If you’ve ever signed up for a free trial only to realise months later that you’re still being charged for something you barely use, you’re far from alone. So-called “subscription traps” have become a widespread frustration for consumers across the UK, particularly with streaming platforms, fitness apps, software services, and monthly subscription boxes.

At the heart of the issue is the way many of these subscriptions are designed. Free trials often roll automatically into paid plans, sometimes with little warning or clarity about when charges will begin. In other cases, consumers are presented with attractive introductory offers, only to find that the ongoing costs are higher than expected. Perhaps most frustrating of all are cancellation processes that feel deliberately complicated—requiring multiple steps, hidden settings, or even contacting customer support just to stop payments.

While these practices don’t always breach current consumer law, they have increasingly been seen as unfair. Regulators have raised concerns that some businesses are relying on consumer inertia, essentially hoping that people will forget to cancel or give up trying.

In response, the UK government is moving to strengthen consumer protections in this area as part of wider legal reforms. The proposed changes are designed to make subscription arrangements clearer, fairer, and easier to manage. Businesses will likely be required to present key information upfront in a more transparent way, including how much a service costs, when payments will be taken, and how the subscription renews.

A significant shift is expected when it comes to cancellation. The aim is to ensure that ending a subscription is as straightforward as signing up in the first place. This could mean fewer hidden steps, clearer cancellation options, and less reliance on time-consuming processes. In addition, businesses may be required to send reminder notices before taking payments, particularly where a free or discounted trial period is coming to an end.

From a consumer perspective, these changes could have a meaningful impact. They should reduce the likelihood of being caught out by unexpected charges and make it easier to stay in control of regular spending. Greater transparency at the outset should also help people make more informed decisions about whether a subscription is right for them.

That said, until these reforms are fully in force, it’s still important to stay vigilant. Taking a moment to review the terms and conditions before signing up can save a lot of frustration later. Setting calendar reminders for when free trials expire is also a simple but effective way to avoid unwanted charges. Regularly checking your bank statements can help you spot any subscriptions you may have forgotten about.

Subscription-based services are now a normal part of everyday life, offering convenience and flexibility across everything from entertainment to essential services. However, convenience should not come at the expense of clarity or fairness. These upcoming changes suggest a shift in the right direction, towards a system that works better for consumers, not just businesses.

When you book a holiday, you expect relaxation, comfort, and good service, not cancellations, food poisoning, or a hotel nothing like the brochure. But if things go wrong, you may be able to make a holiday compensation claim.

Here’s what you need to know.

• What Is a Holiday Compensation Claim?

A holiday compensation claim is a request for financial compensation when your package holiday or travel experience falls below acceptable standards due to negligence, misrepresentation, or breach of contract.

• Common Reasons for Claims

-Illness or injury due to poor hygiene or unsafe facilities (e.g. food poisoning at a resort)

-Cancellations or major delays without proper notice or compensation

-Hotel not as described, e.g. building works, no pool, or unsafe conditions

-Missed excursions or poor-quality experiences included in the package

-Lost luggage or flight disruptions caused by airline fault

• Your Rights Under UK Law

If you booked a package holiday (flight + accommodation sold together) through a UK travel provider, you’re protected under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. These give you the right to:

-Receive what was promised in the brochure or booking

-Be offered suitable alternatives or a refund if things go wrong

-Claim compensation for inconvenience, distress, or financial loss

You may also be protected by Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act if you paid over £100 by credit card.

• How to Make a Claim

-Collect evidence – photos, receipts, booking documents, medical reports, etc.

-Complain to the tour operator or travel agent in writing.

If your case remains unresolved, you can escalate to an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body or seek help from a travel law solicitor. Remember however, time limits do apply – typically within 3 years of your return for personal injury, or 6 years for breach of contract (England & Wales).

You don’t have to suffer in silence if your holiday was ruined. Know your rights, document what happened, and seek expert advice. A well-supported claim could lead to compensation for your troubles, and a reminder to travel providers to do better.

In the UK, tenancy deposit disputes are a common issue when a rental ends. Whether you're a student tenant or a long-term renter, understanding your rights, and knowing how to take action if things go wrong, is crucial.

What Is a Deposit Claim?

A landlord may want to keep part or all of your deposit to cover:

• Damage beyond fair wear and tear
• Unpaid rent or utility bills
• Cleaning or repairs
• Missing items

However, these deductions must be reasonable and clearly evidenced. Tenants are protected by UK law through Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) schemes.

Deposit Protection: The Legal Basics

In England and Wales, landlords must place your deposit in a government-approved scheme such as DPS, TDS, or MyDeposits within 30 days of receiving it giving you written confirmation of the scheme and how to challenge deductions. If they don’t comply, you may be entitled to compensation—up to three times the deposit amount.

Dealing with Deposit Disputes

1. Talk It Through
   Try to resolve the issue with your landlord first. Many disputes are due to miscommunication or misunderstanding.
2. Use the Dispute Resolution Service
   All deposit schemes offer a free dispute resolution service. You’ll need to submit evidence such as photos, inventories, receipts, and written communications.
   The scheme’s independent adjudicator will make a binding decision.
3. Act Fast
   You usually have around 3 months after the tenancy ends to raise a formal dispute.

