by Saqib Khan | Feb 1, 2024 | General, People
Embarking on a career in law is akin to stepping into a dynamic and multifaceted realm, where each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth. As a trainee solicitor at Khan Mather Solicitors, the journey unfolds with a rich tapestry of experiences, building a foundation for a successful legal career. Having completed my property seat and now delving into the intricacies of litigation, this blog post aims to shed light on the unique and rewarding journey of a trainee solicitor at Khan Mather.
The Property Seat:
My journey at Khan Mather Solicitors began with a deep dive into the world of property law. This initial seat provided a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in residential property transactions. From amending contracts to conducting due diligence and negotiating terms, the property seat equipped me with practical skills essential for a successful legal practice. Working alongside seasoned professionals, I had the privilege of learning from some of the best minds. The collaborative environment fostered at Khan Mather ensured that my questions were not just answered but thoroughly discussed, encouraging a holistic understanding of the legal processes at play.
Litigation Seat: A Current Endeavour:
Transitioning from the property seat to litigation has been a fascinating shift, offering a new perspective on the legal landscape. Litigation is the heartbeat of legal practice, involving the resolution of disputes through the court system or alternative methods. This seat challenges me to think critically, strategise effectively, and advocate persuasively. At Khan Mather, the litigation seat is not just about courtroom appearances; it’s about honing negotiation skills, drafting compelling legal documents, and understanding the nuances of case strategy. The mentorship provided during this seat ensures that I am not merely an observer but an active participant in the legal proceedings, contributing meaningfully to the cases I handle.
The Firm’s Values and Client-Centric Approach:
Khan Mather Solicitors prides itself on its commitment to excellence and a client-centric approach. As a trainee solicitor, I am not just learning the law; I am absorbing the firm’s values of integrity, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of justice. The client’s interests are at the forefront of every action, and the firm’s reputation for providing top-notch legal services is a testament to its unwavering commitment to client satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Life as a trainee solicitor at Khan Mather Solicitors is a journey of continuous learning, growth, and meaningful contributions to the legal profession. Having completed my property seat and currently navigating the complexities of litigation, I am confident that the experiences gained here will shape a robust foundation for my future legal career. With a supportive environment, dedicated mentors, and a commitment to excellence, Khan Mather Solicitors is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving ecosystem where legal professionals evolve and excel.
by Saqib Khan | Jan 30, 2024 | General, Powers of Attorney, Wills
Khan Mather & Cancer Research UK – our partnership & membership of the CRUK Free Will Service
Khan Mather are proud partners of Cancer Research UK and have been a member of their Free Will Service since 2018. Since then, Khan Mather have helped more than 300 people write their Will for free and the pledged gifts in these Wills for Cancer Research UK are predicted to be worth over £1,000,000.
Cancer Research UK has been at the heart of the progress that has already seen cancer survival in the UK double in the last 50 years. Gifts in Wills fund a third of the charity’s research and have helped make this possible. Whether people pledge a gift in their Will in dedication to someone who has survived or in tribute to loved one’s they’ve lost to cancer, their gift will help Cancer Research UK to fund new discoveries and find new ways to outsmart the disease.
Cancer Research UK wants to accelerate progress and see 3 in 4 people surviving their cancer by 2034 and gifts in Wills are critical to that progress.
We offer the Cancer Research UK Free Will Service to anyone aged 18+ to easily write or update a simple Will for free. The service is available all year round. Most people who use the service leave a gift in their will to Cancer Research UK, although there is no obligation to do so.
Khan Mather are ready to help you put your Will in place through the Free Will Service and guide you in your consideration of leaving a gift in your Will to Cancer Research UK, after your loved ones have been taken care of.
The work that Cancer Research UK does and the progress that is being made means that more people will survive their cancer diagnosis in the future, more people will celebrate more occasions with their loved ones and more people will receive kinder, more effective treatments.
For more information about the Cancer Research UK Free Will Service, please contact Khan Mather on 0161 850 9911 and ask to speak to Georgina Hardman or gh@khanmather.co.uk or visit cruk.org/freewillservice
by Saqib Khan | Jan 23, 2024 | Conveyancing, Data Protection, Debt recovery, General, Landlord and Tenant Law, Personal injury, Wills
As a leading UK law firm committed to transparency and clarity in our client relationships, we often find that legal terminology can seem like a maze. One such term that frequently arises in discussions about legal fees is “disbursements.” Let’s delve into this concept to shed light on what they are and why they matter in legal proceedings.
Defining Disbursements:
In legal parlance, disbursements refer to the expenses incurred by a law firm during the course of handling a case on behalf of a client. These costs are separate from the fees charged for the legal services provided. Disbursements can encompass a wide range of expenses, including but not limited to court fees, expert witness fees, travel expenses, postage, filing fees, and the costs of obtaining documents or reports necessary for the case.
Why Disbursements Matter:
Understanding disbursements is crucial for anyone seeking legal representation, as these expenses can significantly impact the overall cost of legal proceedings. While legal fees cover the professional services rendered by solicitors or lawyers, disbursements are the out-of-pocket expenses that the law firm pays on behalf of the client. These costs are then passed on to the client as part of the total expenses incurred during the case.
