that they […]

EU-UK Data Transfers – A Step Nearer to Normal

We’ve all been waiting with bated breath to see whether the EU will allow EU-to-UK data transfers to enjoy the pre-Brexit freedoms we have all become used to. The journey isn’t over yet but the Commission has just published a draft ‘Decision’ which, if approved by both the European Data Protection Board (which will need […]

No Jab – No Job – No Chance

I was interested to read a couple of recent press reports in which it was suggested that the Government had accepted that employers could insist on employees receiving the Covid vaccine prior to returning to work. I suspect that this may be part of a campaign to use the media to influence people to take […]

gunnercooke advises on acquisition of 20 pharmacy businesses

gunnercooke Healthcare Partner Mel Kang has advised Jhoots Chemist Ltd on a deal involving the acquisition of 20 pharmacies. The deal saw gunnercooke client Jhoots purchase multiple businesses across England and Wales from Lloyds Pharmacy.   Walsall-based Jhoots are an award-winning business and now own over 100 independent community pharmacies nationwide. Charlie Jhooty from Jhoots […]

The UK Government’s Proposals for its new State Aid Regime

HM Government  (HMG) published a consultation document on 3rd February on what will be a new UK- only subsidy control regime. The Government does not have an entirely free hand of course as it must continue to respect its obligations under the UK/EU Trade and Co-Operation Agreement (TCA) ; World Trade Organisation rules and other free trade agreements. […]

gunnercooke advises on acquisition of placemaking consultancy

Corporate Partner Matthew Searle at gunnercooke has advised on the acquisition of Fourth Street Place Consultants. gunnercooke acted for the sellers, Jim Roberts and Dan Anderson, and Pannone Corporate advised the buyer Place Capital Group. Fourth Street Place Consultants is a specialist placemaking consultancy. The business works with public and private sector clients involved in […]

Debt Moratoriums – More frustrations for the recovery of rent arrears from individuals?

As we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic there are many tenants, and others, with substantial debts. In some of these cases where an individual has a source of income, or will gain one, that can be used to pay the debts off in time, it may be possible for them to apply for a Debt […]

gunnercooke launches Midlands recruitment drive with launch of new Birmingham office

gunnercooke is launching a new recruitment drive for partners in the Midlands following the opening of its Birmingham office. Since its launch in 2010, the firm has expanded rapidly, through an active recruitment strategy dedicated to appointing senior lawyers across the UK.  The Midlands team has seen strong hires so far including Pensions Partner Helen […]

10 in 20: Legal Year in Review

On 5 November 2020 gunnercooke partner, Veronika Koroleva, presented at the TXF Global Commodity Finance 2020 conference. The session was a roundup of 10 biggest legal stories of the year affecting commodity finance business. It also included a few predictions of what to look out for in 2021.   The recording was made available courtesy of […]

gunnercooke launches Inspiring Leadership podcast series and invites industry leaders to get involved

gunnercooke has launched a new ‘Inspiring Leadership’ podcast, hosted by its Co-Founder Darryl Cooke and featuring guests including Damian Hughes, Hassan Damluji and John Timpson. The series aims to delve into the minds of successful businesspeople to understand what makes an inspiring leader. Insights include recipes for success, behaviours to model and practical tips from […]

New VAT changes on compensation payments for leases including dilapidations

HMRC has now issued draft guidance on its revised view of compensation, liquidated damages and early termination payments and now consider that most of these payments should be treated as further consideration for VAT purposes. Notably this includes dilapidation payments common at the end of commercial property leases, and which will now mostly be treated […]

Further Six Week Extension to Eviction Ban in England and Wales

As anticipated, with the eviction ban due to come to an end on Monday 11th January 2021, the Government announced on the afternoon of Friday 8th January 2021, again at the last minute, that the eviction ban will be extended in England for a further six weeks to 21st February 2021.   They also emphasised that they would keep the measures […]

Thinking of entering into an Overage Agreement?

What is Overage? Overage (also known as claw-back or uplift) is an agreement whereby the buyer of land will pay extra, on top of the purchase price, if and when certain ‘events’ occur which lead to an increase in the value of the land.  Typically, this would arise if planning permission is obtained for development, […]

Eviction Ban remains “under review”

The Prime Minister responded to a question from Labour Leader, Sir Kier Starmer in the House of Commons on 6 January 2021 stating that the eviction ban, due to come to an end next week, remains “under review”.   A ban on evictions was first introduced in March 2020 at the beginning of the Coronavirus outbreak […]

Pension Protection Fund: Levy for 2021/22

Shortly before the Christmas break, the Pension Protection Fund (“PPF”) published confirmation of certain key points, in advance of its full response to consultation on its levy for the year 2021/22.  The full levy conclusions and final rules are due in January 2021. Background The Pension Protection Fund replaces most of the benefits due to […]

Tales from the Tribunal: 10 Takeaways for Lawyers from the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal’s 2020 Decisions

I have acted in a number of Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) investigations over the years and understood how stressful and time-consuming they are for both the firm and the individuals involved. While many investigations are brought to a conclusion by the SRA, the most serious cases are referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT), an […]

Does the GDPR still apply to you?

Now that the post-Brexit Transition period has ended, organisations established in the UK will need to consider urgently whether their data processing activities mean that they are still subject to the GDPR. Although GDPR is EU law, not UK law, the GDPR does not just apply to organisations (ie controllers and processors) that are established […]

gunnercooke partner advises on sale of Card Geotechnics Limited

gunnercooke has advised on the acquisition of Surrey-based CGL (Card Geotechnics Limited) for an undisclosed sum. gunnercooke acted for CGL with Corporate Partner Kyri Papantoniou leading the transaction. Kyri specialises in M&A transactions and advised on the sale of the client’s business to CET Infrastructure, supported by Palatine Private Equity. Tax Partner Saad Ahmed also […]

gunnercooke advises Pets at Home Group Plc on £15m acquisition deal

gunnercooke has advised Pets at Home Group Plc on its acquisition of veterinary telehealth provider, The Vet Connection. The UK’s leading pet care business purchased the business, which offers veterinary telehealth advice, triage and ancillary services to customers and their pets, in a £15m deal this month. The deal was concluded in just four weeks […]

Further Extensions to the Restrictions on Commercial Property Forfeiture, CRAR and Insolvency Provisions

The Government announced yesterday, not unexpectedly, further extended the restrictions on commercial property forfeiture, CRAR and insolvency provisions from 31st December 2020 to 31st March 2021.  (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/business-evictions-ban-extended-until-march ) In a statement issued on 9th December 2020, Ministers Alok Sharma and Robert Jenrick announced a further extension to the Moratorium on Forfeiture for Non Payment of […]

gunnercooke advises on VeloSkin management buy-out

gunnercooke Restructuring & Insolvency Partner Chris Jones has advised on the acquisition of cycling skincare brand VeloSkin. Andrew Banks and Chris Iredale have bought out the company’s other partners, co-founders Chris and Tanya Bairstow along with minority shareholder Paul Roper, following a period of rapid growth for the brand.  Halifax-based VeloSkin’s Chamois Cream is now […]

gunnercooke wins UK Business of the Year at The Business Brilliance Awards

gunnercooke is delighted to be celebrating wins at the 2020 Business Brilliance Awards, taking home UK Business of the Year and Darryl Cooke achieving the gold award for Business Leader of the Year. The Business Brilliance Awards celebrate the success of leading companies across the UK and winners were revealed in a virtual ceremony on […]

How will Brexit affect Environmental Governance in the UK?

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect from 1st January 2020, Dr Anna Willetts, Environmental Crime Partner, looks at what is in store for environmental regulation. Just over a year ago, in October 2019, the government introduced the Environment Bill. Its purpose is to enhance and […]

Brexit’s impact on commercial contracts for UK businesses

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect come 1st January 2021, Partner Rebecca Kelly looks at the implications for UK businesses and their commercial contracts There are likely to be significant changes to certain commercial contracts come the 1st January 2021. In order to best understand […]

How will Brexit affect businesses that employ European workers?

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect come 1st January 2021, Partner Vitoria Nabas looks at the implications and considerations for UK businesses who employ European workers. With less than a month to go before the UK finally and formally leaves the EU at the end […]

Construction contracts and Brexit

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect come 1st January 2021, Construction Partner Alan Erwin looks at the implications and considerations for construction contracts. The UK left the European Union on 31 January 2020, but the full impact has not yet been felt. That will change after 31 December […]

How will Brexit impact trade marks and designs?

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect come 1st January 2021, Intellectual Property Partner, Rosie Burbidge, looks at the implications for trade marks and designs. EU trade marks Trade marks give the owner a monopoly in a particular word, logo or similar in relation to particular […]

How will Brexit affect data protection?

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect come 1st January 2021, Partner Tim Heywood looks at the implications and considerations for data protection. As if managers and business leaders did not have enough on their hands, 31st December is the deadline for taking some important legal […]

How will Brexit impact employment law? Laws are unlikely to change significantly, in the short term at least

In the latest of our series of articles on Brexit and the changes we can expect come 1st January 2021, Employment Partner Paul Menham looks at the implications for UK Employment Law and highlights any potential changes we may see. Whilst a good proportion of UK Employment Law emanates from the European Union, I do […]

gunnercooke welcomes 17 new partners over autumn period in huge recruitment drive

gunnercooke has bolstered its roster of partners with another 17 hires over the autumn months. The newest senior lawyers take the number of recruits up to 40 in 2020. The new joiners include London banking & finance partner, Paul Harrison, who moves to the firm from Taylor Wessing, and corporate partner Rebecca Holden from DLA […]

High court tells Trustees they must revisit past transfers

In another landmark judgment, given on Friday 20th November, Mr Justice Morgan told pension scheme trustees that they will need to revisit many past transfers out of their schemes made in the last 30 years – although possibly not in all circumstances. The decision is the third High Court judgment given in litigation over GMP […]

Further frustrations for Landlords seeking to evict or recover arrears

On 17th November 2020 the Public Health (Coronavirus) (Protection from Eviction and taking control of Goods) (England) Regulations 2020 came into force.  Essentially this puts a stop to the enforcement of possession orders and bailiffs recovery of good from domestic premises in England until after 11 January 2021. The run up to these regulations being issued is […]

The Pensions Regulator in the Pandemic Webinar

The pandemic has shown that the Pensions Regulator wants to give direction to employers and to schemes. This can be helpful, but is it also a sign of a more interventionist approach? The Pensions Regulator has a new Enforcement team, and is preparing for stronger powers from Parliament. What should you look out for as […]

Webinar – The Pension Regulator’s ‘new teeth’: where does this leave employers and trustees?

The pandemic has shown that the Pensions Regulator wants to give direction to employers and to schemes. This can be helpful, but is it also a sign of a more interventionist approach? The Pensions Regulator has a new Enforcement team and is preparing for stronger powers from Parliament. What should you look out for as […]

gunnercooke advises on Heptonstalls restructure

gunnercooke has advised on a series of transactions involving the acquisition and restructuring of Heptonstalls Solicitors. The restructure involved the acquisitions and sales of multiple legal businesses throughout 2020, beginning with the purchase of Midlands-based law firm, HH Legal, earlier this year. Yorkshire-based Heptonstalls Limited was acquired from Administrators in September by HH Legal, and […]

The secrets of the very best leaders: Jack Welch

What does it mean to be a great leader? It can sometimes feel like you need to have all of the answers yourself. Yet the most successful leaders are those who have an insatiable curiosity, a hunger for learning and who recognise that there are always lessons to be learned from others. In this series […]

Bank of Scotland Plc V Burnley Borough Council [2019] UKUT 370 (LC)

The facts Burnley Borough Council wished to acquire a property, subject to a mortgage in favour of the Bank of Scotland, under s.15 Compulsory Purchase Act 1965.  The property was in a state of disrepair and the valuation was significantly less than the mortgage.   The question was what was the correct sum the Council should […]

What the furlough?!

Following the announcement of a second national lockdown, Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, paused the launch of the Job Support Scheme (“JSS”) which was due to commence on 1 November and has instead extended the existing Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”). Whilst this has come as welcome news to many, this seemingly simplistic extension of the CJRS […]

Schrems II – What’s next?

Background In July we wrote an article reporting on the recent Schrems II judgement.  By way of a reminder, this was the successful legal challenge issued by Mr. Schrems against the US Privacy Shield framework for the transfer of personal data between the EU and the US.  The European Court of Justice (ECJ) agreed with […]

Leading Yorkshire family lawyer Siddique Patel makes move to gunnercooke

Top family lawyer Siddique Patel has joined leading challenger law firm gunnercooke as Partner. Moving to the firm from Shoosmiths LLP, he will bring a wealth of experience in family law, specialising in all areas of matrimonial work, including complex private law children, matrimonial finance and Islamic divorce. Siddique advises a diverse range of clients […]

gunnercooke wins Law Company of the Year at The Lawyer Awards

gunnercooke is delighted to have been awarded ‘Law Company of the Year’ at The Lawyer Awards 2020, having been shortlisted the previous year. The Lawyer Awards is organised by media publication The Lawyer and is the largest celebration of legal excellence in Europe. This year’s winners were revealed by host Dara O’Briain via a virtual […]

Relief from Forfeiture – The 6-month window of further frustration for Landlords

The recent case of Keshwala and Another -v- Bhalsod and Another [2020] EWHC 2372 (QB) has confirmed to both Landlords and Tenants that, provided an application for relief from forfeiture is brought within 6 months of the date of the forfeiture of the Lease, it will generally be treated as having been brought with “reasonable […]

Commercial Rent Arrears: Where do we stand in the last quarter of 2020?