Using a Solicitor to Get Your Money Back

If the dispute isn’t resolved through the scheme, or if your landlord failed to protect your deposit properly, you may want to involve a solicitor.

When to Seek Legal Help:

• Your landlord never protected your deposit
• You weren’t given the required “prescribed information”
• The dispute process has failed or the landlord won’t respond
• You want to claim compensation for a deposit scheme breach

A solicitor can:

• Send formal letters on your behalf
• File a claim in the county court (often online via the Money Claim service)
• Help you recover your full deposit plus potential penalties Note: If the court finds the landlord in breach, you could be awarded 1 to 3 times the deposit amount as compensation.
• Many solicitors offer a no-win, no-fee service or fixed-fee consultations, especially if you have strong evidence.

Tips to Prevent Disputes

• Take date-stamped photos at move-in and move-out
• Ensure you receive a full check-in inventory
• Clean the property thoroughly before leaving
• Keep written records of rent and bills
• Always get communication in writing

In conclusion, tenants have strong legal protections in the UK. If you feel you’ve been treated unfairly, don’t hesitate to challenge deductions—first through your deposit scheme, and then with legal advice if needed. A solicitor can help ensure you recover what you're owed and hold your landlord accountable under the law. Find a solicitor quickly and easily with LawBid, head to our homepage and post your case today.

Divorce can be a challenging and emotional journey, but understanding the process can help ease some of the uncertainty. In the UK, the divorce process changed significantly with the introduction of the "no-fault divorce" system in April 2022. Here's a simple breakdown of how it works:

1. Filing the Application
   Either spouse (or both jointly) can apply for a divorce online or by post through the government website. Under the no-fault system, you no longer need to assign blame or cite specific reasons like adultery or unreasonable behaviour. A simple statement that the marriage has irretrievably broken down is sufficient.

2. Acknowledgment of Service
   If only one party applies, the other will be served with the application and asked to acknowledge receipt. This usually happens within 14 days.

3. 20-Week Reflection Period
   Once the application is issued, a mandatory 20-week “cooling-off” period begins. This gives both parties time to reflect and consider reconciliation or prepare for the next steps if divorce remains the decision.

4. Conditional Order
   After 20 weeks, you can apply for a Conditional Order (previously known as the Decree Nisi). This confirms the court sees no reason why the divorce can’t proceed.

5. Final Order
   Six weeks after the Conditional Order, you can apply for a Final Order (formerly Decree Absolute), which legally ends the marriage.

Financial and Child Arrangements
The divorce itself does not cover financial settlements or child arrangements. These need to be agreed separately, either privately, through mediation, or via the courts if necessary.

Divorce can be emotionally taxing, but the UK’s streamlined process aims to reduce conflict and make it easier to move forward. Seeking legal advice or mediation support can also help smooth the path.

Starting in April 2025, the UK will see an increase in stamp duty rates, affecting homebuyers across the country. This change, part of the government's ongoing efforts to tackle the housing market and its challenges, will have significant impacts on both first-time buyers and those moving up the property ladder.

Under the new rules, the stamp duty rate will be raised on properties above certain price thresholds. The new thresholds for stamp duty will be as follows:

• Properties up to £250,000: No change in the rate; still exempt for first-time buyers.

• Properties between £250,001 and £500,000: The stamp duty rate will rise from 3% to 5%.

• Properties between £500,001 and £1 million: The rate will increase from 5% to 7%.

• Properties above £1 million: A new rate of 8% will apply on the portion above £1 million.

This change is expected to generate additional revenue for the government, which could be directed toward social housing projects and other public services. However, experts predict that the hike could also make homeownership less affordable, particularly in high-demand areas like London and the Southeast.

For those looking to purchase a property, it’s important to keep the increase in mind when budgeting for a new home. The stamp duty changes come on the heels of other measures already impacting the market, such as rising interest rates and higher living costs, meaning buyers may need to reassess their financial plans.

While the new stamp duty structure will likely affect many, there are still some exemptions and reliefs available, especially for first-time buyers and those purchasing lower-value homes. As the date draws closer, it’s advisable for potential homebuyers to consult with financial advisors and legal experts to better understand how the changes will impact them directly.

In summary, while the stamp duty rise in April 2025 is aimed at boosting government revenue, it’s essential for anyone looking to buy property to plan ahead. Keep an eye on the new thresholds and consider how these changes could influence your property purchasing strategy.

The festive season, often depicted as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, can sometimes be overshadowed by family disputes.

Christmas, with its pressures of tradition, high expectations, and emotional intensity, can magnify existing tensions or bring long-simmering issues to the surface. If you find yourself dreading the festive fallout, you’re not alone—many families struggle to maintain harmony during this time.

Here’s a closer look at why Christmas can spark conflicts and how you can manage and resolve family disputes effectively.

Why Do Family Disputes Peak at Christmas?

