Category: Blog

London law firms Seddons and GSC Solicitors complete merger to launch £22m full-service firm Seddons GSC

Tuesday, 1st April 2025: West End law firm Seddons and City law firm GSC Solicitors have finalised their merger, which was first announced in early March. The newly merged firm, which will operate under the name Seddons GSC LLP, is a full-service law firm of more than 150 people, with a £22m annual turnover. The firm will be based in Seddons’ expanded London premises in Fitzrovia.

The strategic merger brings together each firm’s complementary expertise for an enhanced client offering and service. Seddons GSC will service clients across real estate, dispute resolution and intellectual property, commercial, private client and family matters, as a full-service law firm, advising clients based both in the UK and overseas.

The merger is accompanied by the launch of a new brand identity and website for Seddons GSC (www.seddons-gsc.com), to reflect the unity of the combined firms and showcase the expertise and talent at the firm. Seddons GSC will focus on delivering excellent service and value for its clients and leverage its increased strength and depth to be an employer of choice and offer enhanced opportunities to both existing members of the firm and potential future talent.

The firm’s 43 Partners will be led by Seddons’ Managing Partner Simon Ross, who becomes the Managing Partner of Seddons GSC, and Saleem Sheikh, who was Senior Partner of GSC Solicitors and becomes the Senior Partner of Seddons GSC.

Simon Ross, Managing Partner of Seddons GSC, comments:

“From the start we knew this merger would present a range of opportunities for both firms. Not only will it expand our offerings and ability to work with a wider variety of clients, but it will provide an exciting proposition for potential recruits. There was undeniable synergy between the values and cultures of our two firms, and that is easy to see in our new brand identity. Seddons GSC is now positioned to bring a compelling proposition to the wider market, and I have no doubt we have an exciting and successful future ahead.”

Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner of Seddons GSC, said:

“What is clear about this merger is the increased level of depth it offers our longstanding clients both in the UK and internationally. This is a milestone moment, not only for our teams but also for the clients we have advised and supported over the years as we bring our strategic vision to life. I am confident that as Seddons GSC we will have a bright future and cultivate some incredible talent.”

Absence from the UK Under the EU Settlement Scheme

The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) grants pre-settled status (limited leave) for five years or settled status (indefinite leave) based on continuous residence in the UK. Understanding how absences affect this status is crucial for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and their family members.

Continuous Residence

To qualify for settled status, applicants must complete five years of continuous residence, meaning they:

  • Were in the UK before 31 December 2020 (unless a joining family member), and
  • Have not broken continuous residence with excessive absences.

Permitted Absences

During the five-year qualifying period, an individual can be absent for:

  • Up to six months in any rolling 12-month period for any reason.
  • One absence of up to 12 months for an “important reason” (e.g., study, work, illness, childbirth, or an overseas posting).

Covid-19 Absences

The Home Office adapted EUSS rules to account for Covid-19 disruptions:

  • Absences up to 12 months due to Covid-19 (illness, border closures, travel restrictions) do not break continuous residence.
  • Some longer absences may be accepted with justification and supporting evidence.
  • Any absence beyond 12 months pauses the qualifying period, extending the time required to reach five years.

Multiple Extended Absences

The scheme allows two extended absences – one for an important reason (up to 12 months) and one related to Covid-19 (which may exceed 12 months). However, absences beyond 12 months extend the qualifying period.

Absences After Settled Status Once granted settled status, a person can:

  • Spend up to five consecutive years outside the UK without losing status.
  • Swiss citizens and their family members can stay abroad for up to four years.

Breaking Continuous Residence

  • If continuous residence is broken, an applicant cannot qualify for settled status.
  • Pre-settled status holders may not lose status immediately, as the Home Office must assess proportionality before revoking it.

What Should You Do?

If you are unsure whether absences affect your status or need help securing settled status, GSC Solicitors LLP can provide expert legal guidance.

Contact us today to talk to our expert team.