There has continued to be yet more legislation in this area, predominantly extending deadlines and, in places, clarifying restrictions.  To give a simpler overview of the current position, the key provisions have been summarised in the table below. Option Summary of Remedy Current Restrictions Forfeiture Peaceful Re-entry Where the Tenant is in arrears a Landlord […]

Renovate or innovate? That is the question

One of the greatest business leaders of all time, the late Jack Welch of GE said that if you stand still you watch your competitors pass you by. It is possibly the best advice that you can give to any successful leader. The management maxim of ‘it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ must be the […]

gunnercooke’s Nick Ducker advises shareholders on MaxContact acquisition

FPE Capital LLP (‘FPE’), the software & services focused lower mid-market growth investor, announces that it has financed the management-led acquisition of MaxContact, a leading Manchester-based independent Contact Centre as a Service (CCaaS) platform. This marks the seventh investment from FPE Fund II. MaxContact joins fellow current SaaS investments Questionmark, Masstech and Kallik in FPE’s […]

The Martini Mindset: Tax Considerations

When Simon Horsfield reminded me of the Martini advert, “any time, any place, anywhere” I was instantly reminded of my youth, not because I drank martini (I’m not that old!), but the slightly inappropriate advert, the roller skates, cheesy music, what some people refer to as an 80s classic.  With a large number of employees […]

gunnercooke opens Berlin office with key hire

Leading challenger law firm gunnercooke has opened its first international office in Germany with the hire of DFW Executive Partner Wolfgang Richter. Richter joins gunnercooke as Managing Partner of the Berlin-based office. He specialises in business and financial law with expertise in blockchain and crypto currency structures. gunnercooke co-founder, Darryl Cooke, said: ““Ten years ago […]

gunnercooke recognised by The Legal 500 with eight ranked practice areas and 18 recognised lawyers

gunnercooke is delighted to be celebrating another fantastic year in The Legal 500 rankings for 2021. The latest directory has recognised the firm in eight different practice areas across the UK and has recommended 18 gunnercooke lawyers, including Rob Fawke as a Leading Individual and Anna Willetts as a Next Generation Partner. Ranked practice areas […]

No Rule CSR

Milton Friedman may not have won the popularity stakes when he advocated that business was about making profit and making profit alone and the shareholders could do what they want with it. Give it away or give it to charity if that was their inclination. He writes that it is not the company’s responsibility to […]

gunnercooke celebrates 10th anniversary as it plans another decade of expansion

Leading challenger law firm gunnercooke is set to open a series of new offices, including its first international office and specialist consultancies in Private Equity and football, as it accelerates growth in its 10th year. Founded by Darryl Cooke and Sarah Goulbourne in 2010, it was the first law firm to offer lawyers a fee share model […]

The Martini Mindset: Immigration Considerations

With the ‘Martini Mindset’ articles over the last two weeks, my colleague Simon Horsfield has set out a tantalising premise about how remote working can be extended to enable a lifestyle where you could work any time, any place, anywhere – sipping a Martini in a bar in Barcelona,  enjoying a Bintang on a beach […]

The Inspiring Leadership Podcast with Damian Hughes

  We start the anniversary series with a podcast featuring Darryl Cooke alongside psychology expert, Professor Damian Hughes. Damian is a best-selling author and host of The High Performance Podcast, which looks at the mindset of elite athletes. The Inspiring Leadership series aims to delve into the minds of inspiring business people and pinpoint exactly […]

The Martini Mindset: Employment Law Considerations

Enjoy a martini “Any time, any place, anywhere” As we begin to delve deeper into the Martini Mindset, this blog focuses on some of the key employment law implications of allowing your employees to work from home abroad. Which law applies? The first, and most important, question to ask when an employee wants to work […]

gunnercooke shortlisted for Law Company of the Year at The Lawyer Awards

gunnercooke is delighted to have been shortlisted for Law Company of the Year at The Lawyer Awards 2020, for the second year running. The firm has had a strong year despite the challenges faced by the industry, recruiting a number of new partners and continuing to grow the business, with new offices opening in the […]

The Martini Mindset

According to the famous advertising slogan from the 1980s, a Martini could be enjoyed “any time, any place, anywhere”. It’s a great slogan. It suggests that each Martini drinker has unique needs and deserves a bespoke experience; it challenges the norm by asserting that that the traditional rules do not apply; it speaks to endless […]

Covid-19: Court’s significant ruling on business interruption test case

The tide has just turned strongly in favour of those with business interruption claims – if this affects you, then you are highly  recommended to act promptly: The Problem For many months now a large number of businesses and individuals across England and Wales have lived with the uncertainty as to the enforceability of non-damage business […]

Competition, Cartels and The CMA

Reports from America about criminal charges being brought against Teva Pharmaceuticals for price fixing show that cartel behaviour amongst businesses is still common. But according to recent research, few businesses in the UK understand competition law and even less offer training to their staff. Given the low rate of success in prosecutions for involvement in […]

Five Things for Your To-Do List

As if managers and business leaders did not have enough on their hands, 31st December is the deadline for taking some important legal compliance and enterprise level risk- management steps. From the data protection and information governance perspectives, here are five issues to be getting on with… All these issues show how important it is […]

1 year On

I would have never imagined so much happening in the space of twelve months. Last July myself and my international team moved to join gunnercooke. This was a huge change for us all; we joined an inclusive network of senior partners who had access to an amazing support team, comprising professionals across finance, marketing, administration […]

A year at gunnercooke: Flexibility, Support, Diversity

One year on from starting at gunnercooke, and although I have been used to working in a fee-share model, I have found that the freedom of planning the way that I want to deliver my work is beyond anything I have experienced. The flexibility, support and diversity is fantastic. gunnercooke‘s approach is not to offer […]

More Changes to Notice Periods for Residential Landlords and Tenants

In that delightful way that is becoming all too familiar, the Government chose the late afternoon of Friday 28 August 2020 (notably the Friday of a Bank Holiday Weekend) to drop The Coronavirus Act 2020 (Residential Tenancies: Protection from Eviction) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2020 on an entirely unprepared public. They came into force on Saturday 29 August 2020 […]

Landlord & Tenant Update on Possession Proceedings and Rent Arrears Recovery

Landlords will have noted with great disappointment the Government’s decision to extend the general stay on possession proceedings and enforcement of them until 20 September 2020.  The Civil Procedure (Amendment No. 5) (Coronavirus) Rules 2020 were laid before Parliament on 20 August 2020 and came into force from 22 August 2020. The Rules make a […]

The people challenge of ‘right-sizing’ your business

In our latest ‘Directors Development’ series, Operating Partner Tom Robinson and Employment Partner Rebecca Ireland discussed the challenges of ‘right-sizing’ your business. Here are our key takeaways: Does your business have the “capacity and/or capability” to perform the Rightsizing alongside the day-job? We’re using the term rightsizing to mean making sure that the business has […]

Forget timesheets; it’s time to think differently about pricing legal services

Pricing in the legal industry has long been based on an archaic system that prioritises time over value and internal targets over client service. Before we founded gunnercooke back in 2010, the need for more certainty over costs was something we kept hearing again and again from CEOs, FDs and heads of legal as part […]

Schrems II, Brexit and International Data Transfers

For those organisations who rely on the Privacy Shield for their transfers of personal data from the EU to the USA, the recent case of Schrems II has rather put a spanner in the works. Max Schrems, you might remember is a privacy activist. He runs the NOYB digital rights organisation based in Vienna. He was essentially responsible for […]

gunnercooke aids Byron rescue deal

Law firm gunnercooke has advised on a deal, completed 31 July, that saw high-street burger chain Byron bought out of administration, allowing 20 of the company’s 51 restaurants to continue trading and saving 551 jobs across the UK. The team, led by gunnercooke partner Nick Ducker, acted on behalf of Calveton UK Limited who bought […]

Crypto Cast EP2: What is Crypto accounting and where is it going?

In this episode, gunnercooke FinTech Partner James Burnie is joined by Antoine Scalia, Co-founder & CEO of Cryptio, bookkeeping software for crypto assets. Antione and James discuss what is Crypto accounting? and the challenges involved with it. Listen on iTunes Listen on Spotify  

Crypto Cast EP1: Pricing Tips To Improve Profitability

In this episode, gunnercooke FinTech Partner James Burnie is joined by pricing expert and gunnercooke Operating Partner David Abbott to discuss pricing tips to improve the profitability of your business.  

Build, build, build – new residential permitted development rights unpacked

The government has published a number of new permitted development rights due to take effect at the end of the summer.  The rights allow existing residential properties to be demolished to make way for new dwellings.  There are also new upwards extension rights for certain dwellings and commercial premises to create new, self-contained residential dwellings.  […]

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards: What do Landlords need to know?

The Minimum Level of Energy Efficiency Standard Regulations Since 1 April 2018, it has been an offence under the Minimum Level of Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) Regulations (‘the Regulations’) for private landlords to grant new residential tenancies if the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is below and E (i.e. F or G) unless a valid […]

Heavyweight hire strengthens gunnercooke pensions team

One of the UK’s leading pensions lawyers, Helen Miles, has joined innovative law firm gunnercooke as a partner in its now six-strong specialist pensions team. Helen, who is also Chair of the NHS Pensions Board, has more than 25 years wide-ranging experience in the sectordealing with all aspects of pensions legal advice to trustees and […]

So, you thought you knew your A B C?

The government published draft legislation this week which proposes the first major overhaul in 30 years to the Use Classes Order, due to take effect from 1 September 2020.  A number of the familiar use classes will disappear altogether, and new, more flexible uses will be introduced in order to bolster Britain’s challenged high street […]

Residential Possession Claims Update

Landlords will be relieved to hear that the Government intends to resume possession claims on Monday 24 August 2020 and have stated that they do not currently intend to extend the present stay that is in place.  Plans are already underway to deal with the resumption of claims.  On Friday 17 July 2020 the Civil […]

How to create a solid business plan for your own legal practice

Taking full control of your own legal practice is a big step for any senior lawyer; though by joining forces with a challenger law firm, you certainly don’t have to go it alone. Having welcomed over 250 legal practitioners into the gunnercooke family over the past decade, it’s clear to me that one of the […]

Award-winning litigation lawyer, Rashmi Dubé, further boosts gunnercooke’s Leeds office

gunnercooke is delighted to announce that Rashmi Dubé has joined the firm. Rashmi’s move to gunnercooke has been covered in The Business Desk and Yorkshire Business Daily. Rashmi is an award-winning solicitor and mediator. She is an experienced litigator with almost 25 years’ practicing experience and previously ran her own law firm, Legatus Law, giving […]

Look a mile beyond your business: Part 2

In Part 1 of this series I wrote: Do you want to be remembered for making money or for the legacy that you have left behind? Do you want your employees to know you for your business efficiencies or for how you changed the world? Do you want your children to remember you because you […]

What has COVID-19 taught us about remote working as a lawyer?

There’s no doubt we’ll look back on 2020 as a watershed moment for remote working, particularly within professional services and law. Every legal practitioner out there has been forced to rethink the way their services are delivered whilst striking a new balance between work and home life. Those that considered commuting to the office every […]

TAX BRIEFING NOTE Summer Statement 2020: SDLT temporary reduced rates

All purchasers of residential property in England and Northern Ireland will benefit from a reduction in SDLT for transactions that complete on or after 8 July 2020 and before 1 April 2021. The threshold of the nil rate band is being raised from £125,000 to £500,000, so now any purchase of a home up to […]

What does your ideal legal practice look like – and could you run it?

As the entire legal industry continues to rethink the way services are delivered in the wake of COVID-19, now is an opportune time for lawyers to explore their options and find a better way of running their practice. I speak with experienced lawyers in private practice almost every week that are stressed out and struggling […]

COVID-19: New Voluntary Code of Practice for The Commercial Property Sector

On 19 June 2020 the Government published its Code of Practice aimed at assisting landlords and tenants as they navigate the effects of COVID-19 on their relationships and obligations.  Although it had been mooted back in May that the Code could be made mandatory, what has been published is a voluntary code, designed to assist with […]

Personal Data in a Pandemic

The recent shift to remote working and other new or unfamiliar delivery models has meant that managers have faced fresh concerns about how to stay compliant with personal data protection laws. They have had to think about this both in terms of processing their normal data and in terms of making decisions about whether to […]

Covid-19: Landlord & Tenant Update

Possession proceedings  The Civil Procedure (Amendment No. 2) (Coronavirus) Rules 2020 are coming into force on 25 June 2020.  These introduce paragraph 55.29 to the Civil Procedure Rules, which stays all proceedings stayed immediately prior to the rule coming into force and all those issued subsequent to 25 June 2020 until 23 August 2020.   In practical terms […]

Latest Planning Announcements: A Summary

1. Extension of planning permission deadlines… Planning permission and listed building consent expiry dates will be extended for all permissions due to expire between 23 March and 31 December 2020.   The extension will be automatic and permission will be extended until 1 April 2021.  There will be transitional provisions in place for permissions which expire […]

Property Contracts – Remedies for Breach

The property market has been hit hard by Covid-19, with both residential and commercial transactions being affected.  Whether due to funding issues, the inability to secure planning permission or vacant possession or simply a change of mind or circumstances by one of the parties, there is an increase in the number of transactions not completing and […]

Is your role financially rewarding?

“What’s the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?” It’s a question that gets asked a lot and we’ve all asked it ourselves. As much as answers may vary between which car we’d buy and which holiday we’d book for our next adventure, one of the most common is “I’d quit my job.” […]

Approaching redundancies as the furlough scheme comes to an end

Despite the job retention bonus that was announced in the summer statement, many businesses will still find themselves considering redundancy as an option as the furlough scheme inevitably comes to an end. Employment partners Shilpen Savani and Paul Ryman have provided answers to some FAQs surrounding Coronavirus and redundancy. Have there been any special allowances for […]

Download your guide to job retention and recovery

Since it was first announced back in March, the Furlough Scheme has largely been serving its purpose. 8.5 million people are currently on furlough, but as the end date has now been announced and is fast approaching, employment partners Shilpen Savani and Paul Ryman discuss what the future could look like for many businesses. On […]

Furlough Fraud

There has been an increasing number of articles and press reports relating to furlough fraud over the last few weeks.  The furlough scheme, or the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, to give it its official title, allows employers to keep employees on the payroll even though they are not working and for a proportion of their […]

When you must prove that your Chinese wall passes muster…

In a judgment handed down on 7 May 2020, the Court of Appeal clarified that it is only when professionals act as “true fiduciaries” that they bear the burden of proving that there is no risk of misuse or disclosure of privileged and/or confidential information to a new client.  Professional advisers routinely consider whether new […]

Feeling fleeced? When providing services for no charge may be unjust enrichment…

In the competitive post-pandemic world we are currently in, the pressure to put one’s best foot forward is intense. Generously providing services at no charge can be a crucial stepping stone towards you winning new business. But how much ‘free’ input should you offer? At what point are you entitled to be paid for your […]

Government to publish New Code of Practice for Commercial Letting

On 29 May 2020 the Government announced an intention to issue a new Code of Practice to provide high street businesses and landlords with clarity and reassurance over rent payments.  The purpose of the new Code of Practice, which will be developed between Government and Trade Associations, is to support high street businesses through the Coronavirus […]

Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector

The Electrical Safety Regulations were made on 18 March 2020 and come into force on 1 June 2020 in England.   The Regulations apply to new tenancies with effect from 1 July 2020 and existing specified tenancies with effect from 1 April 2021.  A new tenancy is defined as one granted on or after 1 June 2020, […]

Insurance protection for brownfield development

Contaminated land expert Keith Davidson explains how environmental insurance can play an important role mitigating liability risks in brownfield development projects. Environmental liabilities – who should pay? Land contamination and groundwater pollution can be a lottery in brownfield transactions where all parties are left with liability risks after completion.  Liabilities for land contamination and water […]

Antonello joins the Advisory Board of HOPEnDialogue #mentalhealthweek

HOPEnDialogue is an international research project of the Institute of Sciences and Technologies of Cognition at the National Research Council (the Italian Consiglio Nazionale della Ricerca-CNR), for which Antonello will play an advisory role exclusively on pro-bono basis. Antonello and his family’s commitment to mental health is more or less known to some of us. It […]

Look a mile beyond your business

Do you want to be remembered for making money or for the legacy that you have left behind? Do you want your employees to know you for your business efficiencies or for how you changed the world? Do you want your children to remember you because you became the leader of a business or because […]

Jack Welch’s Approach to Leadership

The following article was written by Claudio Fernández-Aráoz and has been taken from the Harvard Business Review. You can view the original article here. Jack Welch was heralded by many as the greatest leader of his era. As CEO of General Electric from 1981 to 2001, he transformed it from a company known for appliances and […]

Daniel H. Pink: Why bosses need to show their soft side

“Go ahead,” you might need to assure him, “this won’t hurt” Then ask him to take that extended finger and draw a capital E on his forehead. Does he draw the letter so that it faces him – that is, backward to a person looking at him? Or does he draw the letter so that […]

What have you learnt?

