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A New Fixed Costs Regime
A new Fixed Costs Regime is coming into force on 1 October 2023 for most claims worth between £25,000 and £100,000, where the trial would last no more than three days. This will be known as the Inte....
GSC SOLICITORS ADVISES CARETECH ON £200M SALE & LEASEBACK INVESTMENT BY CIVITAS INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
Press Release City law firm GSC Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce that it advised longstanding client CareTech o....
Law for a technological world
The first indication of Clive Halperin’s lengthy relationship with technology is the distinctly veteran Apple Macintosh that now occupies a purely....
Law in lockdown
In March 2020, in common with many other UK businesses, every member of the GSC team began a prolonged period of enforced remote working. All, that is, except one. Throughout the pandemic, off....
The pharmacist turned lawyer
Today, Clive Halperin specialises in corporate and commercial, technology, internet and intellectual property law. Prior to qualifying as a solicito....
How to reach a settlement
Our lawyers know that the measure of their success is often not whether they win a case in court, but whether they can avoid taking the case to court in the first place. For the latest in our ....
GSC Solicitors LLP’s higher rankings in the Legal 500 2023
We are proud to announce another year of continuous achievement in the Legal 500 United Kingdom 2023 rankings.....
The Growth Plan 2022: Highlights
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kwasi Kwarteng, delivered the Growth Plan 2022 on 23 September 2022. The docum....
A law firm that has a heart
When Saleem Sheikh became Managing Partner of GSC Solicitors LLP in 1990, he saw an opportunity to shape a different sort of ....
The One About the SFO, ATF & FBI
What do you do when the FBI comes knocking? GSC Solicitors’ Harvey....
Beginnings and Endings
John Green is a founding partner of Green David Conway and Co, the firm that would become GSC Solicitors LLP. In this, the latest in our series of GSC Stories celebrating 50 years of GSC, he d....
GSC SOLICITORS ADVISES BELGRAVIA INVESTMENTS LIMITED AND KENSINGTON CAPITAL LIMITED ON THE £870.3m ACQUISITION OF SOCIAL CARE PROVIDER, CARETECH
PRESS RELEASE City law firm GSC Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce that it advised Belgravia Investments Limited and Kensington Capital Limited as part of a consortium ....
Trust Registration Service: Update
Background All trusts with a UK tax liability have been required to register under the ....
Machine Learning engineer? Why you should consider the UK for your next move
LinkedIn has listed Machine Learning Engineer as second place in this year’s 20 most in-demand job titles in the UK. Top locations for this position include London, Cambridge and Edinburgh, and emp....
GSC Solicitors LLP hosts a roundtable discussion with Malaysian women business leaders
GSC Solicitors LLP were delighted to host a roundtable discussion with The Hon. Datuk Hajah Zuraida Kamarudin, Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities, Malaysia. She is also the Chairman of ....
A Matter of Merit: The Fight to Practise Law
Saleem Sheikh, senior partner of GSC Solicitors LLP, has been part of the fabric of the City law firm for over 40 years. But ....
GSC Queensway Tristan Deal
GSC SOLICITORS ADVISES LONGSTANDING CLIENT QUEENSWAY ON TRISTAN CAPITAL PARTNERS £420M ACQUISITION OF POINT A HOTELS City law firm GSC Solicitors LLP is de....
The Register of Overseas Entities: Questions & Answers
Why is the Register of Overseas Entities being introduced? The UK government is introducing a ‘Register of Overseas Entities’ to achieve transparency of property ownership where any UK p....
Investor visa route closure
The Home Office announced last week that they are shutting the ‘Golden visa’ Investor visa route with immediate effect. This i....
The Scale-Up Visa – A real solution or a nice idea on paper?
The Scale-Up visa was announced on October 27, 2021 by Rishi Sunak MP who is the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer as a part of his 2021 budget. This new visa category is supposedly going to help acceler....
Does Plan B mean that I cannot go into the office?
In an effort to tackle the large rise in Coronavirus cases, the government has recently implemented Plan ....
Trade Mark symbols – what do they mean?
