Palmers Solicitors Blog

Founded in 1983, we are one of the leading legal practices in Essex, covering the whole spectrum of legal services for both private and commercial clients.

New research has revealed a shocking lack of awareness of Inheritance Tax (IHT) rules across the UK, after almost a quarter of homeowners told a survey that they did not know that their main property was liable for the so-called ‘death tax’. Research from insurance company Canada Life has revealed that more than half of British adults are unaware that IHT is levied at a rate of 40 per cent in the UK. Worse still, almost a quarter (24 per cent) of adults told Canada Life that they did not know that their main home was liable for IHT – while 42 per cent wrongly believed that ISAs were also free from the ‘death tax’. A further 28 per cent were surprised to learn that IHT was payable on cash savings and investments. The insurer’s study also found that just shy of 60 per cent of adults were unaware that the individual IHT threshold per person in the UK, before the tax is due, is £325,000. The research suggests a serious lack of understanding of IHT rules – and highlights the importance of seeking specialist legal advice for an in-depth analysis of your circumstances and IHT obligations, to ensure that you will leave behind a legacy for your loved ones. Earlier this year, data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed that the Treasury reeled in £4.6billion in IHT in the 2015/16 tax year alone.

Palmers Solicitors in Essex Legal News 11 November 2016

New research has revealed a shocking lack of awareness of Inheritance Tax (IHT) rules across the UK, after almost a quarter of homeowners told a survey that they did not know that their main property was liable for the so-called…

Man awarded £5 million in case of clinical negligence

Palmers Solicitors in Essex Health and Safety 10 November 2016

The High Court has awarded a man a £5 million compensation package after losing his memory in hospital, it has been reported.

Landmark ruling draws new parallels between patent disputes and other types of litigation

Palmers Solicitors in Essex Intellectual Property 9 November 2016

In a long-running patent dispute between two pharmaceutical companies, a High Court Judge has ruled that the same cost recovery principles which apply to other types of litigation should also apply to patent cases, according to reports.

Tesco Bank attack highlights importance of implementing effective fraud prevention measures

Palmers Solicitors in Essex Legal News 8 November 2016

Tesco Bank has made headlines in recent days after tens of thousands of customers fell victim to fraudulent attacks on their online bank accounts.

Britons urged to consider legal and safety responsibilities ahead of Bonfire Night

Palmers Solicitors in Essex Property Law 4 November 2016

According to a recent study, the majority of Britons have little to no understanding of the law around fireworks – or the consequences they could face if they breach them.

Employment Tribunal awards officer more than £400,000

Palmers Solicitors in Essex Employment Law 3 November 2016

A police firearms officer is to receive a six-figure payout after successfully taking a race discrimination claim to Tribunal.