1. High Expectations
   People often feel pressure to create the “perfect” Christmas, whether that means hosting the ideal dinner, buying the right gifts, or ensuring everyone gets along. These unrealistic expectations can lead to stress, disappointment, and blame when things don’t go as planned.

2. Family Dynamics
   Old grievances, unresolved conflicts, and strained relationships can resurface when families spend extended time together. Long-held roles within family hierarchies often reappear, triggering familiar patterns of conflict.

3. Financial Stress
   Christmas can be expensive, with spending on gifts, food, and travel. Financial strain can cause arguments, particularly if family members have differing views on budgets or responsibilities.

4. Alcohol and Tension
   Alcohol often flows more freely during Christmas celebrations. While a drink or two might lift spirits, excessive drinking can fuel arguments and heighten emotions.

5. Blended Families and Complex Situations
   Modern families often include step-parents, step-siblings, and extended families with separate traditions and expectations. Managing schedules, who spends time where, and ensuring everyone feels included can be a logistical and emotional challenge.

How to Manage Family Disputes During Christmas

1. Set Realistic Expectations
   Be honest with yourself: Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on enjoying the moment rather than chasing the idealized image of the holidays. Communicate beforehand: Discuss plans, budgets, and responsibilities well in advance to avoid last-minute surprises or resentment.

2. Plan Time and Space
   Limit time together: If you know tensions run high when everyone is under one roof, consider shorter visits or structured activities to minimize opportunities for arguments. Create boundaries: It’s okay to step away for a breather if tensions rise. A short walk or quiet time can diffuse the situation.

3. Avoid Trigger Topics
   Every family has certain subjects that can spark disagreements—politics, money, or old family history. Agree in advance to keep those topics off the table during Christmas. If someone brings up a sensitive issue, politely redirect the conversation to something lighter.

4. Manage Alcohol Consumption
   Encourage moderation when it comes to alcohol. If you’re hosting, consider offering plenty of non-alcoholic options and ensure the focus remains on good company and food, not excessive drinking.

5. Embrace Flexibility
   Blended families and complicated dynamics require compromise. Be willing to share time and traditions and respect everyone’s unique needs. For divorced parents, try to prioritize the children’s experience over personal grievances. Clear agreements on schedules can avoid misunderstandings.

6. Practice Kindness and Gratitude
   Christmas is an opportunity to focus on gratitude. Remind yourself of the positives—be it shared memories, family traditions, or simply spending time together. Small gestures of kindness, like saying thank you or giving someone space when needed, can make a huge difference in avoiding conflicts.

7. Seek Support or Mediation
   If you anticipate serious disputes that could harm relationships, consider professional help such as family mediators. Having a neutral party guide discussions can resolve underlying issues constructively.

Dealing with Conflict When It Happens

Despite your best efforts, arguments may still arise. Here’s how to handle disputes in the moment:

• Stay calm: Don’t escalate the argument by raising your voice or engaging in blame. Take deep breaths and keep your tone neutral.

• Listen actively: Allow the other person to express themselves without interruption, and try to understand their perspective before responding.

• Choose your battles: Not every disagreement requires a response. Sometimes walking away or letting minor issues slide can prevent bigger conflicts.

• Apologize when needed: If emotions get the best of you, don’t hesitate to apologize and move forward. An honest apology can often heal rifts quickly.

When It’s Okay to Step Back

Sometimes, maintaining peace means knowing when to step back. If certain family relationships are consistently toxic or damaging, it’s okay to prioritize your own mental health and well-being. You can still celebrate Christmas on your terms—whether that’s with supportive friends, a partner, or even on your own.

Conclusion: A Christmas of Understanding and Compromise

Family disputes at Christmas are a common challenge, but with realistic expectations, open communication, and a little patience, it’s possible to navigate the season peacefully. Focus on what truly matters—connection, love, and shared memories—while allowing room for imperfection.

At the end of the day, Christmas isn’t about perfection; it’s about making the best of what you have and embracing those around you, quirks and all.

In today’s digital age, online document signing has become a game-changer for businesses and individuals alike. From closing contracts to signing legal agreements, these platforms promise speed and convenience. But how do they work, and—more importantly—are they safe?

If you’ve ever hesitated before clicking “Sign” on a digital document, this guide will help you understand the technology behind online signatures and their security features.

How Does Online Document Signing Work?

Online document signing relies on electronic signature (e-signature) technology. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:

1. Document Upload: The sender uploads a document to an e-signature platform such as DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or HelloSign.
2. Adding Signature Fields: The sender marks where the recipient needs to sign or initial.
3. Recipient Access: The recipient receives an email link to access the document.
4. Review and Sign: After reviewing the document, the recipient signs electronically using a mouse, stylus, or pre-saved digital signature.
5. Finalization: The signed document is encrypted and stored securely, with a digital audit trail for verification.

Is Online Document Signing Safe?