We will shortly be returning to the ‘new normal’ after the most challenging time possibly of our work and even our personal lives, with I suspect some semblance of order, or not. The question for all leaders will be just what have you learnt? Are you a better leader for the experience? Will you have […]

Towards the new normal: The return to work for furloughed workers

The Prime Minister has announced the Covid-19 recovery strategy setting out a 3-phase approach to lifting lockdown and moving to the “new normal.” A significant element of this strategy is a return to work for employees in different industry sectors with food production, construction, manufacturing, logistics, and distribution businesses all encouraged to return to work […]

Centenary Homes Limited v Gershinson and Liddell 2020

The case of Centenary Homes Limited v Gershinson and Liddell [2020] EWHC 1080 demonstrates the courts clear position that receivers enjoy ‘a degree of latitude’ as to the timing and method of selling properties over which they are appointed.  Importantly, the court further refused to conclude that selling too many properties to repay a debt […]

Coronavirus Act 2020: Residential Lettings

The Coronavirus Act came into force on 26 March 2020 and Part 51Z was introduced to the Civil Procedure Rules on 27 March 2020, subsequently amended to include paragraph 2A on 20 April 2020.  These pieces of legislation will have an impact on the following parties: Landlords wishing to forfeit or end a residential lease […]

Coronavirus Act 2020 : Commercial Lettings

Payment of Rent This is the key area of concern for most Landlords and Tenants at present as the pandemic lockdown has curtailed a number of business activities meaning that they have reduced cash flow, which in turn may be causing difficulties in meeting obligations, such as the payment of rent.  The Government has sought […]

gunnercooke Employment Partner Angela Brumpton Features on BBC News

gunnercooke Employment Law partner Angela Brumpton has featured on BBC News this week discussing the Government’s Job Retention Scheme which opened to applications on Monday. Angela gave insight on who qualifies for the scheme, it’s limitations and potential abuse of the system, and employee rights under the furlough scheme. You can watch the full interview […]

On Coronavirus: Acquiring Distressed Assets

The Cause of Distress All businesses require working capital.  Revenues are drastically reducing while fixed costs continue to accrue. Government schemes will provide some relief by subsidising wage bills and allowing business rates and tax holidays.  For some businesses, however, sources of working capital will diminish to the point that it will not be possible […]

On Coronavirus: Managing Distressed Assets

Uncertain times Businesses are already struggling, coming under increasing cash flow pressure.  With no certainty as to when conditions will change, those with management responsibility are concerned about the future viability of their organisations, as well as their own personal liability should insolvency proceedings begin.  The following is designed to provide some high-level guidance on […]

On Coronavirus: Preserving Investor Value

Inter-Dependency Many corporate groups are structured in tax-efficient ways.  Tax-planning may dictate how goods and services are provided between members of the group in different jurisdictions and in which entities valuable assets are held. In addition, “treasury” arrangements may apply which involve pooling and re-distribution of revenues. Consequently, there can be substantial inter-dependency between companies […]

Managing Mental Health and Wellbeing when Working at Home

I’ve delivered training on mental health stress and wellbeing for the last three years but as I sat down to write my first post lockdown training, I realised that my normal material wasn’t going to be enough.  We are living through something completely unknown and unfamiliar.   It’s hard for people in lots of different ways. […]

Covid- 19: Clampdown on Lockdown – New Police Powers Granted

The extensive restrictions on individuals and businesses put in place this week in an attempt to delay the spread of the Coronavirus have been widely reported, but what happens to those who don’t comply? In further emergency laws granted on 26th March (the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations 2020), the police have been given far […]

Morrisons Found Not Vicariously Liable for Data Breach

The Supreme Court has today delivered the final word on this case which had until now left employers facing potential vicarious liability (and the prospect of having to pay damages under civil law principles) for a major, deliberate data breach by one of its former employees. The breach occurred when Mr Skelton, who had been […]

Cyber Scams

Not everyone is playing by the same rules. As you and I try to go about our daily business under the Coronavirus restrictions and try to help our family, friends and neighbours, where we can, cyber-criminals are busy exploiting the new environment for personal gain. You may have noticed that you are receiving more emails […]

Coronavirus Act 2020: Commercial Lettings

Section 82 of the Coronavirus Act 2020 (“CA 2020”) sets out emergency measures to restrict forfeiture of Commercial Business Tenancies in England and Wales where tenants find themselves in financial difficulties. The relevant period for these provisions lasts from 26 March 2020 until 30 June 2020 but is subject to review and may be extended. […]

Coronavirus Act 2020: Residential Lettings

The Coronavirus Act came into force on 26 March 2020 and will have an impact on the following parties: Landlords wishing to forfeit or end a residential lease Parties wish to issue possession proceedings Parties part way through the possession proceedings process Parties holding unexecuted Possession Orders The Government have now issued full guidance on […]

Changes to planning law now in force

New time-limited permitted development right to allow takeaway and delivery services From 10am on 24 March 2020, an amendment to the permitted development rights currently in force takes effect which allows: PROVIDED THAT When the provision of takeaway services ceases, or on 23 March 2021 (whichever comes first) the property will then revert to its […]

Remote Leadership

There isn’t a better time than now to demonstrate good remote leadership. Leadership is everything, whether you are running a local voluntary service or the largest organisation in the world. At times like this everyone looks for guidance. People want to be guided. They want to follow. But if you get it wrong you are […]

On Coronavirus: Frustration, Force Majeure and Contractual Obligations

Many of you will be familiar with these terms, but it makes sense to begin by reminding ourselves of what they are. Frustration of Contract and Force Majeure are two ways in which a contract may be brought to an end. Frustration occurs where, after a contract has been formed, an event happens which renders […]

On Coronavirus: Trade Finance Borrowers

During these difficult times, many trade finance borrowers will quite rightly have concerns about meeting their payment obligations and want to understand  their potential risks. This note aims to provide guidance on what borrowers should be considering.  My general advice is to review the entire suite of trade finance facilities you have available to you […]

Coronavirus Bill

One of the key effects of this Bill, and one that both Houses will want to scrutinise closely is to give the Government new powers to prohibit public gatherings. In the context of policy announcements that tend to have a presentational focus on what appear to be common sense precautions to limit the spread of […]

On Coronavirus: Insolvency

It’s safe to say that many businesses are already struggling, coming under increasing cash flow pressure. Many individuals with management responsibility are concerned about the future viability of their organisations, as well as their own personal liability should insolvency proceedings begin. The best advice I can give is to get advice on your specific situation. […]

On Coronavirus: Advice for the construction industry

The Coronavirus pandemic and the measures being put in place continue to evolve by the hour. The construction industry with its inherent complex supply chains and daily need for person-to-person contact, is likely to be severely impacted. All parties will need to be extremely proactive in managing their risks, but also need to consider their […]

On Coronavirus: Tax residence and Private Client implications

As has become all too apparent, the Coronavirus crisis has affected international travel significantly: flights are being cancelled and travel bans have been imposed. These events, as well as being painful for many, can have unintended consequences for the residence status of some individuals. I thought it sensible to provide brief thoughts on some of […]

On Coronavirus: Advice for suppliers who work with the NHS

It goes without saying that the NHS is at the forefront of addressing the Coronavirus outbreak. Of course, the NHS relies on thousands of different suppliers to provide it with equipment to function properly, and those businesses are likely to be affected by the current situation in many different ways. Because of this, I thought […]

On Coronavirus: Force Majeure Clauses in Commercial Contracts

The situation the country finds itself in is truly unprecedented. Businesses and individuals are likely to be thinking long and hard about whether they can honour their commitments over the coming weeks and months. In light of this, I thought it was sensible to prepare some thoughts and guidance on force majeure clauses in commercial […]

On Coronavirus: Insurance Guidance

As the Coronavirus outbreak continues to develop, many people are naturally looking toward their insurance policies to see what type and levels of cover they have in place, should they need to call on insurance in these unprecedented times. The simple advice is to check your own policy wording and speak to your insurer, or […]

On Coronavirus: Commercial Leasehold Properties

Tenants  1. Non-payment of rent  In the case of non-occupation due to part or whole self-isolation rent is probably still payable. Leases do not usually contain suspension of rent or non-payment of rent in the event of force majeure, but may do where it is a licence of serviced offices and tenants should check the […]

On Coronavirus: A Survival Kit For Entrepreneurs

Staying abreast of the economic fallout from the Coronavirus pandemic is like standing on solid ground that has suddenly turned to quicksand around you. Advising business clients on employment law in this quagmire is a challenge, because so little in the law is geared for the snap commerciality and responsiveness required from leaders in the […]

Help for Residential Landlords & Tenants

The government announced on the 18 March 2020 a radical package of measures to protect renters and landlords affected by coronavirus. The aim is to ensure that no renter in either social or private residential accommodation will be forced out of their home during this difficult time. Emergency legislation is being taken forward as an […]

On Coronavirus: Advice for HR Professionals

The coronavirus has now definitely taken us into unchartered territory. People’s health is obviously number one priority, and the impact on the economy is going to be huge. HR professionals are facing completely new challenges, by the day. No one knows how the situation is going to unfold and reacting quickly and creatively to the […]

Keep Going, Keep Growing: Some Thoughts for Employers

In your planned response to the spread of Coronavirus, you’ve no doubt factored in remote working or home-working as part of your solution. It won’t be right for all sectors of course or even for all parts of a single business but it makes sense to consider how a shift to remote working might help […]

“Events, Dear Boy, Events!”

A quote that is overused and may have been mis-attributed to former Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan but is said to have been his response to being asked what he most feared as PM. We are certainly seeing some ‘events’ at the moment and their impacts can be felt in business circles across the Globe. Clients […]

Trust Barometer – A Wake Up Call

Why would anyone be led by you, follow your vision, and do what you need them to do if they don’t trust you? We are not sheep, we are not slaves and we will only give everything to our leaders if we trust them. Which is why the latest Edelman Trust Barometer (2020) is so […]

Partner Thalis Vlachos shares his career at gunnercooke so far with Yexible

In this Yexible article, Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos shares his career at gunnercooke so far, and it goes beyond ‘simply putting in the hours’. You can read the full feature HERE

Are you being served? Service of Property Notices

The findings of the Supreme Court in UKI (Kingsway) Limited v Westminster City Council [2018] UK SC67 have cast some significant doubt on what were previously thought to be well-established common law principle about the service of notices in relation to property.  In this case the Court determined that there could still be good service […]

Electrical Safety Checks in Residential Letting

The Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 will come into effect from 1 July 2020.  All private landlords will be required to: Subject to specific exclusions, the new regulations will apply to all new tenancies commencing after 1 July 2020 and, from 1 April 2021, to all existing tenancies granted […]

Are Veriports a better use of Roof Space for Landowners in City Centres?

If you live or work in London then you are likely to be more than six foot from a piece of telecoms equipment.  We are used to looking out of windows over a sea of telecoms aerials.  Historically, freeholders were eager to grant leases to telecoms operators to obtain an extra source of income from […]

Obtaining Injunctions Against Protestors

In recent years there has been an increasing trend for property owners and occupiers to seek injunctions against persons unknown to restrain the actions of trespassers and protestors.  These are usually sought on a quia timet basis, which means that they are granted in advance of any wrong taking place.  As with most injunctions, they […]

Is the electronic signature on your email legally binding?

Whether or not an automated email signature was legally binding was the question that concerned the County Court in the recent case of Neocleous v Rees [2019] EWHC 2462 (Ch).  In this case, the Defendants had agreed to transfer part of the land to the Claimants for the price of £175,000.  The terms of the […]

Inspiring Leadership: Julian Richer, The Ethical Capitalist

As part of the firm’s mission to bring commercial business skills to charities, we want to engage business leaders with the fact that they have a vital role to play in solving the challenges of today’s society. To this end, we are holding a series of talks delivered by amazing leaders from the business world, […]

How to build a company where the best ideas win: TedTalk by Ray Dalio

What if you knew what your coworkers really thought about you and what they were really like? Ray Dalio makes the business case for using radical transparency and algorithmic decision-making to create an idea meritocracy where people can speak up and say what they really think – even calling out the boss is fair game. […]

Why Better Is Better Than Best by Simon Sinek

The following article has been written by Simon Sinek. You can view the original post here. The fastest runners in the world run between 12-14mph (19-23kph). The average bear runs between 30-40mph (48-64kph). That means if a bear decides to give chase, even world record-breaking sprinter Usain Bolt, could not outrun it. But there is […]

How to Influence Decision Makers by Marshall Goldsmith

The following article was written by Marshall Goldsmith, taken from the Harvard Business Review. You can view the original article here. “The great majority of people tend to focus downward. they are occupied with efforts rather than results. They worry over what the organization and their superiors ‘owe’ them and should do for them. and […]

5 Years on by Partner Elizabeth Selby

I have now been at gunnercooke for longer than I was with either of my previous law firms. It certainly doesn’t feel like 5 years since ex-colleague and good friend Sarah Innes convinced me that I didn’t need to give up on the world of law and that there was a law firm out there […]

SRA Under fire following Tribunal

The SRA is again under fire from the SDT for fundamental flaws in its investigation which resulted in the Tribunal finding no case to answer against solicitor Nabeel Sheikh on any charges. The SRA faced similar criticisms in relation to the quality of its investigation only a few months ago in the case of Denise […]

Zero-Hour Contracts: Time for Businesses to Review Their Use?

Last week saw the launch of ‘Zero Hours Justice’, a campaign that aims to ban the use of zero-hour contracts. It is being bankrolled by Julian Richer, of Richer Sounds, and was announced all over the national press.  The momentum against these type of contracts is continuing to grow; speeding up even. This got me […]

Darryl Cooke will be speaking at the Manchester Law Society Conference

gunnercooke Executive Chairman Darryl Cooke will be speaking in the closing session at the MANCHESTER LAW SOCIETY conference tomorrow which looks at how to adapt your firm in an ever-changing market. Darryl is excited to share his story of how gunnercooke has grown to 200 partners through culture, flexibility and freedom for both partners and […]

Landlord Electrical Safety Checks by Partner Claire-Elaine Arthurs

The Government has now started the process under the Housing & Planning Act 2016 for bringing into force the requirement for all Landlords to carry out electrical safety checks.  From 25 October 2019 the provisions of the Act relating to electrical safety checks came into force.  The next stage will be to make further regulations.  […]

Wellbeing in Residential Development

At present there is a growth in regulatory activity concerning ideas of environmental, social and corporate change, which are having an impact on the residential property market.  The idea of wellbeing and “well buildings” is already well-established in commercial property sectors and is now emerging as an influence in the residential property sector.  There is […]

Further changes to the Electronic Communications Code

The Government gave their response to the consultation regarding Code Operators’ ability to seek Code Rights 10 October 2019.  This has resulted in the Telecommunications Infrastructure (Leasehold Property) Bill being introduced to Parliament on 15 October 2019.  It has it’s first reading in the House of Commons on 8 January 2020. The Code already provides […]

A law firm without politics, a year at gunnercooke by Russell Davidson

I was really fed up at the last large law firm I worked with. “Targets, Targets, Targets” every day: the repeated pronouncements of greedy managing partners. OK, every firm has bills to pay, wages to meet, but I’d generated my own work for over 25 years, so didn’t need my time constantly being wasted with […]

Five years on by Partner Richard Linskell

My first five years with gunnercooke have passed quicker than I could ever have imagined, which must be a good thing, right? One thing I know for sure is that there is no going back to the traditional law firm model. These years have been amongst the most fulfilling in my career and I know […]

Breaking away from Blue Monday by Partner Sarah Cato

Long gone are the days of rushing for the 6.30 am train whilst worrying if my tiny boys had all they needed for the day. Fast forward five years and now all I need to worry about is trying to get them out of the house for school on time. I can now attend that […]

Regulations Issued Relating to Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector Update

The Draft Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020 (Electrical Safety Regulations) was laid before Parliament on 13 January 2020, under the power granted to the Secretary of State under Sections 122 and 123 of the Housing & Planning Act 2016.  If the Electrical Safety Regulations are passed then they will […]

Darryl Cooke Discusses the Principles of Inspiring Leadership in Director Magazine

gunnercooke Co-Founder and Executive Chair has featured in Director discussing the principles of inspiring leadership. He explains how the command-and-control approach is outmoded, and inspirational leaders persuade others to their thinking and their cause. Read the full article here. To find out more about gunnercooke’s Inspiring Leadership programme, click here.