At the firm we regularly receive queries about what clients should be doing to show they have Intellectual Property Rights in ....
Commercial Landlords and Tenants with Covid-19 Rent Arrears – NEW Code of Practice
What is changing? Commercial tenants are currently protected from eviction until 25 March 2022, to provide businesses with breathing space and help protect jobs when certai....
Family Investment Companies – Tax & Succession Planning
Family Investment Companies (FIC) remain a useful tax and succession planning tool as clients seek alternatives or complementary ways of structuring their estates for tax optimisation and planning for....
Autumn 2021 Budget: Highlights
The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, delivered the Autumn 2021 Budget on 27 October 2021. Many anticipated for there to be a major overhaul of taxes, including Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax in orde....
GSC Solicitors LLP’s higher rankings in the Legal 500 2022
We are proud to announce another year of continuous achievement in the Legal 500 United Kingdom 2022 rank....
UK Home Office turns down Nawaz Sharif’s stay extension request
LONDON: Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s visa to the United Kin....
Michael Shapiro features in The Guardian
Residential and commercial evictions - where are we now? That's the question asked by The Guardian readers and answered by ....
Execution of a warrant of possession coming on 6th July
Today Richard Curtin who heads GSC's Insolvency....
Can an employer require staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19?
With restrictions easing in the UK, employers are facing one more question: can they make vaccination at work compulsory for their staff? Is there a law requiring vaccination? Why mandatory vaccinatio....
How to save money by switching to Ethical Banking
What are ethical banks? An ethical bank, also known as a social, alternative, civic, or sustainable bank, is a bank concerned with the social and environmental impacts of its investments and loans. Th....
Abbey Road Institute’s Revival of Angel Recording Studios
We are absolutely delighted to have concluded the acquisition of Abbey Road Institute’s new home at Angel Record....
Sana Sheikh featured in UKPBC’s Business Times magazine
GSC's Senior Associate Solicitor Sana Sheikh, who advises on matters under ....
Copy Caterpillar – The M&S and Aldi cake wars
It is a case that is currently making headlines in the UK and dominating discussion over a cup of tea and slice of caterpillar cake. M&S have brought a legal case against Aldi in respect of the....
Budget 2021: Highlights
On 3 March 2021 Rishi Sunak, Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivered the Spring Budget setting out his plans as the United Kingdom....
Budget 2021: Stamp duty holiday extended until 30 June
Delivering his Budget statement, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has announced today that the stamp duty land tax holiday will be extended. Sunak has con....
Furlough extended until September
It was announced by the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, on 3 March, that the Coronavirus Job Retention ....
Clive Halperin discussing the data protection & security post Brexit on the American Bar Association Podcast
Under the series of The New Frontier Podcast, The American Bar Association interviewed GSC's ....
Advising a family
Advising a family on their governance and succession planning is a skill that private client solicitors need, and, fortunately, many have. Individuals now, more than ever, recognise the need to enha....
What is Islamic Finance?
Islamic finance is a financial system that keeps within the moral and ethical principles of Islamic law (known as Sh....
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme extended
It was announced on 26 January that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (commonly known as furlough) is to be ....
Saleem Sheikh in Jersey Finance Africa Round-Up Series
GSC's Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh gave an interview to The Jersey Finance for 2020 Afric....
Digital Assets & Wills
In our modern world which increasingly relies on technology, digital assets are something that people who use a computer, tablet or smartphone certainly have. While digital assets may not necessarily ....
Hong Kong BN(O) visa policy
Hong Kong BN(O) visa policy The Secretary of State for the Home Department has announced that the UK will create a bespoke immigration route for British Nationals (Overseas)....
COVID-19: Supreme Court backs small firms over business interruption insurance claims
Insurers are being urged to pay up without delay after ju....
Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh welcomes UKPBC’s inaugural issue of The UK Pakistan Business Times Magazine
GSC's Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh who was elected to be the President of the UK Pakistan Business Council (....
What happens when Nawaz Sharif’s passport is cancelled?