Absences from the UK can impact EUSS status, but exceptions exist. Understanding these rules ensures compliance and protects residency rights. If you need support navigating the EU Settlement Scheme, contact GSC Solicitors LLP for tailored advice.

Home Office Extends eVisa Grace Period Until June 2025

The Home Office has announced an extension of the eVisa transition grace period, now set to end on 1 June 2025 instead of the previously scheduled 31 March 2025. This extension allows individuals with Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) or EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs) that expired on or after 31 December 2024 to continue using their documents for international travel until the new deadline.

Key Changes & Implications

From 2 June 2025, expired BRPs and EUSS BRCs will no longer be accepted as proof of immigration status for travel to the UK. The Home Office has confirmed that there will be no further extensions beyond this date.

The decision follows concerns over the initial deadline of 31 March 2025, which some feared could lead to disruption for individuals still transitioning to the new digital eVisa system. The grace period extension is intended to ensure a smoother transition, reducing the risk of individuals facing difficulties at border control.

Current Progress & eVisa Adoption

To date, the Home Office reports that over 4 million people have successfully transitioned to an eVisa by creating a UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) account. However, an estimated 600,000 individuals are yet to switch from their physical immigration documents to the digital system.

Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra, noted that while most individuals have successfully migrated to eVisas, the government remains committed to supporting those who have yet to take action. The extension is part of broader efforts to ensure a seamless transition to digital immigration status.

What Individuals Need to Do

The Home Office is urging those who have not yet accessed their eVisa to do so as soon as possible. Steps include:

  • Creating a UKVI account to access and manage immigration status.
  • Ensuring passports or travel documents are linked to the eVisa for smooth verification when travelling.
  • Generating a share code via the View and Prove service to provide evidence of immigration status to third parties, such as employers or landlords.

For individuals travelling internationally, the government advises carrying a valid travel document linked to the eVisa. Additional guidance can be found on gov.uk.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition

The Home Office continues to monitor the transition and work with stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption. Affected individuals should take immediate steps to access their eVisa before the final 1 June 2025 deadline.

For more information on immigration status and compliance, contact GSC Solicitors LLP. Our team can assist with legal guidance on UK immigration regulations and the eVisa transition process.

Conclusion

The extension of the eVisa grace period provides much-needed flexibility for individuals still transitioning to the digital system. However, with the final deadline set for 1 June 2025, those affected should ensure they take the necessary steps to update their status and avoid travel complications. The move to eVisas is part of the government’s broader strategy to create a more secure and streamlined digital immigration system for the UK.

If you need legal advice or assistance with the eVisa transition, GSC Solicitors LLP is here to help.

UK Creative Industries Oppose AI Copyright Exemption Proposal

A coalition of writers, musicians, filmmakers, and media organisations has rejected the UK government’s proposal to allow AI firms to train algorithms on copyrighted content without prior permission. The plan has sparked debate over balancing innovation and intellectual property rights.

Background

The Labour government proposed an opt-out system, allowing companies like OpenAI, Google, and Meta to use published works unless rights holders explicitly refuse. The policy aims to support AI development but has drawn criticism from the creative sector.

Creative Industry Response

The Creative Rights in AI Coalition (Crac), including the British Phonographic Industry, Motion Picture Association, and major media organisations, strongly opposes the exemption. They argue that AI developers should seek permission, negotiate licenses, and compensate creators.

Government’s Perspective

Technology Minister Chris Bryant supports the exemption, stating that a restrictive regime could force AI developers to train on UK content accessed abroad while limiting AI deployment within the country. The government launched a 10-week consultation to gather feedback.

Economic Impact

The creative industries contribute billions to the UK economy. Critics warn that unlicensed AI training could devalue creative work, reduce revenue, and harm economic growth. AI firms, however, argue that easing restrictions could drive innovation and attract investment.

Industry and Public Reaction

High-profile artists, including Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, and Stephen Fry, have signed a petition urging stronger copyright protections. Critics compare the exemption to requiring shop owners to opt out of theft rather than preventing it.