The importance of harassment investigations in the workplace

Complaints of sexual harassment are often complicated and tricky for employers to handle. The potential risks can be high: to the individuals involved and the organisation and its reputation. Properly investigating these complaints is absolutely key because it means that the employer can a) take action to protect its employees, and b) manage its risks […]

Intellectual Property Partner Rosie Burbidge has featured in the World Trademark Review on law firms evolving model

Intellectual Property Partner Rosie Burbidge, has featured in the World Trademark Review discussing the evolving model of the traditional law firm and how the gunnercooke model has allowed Rosie to reduce her hourly rate, but yet still increase her actual earnings. You can find out more in the full feature HERE.

Tribunal has determined ethical veganism is a philosophical belief

An Employment Tribunal in Norwich has determined that veganism is a “philosophical belief” which should be protected by the Equality Act 2010. An interim hearing in a claim which is being pursued by “ethical vegan” Jordi Casamitjana against his former employers the League Against Cruel Sports has reached a decision on whether or not they […]

Great Leaders Are Made, Not Born

All great achievers make what they do look simple, whether they are great sportsmen or great orators. Leadership is no different. The more you read the more you practice the simpler and easier it will become. Leadership that just becomes part of you – a better you. A more authentic you. It will be seen just as […]

Is Trust Important?

It is important as a leader to build up trust. Trust binds people together. There is a story told by Damian Hughes in his book ‘The Five Steps to a Winning Mindset’ about a former British Lions head coach, Ian McGeechan, when working with one of his teams. McGeechan knew that a strong team was not just about […]

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

The following is an extract from gunnercooke Co-Founder, Darryl Cooke’s book ‘To Innovate Or Not To Innovate’. We live in a fast-changing and innovative world where it has been said that two-thirds of the companies that will make up the S&P stock market index in a decades time have yet to be created. We live […]

Introducing gunnercooke’s Inspiring Leadership programme

Our charitable foundation is all about connecting the profit world with the not for profit world. Only companies in the future will survive that have a socio-economic and moral purpose. Businesses and leaders are and will become more accountable. We wish to engage with business leaders and to be part of and energise the debate […]

CEO of Operation Eyesight, Ali Bandali on Inspiring Leadership

On a recent trip to UK, I was invited to speak to an audience as part of a series called Inspiring Leadership, initiated by a law firm called gunnercooke LLP. I was excited to participate as it’s a great opportunity to talk about the culture and future direction of Operation Eyesight. I highly commend gunnercooke […]

Should employers offer hangover days? Angela Brumpton comments

The BBC interviewed the director of a company that offers staff ‘hangover days’, where staff can work from home after a big midweek drinking session.  What are the rights and wrongs of such a policy?  gunnercooke Employment Partner, Angela Brumpton, comments in today’s People Management.

gunnercooke Head of People and Culture wins Ambassador of the Year at the Business Culture Awards

In November 2019, gunnercooke attended the Business Culture Awards where our very own Head of People and Culture, Lucy Hargreaves, took home the Ambassador of the Year award. This award comes after the firm was the Overall Winner for Business Culture at the 2018 event. We are incredibly proud to be continually recognised in these […]

Partner Rebecca Ireland features in People Management magazine on the use of Whatsapp in the workplace

Rebecca Ireland, Employment Partner, comments on a news story in People Management about a racial harassment case and the use of Whatsapp in the workplace. You can read the full feature HERE.

General Election 2019: What are the parties promising workers?

With the 12 December 2019 Election fast approaching, it would be remiss of us not to look at what the main political parties, Conservative and Labour, are promising in relation to employment law and industrial relations if they are elected.  In case you want to look at the other parties’ views, and in the interests […]

Is the regulatory reference the new passport to working in finance?

A recent employment case led by gunnercooke partners Jonathan Golden and Carol L’Heveder working respectively on employment and regulatory issues has highlighted the real challenges faced by senior financial executives when leaving their firm and looking for a new role. Using their combined experience in this sector, they forced a resolution of an unresolved disciplinary […]

The Extension of the Senior Manager and Certification Regime

The extension of the Senior Manager and Certification Regime (SMCR) comes into effect on 9 December 2019 and regulated firms irrespective of size will have identified their Senior Managers and Certified Persons. SMCR applies to those individuals who are not Senior Managers but who could nonetheless pose a risk of ‘significant harm’ to the firm, […]

Redundancy: Ensure that the statutory trial period has actually started

If you haven’t already watched Simon Horsfield’s webinar: “Cutting HR Costs Without Cutting Jobs”, you can do so by clicking here. If you still need to make redundancies having explored the other options in Simon’s webinar, remember that a redundancy dismissal may be unfair if the employer fails to make a reasonable search for suitable […]

gunnercooke to join other finalists at prestigious National Business Awards

We are very excited to be attending as finalists in two categories at this year’s National Business Awards this evening at the Grosvenor House Hotel. Co-founder Darryl Cooke will be attending as a finalist in the Inflexion Entrepreneur of the Year category, and also represents the firm which has been shortlisted for the Innovation Award. The […]

Operation Eyesight CEO to join Conscious Capitalism debate with gunnercooke

We are delighted to welcome the CEO of a truly inspirational organisation, Operation Eyesight, as part of gunnercooke’s Conscious Capitalism series. Aly Bandali leads this international development organisation which works to eliminate avoidable blindness with the help of donations and support from foundations, corporations and governments. Based in Canada, they have brought sight-restoration and blindness-prevention […]

Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner Sarah Armstrong features in People Management magazine

Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner Sarah Armstrong has featured in People Management magazine this week giving comment on a case involving a Retailer discriminating against an employee by insisting she work late shifts. You can read the full feature HERE.

‘It often takes something life-changing to make you realise’ National Stress Awareness Day

On National Stress Awareness Day, we ask Property Dispute Resolution Partner, and Director of UK Deaf Sport, Tom Seabrook, how he manages life as a man with many demanding roles. Does being a litigator mean you are always arguing with people? A great deal of my practice revolves around advisory and dispute avoidance work. You […]

gunnercooke Partners Alastair Wilson and Menna Bowen feature in Taxation Magazine

gunnercooke Partners Alastair Wilson and Menna Bowen summarise the case of Andreas Rialas and the lessons that can be learned on the rules relating to the transfer of assets abroad. Read the full feature HERE.

Employers beware: your company may be liable for the actions of its employees at this year’s Christmas party

Employers beware: your company may be liable for the actions of its employees at this year’s Christmas party To what extent is a company vicariously liable for the actions of its employees? With Christmas party season upon us, where behaviour of employees can be an area for concern, a recent decision by the Court of […]

Join us and Lady Justice Thirlwall for our Women in Business event

To mark the end of our 100 years of Women in Law celebrations, we are delighted to invite you to an evening of festivities where we will be joined by guest of honour Lady Justice Thirlwall. In celebration of the achievements of Women in Law, and in recognition of the issues that female professionals still […]

gunnercooke partner, Rosie Burbidge, appeared in yesterday’s Financial Times talking about the use of blockchain in the jewellery sector

“For LVMH in their jewellery that uses diamonds, being able to prove that those diamonds are conflict-free and haven’t been used in some sort of terrorist funding is really important”… Blockchain is no silver bullet against the black market  (link may require subscription)

Darryl Cooke has been interviewed for ‘The Brief’ about his passions and interests

gunnercooke Executive Chairman Darryl Cooke has been interviewed for ‘The Brief’ about his passions and interests.  Read about his favourite books and inspirations HERE.

How a Game of Cards changed the nature of Dishonesty

The Landscape of criminal prosecutions for crimes involving dishonesty was fundamentally reshaped by the case of Ivey v Genting Casinos (UK) Ltd [2017] UKSC 67, which led the Supreme Court to redefine the criminal test for what constitutes dishonesty. For those who were unaware, the case that was the ‘definitive authority’ in all criminal proceedings […]

gunnercooke’s social enterprise, inspire*, has been listed in I News in an article about businesses that ‘care and give back’

The article looks at finalists in the National Business Awards ‘that deserve special mention for their incredible campaigns to better the lives of the people in their communities’. You can read the full article HERE.

gunnercooke Partner Sarah Armstrong features in People Management magazine on recent unfair dismissal case

Dispute Resolution & Employment Law Partner Sarah Armstrong has featured in People Management magazine sharing her expertise on a recent case in which a Financial Advisor was unfairly dismissed after being ‘blackmailed’ to sign a restrictive covenant.   You can read the full article HERE.

Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos covers recent Sexual Harassment statistics in People Management magazine

Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos has featured in People Management magazine sharing his expertise on the recent statistics released by Young Women’s Trust on the likelihood of employees reporting sexual harassment in the workplace. You can read the full article HERE

Facebook and Libra tackling more issues of trust

According to a report by the BBC, Facebook’s Libra cryptocurrency faces yet another challenge as the G7 group have warned it must not be launched until security and safety provisions have been proven. Rosie Burbidge, an expert on intellectual property and cryptocurrency from gunnercooke, commented on what the latest development mean for the cryptocurrency and […]

Whatever floats your boat – celebrating individuality during Work Life Week

It’s National #WorkLifeWeek, an initiative to encourage employers and employees to focus on well-being and work-life balance. To mark the week, we have been looking into the working lives of some of our lawyers to see how they manage the tricky balance between home and work.   Flexible working is one way to encourage well-being and […]

gunnercooke Partner Rebecca Ireland features in People Management magazine on over-50s unemployment

gunnercooke Employment Law Partner Rebecca Ireland has featured in People Management magazine giving comment on the fact that 37% of 171,000 people facing unemployment for more than two years were over 50. If you would like to read the full article, click HERE.

gunnercooke Leeds growth makes headlines

After ten-fold growth in three years, gunnercooke has moved to new premises at Avenue HQ. The move has been picked up in the Yorkshire Post, Business Insider and The Business Desk.

An investigation.. Not what the doctor ordered?

gunnercooke restructuring and insolvency partner, Alyson Reilly, and Nora Wannagat, a pupil at 9 Stone Buildings, have published an article in the autumn edition of Recovery magazine about a recent ruling where the subject of a s236 investigation tried to adjourn on medical grounds. First published in the Autumn 2019 edition of RECOVERY magazine and […]

gunnercooke has been shortlisted for Law Firm of the Year at British Legal Awards

gunnercooke is delighted to have been shortlisted for UK Law Firm of the Year at the prestigious British Legal Awards, organised by Legal Week.  We are proud to have grown from the brainchild of two pioneers nine years ago, to a partnership approaching 200 across the UK and in international locations. Best of luck to […]

A sense of mission which is positively infectious – Darryl Cooke’s book on Innovation

‘Solo’, the Sole Practitioner solicitors’ group publication, has written a sterling review of Darryl Cooke’s new book. Co-founder of gunnercooke, Darryl is also a writer and his latest book ‘To Innovate or not to Innovate: A blueprint for the law firm of the future‘ has recently been published. The reviewer explains that the book tells […]

Little-known equality provision deserves more take-up by HR

gunnercooke partner and Creative Equals Advisory Board member, Shilpen Savani, has written an article for Management Today about ‘positive action’. According to the article, “Positive action allows employers to identify a disadvantaged or marginalised group and then take targeted steps to facilitate their inclusion. It’s governed by the Equality Act 2010 and has been in […]

What could employment law look like post-Brexit?

The prevailing UK political climate brings to mind the apocryphal Chinese curse about living in “interesting times” and it has been easy to overlook some recent developments which could have significant consequences for HR practitioners in the near future. Tribunal Fees: Employment Tribunal application fees have become something of an obsession for many employment practitioners. […]

Darryl Cooke’s book on law firm innovation launches in London

We were delighted to welcome so many guests to Darryl Cooke’s book launch in London last night.  “To Innovate or not to Innovate:  A Blueprint for the Law Firm of the Future” is published by Globe Law Business. The impressive Chrissie Lightfoot, aka @thenakedlawyer, hosted and there was a buzz of support in the room […]

Spotlight on dual-qualified partner, Claudia Font, who navigated a move to the UK from Spain

How long have you been at gunnercooke? Three and a half years What were your expectations/hopes and dreams when you set out in your career in the law? To be honest, I didn´t really know. I wanted to help others, and to be able to succeed in assisting clients not only doing what was “legal” […]

IP Partner Rosie Burbidge has featured on the cover of Trademark Lawyer

Intellectual Property partner, Rosie Burbidge, has written the cover feature for the current edition of the Trademark Lawyer (see Page 26), looking into why design is often neglected within the IP framework, and encourages IP practitioners to realise the opportunities they offer. You can read the full feature HERE.

Spotlight on holiday entitlement and NMW breaches

New research published on Monday has found that: Not the usual suspects? This means that a significant proportion of the UK’s workforce are not receiving their basic workplace rights. However, what is interesting from the research is that it seems that the usual suspects – the big players in the gig economy – are not […]

Protecting your position, a note on shareholder disputes

In many SMEs and family owned businesses, there will usually be a small number of shareholders who also happen to be directors and/or employees of the company. You know how it goes. A small group of like-minded entrepreneurs decide to start a company. They all decide to take broadly equal shareholdings in the business. They all […]

Lead by example to achieve your business goals

Leadership is everything in reaching business goals Good leaders inspire others to achieve business goals. They set the vision, the strategy, the culture and have an ability to draw together a team. They set the example, provide the excitement and act as the glue that pulls a team together. It’s a myth that there are […]

How to Get the Most Out of Your People: Timpson’s shoe-mending and key-cutting

By Darryl Cooke As you walk into Timpson House you very quickly realise that you are entering a very special company. The reception replicates a high street Timpson outlet and the administrative offices are like something from a film set or a Disney World hotel. You wonder if you were expected to bring a child […]

How to Develop One-Word Brand Equity

For years Maurice Saatchi has been touting what he calls ‘one-word equity’. He argues that a world populated with ‘digital natives’, i.e. those people under 30 who can hardly remember life without the internet, have intensified the battle for attention in ways that we have still not fully understood. He argues that attention span is […]

Four Top Tips for Implementing a Social Media Policy in the Workplace

By Employment and Privacy Law Partner, Carl Atkinson Make it clear It is important to give accurate instructions on how you want employees to use social media at work, in relation to your business. For example, if employees are permitted to use social media on the mobiles during work hours, should it be expected that they […]

What Makes a Client Your Client?

By Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner Shilpen Savani A few months ago, a senior executive at a client company told me the substantial business sent to my firm in recent years was rooted in his relationship with me as a trusted adviser. So far, so good. He then said, to my surprise, that  he valued the overall […]

How Louis Pasteur Developed Preventative Treatments

Louis Pasteur’s vaccines have saved more lives than any other. His scientific accomplishments and breakthroughs earned him France’s highest decoration, the ‘Legion of Honour’ and consequently there are multiple institutes, hospitals, schools and buildings named after him because of the difference his work has made to modern pharmaceuticals. He used process thinking to build his […]

How Henry Ford Revolutionised Automobile Manufacturing

Henry Ford created an automobile that was affordable for the average worker and, whilst doing so, revolutionised mass manufacturing for the motor car industry. Growing up on a farm, Ford could have safely followed in his father’s footsteps and become a farmer. Instead, he followed his passion and became fascinated with mechanics. He began by […]

How Coco Chanel Altered the Constraints of Women’s Fashion

Known for her timeless ‘Little Black Dress’ and simple, sophisticated designs, Coco Chanel made fashion effortless and comfortable for women, dispelling the fashion ‘norms’ of the time, and introduced the concept of ‘unisex’ dressing. Yet Coco Chanel was far from born into luxury. She began life as an orphan, raised by nuns who taught her […]

Personal Branding: people buy what others want to buy

Paris department store Galeries Lafayette is one of the World’s most famous places for high end fashion and accessories. Inside is an exclusive area for Chanel handbags but customers cannot enter just by walking in, they have to queue up at the entrance. An attendant comes by and asks what you will be looking at […]

How to Use Ethical Values to Build Your Business

Dame Anita Roddick was a true pioneer. A globally successful entrepreneur who campaigned for green causes long before it was fashionable to do so. As founder of ‘The Body Shop’, the world leader in manufacture and retail of plant based cosmetics, she campaigned endlessly for ethical values led businesses, turning her passion for environmental change […]

People Hour Webinar: how should you conduct an effective employee investigation?

Hosted by Employment Law Partner, Angela Brumpton Does your business have a process in place for leading employee investigations? Every business will encounter issues with employees from time to time, yet they can be stressful for even the most experienced HR professionals. If an issue with an employee is considered ‘low risk’, it may be […]

People Hour Webinar: not #MeToo sexual harassment claims in the workplace

People Hour Webinar: not #MeToo sexual harassment claims in the workplace Hosted by Employment Law Partner, Simon Horsfield Do you know how to respond to a sexual harassment claim made in the workplace? Sexual harassment in the workplace can explicitly or implicitly affect an individual’s employment by unreasonably interfering with their work performance, creating an […]

People Hour Webinar: making litigation commercially attractive and financially more certain for your clients

People Hour Webinar: making litigation commercially attractive and financially more certain for your clients Hosted by Employment Law Partner, Thalis Vlachos Litigation, or dispute resolution as it’s also known, involves assistance with resolving civil disputes. Such matters can arise between different companies, or between companies and individuals. For a number of parties, litigation can be seen […]

Lessons from 20 Years of a Life in the Law

Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner, Shilpen Savani, is celebrating 20 years as a solicitor. To recognise this milestone, and indeed achievement, Shilpen has put pen to paper to share the lessons he’s learned from a life in the law … So what have I learned in this time, I wonder? Of course, there’s key […]

5 Series Webinar: five quick wins to get your business ready for gender pay gap reporting

5 Series Webinar: five quick wins to get your business ready for gender pay gap reporting By Employment Law Partner, Simon Horsfield If you employ 250 employees or more, the deadline for publishing your first gender pay gap report is fast approaching. Gender Pay Gap reporting legislation requires employers with 250 or more employees to […]

5 Series Webinar: five top tips for negotiating terms of departure with senior executives

5 Series Webinar: five top tips for negotiating terms of departure with senior executives Hosted by Employment Law Partner, Rebecca Davidson In practice, Senior Executive departures can often be complex and the cost of ‘getting it wrong’ can be considerable. They are sophisticated in their approach as many Senior Executives may begin to instruct a […]

Going Solo: time to say good-bye to the office

Historically, the legal profession has been a somewhat prescriptive space to ply one’s trade. Once ensconced within a firm, a newly appointed lawyer has a rigid framework to operate within, and endless lists of protocols to abide by. True enough, for some lawyers this can be a source of comfort and stability, and there is […]

Going Solo: developing your expertise and personal brand

In record numbers, lawyers across the UK are walking out of the offices, never to return. They’re not leaving the profession, rather they’re establishing themselves as self-employed consultants, and taking their careers in a new and exciting direction. gunnercooke’s ‘Going Solo’ series is looking at why this is viewed as such a compelling option for […]

The Countdown to GDPR: is your business prepared?

By Employment and Privacy Law Partner, Carl Atkinson On 25th May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will come into force in the UK. Implementing the biggest change to data protection law in a generation. Non-compliant businesses are at risk of facing enforcement action that could potentially damage their public reputation and bank balance. The […]

Going Solo: do you crave the opportunity to network effectively whilst self-employed?

The legal profession is continuing to change. Evolving client demands, developments in technology, a mercurial economic landscape. All are  having a significant impact on establishing one of the UK’s longest and most esteemed professions. An observable trend is the number of lawyers breaking out of traditional office life and setting up as self-employed consultants. Gunnercooke’s […]

Why Freeing up Your Time Can Make You a Better Professional

“There is no substitute for hard work.” The famous musing of iconic American inventor and businessman Thomas Edison, remains as true today as it did a century ago. Edison however, neglected to mention that, although there is no substitute to working hard, there is a crucial accessory to it; working smart. It’s become fashionable these […]

Leaders – are you inspiring and motivating your team?

Four simple habits that leaders should adopt when inspiring and motivating their team Every CEO will tell you that they have a number of ‘high-performers’ in their organisations. The idea generators, the doers, the people that drive the business forward. As a leader, your role is to nurture as many of these people as possible – inspiring and motivating your […]

Disruptive Growth: an insight into the changes to the legal sector

When we think about sectors undergoing disruptive growth and transformation, some come to mind more readily than others. IT, automotive, aerospace, manufacturing – to name a few – regularly feature in news reports. All detailing how they are morphing in ways congruent with the digital age. Less likely to make synapses glow, is the legal […]

Goal Setter: five essential steps to achieve any major goal

“Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?” It’s a question we’ve all been asked, and a question most of us dread thinking about. We all have our own aspirations of what we want to achieve in life – they’re our ‘silver linings’, our ‘light at the end of the tunnels’. But when does […]

5 Series Webinar: five top tips for directors

What are directors and what do they do? Hosted by Dispute Resolution Partner, Christine Oxenburgh A director is an appointed or elected member of the board of directors of companies who, along with other directors, have the responsibility for determining and implementing company policy. As a director, your duties are a series of statutory, common law […]

Company Culture: three approaches Lush have taken to apply expertly crafted customer service

Our Company Culture At gunnercooke, our model is based around a company culture of innovation. We passionately believe that without a company culture, any business model can be copied. For this reason, we place so much emphasis upon developing and strengthening the ethos and cultural heart of gunnercooke. We strive to enable our lawyers to […]

How Going Self-Employed Means an End to Office Politics

The Benefits of a Law Firm but None of the Office Politics The point at which an individual decides that structured, office-based employment isn’t for them is rarely a snap decision. It usually comes after a period during which certain events contribute to a moment in time when they stop what they’re doing and think, […]

The Countdown to GDPR: processing of personal data and acquiring consent

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on 25th May 2018. In order to comply businesses have started to implement compliance strategies to mitigate the risk of an enforcement action. In our last blog we considered the initial steps businesses should take to make compliance with the GDPR as painless as possible, starting with […]

Company Culture: three practices Virgin Trains use to ensure they go the extra mile

At gunnercooke, our model is based around a company culture of innovation. We passionately believe that without a culture, any business model can be copied. For this reason we place so much emphasis upon developing and strengthening the ethos and cultural heart of gunnercooke. We strive to enable our lawyers to operate quickly, efficiently and […]

Team Dynamics: the barrister / solicitor relationship

Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner, Shilpen Savani, features in Grania’s latest article for Counsel Magazine looking into the changes in the way barristers and solicitors team dynamics work, in the same fashion as both sides of the profession. Shilpen, along with barrister Adam Chichester-Clark of Three Stone Chambers, draw on their experience of working together […]

How to serve court proceedings on your opponent

Serving you When starting court proceedings against someone, you must ensure that your proceedings have been validly served on your opponent. If they haven’t, there is a risk that your claim will never get past first base! Judgement was handed down by the Supreme Court in February 2018, as the Court was asked to decide […]

Company Culture: three methods Brainshark use to gain ferocious reputation for exquisite customer service

Our Company Culture; At gunnercooke, our model is based around a culture of innovation. We passionately believe that without a company culture, any business model can be copied. For this reason, we place large much emphasis upon developing and strengthening the ethos and cultural heart of gunnercooke. We strive to enable our lawyers to operate […]

The Changing Employment Landscape: disruptive technology and the gig economy

Below is a copy of the latest virtual series publication published by IR Global featuring Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner, Shilpen Savani. In this issue, employment law experts discuss some of the specific challenges and opportunities presented by the gig economy, and look at how this is shaping employment law litigation. They assess what this […]

Recovering the costs of third party funding

Litigation Tactics: myths, legends and fairy tales series by Partner, Tom Blackburn Imagine we live in a post-apocalyptic world. Access to justice is being denied to those that can’t afford to pay ‘normal’ hourly rates, therefore creating a two-tier civil justice system. Trump is the leader of the free world. The UK government is propped […]

How Young Lawyers Can Build New Business Skills at an Early Age… and Why It Matters

How Young Lawyers Can Build New Business Skills at an Early Age… and Why It Matters Written by Anna Beaumont, CEO of gunnercooke, on behalf of Lawyer Monthly Magazine Anna shares insight into how young lawyers can tackle the rapid transition from academic to working life – how they need to put into practice what they’ve […]

How to Become a Networking Pro

How to Become a Networking pro Effective networking and running a business is a classic combination – like jelly and ice cream, it just works. How to beome a newroking pro Even our most successful business entrepreneurs can dread the idea of introducing themselves to a group of strangers. It’s a daunting and therefore an […]

People Hour Webinar: how will GDPR impact HR in 2018?

People Hour Webinar: how will GDPR impact HR in 2018? Hosted by Employment and Privacy Law Partner, Carl Atkinson The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is fast approaching. Due to come into force across the UK on 25th May 2018, it will implement what has been described as the biggest change to data protection law in […]

Company Culture: three techniques Ritz-Carlton use to cater extraordinarily for their guests

At gunnercooke, our model is based around a culture of innovation. When your standards of service are set way above the average, the task of ‘WOW’ing’ your customers becomes much harder. Let’s take Ritz-Carlton for example – a global, luxury hotel chain with a reputation for treating its patrons like royalty. With authority, experience and […]

Comeback for Commonhold?

Written by Property Partner, Tom Seabrook Last year the government announced plans to reform residential leasehold ownership in England and Wales. This was in no doubt driven in part by lurid headlines. In reality a very limited number of leasehold properties were affected by onerous escalator clauses, which in time lead to ridiculous ground rents […]

5 Series Webinar: five top tips for managing sickness absence

5 Series Webinar: five top tips for managing sickness absence Hosted by Employment Law expert, Simon Robinson It’s an inevitable fate that people are going to be off sick from time to time, and while most employees feel they are neglecting their duties, absence because of sickness can potentially put any business in a tricky […]

Company Culture: three attributes Metro Bank invest to guarantee they execute quality customer service

At gunnercooke, our model is based around a culture of innovation. Challenging the way more traditional businesses serve their customers is something we’re no stranger to at gunnercooke, and it’s great to see other businesses at the forefront of providing brilliant client service. Take Metro Bank for example, as Britain’s first high-street bank in over […]

Five reasons why our lawyers at gunnercooke are happy

At gunnercooke, we are making law work better. We exist to deliver a better service to businesses, a better life for our lawyers, and a better world than we found – and what better way to celebrate International Day of Happiness than to share five key reasons why our lawyers at gunnercooke are happier than […]

The Countdown to GDPR: new concepts and how to implement them

By Employment and Privacy Law Partner, Carl Atkinson During our countdown we have outlined the initial steps businesses can take to establish a secure foundation for their GDPR compliance programme. All businesses are different, and consequently a ‘one size fits all’ approach towards GDPR compliance based upon a generic GDPR solution / toolkit is unlikely to […]

Company Culture: three features that help Travel Counsellors deliver the service you need

At gunnercooke, our model is based around a culture of innovation. Every valued customer knows that it’s personal, passionate service that truly makes the difference. Although most businesses would argue customer service is an important element of their model, it still takes a unique kind of client service that ensures customers feel appreciated on an […]

People Hour Webinar: do’s and don’ts when tackling sensitive workplace issues and defending a disciplinary

People Hour Webinar: do’s and don’ts when tackling sensitive workplace issues and defending a disciplinary Hosted by Employment Partner, Thalis Vlachos Tackling a disciplinary issue is never a pleasant experience, even more so when they are centred around sensitive issues in the workplace. In this insightful webinar, Thalis provides a strategic road-map on how employers […]

gunnercooke Launches Professional Trustee Company

    gunnercooke have launched a new Professional Trustee Company, gcTrustees Limited, to further boost the range of pensions services we can offer our clients. Experienced pension partners Suresh Bhatt and Adam Bushby will be utilising their decades of professional trusteeship experience to spearhead this new offering, which will act as a trustee of pension […]

Company Culture: three ways Gaylord Opryland houses exceptional customer service

At gunnercooke, our model is based around a culture of innovation. Great companies recognise the long-term value of looking after their regular customers. It is often repeat business which really helps to generate profits and spread the word about a product or service. After all, what better or more genuine PR than a glowing recommendation […]

Changes to the Taxation of PILONs

As you may be aware, the government has embarked on a series of reforms with a view to simplifying, clarifying and tightening the tax treatment of termination payments to employees.   From Friday 6 April 2018 inclusive all payments in lieu of notice (PILONs) will be treated as earnings.   This means that all PILONs […]

Changes to workplace pensions in April 2018

Workplace Pensions – what do employers need to contribute? From 6 April 2018, the total employer contribution rate to workplace pensions will increase from 3% to 5%, with the minimum employer component increasing from 1% to 2%. In 2012, the government introduced Automatic Enrolment (AE). At the time it was ground-breaking, as for the first time […]

5 Series Webinar: five top tips for appointing a professional trustee for your pension scheme

Professional Trustees have been an established part of the pensions industry for a number of decades now. However, the growth in the number of individuals and companies acting as Professional Trustees has been particularly significant over the last 15 years or so. This webinar will give you tips on appointing a professional trustee. It’s no […]

The Law, Pimlico Plumbers and the Gig Economy

What is the gig economy and how does the law treat it? As more and more employees begin to work flexibly, the term ‘gig economy’ has become a frequently used term. In particular, it is a term linked with a number of high profile employment disputes! In this webinar, Susie looks at: The key definitions […]

Unilateral Notices: revisited

Written by Property Litigation Partner, Tom Seabrook Some years ago, as a fresh faced young associate, I wrote an article called ‘Unilateral Notices; Exploding the Myths’ that took the internet by storm. It went almost viral and if you Google ‘Unilateral Notice’ now you will see it is still one of the top results. *pause while […]

Can businesses still benefit from EMI share option schemes?

EMI share option schemes – an update on the law Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) share option schemes allow certain companies to grant tax-advantaged share options to their key employees. They were first introduced in 2000 and have proved popular with many SMEs as a way of recruiting or retaining senior employees. The schemes incentivise them […]

The gunnercup draw is now closed!

The gunnercup draw is now closed! The FIFA World Cup kicks off in Russia on 14th June 2018 and all places in our sweepstakes draw have now been filled! Due to the number of people who entered the draw, we will be assigning three people per team so that everybody who signed up can get […]

A New Future for Law? Presenting a challenger law firm

A challenger law firm gunnercooke is a challenger law firm. It challenges the way that legal services are delivered to clients. It challenges the way that lawyers balance their lives. It challenges the way our communities are served by those of us more fortunate. Most of all, it gives lives back to our lawyers and enables […]

What is a CVA and why are so many retailers using one?