E-signature platforms are designed with robust security features to ensure documents are tamper-proof and legally binding. Here’s why they’re generally considered safe:

1. Encryption: Documents are encrypted during transmission and storage, preventing unauthorized access.
2. Authentication: Many platforms use two-factor authentication (2FA), requiring recipients to verify their identity before signing.
3. Audit Trails: Platforms generate detailed logs, recording who signed the document, when, and where (using IP addresses).
4. Compliance: Most e-signature tools comply with laws like the eIDAS Regulation in the UK and EU and the ESIGN Act in the US, ensuring legal validity.

Common Concerns and How to Address Them

While online document signing is generally safe, some concerns remain:

• Data Breaches: As with any online service, there’s a risk of data breaches. To mitigate this, choose platforms with strong reputations and regular security updates.

• Forgery Risks: While rare, unauthorized individuals could sign on behalf of someone else if proper authentication isn’t in place. Opt for platforms offering 2FA or biometric verification for sensitive documents.

• Legal Acceptance: Not all documents are legally valid with e-signatures. For example, wills and some property transactions in the UK still require handwritten signatures.

Tips for Safe Online Document Signing

To ensure the safety of your documents:

1. Choose a Trusted Platform: Use reputable providers like DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or PandaDoc.
2. Verify Recipients: Confirm the identity of all parties involved in signing.
3. Use Secure Connections: Sign documents only on secure, private networks—not public Wi-Fi.
4. Read the Platform’s Privacy Policy: Ensure your data won’t be shared without your consent.

The Future of Online Document Signing

The technology behind e-signatures is continually evolving. Blockchain integration, for example, promises even greater security by creating immutable records of signed documents. Biometric authentication—like fingerprint or facial recognition—could also become standard for high-stakes agreements.

As the UK continues to embrace digital transformation, online document signing is becoming an essential tool for businesses and individuals. Not only does it save time and resources, but it also provides a level of security and transparency that rivals traditional methods.

In a fast-paced world, online document signing offers a safe and efficient way to keep up. By understanding the process and using trusted tools, you can confidently embrace this modern convenience

Legal platforms are transforming how consumers access legal help by making the process faster, more convenient, and affordable.

Here’s how they achieve this:

1. Easy Access to Legal Information and Services
   Legal platforms provide a wealth of information that consumers can access at any time. This includes FAQs, articles, and resources that help users understand common legal issues. By offering 24/7 online access, these platforms eliminate the need to schedule consultations or visit a lawyer in person, making it easier for consumers to obtain initial legal advice.

2. Simplified Search and Matching
   Many legal platforms allow users to easily search for qualified lawyers based on their specific needs. Platforms like LawBid and Rocket Lawyer provide filtering tools that match consumers with lawyers by location, specialization, and budget, helping users find the right lawyer quickly and efficiently.

3. Cost Transparency and Affordability
   Legal platforms often display transparent pricing for services upfront. This allows users to compare prices and choose legal help that fits their budget. Some platforms also offer subscription models or flat fees for basic legal tasks, like drafting wills or business contracts, making legal help more affordable than traditional hourly billing.

4. Document Automation and Self-Service Tools
   Many legal platforms offer automated document generation tools that allow consumers to create legal documents, such as contracts, wills, and leases, without needing to hire a lawyer. Users answer a series of questions, and the platform generates a customized legal document, saving time and money. For example, platforms like LawDepot and LegalZoom offer DIY templates for personal and business legal documents.

5. Remote Consultations
   Online platforms offer remote consultations through video calls, chat, or email. This makes it easy for consumers to get legal advice without traveling to a law office, accommodating people with busy schedules or those living in remote areas. For instance, Rocket Lawyer provides an “Ask a Lawyer” service, where consumers can get answers to legal questions from licensed attorneys.

6. Improved Convenience with AI and Automation
   Some platforms use AI-powered chatbots and automation tools to guide users through legal processes. For example, DoNotPay uses AI to help users contest parking tickets, cancel subscriptions, or handle small claims court filings. This automation simplifies legal tasks, allowing consumers to navigate the legal system without professional help in many cases.

7. Legal Insurance and Subscriptions
   Some platforms, like Rocket Lawyer and LegalShield, offer legal insurance or subscription models that provide ongoing access to legal services for a monthly fee. This offers consumers peace of mind and access to legal help when they need it without the worry of unexpected costs.

Conclusion:
Legal platforms democratize access to legal help by providing easy-to-use interfaces, transparent pricing, and on-demand services. With tools like automated document creation, remote consultations, and AI-powered legal assistance, consumers can now resolve legal issues more efficiently and at a lower cost compared to traditional methods.

The process of divorce or separation can be one of the most stressful times in your life, and you might feel overwhelmed if you are unfamiliar with how it works or what it entails.

As a result of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act, which was introduced in 2022, either party can now initiate divorce proceedings without assigning blame or offering a reason.

Here we have simplified the seven steps involved in getting a divorce. In steps one to four, we explain how to initiate divorce proceedings whilst Divorce completion is explained in the last three steps.

Step 1: Apply for a divorce

The divorce application can be filed jointly by a couple or by one individual. You can apply online or or via post. It is no longer necessary to cite a reason for divorce or blame your partner - divorce is filed primarily on the basis of irretrievable breakdown.

