News - Sills & Betteridge Solicitors

New Duty on Employers to Take All Reasonable Steps Against Sexual Harassment From October 2026

From October 2026, new and enhanced obligations on employers come into force, introducing the duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. These changes build on earlier reforms and signal a clear direction of travel: employers must be proactive, thorough, and accountable in tackling harassment – this will include the conduct of third parties. The law has moved away from treating harassment as an individual dispute and regards it as an organisational risk that must be managed and prevented.

Moth Lessons When Selling a High Value Property

There is no legal definition of a ‘high value’ property. For insurance purposes, a rebuild cost of £500,000 or over is considered high value, but media coverage of the new council tax surcharge, for homes worth £2 million or more, highlighted how such properties come in all shapes and sizes.

The Rising Importance of Probationary Periods

From 1 January 2027, the law on probationary periods will shift dramatically. The long‑standing two‑year qualifying period for ordinary unfair dismissal will be replaced with a new threshold - employees will gain the right to claim ordinary unfair dismissal after just six months’ continuous service.

The Risks of Relying on AI for Divorce Advice

Emma Lawler
14 Apr 2026
Law Blog
Divorce & Separation News and Legal Updates

Artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly become part of everyday life. From planning holidays to refining CVs, many people now turn to AI for fast, accessible answers. For those facing the breakdown of a relationship, it can be tempting to use AI tools as a substitute for legal advice - particularly when trying to manage costs during an already stressful time.

Employment Law Update April 2026 | Key Changes Now in Force

A wide package of employment law reforms has now taken effect. Here, we provide a brief overview of the changes that are now in force.

Inheritance Tax Changes in 2026 | What They Mean for You

Significant updates to the UK Inheritance Tax (IHT) regime will take effect from 6 April 2026 and for many individuals, families and business owners, these reforms will make careful planning more important than ever.