Articles

Although housing possession cases have to a large degree drawn to a standstill. Some types of housing hearings are still taking place during this period.

Amid the current public health crisis, the Coronavirus Act 2020 has relaxed Care Act requirements for local authorities to assess or meet social care needs. But how should local authorities approach this “easement” relating to meeting needs?

All lawyers using the Civil Courts in England & Wales ought to be aware of changes to the Civil Procedure Rules that take effect next week. In particular, amendments to CPR 22 revise the form of Statements of Truth.

Sarah Salmon represented the successful local authority in a High Court case involving a litigant in person, a section 204 Housing Act appeal and case management during the Coronavirus crisis. 

While it may be a daunting prospect to ensure family justice in the time of a global pandemic, directions hearings in private children and domestic abuse cases seem well-suited to remote hearings. 

All current housing possession claims are suspended from today (27 March 2020) for 3 months. However it important to note that this is simply a suspension for 3 months

The Coronavirus Bill currently going through the UK parliament has provisions relating to business tenancies in England and Wales to protect against forfeiture etc.

As part of the UK government’s preparedness for coronavirus and the economic uncertainty it has caused, legislation is being introduced to protect tenants from eviction. All landlords should be aware that from the day after the act is passed until 30 September 2020, you will need to comply with amended notice periods for almost all residential tenancies. 

How should local authorities deal with the setting aside of their duties to provide care and support to adults with eligible needs during the Coronavirus crisis? The UK government’s emergency Coronavirus legislation, which takes effect shortly, temporarily suspends local authorities’ duties under the Care Act 2014.

The law and practice related to costs and funding in family proceedings continue to develop rapidly. Family lawyers may be unaware and surprised at some of the significant changes.