Step 2: Period of Reflection

As soon as the court receives your application, a copy is sent to your partner and you begin the important 20 week reflection period. Specifically, the laws introduced in 2022 stipulate that at least 20 weeks must elapse between the initial application and the granting of a conditional order, which is the old decree nisi, and then there is a further six weeks until the final order is granted.

While some were concerned the new law would result in 'quicker/easier' divorces, this period will result in the shortest divorces still taking 6 months rather than 3-4 months.

Step 3: Application for Conditional Order

Apply for a conditional order and decide whether to make a financial claim. Divorce applications include a question asking if you want to make a financial claim, i.e. if you want to finalise your finances in court after your divorce. Financial disclosure forms are not mandatory for every divorce, but they are useful to give both parties a clear understanding of each other's financial position, since people don't always know how to split the assets fairly.

Regardless of how you divide things up, it's important that you are honest and open about your financial situation before you start thinking about how things will be divided. Divorce applications do not include financial disclosure, but it is generally done concurrently with the application.

Step 4: Review Application

Upon receiving your application, the court reviews it. The court will need your completed application, along with either your original marriage certificate or an official copy (which you can get from the local registrar for a small fee). The divorce application can also be submitted online rather than on paper. To apply for a divorce, you will also need to pay a fee (currently £593) - the application won't be processed without payment.

While the applicant is responsible for paying the fee, many people agree to share the costs with their ex-partners, if they know the application is in process. You may be eligible for fee assistance if you are on a low income, but you will need to submit a separate application and provide details about your situation.

Step 5: Conditional Order

A conditional order is granted (and the six-week cooling off period begins). Your ex-partner will receive a copy of your divorce application once you submit it to the court. An acknowledgment of service form must be signed and returned to the court by the 'responder' to acknowledge receipt of the divorce application.

After receiving the papers, they have seven days to complete this process. A divorce can no longer be contested by an ex partner under the new Divorce, Dissolution, and Separation Act.

Step 6: Apply for Final Order

The final order is applied for by you. A divorce is finalized six weeks and a day after a final order is issued. After the ‘six weeks and a day’ period is up, the applicant will be required to apply for the final order (the legal document that officially dissolves your marriage).

Step 7: Final Order is Granted

The final order is granted by the court. After your conditional order is granted, you must file for your final order within a year, otherwise, you will have to go through more court proceedings, which will cause further delays.

One of the most valuable pieces of advice to be offered to prospective tenants looking to take on a commercial lease is to acquire the advice and assistance of a suitably qualified legal professional before agreeing the heads of terms with the landlord or the landlord’s agent.

Heads of terms is the name given to the documents, usually drawn up by the landlord or their agent, which sets out the terms of the commercial lease agreement between the tenant and landlord. A hugely significant agreement then that any prospective tenant would be imprudent to enter without seeking sound legal advice.

There are a number of standard and obvious points such as the length of the term and the rent amount, the heads of terms also set out other important matters that relate to what has been agreed between the tenant and landlord.

The difficulty from the tenants perspective in signing these heads of terms is that whilst they may not be legally binding, if the tenant has agreed to what is stated on the heads of terms at the commencement of the lease and then subsequently encounters a problem with the lease, the tenant may be faced with a landlord stating that the tenant agreed to the heads of term yet is now trying to renege on the deal.

This kind of situation not only creates a bad atmosphere but can ultimately lead to the collapse of a lease deal because the tenant did not fully understand the terms or did not ask their solicitor to negotiate for what they needed before agreeing the final document.

Common yet significant points that tenants often miss out in the heads of terms include;

• limiting the repair obligation to a schedule of condition,
• capping the service charge,
• seeking warranties on a new build,
• making clear that any break clause is not conditional on matters which the tenant has little control over or which are unreasonable,
• not referring to the tenant’s fit out works,
• not agreeing that the lease be excluded from the protection built into the Landlord And Tenant Act 1954.

This last point is particularly important because the tenant will lose their ability to remain in the property at the end of the agreed term if the lease is excluded from the Landlord And Tenant Act 1954. It is surprising how often tenants unwittingly give away this right without realising they are doing so, only to face a ransom situation at the end of the term by the landlord who insists on unreasonable rent if the tenant wishes to remain. There is then little the tenant can do about it, the only option being to leave often at great cost.

Considering the complexities involved, if you are in the process of taking on a commercial lease, seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect your interests. At LawBid you will find expert commercial lease solicitors ready to provide you with competitive quotes to meet your individual circumstances. Register or log in at www.lawbid.co.uk today to find your perfect solicitor.

As we approach the festive season, thousands of passengers will be hoping their travel plans do not get disrupted like the scenes we saw in Summer 2023 when thousands of passengers across the UK were delayed and stranded by problems with the air traffic control system.

When disruptions occur, where should consumers turn for help, and what can they expect airlines to do?

• Is there a set of rules that govern how airlines should assist their customers?

Passengers' rights on flights from UK airports and EU airports are governed by rules known as EC261, which provide important protections to passengers at all times.