House of Fraser proposes a CVA In June 2018 House of Fraser became the latest multi-site retailer to propose a CVA. It follows the recent CVAs of ToysRus, Mothercare, Carpetright, New Look, Prezzo and Jamies Italian. The national press has run stories questioning the use of CVAs but has failed to properly explain what the […]

Warrington technology firm IESA sold in a deal worth £88m

A gunnnercooke team led by Mark Whittaker, has advised on the sale of IESA, a market leading business process outsourcer. The buyer was leading distributor of electronics, engineering tools and consumables, Electrocomponents PLC. The sale provides an exit for Gresham Private Equity, who invested in the company through an MBO in 2012. Headquartered in Warrington, IESA has frequently […]

gunnercup 2018: Has a new dark horse been revealed?

For those of you who haven’t been tuning into the matches so far, it’s been an all-action start to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia… Halfway through the group stages and we’ve seen goals in every single match so far! The number of surprise results and impressive performances might well be enough to say […]

Since #MeToo, is it too difficult to bring a sexual harassment claim in the workplace?

Thanks to campaigns such as #MeToo and the exposure of Harvey Weinstein, sexual harassment in the workplace is now a very hot and live topic. As a result, a spate of claims against employers is inevitable as more victims have the courage to come forward. But how difficult is it to bring a claim? Nearly […]

gunnercup 2018: Who has the easiest route to the final?

Things are heating up in Russia as the dust settles on the group stages and 16 teams now begin to dream big. Credit to Uruguay and Croatia who both coasted through to the knockout round without dropping a single point. The same goes for Belgium… although under slightly different circumstances as discussed below. Elsewhere, Leo […]

gunnercup 2018: Opportunity knocks…

Only eight teams remain in the quarter finals, each with a big chance to send their country into raptures this weekend. If you thought the group stages were exciting, it already seems the knockout stages are taking things up a notch. France’s 4-3 win over Argentina is up there in the stakes for best game […]

Company Culture: the three best applications of Apple’s excellent customer service

Apples customer service At gunnercooke, our model is based around a culture of innovation. We passionately believe that without a culture, any business model can be copied. For this reason, we place so much emphasis upon developing and strengthening the ethos and cultural heart of gunnercooke. We strive to enable our lawyers to operate quickly, […]

What can business leaders learn from Iron Man?

Business Leaders, if you feel good, eat! ‘If you feel good, eat!’ is the race day fuelling mantra of many experienced Iron Man triathletes. Take note business leaders, you should eat little and often whilst you can stomach it. If you wait until you’re hungry to give your body the nutrition it needs, you’ll have […]

Five Key Provisions Introduced by the Criminal Finances Act 2017

Hosted by Business Crime Partner, Richard Cannon What does the introduction of the Criminal Finances Act 2017 mean for businesses? This key legislation alters the financial crime landscape and will increasingly impact on business life. It includes a new corporate tax evasion offence, unexplained wealth orders, human rights abuses as a ground for seizing criminal […]

Do employees lose their bonuses when sacked?

The recent claim against the AA by its former executive chairman for £225m looks certain to raise interesting issues relating to sacked employees’ bonus and long-term incentive share entitlements. In this blog, I look at the law relating to employee bonuses and long-term share incentive schemes.  AA executive chairman Bob Mackenzie was dismissed for gross misconduct […]

gunnercup: The champions have been crowned

After four weeks of scintillating football over in Russia, we finally have a winner! France toppled Croatia 4-2 to lift the trophy for just the second time in their history. As far as World Cup finals go, it’s fair to say the entertainment value matched the tournament as a whole. We had fantastic finishing, own […]

Six books all business leaders should read this Summer

As the Summer holidays are just around the corner, it is the perfect time to reflect on the first half of the year and equip yourself with fresh ideas for the second. Here are our recommendations on the best reads for business leaders this Summer: Strategy and Innovation Be More Pirate by Sam Conniff Allende Sam […]

Taming Tigers with Jim Lawless

Very few people choose to risk their own life when putting their principles to the test. Jim Lawless is one of them. As a world-leading authority on change and personal development, Lawless has shared his remarkable experiences and insights with over half a million people across five continents. His framework for successful adaptation and transformation […]

People Hour Webinar: Internationally Mobile Workers

What are the obligations for companies with mobile workers? Do your employees travel for business, or work overseas? In an increasingly global landscape, mobile workers form a key part of any strategy for international success. Regulators around the world are increasingly concerned by the implications, from a tax, social security and immigration perspective. Companies with […]

Employer Health & Safety Responsibilities – Ever increasing circles…

It has never been more important for employers to develop best practice to ensure the safety of their employees and to develop a coherent policy for what to do in the event of the worst-case scenario. The noose has been steadily tightening around the proverbial corporate neck as awareness increasingly grows relating to the responsibility […]

Accepting Part 36 Offers

The Power of Part 36 Offers Part 36 offers are vital tools for Dispute Resolution. When used effectively, they can result in early settlement and significant cost savings. The intention behind Part 36 of the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) is to encourage parties to make tactical offers. These are designed to focus the opponent’s mind […]

Symposium 2018: Going From Good to Great…

Our fifth annual Symposium is shaping up to be our biggest yet! We’re immensely proud of what gunnercooke has accomplished in that time. Our focus on culture has enabled us to become the fastest growing firm in UK legal services. And we’re not about to slow down now. We will continue to stay ahead of the […]

Compulsory Protection of Client Money for English Property Agents

On 21 June 2018, new regulations were passed setting out the process for the approval of new Client Money Protection (CMP) Schemes. Hot on their heels, parliament is now considering further regulations which would make it mandatory for letting agents to join one of these schemes by 1 April 2019 or face fines imposed by […]

Can an allegation be a protected disclosure for the purposes of the whistleblowing legislation?

The Court of Appeal decision in Kilraine v London Borough of Wandsworth has clarified whether an allegation can amount to “information” for the purposes of the whistleblowing legislation.  It takes bravery to be a whistleblower. Even when they act with the best of motives, they risk being branded a snitch or a traitor and stigmatised. There […]

Supreme Court decision deals blow to gig economy employers

In the latest in a series of gig economy cases, the Supreme Court has decided that a plumber described in his contract as “self-employed” was a “worker” and therefore entitled to employment rights. The case against Pimlico Plumbers Gary Smith is a plumbing and heating engineer who worked for Pimlico Plumbers (PP) for six years […]

Appellate decision of preference: don’t presume to save your MC Bacon!

gunnercooke has recently acted on behalf of the successful Respondents in an appellate decision (the Respondents winning at first instance) on insolvency preference delivered on 17 July. Given the dearth of decisions on preference over the last 40 years or so since MC Bacon (especially at appeal level), it is likely to be of significant […]

Age discrimination in the workplace

A report earlier this summer claimed that the government is failing to protect millions of UK workers from age discrimination. Around a third of UK workers will be over the age of 50 within two years. This is a ticking time bomb for employers. In this blog, Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos looks at the […]

Symposium 2018: Who are our speakers?

It’s just under a week to go until we head down to Oxford for our fifth annual Symposium! We’re currently putting the final touches to all our preparations for the big event to make sure its our best yet, and what better time to found out more about our fantastic speakers. Here’s some information about them […]

Proactive Management of Commercial Leases: Part 1

Property Dispute Resolution Partner, Claire-Elaine Arthurs, will be presenting a Four Part Series exploring the common issues that arise with Commercial Property Leases. She will be considering how a proactive approach can manage risks, avoid disputes and allow both Landlords and Tenants to get the best out of their Tenancy. Part 1: Begin as You […]

Is your business set up to deal with a sexual harassment claim?

In a previous blog, Thalis examined the law relating to sexual harassment and the hurdles a complainant needs to overcome when bringing a claim. In this blog, he looks at things from a different angle. He considers the importance of employers having a proper process in place to deal with allegations of sexual harassment. In […]

5 Ways to Manage Conflict Effectively at a Senior Leadership Level

Hosted by Employment Law Partner & Workplace Mediator, Rebecca Ireland Negative conflict can be highly destructive in any team, but when in a senior leadership team it can have a material impact on profitability and other key performance indicators. Of course, conflict can be positive for a business particularly at senior leadership level. A good challenging […]

Family Friendly Policies in the Modern Workplace

Hosted by Employment Law Partner, Rebecca Davidson The modern workplace is rapidly changing, and many employees are striving to find a different way to work to achieve a better work-life balance. In this webinar, Rebecca looks at the current law on family friendly policies in the workplace and consider what policies employers should have in […]

#MeToo Is it time up for discrimination in the workplace?

Below is a copy of the latest virtual round table series publication by IR Global featuring Dispute Resolution and Employment Law Partner, Shilpen Savani The #MeToo movement officially began in October 2017 as a social media hashtag in the wake of sexual misconduct allegations aimed at high profile Hollywood film producer Harvey Weinstein. In this issue, IT Global’s […]

Proactive Management of Commercial Leases: Part 2

Property Dispute Resolution Partner, Claire-Elaine Arthurs, will be presenting a Four Part Series exploring the common issues that arise with Commercial Property Leases. She will be considering how a proactive approach can manage risks, avoid disputes and allow both Landlords and Tenants to get the best out of their Tenancy. Part 2: Common Issues During […]

Is artificial intelligence a friend or a foe to the legal profession?

Is artificial intelligence a friend or a foe to the legal profession? Written by Thalis Vlachos, Employment Law Partner at gunnercooke. Some argue artificial intelligence (AI) is a threat and claim that it will lead to widespread job losses. Others see it as an opportunity to improve legal services and change them for the better. In this […]

Professional Negligence Update

Professional Negligence Update It is an unpleasant reality that solicitors operate in a more litigious environment than ever before and that claims are a growing area of risk for firms. With their relatively deep pockets, solicitors are vulnerable, easy targets for claims by those who may be hit hard by the recession and Brexit. Solicitors have […]

5 Top Tips Relating to Financially Troubled Businesses

5 Top Tips Relating to Financially Troubled Businesses Hosted by Restructuring & Insolvency Partner, Jeremy Goldring Jeremy’s experience spans the whole spectrum of the Restructuring & Insolvency business environment, across just about every business sector. He advises anyone who is an existing stakeholder or is thinking of investing in a distressed business – or is […]

inspire* Gift of Time Pledge Event

“Imagine if we all gave one hour of our time, the difference we could make to the world.” – Winston Churchill inspire* Gift of Time Pledge Event Date: Wednesday 5th December Time: 5pm – 7pm Venue: Clink Café, Canada House, Chepstow Street, Manchester, M1 5FW Perhaps we’re slightly early, but this time of year when […]

Anticipatory Injunctions to Protect Against Trespassers on Development Land

In the recent case of Vastint Leeds BV -v- Persons Unknown Entering or Remaining Without Consent of the Claimant on Land and Buildings Comprising Part of the Development Site Known as the Former Tetley Brewery Site, Leeds [2018] EWHC 2456, Mr Justice Marcus Smith granted an owner of development land an injunction on a quia timet basis, […]

gunnercooke win ‘Law Firm of the Year – Large’ at The Law Society Excellence Awards 2018

This is a fantastic achievement for gunnercooke. It’s always been our aim to challenge and improve the way legal services are delivered to businesses and so we are honoured to have won such a prestigious award. This was the 12th annual Excellence Awards hosted by the Law Society, and the first year they have recognised ‘Law […]

Have you got your HMO Licence? New Rules may mean you now need one…

Properties qualifying as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have long presented a potential headache for landlords. Originally, the requirement for an HMO licence only applied to properties that comprised at least three storeys. However, from 1 October 2018, size is no longer relevant. It is expected that it will bring an additional 160,000 properties within […]

Using blockchain technology to manage IP rights

What is blockchain? Blockchain is essentially any form of ‘decentralised’ database. Unlike traditional databases where there is a single ‘true’ version which is stored centrally, in a blockchain system ‘true’ copies of the database are shared with every computer which is part of the blockchain network. Every time there is a change to the database—for […]

Work-Related Stress: the risks for employers and how to minimise them

Work-Related Stress: the risks for employers and how to minimise them Hosted by Emma Tegerdine, Employment Law Partner at gunnercooke work-related stress Work-related stress is on the increase, and is now the most common form of work-related illness. In this webinar, Emma looks at employers’ legal obligations around employee health and well-being, while explaining how to effectively identify […]

Should the law relating to NDAs in sexual harassment cases be changed?

By Employment Law Expert, Thalis Vlachos Sexual harassment has been in the news more or less constantly over the past year. I have already written a couple of blogs on this topic, most recently Is your business set up to deal with a sexual harassment claim? This blog is on a related issue, namely the […]

‘Banter’ is not a defence to sexual harassment despite what Philip Green may think

Sexual harassment has hit the headlines again after Peter Hain outed Sir Philip Green as the businessman who obtained an injunction preventing The Telegraph reporting allegations of sexual harassment against him. What lessons can we learn from this latest episode about the myths that still surround sexual harassment?  One of the most remarkable things on […]

‘Let Only’ Agent Found Responsible for HMO Licensing

By Property Litigation Partner, Claire-Elaine Arthurs Most letting agents, in their terms and conditions, will put the responsibility for licensing a property firmly with the Landlord. Having included that clause, they then leave the issue to the landlords to resolve, incorrectly thinking that ensuring any required HMO Licence is in place is not their responsibility. […]

Proactive Management of Commercial Leases: Part 3

Property Dispute Resolution Partner, Claire-Elaine Arthurs, will be presenting a Four Part Series exploring the common issues that arise with Commercial Property Leases. She will be considering how a proactive approach can manage risks, avoid disputes and allow both Landlords and Tenants to get the best out of their Tenancy. Part 3: Variations to the Lease […]

inspire* Gift of Time Charity Pledges

This year our Christmas campaign is to raise 1,000 hours of resource and support for charities and help make a difference. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be campaigning to get as much help as possible from businesses to give the gift of time to our inspire* charities. We will culminate in a celebratory event […]

New Access Rights for Telecommunications Operators

Under the current Electronic Communications Code (Code) operators wishing to provide upgrades to tenants have to obtain formal permission from the landowner in the form of an access agreement or wayleave. However, operators have complained that high levels of landlords are not responding to requests. An operator who does not get cooperation from a landlord […]

Surface development and minerals sterilisation claims

Surface development and minerals sterilisation claims Leading up to the Land Registration Act 2002 there was a school of thought that minerals interests were irrelevant and within 15 years those interests would no longer have any effect. It was this rationale that led to the changed status of manorial rights and those rights which previously […]

New SDLT Filing Window due March 2019

From 1 March 2019 it is proposed that the window to file a Stamp Duty Land Tax (“SDLT”) return, and pay any SDLT due, will reduce from 30 days to 14 days from the effective date of the transaction. In most cases the “effective date” is the date of completion. However, where a contract for […]

inspire* Gift of Time Charity Pledges this Christmas

This year our Christmas campaign is to raise 1,000 hours of resource and support for charities and help make a difference   Over the next few weeks, we’ll be campaigning to get as much help as possible from businesses to give the gift of time to our inspire* charities. We will culminate in a celebratory event […]

5 Top Tips on How to Respond to Intellectual Property Infringement

Hosted by Rosie Burbidge, Intellectual Property Partner at gunnercooke Rosie’s experience as an intellectual property litigator and strategist means that she has experience of the many different intellectual property issues which can affect all types of business. She has helped resolve a wide range of disputes relating to copyright, designs, trade marks and patents, both pre-action […]

Whistleblowing Claims and How to Defend Them

Whistleblowing Claims and How to Defend Them Hosted by Employment Law Partner, Angus Menzies Whistleblowing is regularly in the news and it increasingly forms part, if not the main basis, of claims in the Employment Tribunal. The fact that there is no two-year service requirement for bringing claims, and the absence of a statutory cap […]

New Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Regulations for Residential Property

MEES Regulations 2015 The Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Property) (England and Wales) Regulations 2015 introduced two key measures with a view to improving the energy efficiency of private rented properties. The first is a right for a tenant of a domestic property to make energy efficiency improvements, which has been available since 2016. The second […]

Competition In Commercial Leases

Anti-Competitive Leases Don’t Fly On 25 October 2018 Heathrow airport recieved an order to pay £1.6m fine. This was for restricting competition on parking prices in a lease with an operator of a Terminal 5 hotel. After launching an investigation into the airport’s agreement with the Arora Group for the lease of Arora’s Sofitel hotel […]

Empty Properties May Become Even More Expensive For Landlords

Empty Properties May Become Even More Expensive For Landlords On 1 November 2018 the Rating (Property in Common Occupation) and Council Tax (Empty Dwellings) Act 2018 received Royal Assent. It is yet to be confirmed when it will come into force but, when it does it will apply to England only. Additional Premiums for Empty […]

Do you know who your Landlord is?