The Pakistan government has announced that it will cancel former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s passport in a month-and-a-half on February 16 when his current passport expires – indicat....
GSC appoints Chief Finance and Operating Officer
We are delighted to welcome Peter Cooper as GSC’s newly appointed Chief Finance and Operating Officer (CFOO). Peter is a Chartere....
Online court hearings – How to prepare yourself?
As we all know, courts also had to move to online platforms allowing hearings to still take place in the time of the pandemic. However, as it is a new way for both, courts and those attending heari....
GSC Solicitors LLP strengthen Commercial Property department with Islamic Finance offering
We are delighted to welcome Leila Mustafa to GSC’s Legal 500-recommended and well-respected ....
Capital Gains Tax Review: Clawback Proposals
The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS), an independent adviser to the Government, has been asked by Chancellor, Rishi Sunak to review Capital Gains Tax (CGT) to identify any potential administrative a....
Succession planning in a pandemic and beyond
What can you do when reviewing your succession planning? GSC's Private Client Partner ....
We continue supporting you
Following the UK Government’s announcement on Saturday evening regarding the planned national lockdown in England, that came into force today, Thursday 5th November 2020, we would like to take this ....
Redundancies: How (not) to
In today's issue of The GSC Academy digital series Head of Employment ....
Commercial Lease: Rescue tools for Landlords and Tenants
In the next video under The GSC Academy digital series we focus on commercial lease issues. What are the actions that ....
Legal guidance for you and our business – GSC Newsletter Autumn 2020
Here is our Autumn edition 2020 of GSC Newsletter that offers a number of useful and practical guidance to businesses and individuals to enable them operate succes....
GSC Solicitors LLP strengthen Private Client department
We are delighted to welcome Amanda Chapman to GSC’s Legal 500-recommended and well-respected ....
GSC Solicitors LLP’s higher rankings in the Legal 500 2021
We are proud to announce another year of continuous achievement in the Legal 500 United Kingdom 2021 rankings. We are even more pleased this year as we have received higher positions in the newly anno....
The GSC Academy series: Business Survival Tips
The newly introduced resource, The GSC Academy, starts with its very first video - ....
GSC Solicitors LLP launches ‘The GSC Academy’
GSC Solicitors LLP are proud to announce an exciting new resource for businesses, individuals and families, The GSC Academy....
Summarising the new Job Support Scheme
On 31 October this year, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme will end. The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, has announced that from 1 November it will be replaced by the ....
Flagship Rolling Stones Store
We are absolutely thrilled to see the finished product for our client, Bravado – the new flagship Rolling Stones store in Carnaby Street! ....
Relief for Businesses, pain for Insurers?
Following lockdown, a host of businesses had to close and many looked to insurers to cover their losses. But many insurers disputed the claims, arguing policies were never meant to cove....
The perils of relying on passing off – Why you should register your brand name and logos
Many businesses in the UK operate successfully without the benefit of a registered trade....
Residential Possession Claims: Stayed for an additional 4 weeks
The stay on residential possession claims was due to expire on 23 August 2020, with the Courts due to resume cases after a five-month pause. At the 11th hour it was announced that the ban....
Redundancies – Employer perspective
Mainly it appears as a result of Coronavirus, a lot of businesses are currently in the position of making redundancies. To undertake a redundancy properly, a specific legal process must be followed....
Attention Residential Landlords: Possession Claims Update
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic a stay was imposed by the courts on residential possession claims (and appeals in residential possession claims) until 23 August 2020. A new practice direction has been ....
A Level and GCSE Results and Data Protection
Whatever the rights and wrongs of the English A Level grade markings in 2020, upset students frustrated by their marks might want to look to the GDPR and the ....
Video-Witnessed Wills: Answers to Key Questions
Why will remote witnessing of Wills be legalised? The Government intends to ease the process of recording people’s final wishes during the Covid 19 pandemic. ....
New SDLT Rates for Non-Residents
New rates of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) have been introduced for purchasers of residential property in England and Northern Ireland who are not resident in the United Kingdom. They will be 2 percentag....
