Have you ever felt as if you've been treated differently as a customer or client to someone else wanting the same thing? In the competitive world of service provision, financial considerations often play a pivotal role. From legal professionals to consultants, many service providers may find themselves assessing potential clients through the lens of profitability. This post examines whether service providers consciously select clients based on anticipated financial returns, t

Take a listen to my latest podcast which discusses the internationally recognised gold standard in quality management. We unpack the essentials of Quality Management Systems (QMS), covering key ISO 9001 clauses, the PDCA cycle, process mapping, leadership roles, stakeholder analysis, risk-based thinking, SMART objectives, resource planning, documentation, operational control and performance management. Click here to listen. Enjoy!

Recently, UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting made headlines with his comments about potential "overdiagnosis" of ADHD, autism, and mental health issues. This controversy has ignited a significant debate among clinicians, researchers, and advocacy groups. The Education Lawyer in me, that dealt with many a Special Educational Needs and Disability matter, has piqued my meerkat inquisitiveness. So, let’s delve deeper into this complex topic, exploring the implications of these re

Recent legal developments have sparked significant discussion surrounding the definitions and rights of women, particularly within organisations that cater specifically to women. The Supreme Court's ruling that defines 'woman' in law as a biological female has set the stage for a re-evaluation of policies within single-sex organisations such as Girlguiding UK and the Women’s Institute. This article explores the legal and compliance challenges these organisations face in light

Take a listen to my latest podcast which discusses the recent decision of Lord Chancellor, David Lammy to restrict trials by jury. Click here to listen. Happy listening!

Assimilation into society is a nuanced topic that evokes various opinions and emotions, particularly within multicultural societies like the UK. With increasing migration, the manner in which immigrants integrate into their new environments remains a pressing issue. This blog post aims to explore the broader themes and issues surrounding assimilation, particularly within the context of the UK, highlighting psychological and social impacts, while presenting a balanced view of

Following on from my previous blog about the solicitor buying-up freeholds in bulk and the impact it's having on the leaseholders of those properties , here's one about the actual process of buying a freehold itself. In recent years, the market for freeholds has gained significant attention, particularly in cities like Sheffield, where 40% of properties are leaseholder occupied. With stakeholders increasingly recognising the importance of owning freeholds, many leaseholders f

Take a listen to my personal take on being a Legal Executive in light of the recent Mazur judgment here. Happy listening!

A couple of weeks ago, I was sat in my local having a pint with my cousin. He's buying a house in Sheffield. He's having a few issues with the leasehold side of things. Leasehold houses are far more common in the North of England than in the South. Here in Sheffield, much of the land was historically owned by wealthy families, aristocrats, or institutions - those in the steel industry in particular. I always take great pleasure in telling those of a more aloof predisposition

At the intriguing intersection of hypnotism, journalism and justice lies the enigmatic figure of Alex Smith, better known by his performer name of Jonathan Royle. Regarded both as a controversial hypnotist and a vocal critic of media practices, Royle's life story is peppered with scandal, legal battles and eye-opening revelations about the ethics of journalism. This article delves deep into the multifaceted world of Jonathan Royle, his connection to the infamous 'Fake Sheikh'

In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding sensitive information is no longer optional. Whether you run a small business, manage a law firm, or handle personal data, understanding how to protect that data is crucial. Data security training equips you and your team with the knowledge and skills to prevent breaches, comply with regulations, and maintain trust. I have seen firsthand how effective training transforms security culture and reduces risks significantly. Why Data Secu

Have you noticed the number of dog-related posts appearing on LinkedIn lately? Not working dogs, but pets. Allowing pet dogs into the workplace has gained significant traction over recent years. However, this growing trend has sparked a debate. Some argue that pets in the office can be distracting or unprofessional, while dog owners and employers often disregard these concerns as they witness the positive impact dogs can have in the workplace. Many businesses have embraced th

I recently attended the CILEX (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) Annual Conference. Tucked away in the booking info was the dress code for the event - "business/smart dress'". This raised three issues for me; Why? How do you define, "business/smart dress"? Who are you to tell me what to wear! I've always pushed back when it comes to being told what to wear if it's just for the sake of it. That's why I'll never be invited to the Captain's table on a cruise. I'm on holid

For law firms aiming to acquire or maintain the Law Society Lexcel Practice Management Standard accreditation, mastering the Lexcel audit process is of paramount importance. This comprehensive guide will outline the challenges and requirements of a Lexcel audit, while showcasing how Fraxinus Business Associates can provide expert guidance, preparation, and ongoing compliance management to help your firm succeed. Understanding the Lexcel Audit Process The Lexcel audit is a sig

Friday afternoons have a special kind of magic. The clock ticks slower, the coffee tastes weaker, and the to-do list somehow grows longer. You know the feeling: racing to finish tasks before the weekend, only to be slowed down by unexpected hiccups and, of course, those high maintenance co-workers who seem to demand more attention than a needy pet. Welcome to the World of Friday - where productivity meets pandemonium. The Friday Task Race: Why It Feels Like a Marathon with H

Paper or Cloud? The answer, my friend, is blowin' in the wind! We've all had it hammered home to us for many years now - Go Greener! Use the Cloud! Go Paperless! I can put my hand on my heart and honestly say that I have tried to do my bit for the environmental cause in recent years. However, I can also say without any contrition that I prefer to work with a pile of papers rather than e-files and digitised documents. It's purely and simply because I find them easier and quick

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business environment, continuous development is not just an option but a necessity. Whether you are running a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME), managing a law firm, or an individual seeking to enhance your professional capabilities, investing in personal growth can significantly impact your trajectory. One of the most effective ways to foster this development is through personal growth events. These gatherings provide structured o

Musings of an Ultimate Champagne Socialist Patriotism or Propaganda? In light of the latest YouGov poll about current voter intentions (click on the link to show results), I thought I’d highlight something both topical and personal. First of all, let me state that I have no political allegiance to any one party. I’m thankful that I still live in a democracy that allows everyone in the United Kingdom to choose freely. Sure, there are parties that I doubt that I will ever vot

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving business environment, staying ahead requires more than just technical skills or industry knowledge. It demands continuous self-improvement and adaptability. This is where personal growth initiatives come into play. They offer a structured path to enhance your capabilities, boost confidence, and ultimately unlock your full potential. Whether you are running a small to medium-sized enterprise, working as an individual professional, or par

Even for the most knowledgeable and skilled individual, navigating the legal system is daunting. I learnt (and am still learning) the ropes on the job. I was told that my law books wouldn't help me much in the reality of day to day legal practice. That was very true. Whether I was challenging a school exclusion decision on an education law matter, working on boundary disputes in property litigation matters, or representing a deceased's relative in the Coroner's Court - I had