Types of Disbursements:
Disbursements can vary widely based on the nature of the legal matter. For instance, in litigation, they may include court fees, fees for obtaining expert opinions, or costs related to obtaining evidence or documents crucial to the case. In conveyancing matters, disbursements may involve land registry fees, search fees, or fees for obtaining property-related documents.
Transparency and Communication:
At our firm, transparency is at the core of our ethos. We believe in keeping our clients fully informed about the potential disbursements they might incur throughout their legal journey. Before commencing any work, we provide our clients with a clear breakdown of anticipated disbursements, ensuring they have a comprehensive understanding of the potential costs involved beyond our service fees.
Managing Disbursements:
Effectively managing disbursements is an integral part of our practice. We strive to optimize these costs by leveraging our network of resources and ensuring that expenses are reasonable and necessary for the successful handling of our clients’ cases. Additionally, we regularly update our clients on any changes in disbursement estimates to maintain transparency and avoid unexpected financial surprises.
Conclusion:
In the intricate landscape of legal proceedings, disbursements play a pivotal role in determining the overall cost of legal representation. Understanding these costs is essential for clients seeking legal services, as it allows for better financial planning and prevents any unforeseen expenses.
As a law firm, our commitment to transparency means that we prioritize clear communication regarding disbursements, ensuring that our clients have a comprehensive understanding of the expenses associated with their case. By managing disbursements efficiently, we aim to provide cost-effective legal solutions without compromising on the quality of service.
Navigating the legal terrain can be daunting, but with a clear understanding of disbursements and a reliable legal partner, clients can approach their legal matters with confidence, knowing they have a firm grasp on both the legal fees and associated expenses.
Should you have any further questions regarding disbursements or any other legal matters, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance and support every step of the way.
by Saqib Khan | Jan 18, 2024 | General, People
Martin Lewis, the renowned founder of MoneySavingExpert.com, has highlighted a groundbreaking announcement from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) that has seemingly gone unnoticed. This revelation has the potential to result in substantial payouts for individuals who acquired a car or van through motor finance before 2021.
In a recent tweet, Lewis emphasized the magnitude of this development, drawing parallels to the scale of Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) claims, which amounted to £40 billion. The FCA’s move is in response to emerging evidence from two significant ombudsman cases, indicating that companies may be wrongly rejecting complaints related to commissions in pre-2021 motor finance transactions. Consequently, the FCA is undertaking a comprehensive review of complaint handling procedures.
Lewis speculates that upon completion of the investigation, the FCA may establish either a redress scheme, requiring all firms to compensate affected customers, or redress rules that dictate payouts based on a predefined formula for those who file complaints. Potential compensations could encompass interest on loans, commission amounts, or even the entire loan, potentially resulting in thousands of pounds returned to many individuals.
The significance of promptly filing complaints becomes evident, especially if the FCA opts for a redress scheme with a potential cutoff date. While the freeze on complaint handling is currently in place, Lewis suggests that initiating a complaint now can serve as a marker for individuals who believe they have been mis-sold motor finance.
Your Motor Finance Payout Questions Answered: Insights from Martin Lewis
Martin Lewis has provided preliminary information to keep individuals informed about the ongoing situation. His team is diligently working on an in-depth guide to answer all questions related to motor finance compensation. This guide will be available in a few weeks.
Q: What complaints will the investigation cover?
A: The FCA’s investigation will focus on complaints where individuals purchased a car using car finance before 28 January 2021, with the finance being a personal contract purchase (PCP) or a hire purchase (HP) agreement featuring a ‘discretionary commission arrangement.’
Q: Which claims won’t the investigation cover?
A: The investigation will not cover complaints related to car finance transactions made on or after 28 January 2021, car leasing agreements, or claims unrelated to commission.
Q: How much could I get if a redress scheme goes ahead?
A: The FCA has not disclosed specific compensation amounts yet, emphasizing an orderly and efficient settlement process for those owed compensation.
Q: Should I file a complaint now or wait if I think I’m affected?
A: Lewis advises filing complaints as soon as possible, considering potential cutoffs. However, the FCA has temporarily paused firms from responding to complaints received after 17 November 2023 until 25 September 2024.
Q: What if the firm I want to complain to has gone bust?
A: Complaints can be directed to the administrator or liquidator in case of a firm’s insolvency, with details available on the FCA’s Financial Services Register.
Q: What happens if my complaint hasn’t received a response yet?
A: Complaints received after 17 November 2023 won’t be addressed until after 25 September 2024. Individuals with prior complaints can follow the regular process or escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) if unsatisfied.
Q: Can I resubmit a rejected claim based on the FCA’s investigation?
A: The possibility depends on the stage of the complaints process, with options available for reconsideration at certain stages.
Q: Should I contact Khan Mather now if I think I have a claim?
A: Yes please contact us today and we can collate all the information in readiness to submit a claim on your behalf.
by Saqib Khan | Jan 9, 2024 | General, Personal injury
In recent times, the issue of property disrepair has become a significant concern for many property owners. Often, property owners find themselves facing a myriad of issues such as structural defects, inadequate maintenance, and poor construction standards. In these situations, the question arises: who is responsible for rectifying these problems?