Overall, airlines should keep their passengers well informed about the situation, provide them with food and accommodation as they wait, and do whatever they can to get them to their destinations as soon as possible.

• Some reports stated that the air traffic control problems were classified as 'extraordinary circumstances'.

A cash compensation is available under EC261 in some circumstances, but not when sudden cancellations or long delays are a result of 'extraordinary circumstances' which is not great news for passengers.

• So what does this mean for consumers?

Airlines have a duty of care to provide assistance to passengers who are delayed or whose flights have been cancelled, regardless of the cause.

Providing passengers with information on their rights as well as care and assistance means providing meals, making it possible for travellers to communicate with each other, and providing hotel accommodation – including transfers to and from hotels – for overnight delays are all part of this requirement.

• If a flight has been delayed by hours and a passenger is sitting at the airport, what should the airline be doing to help?

A flight passenger's right to eat and, if necessary, sleep until the flight leaves should not be affected by the cause of the delay.

Depending on the length of the flight, airlines must help after two hours on short flights up to 1,500 km, after three hours on flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km, and after four hours on long flights.

• What are passenger's flight options?

The airline must get passengers to their destinations as soon as possible, regardless of whether or not the disruption was caused by "extraordinary circumstances."

According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), in the event of a flight cancellation, passengers must have the choice of reclaiming their funds, rerouting their flight at a later date, or receiving a full refund.

Rerouting on any airline is possible, not just the original airline. For example, if a customer's original booking is with Easyjet but Ryanair gets them back earlier, then Easyjet should put the customer on the Ryanair flight.

It is the airline's responsibility to clearly explain these options to passengers.

Airlines may also offer passengers incentives for flying at a later date, for example by providing vouchers of greater value.

The airline must also cover reasonable onward travel expenses if the passenger arrives at a different airport due to rerouting.

If you have experienced a flight delay that you would like to make a claim for, why not post your case on LawBid to find experienced legal professionals who can help you make a flight delay claim.

The process of divorce or separation can be one of the most stressful times in your life, and you might feel overwhelmed if you are unfamiliar with how it works or what it entails.

As a result of the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act, which was introduced on 6 April 2022, a party or pair can initiate divorce proceedings without assigning blame or offering a reason.

We have outlined the seven steps involved in getting a divorce here. In steps one to four, we explain how to initiate divorce proceedings. Divorce completion is explained in the last three steps.

Step 1: Apply for a divorce

The divorce application can be filed jointly by a couple or by one individual. You can apply online or or via post. It is no longer necessary to cite a reason for divorce or blame your partner - divorce is filed primarily on the basis of irretrievable breakdown.

Step 2: Period of Reflection

As soon as the court receives your application, a copy is sent to your partner and you begin the important 20 week reflection period. Specifically, the new law stipulates that at least 20 weeks must elapse between the initial application and the granting of a conditional order, which is the old decree nisi, and then there is further six weeks until the final order is granted.

While some were concerned the new law would result in 'quicker/easier' divorces, this period will result in the shortest divorces still taking 6 months rather than 3-4 months.

Step 3: Application for Conditional Order

Apply for a conditional order and decide whether to make a financial claim. Divorce applications include a question asking if you want to make a financial claim, i.e. if you want to finalise your finances in court after your divorce. Financial disclosure forms are not mandatory for every divorce, but they are useful to give both parties a clear understanding of each other's financial position, since people don't always know how to split the assets fairly.

Regardless of how you divide things up, it's important that you are honest and open about your financial situation before you start thinking about how things will be divided. Divorce applications do not include financial disclosure, but it is generally done concurrently with the application.

Step 4: Review Application

Upon receiving your application, the court reviews it. The court will need your completed application, along with either your original marriage certificate or an official copy (which you can get from the local registrar for a small fee). The divorce application can also be submitted online rather than on paper. To apply for a divorce, you will also need to pay a fee (currently £550) - the application won't be processed without payment. Cheques, debit cards, and credit cards are all accepted for payment.

While the applicant is responsible for paying the fee, many people agree to share the costs with their ex-partners, if they know the application is in process. You may be eligible for fee assistance if you are on a low income, but you will need to submit a separate application and provide details about your situation.

Step 5: Conditional Order

A conditional order is granted (and the six-week cooling off period begins). Your ex-partner will receive a copy of your divorce application once you submit it to the court. An acknowledgment of service form must be signed and returned to the court by the 'responder' to acknowledge receipt of the divorce application.

After receiving the papers, they have seven days to complete this process. A divorce can no longer be contested by an ex partner under the new Divorce, Dissolution, and Separation Act.

Step 6: Apply for Final Order

The final order is applied for by you. A divorce is finalized six weeks and a day after a final order is issued. After the ‘six weeks and a day’ period is up, the applicant will be required to apply for the final order (the legal document that officially dissolves your marriage).

Step 7: Final Order is Granted

The final order is granted by the court. After your conditional order is granted, you must file for your final order within a year, otherwise, you will have to go through more court proceedings, which will cause further delays.