Do you know who your Landlord is? In many cases, residential tenants have little to do with their landlords for extended periods of time. During that time landlords may sell their interests or move, making it challenging for tenants to know who they then need to contact when an issue does arise. The first place […]

Is Right to Manage worth the Effort?

Is Right to Manage worth the Effort? As the number of people in privately rented residential accommodation increases, the ability of tenants to manage their homes in a way that works for them has become increasingly important. The Right to Manage (“RTM”) legislation, which landlords cannot contract out of, was introduced in 2002 to give […]

Male Domination: Why the Legal Sector Pushes Women Away

Male Domination: Why the Legal Sector Pushes Women Away With the results of the Gender Pay Gap showcasing a huge disparity between men and women in the workplace, we question why women are pushed aside when it comes to their career. Regardless of sex, colour and interests, we all have the same ability to perform […]

Dukeminster: When is it ok to get it wrong?

When is it ok to get it wrong? The context of this article is firmly in the peculiar world of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, but the principle can apply just as well to other areas of law.  In a recent case in the London County Court, the court didn’t like the parties using […]

Japanese knotweed: a knotty problem

Japanese knotweed: a knotty problem Whether you are managing, developing, buying or selling commercial property, Japanese knotweed can be a real problem.  This invasive species is costly to remove both in contractor’s costs and the time involved.  There are various possible criminal penalties for the landowner.  There is also the possibility of action by neighbouring […]

Relevance of motive in 1954 Act opposed renewals

Relevance of motive in 1954 Act opposed renewals On 5th December 2018, the Supreme Court handed down judgement in the case of S Franses Limited (Appellant) v The Cavendish Hotel (London) Ltd [2018] UKSC 62.  This is the final word on a case relating to the necessary intention to develop required by a landlord to […]

Employers beware: your company may be liable for the actions of its employees at this year’s Christmas party

Employers beware: your company may be liable for the actions of its employees at this year’s Christmas party  To what extent is a company vicariously liable for the actions of its employees? With Christmas party season upon us, where behaviour of employees can be an area for concern, a recent decision by the Court of […]

Proactive Management of Commercial Leases

Property Dispute Resolution Partner, Claire-Elaine Arthurs, has produced a Four Part Series exploring the common issues that arise with Commercial Property Leases. She considers how a proactive approach can manage risks, avoid disputes and allow both Landlords and Tenants to get the best out of their Tenancy. Part 1: Begin as You Mean to Go On […]

5 Top Tips on Responding to Allegations of Intellectual Property Infringement

Hosted by Rosie Burbidge, Intellectual Property Partner at gunnercooke she discusses responding to Allegations of Intellectual Property Infringement  Rosie’s experience as an intellectual property litigator and strategist means that she has experience of the many different intellectual property issues which can affect all types of business. She has helped resolve a wide range of disputes relating […]

Christmas Reading List 2018

Christmas Reading List 2018 Wonderful Lives by Dr Nick Bayliss – this Cambridge Don and Psychologist explains fundamental principles and every day skills drawn from remarkable individuals to create a great life   The 100 Year Life by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott about what our lives will look like. Most people born today will […]

Settlement Agreements: When and how to use them properly

Settlement Agreements: When and how to use them properly Hosted by Angela Brumpton, Employment Law Partner at gunnercooke Angela is a highly experienced employment lawyer covering the full spectrum of employment law advice and support. She has particular expertise in business protection work, which includes obtaining and defending High Court Injunctions and drafting restrictive covenants. […]

gunnercooke awarded for our unique and innovative culture

gunnercooke have been awarded two awards at the Business Culture Awards 2019, including the overall Business Culture Achievement Gold Award for our innovative and comprehensive approach to advancing our organisational culture throughout our business.  Since inception in 2010, we have put our clients and our culture at the heart of everything we do. We’ve created […]

Malicious Prosecution – The Development of this Tort in Civil Proceedings

Malicious Prosecution – The Development of this Tort in Civil Proceedings The Supreme Court decision in Willers v Joyce and another [2016] UKSC 43&44 began the revival of the tort of malicious prosecution in English law. The decision opened up a potential cause of action for those who suffer as a result of unsuccessful malicious […]

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 On 20 December 2018, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Bill was given royal assent. The Act amends the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. It will come into force from March 2019 allowing all tenants, private and social, to take action against their landlord if their home […]

Is Brexit a cause for Frustration (of Leases)?

Is Brexit a cause for Frustration (of Leases)? In a recent twist in the Brexit Saga, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has been forced into a dispute with the Landlord of its London based Head Quarters. The EMA’s Lease In 2014, the EMA signed a 25-year lease of a newly built 20-storey tower at Canary […]

European Fashion Law – starting up to going global

Join Us! For the Intellectual Property Rights in the Fashion and Creative Industries Event. February 2019 is an important month for fashion. Not only is it London Fashion Week but it is also the launch of gunnercooke partner Rosie Burbidge’s book European Fashion Law. If you want find out more about Rosie’s Book click Here. […]

Joanna Dai, Founder of DAI will be speaking at our Intellectual Property Rights in the Fashion and Creative Industries Event

We are pleased announce that Joanna Dai, Founder of DAI will be speaking at our Intellectual Property Rights in the Fashion and Creative Industries Event. Founder Joanna Dai’s eight-year finance career in New York and London instilled a style of polished attitude and smart sensibility. However, when it came to workwear shopping, she felt discouraged […]

Are employers sitting on an age discrimination time bomb?

A report earlier this summer claimed that the government is failing to protect millions of UK workers from age discrimination. As around a third of UK workers will be over the age of 50 within two years, this is a ticking time bomb for employers. In this blog, I look at the law surrounding age […]

Appellate decision on preference: don’t presume to save your MC Bacon!

Séamas Gray and Joseph Curl look at the most significant decision on preference for 30 years On 17 July 2018, Mr Justice Birss handed down his appellate judgment in the case of Abdulali v. Finnegan & another [2018] All ER (D) 133 in what may be one of the most important decisions on preference since […]

Are the scales tipping in the battle against harassment at work?

Are the scales tipping in the battle against harassment at work?   The allegations of harassment against Ted Baker founder Ray Kelvin are the latest in a series of claims against high profile men that have hit the headlines over the past few months. Some interesting factors in this case indicate why behavior once accepted […]

A little too presumptuous? Abdulali v Finnegan & another [2018]

A little too presumptuous? Abdulali v Finnegan & another [2018] EWHC 1806 (Ch) One of the key practical features that separates insolvency litigation from most other legal disputes is the fact that the party typically bringing the claim – the officeholder – is usually unable to give any first-hand evidence of the background facts. By […]

Leasehold Reform Consultation

Developers and Investors will be particularly interested to note that, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government launched a consultation paper, Implementing reforms to the leasehold system in England on 15 October 2018. This continues the Government’s campaign to reform the leasehold market. The Government’s White Paper Fixing our broken housing market, which was […]

Christmas Reading List 2019

Christmas Reading List 2019 Are you getting ready to sit by the fire with the Christmas tree lights twinkling behind you and a good book in hand? Here are our choices… The Intelligence Trap by David Robson. Aimed at those with a high IQ, it is about making better decisions and explains why the more intelligent […]

Is the Google walkout a sign of things to come for even the most (allegedly) progressive of companies?

An estimated 20,000 Google workers took part in a global walkout last week in protest against claims of sexual harassment, gender inequality and racism at the company. This is the first time the tech giant has been the subject of this type of group action and is remarkable given its culture of individualism. In this blog, […]

gunnercooke advise on the sale of UK’s largest sound equipment supplier

gunnercooke advise on the sale of UK’s largest sound equipment supplier The UK’s largest sound equipment supplier for live events, SSE Audio Group Holdings Limited (‘SSE’), has been acquired by Groupe Solotech INC (‘Solotech’) in Canada. gunnercooke Corporate Partner, Amanda Allen, acted as the legal advisor to long-standing client SSE and its Stakeholders. SSE was […]

New Commercial Service Charges Code

New Commercial Service Charges Code The RICS have issued a new Professional Statement entitled “Service charges in commercial property (1st Edition)” (New Code), which comes into force on 1 April 2019. It replaces the third edition of the Service Charge Code. As the New Code is a Professional Statement, all RICS Members and Regulated Firms […]

Proactive Management of Commercial Leases

Property Dispute Resolution Partner, Claire-Elaine Arthurs, has produced a Four Part Series exploring the common issues that arise with Commercial Property Leases. She considers how a proactive approach can manage risks, avoid disputes and allow both Landlords and Tenants to get the best out of their Tenancy. Part 1: Begin as You Mean to Go On […]

Protecting your business from cyber threats Seminar

We are delighted to be hosting a Protecting your business from cyber-threats seminar, in partnership with Mitigo Cyber Security this March! Cyber Security is of increasing importance for all businesses, regardless of size or sector. With this in mind we are delighted to be hosting an interactive seminar for businesses to receive invaluable support and […]

Housing Complaints Resolution Service: What’s it all about?

Housing Complaints Resolution Service: What’s it all about? Given the current political climate it isn’t at all surprising that the government’s latest plans to “create a housing market that works for everyone” slipped out more or less unnoticed last week. The proposals follow last year’s consultation on Strengthening Consumer Redress in the Housing Market and […]

Can we escape the impacts of the increasingly digitalized world we inhabit?

With the ongoing increase in global digitalisation, very few industries (If any) will escape the impacts of the increasingly digitalized world we inhabit. New technologies continue to emerge creating a moving landscape that can seem challenging to even the most digitally mature organisations. Consider the hype around the Internet of Things (IoT), the network of […]

How can we possibly keep the data we send by email safe and secure when there are cyber attackers ready to pounce around every virtual corner?

One of the key challenges of data security relates to how we communicate electronically; namely email.  How can we possibly keep the data we send by email safe and secure when there are cyber attackers ready to pounce around every virtual corner? Answer: You need to act before the event to reduce the risks presented […]

In the complex mix of information used by your organisation there is one type of data that is highly regulated: personal data.

In the complex mix of information used by your organisation, there is one type of data that is highly regulated: personal data. The fact that is regulated means you have to think not only about commercial issues (the business risks and the opportunities around using personal data) but about legal compliance too. In discussions with clients, I tend to think about managing […]

STOP criminals from getting your money, your data and your business!

Are you being vigilant?   In the modern connected age, owners of small businesses need to be vigilant to the constantly growing number of threats to their livelihood. Organised criminals want to try and get access to your funds and data, to disrupt your business, or to get access to customer information that you hold […]

Could your password get hacked?

Could your password get hacked? It seems like every week, another company or public service organisation is in the headlines, with details of customer accounts or payment information being stolen and sold on the “dark web”. Whilst we all recognise that we need more complexity than Password123 in our login credentials – how can we […]

gunnercooke’s Corporate team has advised Euro Media Group on the acquisition of Telegenic, a major player in the UK and European Outside Broadcasting Market.

A gunnercooke team led by Corporate Partner Nick Gould has advised Euro Media Group (EMG) on the acquisition of Telegenic, a major player in the UK and European Outside Broadcasting Market. Telegenic operates a fleet of 15 Outside Broadcast and Production trucks equipped with the most advanced technology available for HD and UHD HDR productions […]

The Tate Modern’s Neighbours lose Battle for Privacy

The eagerly awaited High Court decision on the case being brought by the residents of the Neo Bankside Apartment Block against the Tate Modern Gallery has determined that the viewing platform, offering uninhibited views into their homes, does not amount to an actionable nuisance or invasion of privacy. The dispute dates back to when the […]

gunnercooke advises on acquisition of growing Midlands dental practice

A team led by gunnercooke partner Mel Kang has advised on the acquisition of a growing Midlands dental practice, following funding from Barclays. Mel is a recognised specialist in corporate healthcare, frequently advising dentists, pharmacists, GPs and care home operators on high-value acquisitions and disposals of their practices. There are many complex regulatory aspects involved in transactions such as these […]

Intellectual Property Rights in the Fashion and Creative Industries

This month (during London fashion week), gunnercooke joined forces with Joanna Dai (founder of luxury womenswear brand Dai) to celebrate the launch of gunnercooke partner, Rosie Burbidge’s book: European Fashion Law: A Practical Guide from Startup to Global Success. Rosie’s motivation for writing it: to make the law more accessible for the creative industries. In […]

A successful day for the ‘meet gunnercooke’ event in Leeds

A successful day as gunnercooke hosted a fantastic meet the team launch in Leeds on 01 March. This lunchtime drinks and canapes event was hosted at the popular Blackhouse restaurant in the city centre. It was very well attended with a great mix of gunnercooke partners, clients, intermediaries and recruiters. Co-founder Darryl Cooke gave an […]

A Burning Issue – what happens if a property is damaged or destroyed between exchange and completion?

Most clients would expect that if the property is damaged or burns down, the sale goes off and the buyer can walk away. I hope most lawyers would know that under the standard conditions of sale, that is not the case. Until a few years ago, it was the case with residential property that if […]

Brexit may now be less Frustrating for Landlords

Landlords will welcome the ruling from Mr Justice Smith that Brexit does not operate to frustrate the terms of a lease. In the recently heard case concerning the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Headquarters in London, the Court ruled that European Organisations cannot use Brexit as an excuse to walk away from their leases. Background In […]

A Construction Viewpoint: Practical Completion – what is it?

A Practical Completion – An “agreement for lease”. From the name, a layman might assume that this document is the domain of a property lawyer, but as every wise property lawyer knows, it makes sense to get your construction colleagues involved on this one! Are you sure that construction terms in your Agreement for Lease […]

Restrictive Covenants: Don’t Just Ignore Them

In a recent case, the Court of Appeal has refused to release or modify restrictive covenants where a development was knowingly carried out in breach of the covenants. The public policy interest in allowing the development to go ahead did not justify the release of restrictive covenants where a developer deliberately built houses on land […]

Oops!… We did it again

It is a fact of life that mistakes happen when entering commercial agreements. Time is usually tight. Parties want to ‘get the deal done’ and profit from it. Without the luxury of time to patiently review, reread and crosscheck terms, miscommunications and misunderstandings can understandably creep in. Take the situation where one side thinks it […]

Are you being served?

