Power of attorney disputes in Scotland: lessons from the Sir Ranulph Fiennes case
The recent and widely reported circumstances surrounding explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes have brought the role of attorneys and the potential…
What happens if my cohabitant dies without a will in Scotland?
If your cohabitant dies without a will in Scotland, understanding your rights and the deadline for making a claim is important.In Scotland,…
Carmont derailment: when can families claim for compensation after a fatal accident?
The BBC recently reported that a train derailment in 2020, resulting in the deaths of three men, could have been avoided if a drain had…
NHS Tayside and Fife paid out seven-figure compensation sum to A&E patients
The Courier has reported that NHS Tayside and NHS Fife paid a combined £2,435,232.50 in compensation for claims involving their accident…
Family care arrangements: could an informal agreement lead to an estate dispute?
The recent decision in Rogers v Wills highlights the risks of informal family care arrangements. Although the background of this case is…
Neuroinclusion at work: what employers need to know about the new government report on neurodiversity
While discussions around supporting neurodivergent people in the workplace have often started with looking at a person’s diagnosis, a newly…
The Autumn Budget 2026: key announcements for individuals and businesses
While largely avoiding broad-based tax increases, The Autumn Budget 2026 introduces a range of tax, business and employment measures that…
Right to work: Are contractors being asked to go beyond the law?
The Home Office’s new right to work (RTW) requirements are creating another potential risk for the construction supply chain. We are…
Employment Rights Act 2025: Delay to new duty to inform workers of trade union rights (January 2027)
The Employment Rights Act 2025 (the ‘Act’) introduces major changes to trade union law in the UK. Amongst these changes is a new duty on…
Collateral warranties under Scots law: How long does the exposure last?
Collateral warranties are a standard feature of Scottish construction projects. They give beneficiaries such as funders, purchasers,…
The PHP vulnerability: What organisations need to know
PHP has remained one of the world's most widely used programming languages for decades. The reality is, that if you don’t work in IT, you…
What property owners need to know about the Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Property) (Scotland) Act 2026
The Non-Domestic Rates (Liability for Unoccupied Property) (Scotland) Act 2026 (the 'Act') is an important development for owners of vacant…
Applying for your first British passport from overseas: Five top tips
Obtaining your first British passport is an exciting milestone. For many, particularly those who have recently become British citizens…
Thorntons continues to grow in Aberdeen with appointment of residential property partner
Above: Debbie Brechin, Jennifer Young and Stephanie MannLeading independent Scottish law firm Thorntons has appointed Stephanie Mann as a…
New and improved rankings in Chambers & Partners UK 2027 underpin Thorntons’ commitment to exceptional client service
Thorntons has secured new and improved rankings in the Chambers UK 2027 guide, recognising the strength of its client relationships, the…
Will a U.S. prenuptial agreement be enforceable in Scotland?
We Scots have a reputation as being pretty friendly and hospitable, and it looks like the impression the Tartan Army made in Boston and…
Effective estate planning in Scotland: 10 key parties to involve in discussions
Effective estate planning can help ensure that all your assets are distributed and managed according to your wishes on your death.…
Cross-border family law in Scotland: jurisdiction, divorce and children after Brexit
Few areas of legal practice expose the tensions of cross-border life as acutely as family law. When relationships break down for families…
Can a Deed of Variation be used in care cost planning?
Many people are concerned about long-term care costs and how best to manage inherited assets to meet these costs in the future. Estate…
Long residence ILR: can compassionate absences protect your continuous residence?
The long residence route to settlement provides a path to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) for those who have lived in the UK lawfully and…
New right to work rules: what Scottish businesses need to know from 1 October 2026
Scottish businesses should review how they check a person’s right to work in the UK, as the Home Office Right to Work scheme expands…