Law For Life

Law For Life from Franklins Solicitors LLP is your plain-speaking guide to the legal issues that matter most. Each episode features expert solicitors from Franklins breaking down the different areas of law that can affect you, your family, and your future. From everyday questions to life’s big decisions, our team will explain the law clearly, practically, and without jargon – giving you the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices.

  1. APR 8

    Law For Life Episode 14 | Can AI Really Write Your Contracts? The Risks Businesses Don’t See

    AI is transforming the way businesses operate—but when it comes to legal matters, how far can you really trust it? In this episode of Law for Life – The Franklin Solicitors Podcast, Chris is joined in the studio by Tya from the Corporate Services team to unpack the growing role of artificial intelligence in the legal world. From drafting contracts to preparing court cases, AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming increasingly common—but they come with serious risks. The conversation explores why legal work isn’t just a simple “input and output” process, the dangers of relying on templates or AI-generated agreements, and real-life examples where things have gone badly wrong—including fake case law appearing in court. Tya explains why legal documents require precision, experience, and human judgement, and why even small wording errors can leave businesses exposed. They also discuss where AI can be useful—such as helping to clarify ideas or summarise instructions—while reinforcing why it should never replace professional legal advice. If you run a business or are tempted to cut corners with legal paperwork, this is an essential listen. For advice or support, the Corporate Services team at Franklin Solicitors are on hand to help you protect what matters most. #LawForLife #FranklinSolicitors #BusinessLaw #AI #ChatGPT #LegalAdvice #SmallBusiness #Contracts #Entrepreneurship #UKBusiness #LegalPodcast #ArtificialIntelligence #RiskManagement #CorporateLaw

    15 min
  2. MAR 11

    Law For Life | Episode 12 | Cohabitation Agreements and cohabiting

    What legal rights do couples actually have when they live together but aren’t married? It’s a question many people assume they know the answer to — but the reality under UK law often comes as a surprise. In this episode of Law for Life, Chris is joined by Zoe Hale from the Family Law team at Franklins Solicitors to explore the often-misunderstood world of cohabitation law. As more couples choose to live together without marrying, understanding the legal implications of sharing a home, finances and assets has never been more important. One of the biggest myths addressed in this discussion is the idea of the “common law marriage”. Many people believe that living together for a certain number of years automatically gives them the same legal rights as a married couple — but in England and Wales, that simply isn’t the case. Zoe explains why this misconception persists and what the law actually says. The conversation looks at what happens when unmarried couples buy property together, how ownership structures such as joint tenancy and tenants in common affect rights, and what can happen if a relationship breaks down. The episode also explains the legal framework used when disputes arise, including the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996, often referred to as TOLATA. Chris and Zoe also discuss practical steps couples can take to protect themselves before moving in together. One key option is a cohabitation agreement — a legal document that sets out how finances, property and responsibilities will be handled during the relationship and what should happen if it ends. While it may feel unromantic to plan for the possibility of separation, it can prevent significant disputes later on. The episode explores how these agreements work, what information is needed to create one, and why each partner should obtain independent legal advice before signing. Zoe also explains the difference between a declaration of trust and a cohabitation agreement, and how they can work together to provide clarity over property ownership and financial arrangements. Other topics covered include joint bank accounts, savings disputes, household expenses, financial disclosure, and how agreements should be reviewed when major life events occur — such as having children, receiving an inheritance or changes in employment. With cohabitation becoming increasingly common, this episode provides essential insight into an area of law that many people don’t fully understand until it’s too late. Whether you’re planning to move in with a partner, already sharing a home, or simply curious about your legal rights, this discussion offers clear and practical guidance on how to protect yourself and plan ahead. #CohabitationLaw #FamilyLaw #UKLaw #LivingTogether #PropertyLaw #LegalAdvice #LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #RelationshipsAndLaw #KnowYourRights

    17 min
  3. FEB 25

    Law For Life | Episode 11 | The Renters Rights Act

    Major changes are coming to the private rented sector, and if you’re a landlord or tenant, this episode is essential listening. In this edition of Law for Life, the podcast from Franklins Solicitors, we’re joined by Nieve Jones from the litigation team to break down the sweeping reforms introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act, due to take effect from 1 May 2026. Described as the biggest shift in rental law since the Housing Act 1988, this legislation will fundamentally change how tenancies operate across England. We cover: • The abolition of Section 21 “no fault” evictions • Changes to Section 8 notices and expanded eviction grounds • The end of fixed-term tenancies and move to periodic agreements • New rules around rent increases via Section 13 notices • Tenants’ rights to challenge rent at tribunal • Four-month notice requirements in key circumstances • New landlord database registration requirements • Penalties ranging from £7,000 to £40,000 for non-compliance • Rent repayment orders and compensation risks • The new legal position on tenants keeping pets • What landlords must prove if reclaiming a property to sell or move in We also discuss the practical realities — what landlords should be doing now to prepare, how the courts are likely to interpret the new grounds, and why getting your paperwork right will be more important than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord, a first-time investor, or a tenant wanting to understand your rights, this episode provides a clear, plain-English guide to what’s changing and what it means for you. For tailored legal advice, contact the litigation team at Franklin Solicitors. #RentersRightsAct #LandlordLaw #TenantRights #PropertyLaw #UKProperty #Section21 #Section8 #FranklinsSolicitors #RentalReform #HousingLaw

    13 min
  4. FEB 11

    Law For Life | Episode 10 | Inheritance Tax

    Inheritance Tax – it’s one of those topics many people don’t fully understand, but it can have a huge impact on families and future planning. In this episode of Law for Life, the Franklins Solicitors podcast, Chris sits down with Eddie Bell from the Wills, Trusts and Probate team to unpack the often confusing world of IHT. From thresholds and tax rates to common myths and costly mistakes, this episode offers a clear and practical overview of what inheritance tax really means for you. They discuss: • What inheritance tax actually is and who it affects • The current nil rate band and residence nil rate band • Why more estates are being caught by IHT • Gifting rules and the seven-year rule • Business and agricultural property relief • The risks of putting your home into trust • Lifetime gifts and surplus income exemptions • Loans to children and how they’re treated • Charitable giving and the reduced 36% tax rate • Upcoming changes to pension taxation for IHT • Deeds of variation and smart estate planning • What happens if someone dies without a will With inheritance tax receipts rising and thresholds frozen for years, this is no longer just a concern for the “super wealthy”. Whether you’re planning your estate, supporting your children financially, or simply want to understand the rules, this episode provides essential guidance. As always, personal advice is key – every situation is different. If you’ve found this helpful, make sure you subscribe for more practical legal insights from the team at Franklins Solicitors. #InheritanceTax #EstatePlanning #WillsAndProbate #LawForLife #FranklinsSolicitors #FinancialPlanning #UKTax #WillWriting #Trusts #FamilyFinance

    29 min

About

Law For Life from Franklins Solicitors LLP is your plain-speaking guide to the legal issues that matter most. Each episode features expert solicitors from Franklins breaking down the different areas of law that can affect you, your family, and your future. From everyday questions to life’s big decisions, our team will explain the law clearly, practically, and without jargon – giving you the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices.

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