In recent years, the legal industry has experienced significant change. The global pandemic necessitated and encouraged new ways of working and thus opened doors for innovative businesses to fill the market, the legal sector has never looked so diverse. Law firms must continue to evolve to keep up with the rapidly developing picture.

It is well known that innovation attracts catchphrases and slogans. In this blog we aim to clarify the key legal terms; LawTech, LegalTech, NewLaw and BigLaw, to help better understand how the legal industry is changing and how we can all get more from our legal services.

1 - LawTech
The term LawTech describes technologies which are designed to make legal functions more accessible, and to make performing them quicker and easier. The advent of LawTech means that businesses and individuals are able to access different legal services in a variety of new ways. Increasingly, people can now undertake tasks themselves which a lawyer might have traditionally performed. Let’s consider some further examples of LawTech technology;

Connecting clients with lawyers;
Legal services were traditionally obtained by contacting or meeting with a lawyer you already knew. In turn, they will refer you, through their professional or personal network, to a lawyer who has the appropriate expertise. All this has changed now. Several firms offer online booking on their websites, Chatbots can now answer simple legal questions and platforms like LawBid allow instantaneous access to solicitors nationwide at the click of a button. Through these technologies, businesses and individuals can quickly gain access to a large pool of qualified legal professionals and find the right lawyer for their situation.

In addition to improving document sharing and use by lawyers and their clients, technology has also improved security and privacy. Traditionally, simple processes like executing a document required the involvement of lawyers. However, online execution has simplified and streamlined the process, enabling contracts to be quickly and easily executed across borders and time zones.

LawTech has also made legal services more accessible by moving a large majority of them online. Now it is possible to access online dispute resolution services from the comfort of home without having to travel to the court. Through specialised mobile applications, collecting documents in sensitive circumstances (such as those involving domestic violence) is also now easier and these applications are greatly improving claimants' chances of success.

Practice Management technology and document automation;
LawTech makes repetitive work easier for lawyers, thus lawyers are able to provide their clients with legal services more quickly at a lower cost.

One of the best examples of this is the automation of contract documents. Law firms use templates for contracts and customize them to suit the needs of their clients. It is easier for lawyers now to identify the true value that they provide thanks to document automation, thus enabling them to be able to offer alternative fee arrangements that reflect this added value. For example, some firms are now more confident in offering 'no win no fee’ promises and fixed fees instead of hourly rates for more matters which all benefits consumers more.
The use of LawTech has also improved timekeeping for lawyers, resulting in less time spent on administrative tasks. Spending less time on repetitive tasks leaves more time for more value-added activities, such as better understanding clients' businesses and offering targeted advice.

AI Software Solutions;
Formerly, lawyers spent hours reading hard copy documents in order to prepare for a dispute or a corporate transaction, but many of these tasks can now be accomplished using artificial intelligence.

Clients and lawyers can now store documents in a more secure, efficient manner thanks to the advancement of software solutions through LawTech. In addition, these systems provide a way to easily search and categorize documents.

Furthermore, lawyers now have access to tools that enable them to understand large amounts of information more efficiently and comprehensively. Prior to electronic searches and research, lawyers relied on printed judgments. Now, they can perform searches and research electronically and gain insight from historical data. Some of these insights are being used to forecast the outcome of class actions and legal proceedings and based on this information, a client can decide whether to take legal action through the justice system. Overall, it makes it easier and faster to answer people's legal questions.

2 - LegalTech
The LegalTech sector is also concerned with developing technological solutions for the legal profession, but with a focus on lawyers and law firms. It is a subcategory of LawTech and refers to technology that automates processes and operations, thereby saving lawyers' time and their clients' money. Several LawTech examples above fall under the banner of LegalTech as well.

3 - NewLaw
NewLaw refers to entities in the legal industry that have broken away from those traditional models that have come before them, in an attempt to address the problems facing those who interact with the law. It is the opposite of BigLaw, which refers to firms with a more traditional business model. Key differences include; utilising technology to enhance efficiency and deal with legal issues; new billing arrangements such as subscription-based services and fixed fees; developing commercial solutions that address client needs; business development and marketing are the main methods by which work is won; integration of legal specializations to provide clients with a seamless and complete legal package; and, the pursuit of innovation.

NewLaw is mostly associated with innovative law firms but is also sometimes used more broadly to describe other legal services providers and entities that provide LawTech and LegalTech solutions.

4 - BigLaw
The BigLaw business model is traditional for law firms. It is characterized by partnership models and hierarchical structures and encompasses the following;

A partnership model, where partners share in the equity of the firm and are promoted from within; hourly billing; high hourly rates reflecting the expertise of varying practice areas; a hierarchical structure, which is not conducive to simpler, less specialised legal work; the majority of work is won through networking, based on reputation and personal connections.

If you would like legal advice or assistance in any area of law, there are UK wide qualified legal professional waiting to assist you on the multi award winning LawBid platform now. Post your legal requirements quickly and easily at www.lawbid.co.uk and receive an instantaneous response from legal experts who can help you with all your legal needs.