Parliamentary Debate

The proposal has faced scrutiny in Parliament, with some MPs arguing that it favours tech industry lobbying. Others insist a balance must be struck between AI advancement and safeguarding intellectual property rights.

How GSC Solicitors Can Help

As AI and copyright laws evolve, GSC Solicitors LLP provides expert legal guidance to content creators, publishers, and media businesses. We help clients protect their intellectual assets and navigate legal challenges in the digital era. If AI developments impact your copyright or media rights, our team is here to assist.

Conclusion

The debate over AI and copyright law continues, with significant implications for creators, businesses, and the economy. While AI firms push for greater data access, the creative sector demands stronger protections to uphold intellectual property rights. The outcome of this consultation will shape the future of AI development and copyright enforcement in the UK.

London law firms Seddons and GSC Solicitors to merge, creating full-service firm

Thursday, 6th March 2025

West End law firm Seddons and City law firm GSC Solicitors,  are pleased to announce that they have agreed to merge, with completion to take place on 1 April 2025. The merger will create a full-service law firm of over 150 people. On completion, the merged firm will be known as Seddons GSC LLP,  and will move into Seddons’ expanded London premises.

Seddons is a 31-partner law firm based in Fitzrovia, with particular expertise in real estate, corporate, dispute resolution, private client and family law. GSC Solicitors, with over 53 years of history, specialises in corporate, commercial, real estate, dispute resolution and intellectual property work. The merger will bring together each firm’s complementary expertise to create a full-service law firm. Seddons GSC will leverage its combined strength and depth to seek growth across all practice areas.

The Partners of GSC Solicitors will become Partners in the merged firm creating a combined partnership of 43 Partners. Simon Ross will continue as Managing Partner of Seddons GSC, working with Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner of GSC Solicitors, who will assume the position of Senior Partner of Seddons GSC.

Simon Ross, Managing Partner of Seddons, comments:

“The merger of Seddons and GSC Solicitors is exciting news for our people and clients. It was apparent from our first discussions that a real synergy exists between our firms. We both regard culture as key, putting people first, whilst ensuring that our clients can experience the best possible service delivered in a timely and cost-effective way.

Together, we will take advantage of new exciting opportunities and provide our existing clients with an enhanced level of service and expertise. The merger strengthens our combined offering to both our existing client bases, and provides the perfect platform for our future growth.

We look forward to working with our new colleagues to create an exciting and successful future together.”

Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner of GSC Solicitors, said:

“This merger marks an exciting new chapter for both GSC Solicitors and Seddons.   Our firms have a deep-rooted commitment to excellence, innovation, and client service, making this partnership a natural fit.

By joining forces, we are enhancing our ability to serve our clients with an even greater depth of expertise and a broader range of legal services.  This is a milestone moment, not only for our teams but also for the clients we have advised and supported over the years.

Together as Seddons GSC, we are well-positioned to drive future growth, strengthen our market presence, and build on our shared legacy of providing outstanding legal services.  I look forward to working with Simon, our new colleagues, and our valued clients as we embark on this exciting journey.”

British Citizenship Deprivation: Expert Advice on Procedural Fairness

Recent developments in British citizenship law have brought significant attention to the procedural fairness of deprivation decisions. The Court of Appeal’s ruling in the case of Secretary of State for the Home Department v Kolicaj [2025] EWCA Civ 10, has exposed fundamental flaws in the process, highlighting the need for urgent reform. This ruling is crucial for individuals at risk of losing their British citizenship. It also underscores the importance of understanding the legal protections available.

Key Highlights from the Court of Appeal Decision

Procedural Unfairness in Deprivation Orders

The Court of Appeal found the current deprivation process to be procedurally unfair. It does not allow individuals to make representations before a decision is finalised. Consequently, the decision to deprive Mr. Kolicaj of his British citizenship was quashed, as he had no opportunity to provide reasons against deprivation.