At Khan Mather, we have witnessed a surge in cases where property owners seek legal recourse against developers for the disrepair of their properties. The legal landscape surrounding property disrepair cases can be complex, requiring a deep understanding of property law and construction regulations. Here, we delve into the nuances of these cases and shed light on the options available to affected property owners.
The Developer’s Responsibility
Property developers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that the properties they build meet certain standards of construction and maintenance. When a property suffers from disrepair due to structural defects or poor workmanship, it can significantly affect the value and livability of the property. In such instances, property owners have the right to hold developers accountable for the damages incurred.
Legal Recourse for Property Owners
Property owners facing issues of disrepair often feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their options. However, the law provides avenues for seeking redress. One of the primary legal routes available to affected property owners is to pursue a claim against the developer for breach of contract or negligence.
Breach of Contract:
Property developers enter into contracts with property buyers, promising a certain standard of construction and maintenance. When a property fails to meet these agreed-upon standards due to disrepair, it constitutes a breach of contract. Property owners can seek legal remedies to hold the developer accountable for not fulfilling their contractual obligations.
Negligence:
In cases where a developer’s actions or inactions have directly caused the property disrepair, property owners can pursue legal action on the grounds of negligence. This involves demonstrating that the developer failed to exercise reasonable care in constructing or maintaining the property, leading to the damages suffered by the property owner.
The Role of Legal Experts
Navigating property disrepair cases requires a comprehensive understanding of both property law and the intricacies of construction standards. Legal experts play a crucial role in representing the interests of property owners. We assess the extent of disrepair, gather evidence, engage with relevant experts (such as surveyors and engineers), and advocate on behalf of our clients to secure fair compensation or rectification of the property issues.
Conclusion
Property disrepair cases involving developers necessitate a strategic and well-informed approach. Property owners facing such challenges should not hesitate to contact us to protect their rights and secure remedies for the damages incurred. At Khan Mather, we are committed to assisting property owners in navigating the complexities of these cases and advocating for their best interests in seeking justice and fair compensation.
If you are facing property disrepair issues or seeking legal advice regarding developer liability, do not hesitate to contact us. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to providing effective solutions and representation tailored to your specific situation.
by Saqib Khan | Dec 21, 2023 | Debt recovery, General
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, it’s crucial to stay informed and vigilant to protect your assets and investments. One concerning trend we’ve observed is the rise of Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud. This sophisticated form of financial fraud has the potential to cause significant harm to individuals and businesses alike. As your trusted legal partner, we feel it is our responsibility to provide you with valuable insights and guidance to help you safeguard your financial interests.
Understanding Authorised Push Payment Fraud
Authorised Push Payment fraud, often referred to as APP fraud, is a type of financial scam where the victim is tricked into making a payment to a fraudster. Unlike traditional bank fraud, where unauthorized transactions are the issue, in APP fraud, the victim willingly initiates a transfer, believing they are sending money to a legitimate recipient. These frauds can take many forms, including invoice fraud, romance scams, and impersonation scams.
The Consequences of APP Fraud
The consequences of falling victim to APP fraud can be devastating. Victims not only lose their hard-earned money but also often suffer from emotional distress and reputational damage. While banks and financial institutions have made significant strides in providing compensation to victims, the process can be lengthy and frustrating. That’s where proactive prevention comes into play.
Preventing APP Fraud
Here are some key steps you can take to protect yourself and your assets from falling prey to APP fraud:
- Verify Recipient Details: Always double-check the recipient’s details, such as account numbers and sort codes, before making a payment. Scammers may use slight variations in these details to divert funds.
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Contact: Be cautious when receiving unexpected calls, emails, or messages from unknown sources, especially if they request payments or personal information.
- Secure Your Personal Information: Protect your personal and financial information diligently. Never share sensitive details like PINs, passwords, or security codes with anyone.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest fraud trends and scams. Awareness is your first line of defence.
- Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Whenever possible, enable MFA for your online banking and financial accounts. This adds an extra layer of security to protect your funds.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you’ve encountered a fraudulent situation, report it to your bank and law enforcement immediately.
Legal Protections
It’s essential to understand your rights and the legal framework in place to help victims of APP fraud. The UK’s Contingent Reimbursement Model (CRM) Code sets out the rules and standards that banks must adhere to when determining whether to reimburse victims of APP fraud. This code offers some degree of protection, and your law firm is here to assist you in navigating the complexities of the legal system should you become a victim of APP fraud.
In Conclusion
In the digital age, the threat of Authorised Push Payment fraud is a reality we all must face. However, with the right knowledge and safeguards in place, you can reduce your vulnerability to this type of fraud. Your law firm is here to support and guide you through any legal matters that may arise from such incidents. Remember that vigilance and awareness are your most potent allies in the fight against APP fraud.
If you have any questions or concerns about APP fraud or any other legal matter, please don’t hesitate to contact Helen Penney on 0161 850 9911. Your financial security is our priority, and we are here to help you protect your interests.
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and stay informed!