One of the most valuable pieces of advice to be offered to prospective tenants looking to take on a commercial lease is to acquire the advice and assistance of a suitably qualified legal professional before agreeing the heads of terms with the landlord or the landlord’s agent.

Heads of terms is the name given to the documents, usually drawn up by the landlord or their agent, which sets out the terms of the commercial lease agreement between the tenant and landlord. A hugely significant agreement then that any prospective tenant would be imprudent to enter without seeking sound legal advice.

There are a number of standard and obvious points such as the length of the term and the rent amount, the heads of terms also set out other important matters that relate to what has been agreed between the tenant and landlord.

The difficulty from the tenants perspective in signing these heads of terms is that whilst they may not be legally binding, if the tenant has agreed to what is stated on the heads of terms at the commencement of the lease and then subsequently encounters a problem with the lease, the tenant may be faced with a landlord stating that the tenant agreed to the heads of term yet is now trying to renege on the deal.

This kind of situation not only creates a bad atmosphere but can ultimately lead to the collapse of a lease deal because the tenant did not fully understand the terms or did not ask their solicitor to negotiate for what they needed before agreeing the final document.

Common yet significant points that tenants often miss out in the heads of terms include;

• limiting the repair obligation to a schedule of condition,
• capping the service charge,
• seeking warranties on a new build,
• making clear that any break clause is not conditional on matters which the tenant has little control over or which are unreasonable,
• not referring to the tenant’s fit out works,
• not agreeing that the lease be excluded from the protection built into the Landlord And Tenant Act 1954.

This last point is particularly important because the tenant will lose their ability to remain in the property at the end of the agreed term if the lease is excluded from the Landlord And Tenant Act 1954. It is surprising how often tenants unwittingly give away this right without realising they are doing so, only to face a ransom situation at the end of the term by the landlord who insists on unreasonable rent if the tenant wishes to remain. There is then little the tenant can do about it, the only option being to leave often at great cost.

Considering the complexities involved, if you are in the process of taking on a commercial lease, seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect your interests. At LawBid you will find expert commercial lease solicitors ready to provide you with competitive quotes to meet your individual circumstances. Register or log in at www.lawbid.co.uk today to find your perfect solicitor.

Increasingly, legal workflows are being undertaken through technology. Where technology in the practice of law was once limited to foundational support tools, it is now disrupting the way that lawyers practice.

Advances in technology over the past five years have allowed for areas of practice that are now inextricably linked to the technology that supports them. eDiscovery is the obvious area where this is the case.

Discovery used to be a process that was largely manual. The rise of eDiscovery occurred both as technology evolved that could automate many of the processes involved in discovery, and as the landscape of work changed so that most of the data and information that needed to be collected, produced, and reviewed become electronic. Now it’s impossible to separate “discovery” from “electronic” – the technology is an integral part of the legal workflow.

As automation becomes ubiquitous in other legal processes, such as due diligence and document drafting, we will see similar evolutions. Due diligence will become, by default, automated due diligence. Drafting will always involve some component of automation and we are sure to reminisce at the days when lawyers drafted manually, word by word.

These changes in the way law is practiced mean that education about legal technology will be essential for lawyers and legal organisations because the practice of law in many areas will not be feasible without an understanding of the underlying technology through which it is conducted. It’s likely that in many jurisdictions, continuing legal education for lawyers will involve some annual requirement for learning about legal technology.

Technological evolution of the practice of law also means that multidisciplinary teams will serve clients, rather than lawyers alone. In eDiscovery, data sampling and statistical analysis require new resources in the form of data analysts and data scientists. As a result, it’s now common for large firms to have data practices or data centres, where even three years ago this was rare. Many of the particularly exciting new technology developments are emerging around use cases focused on legal drafting and documents.

Smart drafting is a category of technology that extends the value of document automation and clause banks by combining them and adding AI that can review a database of contracts in real-time and extract relevant clauses, allowing users to add these into a contract as they’re drafting.

The advent of large language models like Open AI’s ChatGPT potentially means we will see even more automation around drafting, with initial drafts being produced by machines after a human provides factual prompts. Of course, these drafts will then be heavily edited by lawyers. Even with this advanced technology, the legal industry is not heading in a direction where lawyers are replaced by machines. Lawyers who are not using modern technology, however, and are not being strategic about automating the parts of legal practice that lend themselves to it, are vulnerable.

The lawyers who will thrive in the future are those who embrace technology and understand its potential to improve the way they practice, the way they deliver legal services to clients, and to optimize the quality of the work that they do. Legal teams wondering how they should get started when it comes to legal technology should review their practice to identify areas of work that are overtly manual and repetitive.

Themes will likely arise from this review, with problem areas arising, for example, in workflows around work intake, document drafting, contract management, or task tracking. Once you identify the most common pain point for your team, you will be able to focus your initial efforts towards digitization on this use case and identify from there the type of technology that will have the most positive impact on your legal practice.

Thoughts by Nicola Shaver CEO & Co-Founder at Legaltech Hub