Case Background

  • Mr. Kolicaj’s Profile: An Albanian national naturalised as a British citizen in 2009, Mr. Kolicaj was convicted in 2018 of serious organised crime, leading to a six-year prison sentence.
  • Deprivation Process: The Home Secretary issued a deprivation order in 2021 under section 40(2) of the British Nationality Act 1981, deeming it “conducive to the public good.”
  • Court Findings: The Court of Appeal criticised the Home Secretary’s process for failing to offer Mr. Kolicaj a meaningful chance to contest the decision.

Policy and Legal Concerns

The ruling revealed two critical issues:

  1. Lack of Transparency: The Home Office’s new practices for section 40(2) cases were not documented or made publicly available.
  2. Ineffectiveness of Representation Opportunities: The current process denies individuals the ability to provide substantive representations, undermining their right to procedural fairness.

Implications for Affected Individuals

For individuals facing deprivation of British citizenship, this decision underscores the importance of procedural fairness and transparency in decision-making processes:

  • Right to Make Representations: The ruling emphasises that affected individuals should have an opportunity to contest deprivation decisions.
  • Policy Review Likely: This case may prompt the Home Office to revise its practices to ensure compliance with legal standards of fairness.
  • Risk of Ineffective Notification: In particular, short notice periods or unclear notification methods could ultimately lead to further legal challenges.

GSC Solicitors LLP’s Expertise in British Citizenship and Immigration Matters

Navigating the complexities of British nationality law requires expert legal advice. This is especially true in cases involving deprivation decisions. At GSC Solicitors LLP, our immigration specialists are here to assist individuals facing citizenship challenges.

Conclusion

The Court of Appeal’s ruling in Kolicaj highlights critical procedural failings in the current deprivation process. For individuals facing potential deprivation of their British citizenship, understanding their rights and seeking expert legal advice is paramount.

At GSC Solicitors LLP, we are dedicated to protecting our clients’ legal rights. We provide tailored advice to help them navigate complex citizenship and immigration challenges. Contact us today for specialist support in protecting your citizenship and securing your future.

US Import Tariffs: Can the UK Avoid Trump’s New Proposed Policies?

With new US import tariffs on the horizon, businesses across the globe are bracing for potential disruption. For the UK, the focus must be on proactive measures to mitigate the potential impacts and maintain robust trade ties with the US.

What Are the Proposed US Import Tariffs?

President Trump’s proposed tariffs aim to encourage domestic production in the US by imposing levies of up to 25% on imported goods. This policy could increase costs for exporters, particularly in sectors like automotive, agriculture, and textiles.

Steps UK Businesses Can Take

To prepare for potential changes, UK exporters should consider these practical steps:

1. Diversify Export Markets

Reducing reliance on the US market is crucial. Businesses should explore opportunities in emerging markets such as Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Establishing relationships in these regions can help mitigate the impact of US tariffs.

2. Strengthen Supply Chains

Collaborating with US-based partners can reduce exposure to cross-border tariffs. By sourcing materials or establishing operations within the US, businesses can avoid direct tariff implications.

3. Leverage Free Trade Agreements

The UK’s existing and future free trade agreements with non-US countries should be utilised to their full extent. These agreements can provide alternative pathways for exports and reduce dependence on the US market.

4. Invest in Innovation

UK businesses can focus on creating unique, high-value products that are less vulnerable to price sensitivity. Differentiated goods often have a stronger appeal and can help maintain demand even with higher costs.

5. Engage in Policy Advocacy

Businesses should work through trade associations and government channels to advocate for favourable trade terms with the US. Highlighting the mutual benefits of reducing tariff impacts can influence negotiations.

6. Plan Financially for Tariff Costs

Preparing for potential cost increases by adjusting pricing strategies or hedging against currency fluctuations can help businesses remain competitive.