Service of notices has always been a particularly litigious area, with best practice to instruct a professional to send the notice for you, not least because it is then covered by their indemnity insurance. However, a recent case has really highlighted why it is important to take advice when receiving notices either direct or through […]

gunnercooke Corporate Partner Amanda Allen Leads Team On Sale Of Butler And Young Group

gunnercooke Corporate Partner Amanda Allen has provided legal advice to the shareholders of Butler and Young Group on the sale of the £10m-turnover building control and fire safety consultancy to France-headquartered SOCOTEC Group. Butler and Young Group has15 offices across the UK and encompasses Butler & Young Approved Inspectors, Trenton Fire and Butler & Young […]

Court of Appeal breathes life into collective proceedings against MasterCard

The Court of Appeal has allowed the appeal of a group of consumers against the Competition Appeal Tribunal’s refusal to certify their collective proceedings against MasterCard which it held was “premature and wrong”. The group is represented by Mr Walter Merricks who had unsuccessfully applied in 2016 to the tribunal for a collective proceedings order. The […]

The Supreme Court lands a (soft) blow to landlords opposing tenancy renewals…

Tenants and landlords who are party to Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 (the Act) tenancies should sit up and take note of recent landmark Supreme Court decision, S Franses Ltd v Cavendish Hotel (London) Ltd (2018) UKSC 62.  In short, the decision makes it more difficult for landlords to oppose the granting of a new […]

Dispute Resolution Webinar

This webinar includes: • The Nature of Disputes • Managing Objectives, Emotions and Influence • The Five Phases of Negotiated Settlement • Benefits of Direct and Mediated Negotiation • Picking the right form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) • Using Litigation as a tool for Settlement

National Stress Awareness Month: Tackling Workplace Stress

According to a recent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Labour Force Survey, published in October 2018, 15.4 million working days were lost last year due to work-related stress, depression or anxiety. As April is National Stress Awareness Month, it is an appropriate time to examine the reasons why employees are stressed at work and what […]

New EU super-database raises concerns for civil liberties and security

Civil Liberties groups and security experts have voiced concerns over the EU’s proposed new super-database.  The EU has approved the creation of the gigantic database which will aggregate the identity and biometric details of an estimated 350 million citizens. The “Common Identity Repository” (CIR) is intended to help EU border and law enforcement officers search […]

Global Accolade for gunnercooke’s Rosie Burbidge!

gunnercooke partner, Rosie Burbidge, has been named a trailblazer among WIPR’s Influential Women in IP 2019.  This new project by World IP Review celebrates the IP industry’s leading female practitioners from around the world and identified 20 women who are global rising stars in the industry.  Rosie was identified as a trailblazer after her rapid […]

gunnercooke – a finalist at this year’s Lawyer Awards!

Award winning challenger law firm gunnercooke is delighted to have been shortlisted for the Law Company of the Year category at this year’s Lawyer Awards.  The new category recognises the innovative models recently appearing in the legal landscape.  gunnercooke differs from traditional law firms in that its lawyers are given the flexibility and autonomy to […]

How can you improve your mental health and happiness by adopting a powerful morning routine?

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week.  Here, gunnercooke Partner and Coach, Hannah Beko, suggests starting the day by taking some time to take care of ourselves in mind and body. Our thoughts create our reality.  We get to decide how we feel each day.  In the morning, we don’t have to passively wait and […]

Sarah Goulbourne to take part in Law Society International Symposium

gunnercooke co-founder, Sarah Goulbourne, is delighted to have been invited to take part in the Law Society’s International Symposium on The Power of Gender Equality to Transform the Business of Law.    Sarah will be joining a panel discussing, amongst other topics, agile working.  The Symposium will take place on 20 and 21 June at the […]

gunnercooke in the Times on law firm culture

Co-founder of gunnercooke, Sarah Goulbourne, was interviewed by The Times following the IBA report on bullying and sexual harassment.  Sarah said ‘the report’s findings were no surprise and were the result of entrenched behaviours that stemmed from the antiquated and hierarchical structure of law firms. “The law needs to change and leaders need to transform […]

Litigation Retainers: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

In this webinar, Costs & Funding Partner Tom Blackburn explains how you can Increase your firm’s profits by slightly changing your litigation retainers. Tom’s simple, easy and straightforward advice can increase your billing and your firm’s bottom line.

When even trusted technology is hackable, how can you defend your privacy?

Whatsapp Messenger is a highly trusted product used by something like 1.5billion consumers Worldwide. Its end to end encryption protocol provides users with a high level of assurance about the privacy of their calls and messages. But even a robust product like this can fall victim to software hacks. It’s a shame because we would […]

ADR, but not as you know it – A new form of electronic dispute resolution

A new form of electronic dispute resolution has emerged in recent months.  Its simplicity mirrors the rapidly modernising world, one without geographical boundaries where a myriad of tasks are conducted from the comfort of a laptop.  “Kleros” is an attempt to bring some of this modernity to the resolution of civil disputes. Although many will […]

Employers have to wait to hear a decision in Court of Appeal Trade Union ‘unlawful inducements’ case

The Court of Appeal has reserved its decision in a crucial case in trade union legislation. Kostal UK Ltd v Dunkley & Others concerns collective bargaining and the use of inducements.  Section 145B of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (TULRCA) prohibits an employer from making offers to members of a recognised […]

GDPR marks anniversary but e-privacy regulation is ‘stuck’

Tim Heywood, Data Protection expert at gunnercooke, has commented on the current status of GDPR in the UK and Europe: “It’s a whole year since the GDPR came into force.  Rumour has it that the ICO and its counterparts across the EU are gearing up for some major enforcement measures shortly, armed as they are with […]

Co-founder Sarah Goulbourne writes an opinion piece for New Law Journal

The New Law Journal approached gunnercooke Co-founder Sarah Goulbourne to write an opinion piece on law firm culture, why not check it out? You can read the full article HERE

gunnercooke welcomes Tax-planning Expert

Tax Planning expert Tim Thornton Jones, has joined gunnercooke Tax team. Tim specialises in private client tax planning, mainly for UK domiciled clients, both UK and non-UK resident, landowners, farmers, businessmen, entrepreneurs, sportsmen and entertainers, on heritage property. He advises wealthy philanthropists in the creation of private charities.  He has also built a significant practice […]

A year at gunnercooke

It’s probably true to say that at the end of my time as a partner at my last firm I’d fallen out of love with the law. My average day was spent filling out internal forms, managing a team of fourteen people across three offices and producing reports about reports. On my first day at […]

Disputes: the art of effective negotiation

Many business relationships break down and disputes arise not because of diametrically opposed views on the future path of the business or the project or venture, but because people become entrenched in their views, or they want to have their cake and eat it. But like most things in life, it doesn’t work like that. Effective […]

The BusinessDesk has announced the arrival of Paul Ryman and Rachel Spink to gunnercooke Employment Law team

Online news platform The BusinessDesk has announced the arrival of Paul Ryman and Rachel Spink at gunnercooke, strengthening their Employment Law Team.  Welcome, Paul and Rachel! You can read the full article HERE – free registration is required.

Apprenticeships: A guide to the key issues and potential pitfalls

If an employer engages apprenticeships without being properly advised, the apprentice will probably have far better rights than an employee. However, many employers who engage apprentices are completely unaware of the risks. This Webinar will cover: • The Legal status of apprentices • Traditional v statutory apprenticeships • Apprenticeship agreements • Terminating apprenticeships • National […]

GM Business Connect features Darryl Cooke following K-Club event

gunnercooke co-founder, Darryl Cooke, has featured in B2B magazine, GM Business Connect, following a K-Club event where he spoke at about law firm innovation and philanthropy.  You can read about the event and what Darryl had to say HERE.

gunnercooke was named the Overall Winner at The Business Culture Awards (BCA) 2019

gunnercooke was named the Overall Winner at  The Business Culture Awards (BCA) 2019, beating household names like Innocent Drinks, Jaguar Land Rover, Odeon Cinemas and Kellogg’s.   The firm also won the Innovation category.  The reasons for the firm being selected for the accolade, as judged by a panel of 25 business leaders, is set out […]

Court of Appeal overturns Employment Appeal Tribunal in long-awaited Trade Union ‘unlawful inducements’ case

In a case which has had employers and Trade Unions on the edge of their seats, the Court of Appeal has overturned the decision of the Employment Tribunal and the Employment Appeal Tribunal in the case of Kostal UK Ltd v Dunkley & Others Section 145B of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act […]

Facebook’s new digital currency marks move to mainstream use of blockchain

Facebook has revealed its plans for a new digital currency which it says will allow people to make instant and almost free money transfers to people and businesses anywhere in the world from their mobile phones. The new digital coin, Libra, has the backing of over 24 companies including household names like Visa, Mastercard and […]

gunnercooke Employment Partner in People Management magazine

gunnercooke Employment Partner, Angela Brumpton, has been interviewed for three topical articles in recent days for People Management: On her own case in the Court of Appeal about ‘unlawful inducements’ On a case about discrimination regarding spoken English abilities On a case about religious discrimination.

gunnercooke ramps up London presence with four new Corporate Partners

Challenger law firm, gunnercooke, has strengthened its London team bringing in four new partners and significantly boosting its corporate and finance presence in the City. Matthew Cahill, Simon McLeod, Graham Reid and Max Beazley have joined gunnercooke as partners. Capital Markets and Structured Finance partner, Matthew Cahill, draws on over 20 years’ magic circle law […]

Disciplinary Investigations and Unfair Dismissal

The Employment Appeal Tribunal has recently considered whether an employer is acting unfairly if it dismisses an employee without holding an investigation meeting. In Radia v Jeffries International, Mr Radia was dismissed following an unsuccessful employment tribunal claim against his employer. The Judge in that case found his evidence not to be credible in various […]

The Employment Appeal Tribunal has recently considered the rights of employees who are on-call.

In Frudd v Partington Group the employees worked at a caravan site and were expected to be on-call after their shifts until 8am the following morning. They claimed this was “time work” so that they were entitled to be paid the national minimum wage. The “sleep-in” exception in the Mencap case did not apply because […]

Acas Publishes New Guidance on Age Discrimination

Acas has published a new Guidance on Age Discrimination to help employers manage an age diverse workforce, prevent unfair treatment at work, and eradicate bias against older and younger workers. Follow the link to the Guidance, here. The Guidance includes the following ‘top ten obligations’ as well as a myths v facts sheet. 1. Ageist […]

Reports find harassment and bullying in Parliament

Two reports out this week have found repeated instances of bullying and harassment in Parliament and amongst staff working for some MPs or political parties. The news that bullying and harassment are rife within and around Parliament comes as no surprise given previous reports and the small world of politics, where fear for career prospects […]

The Legal Consequences of Suspending Employees

What are the legal consequences of suspending an employee? In particular, in what circumstances will an employer breach the implied term of trust and confidence? The issue has been considered by the Court of Appeal in the case of London Borough of Lambeth v Agoreyo. Perhaps not surprisingly, the Court has confirmed that an employer […]

BA fine signals ICO is taking no prisoners ahead of GDPR Phase 2

The ICO has said it intends to fine British Airways £183 million and the Marriott chain £99 million for data breaches each company had themselves notified to the Commissioner in compliance with the notification requirements under GDPR. Both organisations have the chance to appeal against the proposed penalty, but in the meantime what this indicates is that the ICO is […]

Symposium 2019: Wonderful Lives

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of year again… The gunnercooke Symposium is returning to Oxford on 11-12 September 2019 – and preparations are well under way to make it our greatest event yet! We’re inviting all our partners to join us for two action-packed days brimming with keynote speakers, workshops and insightful discussions to […]

How you can prevent your Deliveroo account from being hacked

The recent experience of a number of Deliveroo customers (especially in London, but elsewhere too) serves to illustrate the importance of customers ensuring that they use different passwords for their various platforms, devices and apps. This particular incident seems to have cost individual customers relatively little because the hackers have simply used the passwords to […]

Employment Partner Angela Brumpton has commented on redundancy consultation tribunal decision

Employment Partner Angela Brumpton, has commented in People Management on a redundancy consultation tribunal decision. You can read the full article HERE

Rosie Burbidge comments on Katy Perry copyright dispute

Intellectual Property Partner Rosie Burbidge has featured in The Copyright Magazine sharing her expertise on the recent Katy Perry copyright ruling. You can read the full article HERE

gunnercooke Co-founder Darryl Cooke features in Manchester Law Society magazine

gunnercooke co-founder, Darryl Cooke, features in the Manchester Law Society July edition magazine covering his latest book launch; To innovate or not to innovate. You can read the full feature on page 11 of the magazine HERE

The Stress Solution: 4 key insights from BBC’s ‘Doctor in The House’

Best known for his work on BBC’s Doctor in the House and The One Show, Dr. Rangan Chatterjee has become a figurehead for the nation’s daily health and wellbeing in recent years. We’re delighted to announce that Dr. Chatterjee will be joining us as one of our keynote speakers at this year’s Symposium. Ahead of […]

RICS Consult on Measurement of Land for Development and Planning

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has published a draft guidance note, Measurement of Land for Development and Planning Purposes (1st edition), and is seeking comments on it. The Consultation closes on 17 September 2019, with a view to it being adopted by the end of the year. There are a number of core […]

gunnerooke partner achieves a fantastic result for client Hitachi

gunnercooke has achieved a fantastic result for our client Hitachi Data Systems lead by Pensions Partner Adam Bushby with his innovate approach. If you would like to know more about this transaction, you can read the full article HERE.

Employment Partner Thalis Vlachos comments on a sexual harassment survey into the retail sector for People Management magazine

Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos has been interviewed by People Management magazine on the recently published sexual harassment survey in the retail sector where 51% of said they experienced inappropriate behaviour from a college. You can read the full article HERE.

Employers need to make sure they protect staff from inappropriate behaviour and harassment

Employment Law Expert, Chris Bushnell, comments on the breaking news that more than one in ten retail workers surveyed have experienced unwanted sexual touching at work A survey of retail employees has discovered that more than one in ten retail workers have experienced unwanted sexual touching at work and more than a third thought their […]

gunnercooke sponsors partner’s London to Paris charity bike ride challenge

gunnercooke Business Crime partner, Simon Caltagirone, is in training to cycle 200 miles from Tower Bridge in London to the Eiffel Tower in Paris in a gruelling fundraising effort. Simon will be raising money for a charity dear to gunnercooke’s heart.  Astriid  help the chronically ill get back into work so they can regain some […]

Symposium 2019: Meet the speakers

With this year’s Symposium fast approaching, now is the perfect time to take a look at the world-class roster of speakers we’ve got lined up. Staying true to our theme of ‘Wonderful Lives’, we’ve secured an eclectic mix of performance, health, wellbeing and business experts to speak at this year’s event, each with a sterling […]

An extract from Darryl Cooke’s new book has been published in the latest ‘Modern Legal Practice’ publication

An extract from gunnercooke Executive Chairman Darryl Cooke’s new book, ‘To Innovate or Not to Innovate? A Blueprint for the Law Firm of the Future’ has been published in the latest ‘Modern Legal Practice’ publication. You can view the full feature HERE.

gunnercooke Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos has featured in People Management magazine discussing Police Officer discrimination case

Employment Law Partner Thalis Vlachos has featured in People Management magazine today giving comment on a recent case involving a Police Officer who was stripped of driving duties due to being colour blind. You can read the full article HERE.