How GSC Solicitors LLP Can Assist

GSC Solicitors LLP offers tailored support to help businesses navigate the complexities of international trade. Our services include:

  • Trade Compliance Guidance: Ensuring adherence to US trade regulations.
  • Market Diversification Advice: Identifying alternative export opportunities.
  • Risk Mitigation Strategies: Helping businesses adapt to new challenges.
  • Policy Advocacy Support: Assisting in engagements with policymakers to advocate for favourable trade terms.

Conclusion

While Trump’s proposed US import tariffs may bring challenges, UK businesses have actionable steps to safeguard their operations. By diversifying markets, strengthening supply chains, and investing in innovation, the UK can mitigate risks and continue thriving on the global stage.

For expert advice on navigating international trade, contact GSC Solicitors LLP today. Our team is here to support your business in an evolving global market.

GSC Solicitors LLP Strengthens Immigration Team with the Appointment of Senior Associate Solicitor Soma Barzinji

GSC Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce the appointment of Soma Barzinji as a Senior Associate Solicitor in the firm’s highly regarded Immigration team. Soma brings a wealth of experience, with nine years of expertise in Immigration Law, specialising in advising high-net-worth individuals and multinational corporations on complex immigration matters.

Soma is known for her ability to deliver tailored, results-driven solutions, having successfully handled cases involving family visas, naturalisation applications, indefinite leave to remain applications, student visas, skilled worker visas, and sponsor license management. Her impressive track record in achieving exceptional success rates speaks to her deep understanding of immigration law and her commitment to client satisfaction.

A highlight of Soma’s career is her significant contribution to Patel v Secretary of State for the Home Department [2019] UKSC 59, a landmark Supreme Court case that helped shape legal precedents in UK immigration law. Her extensive knowledge across all areas of immigration law, combined with her strong leadership and strategic approach, positions her as a valuable asset to both individual and corporate clients navigating immigration complexities.

Fluent in Arabic, Kurdish, and English, Soma is adept at working with a diverse clientele, ensuring cultural sensitivity and a personalised approach to legal counsel. Her multilingual proficiency further enhances her ability to provide world-class service to international clients.

Commenting on her appointment, Soma said:

“I am thrilled to be joining GSC Solicitors LLP, a firm renowned for its expertise and client-focused approach. Immigration law is a constantly evolving field, and I am eager to contribute my knowledge and experience to help clients achieve their goals in an increasingly complex legal landscape.”

Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh also commented on the appointment, saying:

“Soma’s expertise and dedication to her clients make her a fantastic addition to our firm. Her track record in successfully handling complex immigration matters is exemplary, and we are confident that her presence will further strengthen our commitment to providing high-quality legal services. We look forward to working with her and seeing the positive impact she will have on our clients.”

The appointment of Soma Barzinji reinforces GSC Solicitors LLP’s commitment to legal excellence and strategic immigration solutions, ensuring that individuals and businesses receive the highest standard of legal support.

For further information or to schedule a consultation with Soma Barzinji, please contact GSC Solicitors LLP.

About GSC Solicitors LLP

GSC Solicitors LLP is a leading London-based law firm with a strong reputation in corporate and private client legal services. The firm provides expert legal counsel in immigration, corporate law, litigation, real estate, and private wealth management. With a client-centric approach and decades of industry expertise, GSC Solicitors LLP is committed to delivering tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of businesses and individuals.

How the UK’s Inheritance Tax Changes Impact Farmers: Key Insights

The UK government’s 2024 Budget has introduced significant changes to inheritance tax (IHT) regulations, particularly affecting the agricultural sector. Starting April 2026, agricultural estates valued over £1 million will be subject to a 20% IHT rate, a departure from the previous full exemption for such assets. This policy shift has sparked widespread concern among farmers, leading to protests and discussions about its potential impact on family-owned farms.

Impact on Farmers

Historically, agricultural property relief allowed farmers to pass on their estates without incurring IHT, recognizing the unique financial structures within the farming community. The new threshold means that many farmers, who are often asset-rich but cash-poor, may face substantial tax bills upon succession. This could compel families to sell portions of their land to meet tax obligations, threatening the continuity of multi-generational farms. The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) estimates that up to 75% of farms could be affected, a figure contested by the Treasury’s estimate of 25%.
The Times

Legal Considerations

In response to these changes, farmers are exploring legal avenues to mitigate the impact. Options include restructuring estates, establishing trusts, or considering lifetime gifts to reduce taxable estate values. However, these strategies require careful planning to ensure compliance with tax laws and to avoid unintended consequences. Legal experts suggest that challenging the reforms under the Human Rights Act may be possible, but acknowledge the difficulty in overturning the legislation.

GSC Solicitors’ Expertise

At GSC Solicitors, we understand the complexities these tax changes introduce for the agricultural sector. Our Private Client team specializes in tax and estate planning strategies tailored to the unique needs of farming businesses. We offer comprehensive services, including:
Estate Restructuring: Advising on the reorganization of assets to optimize tax positions.
Trust Formation: Establishing trusts to manage and protect family wealth across generations.
Succession Planning: Developing plans that ensure the smooth transition of farm ownership while minimizing tax liabilities.
Given the evolving tax landscape, proactive planning is essential. Our team is committed to providing personalized advice to help you navigate these changes effectively.

Conclusion

The upcoming IHT changes present significant challenges for farmers, potentially impacting the sustainability of family-owned farms. Engaging in strategic estate planning now can help mitigate adverse effects and secure the future of your agricultural business. Contact GSC Solicitors today to discuss how we can assist you in adapting to these developments.

Capital Gains Tax Changes in the 2024 UK Budget: Implications for Small Businesses and Investors

The 2024 UK Budget has introduced significant changes to capital gains tax (CGT) rates and thresholds, directly affecting small business owners, property investors, and individuals selling high-value assets. These changes signal the government’s focus on addressing fiscal gaps while encouraging strategic planning among taxpayers.

Key Capital Gains Tax Changes:

  1. Increased CGT Rates:
    • The lower CGT rate has risen from 10% to 18%, impacting basic rate taxpayers.
    • The higher CGT rate has increased from 20% to 24%, affecting higher and additional rate taxpayers.
    • Gains on residential property sales, however, remain taxed at 18% (basic rate) and 28% (higher rate), unchanged from previous years.
  2. Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR):
    The tax rate for disposals qualifying under BADR has increased from 10% to 14% on the first £1 million of gains. This rate is set to align with the lower CGT rate of 18% from April 2026. Entrepreneurs planning to sell their businesses may need to reassess their tax liabilities under these revised rates.
  3. Annual Exempt Amount (AEA):
    The CGT annual tax-free allowance, which was reduced to £3,000 in the previous budget, remains unchanged. This reduction significantly limits the tax-free gains available to individual investors and small business owners.

Impact on Small Businesses and Investors

For Small Business Owners:
The changes to BADR and increased CGT rates present challenges for entrepreneurs looking to exit their businesses or transfer ownership. Strategic planning, such as timing the sale of business assets or leveraging other reliefs, will be crucial to managing higher tax bills.

For Property Owners and Investors:
Higher CGT rates on non-residential assets, coupled with the unchanged rates on residential property, may affect the profitability of selling investment properties or liquidating other capital assets. Property investors will need to assess the timing of sales to optimise their tax position.

For High-Net-Worth Individuals:
Those managing diversified portfolios with significant gains from shares, collectibles, or other investments will face a higher CGT burden. Cross-border investors with UK assets should also take note of compliance requirements under these updated rules.

Why GSC Solicitors Can Help

Navigating the complexities of the CGT regime requires a tailored approach to tax planning. Our Corporate & Private Client teams specialise in:

  • Advising small business owners on optimising their tax position during business disposals.
  • Structuring property portfolios to mitigate CGT liabilities.
  • Providing bespoke advice for high-net-worth individuals with cross-border assets.

Contact us today to ensure your financial strategy aligns with the latest tax regulations.