Chancellor’s Summer Statement: Key Points
As the United Kingdom is entering the second phase of the government’s economic response to the coronavirus outbreak, the chancellor delivers his summer statement. Here is a summary of the key po....
UK Immigration categories for employers to consider
One of the key issues facing most business thinking about sending an employee to the UK is trying to work out the most appropriate visa for the type of work that their employees is coming to do in the....
How do you expand your business operations to the UK
GSC Solicitors LLP is a member of a very large global association of accounting and law firms, Abacus Worldwide. That membership provides us with acces....
COVID-19: Probate
How has COVID-19 affected the probate service? HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMC....
COVID-19: Lasting powers of attorney
Can an attorney appointed under a Lasting Power of Attorney delegate decisions? Regardless of the circumstances, attorneys are generally unab....
COVID-19 and Wills
Can a will be prepared if during the COVID-19 pandemic if it is impossible to find a medical practitioner in order to confirm that the testator has the re....
Be wary of unqualified, unregulated “Litigation Advisers”
In recent years many new companies have begun advertising online their “legal services”, particularly in relation to ....
Landlord & Tenant update
Ban on Private Rental Evictions Extended The government has announced an extension to the tenant eviction ban for a further 2 months. The courts are likely to follow this by extending the st....
Changes to the Organ Donation Law in England
On 20 May 2020, organ donation in England moved to an ‘opt out’ system which is sometimes referred to as ....
Redundancy and Settlement Agreements – An employee perspective
Introduction Covid-19 has already had a significant impact on a lot of employees, some of whom have unfortunately already lost their jobs. Whilst the ....
COVID-19: Tax issues
Have the time limits for taxpayer appeals been extended by HMRC? The time limits for appeals have been extended for taxpayers affected by COVID-19. C....
COVID-19: A chance to work while on furlough
Further changes have recently been announced to the Coronavirus Job Retention Sch....
Business Interruption Scheme update
A useful update from the FCA regarding the High Court test case concerning Business Interruption (BI) Insurance. Interestingly, the update also indicates a list of insurers and their respective pol....
Major changes for British National (Overseas) passport holders
British National (Overseas) passports were issued to people in Hong Kong by the UK before the transfer of the territory to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. Presently, a BNO passport holder is usually g....
COVID-19 and Responsible Contractual Behaviour
In May 2020, the UK Cabinet Office issued a document titled called “Guidance on responsible contractual behaviour and the per....
Intellectual Property: WIPO PROOF
Today WIPO – the World Intellectual Property Organization - launched a new service called WIPO PROOF to assist creators to evidence and prove the date a....
Our multi-lingual message on Eid Celebration
Eid Mubarak to all our Muslim clients, friends and their Families. Wishing you all lots of happiness, love and wisdom, from GS....
The practicalities of returning to work
For many of us, the last few weeks have been very unusual from a working point of view. Some of us have been working from home, while others have been on furlough and not working at all. However,....
The Dangers of Online Wills
The current outbreak of COVID-19 has given many of us more time than usual and additional grounds to reflect on our future and has prompted people to ensure that their personal legal affairs are in or....
COVID-19: Business Interruption Insurance Claims
As the spread of COVID-19 continues and the substantial economic losses across the economy become clearer, businesses and business owners should be looking at the insurance policies that they have in ....
The latest position on furlough leave
There has been a lot of news recently about the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“the Scheme”), or....
Building a safer future
The Government introduced new building regulations to improve building safety, which is the biggest changes in a generation. Will the reform help people sell or remortgage of flats in high-rise buil....
COVID-19: Tenant stopped paying the rent? Letting landlords leverage subletters…
It has been reported that a week after the March quarter day, UK landlords had collected just 57% of the rent they were due for that quarter, compared to 90% for the same period in 2019*. Whilst th....
Covid-19: Intellectual Property
As a result of Covid-19, many of the offices around the world that administer intellectual property rights, ....
Dos and don’ts of furlough leave
In the last few weeks people have become familiar with the term furloughing. It is the concept brought in by the government in the Coronavirus....
COVID-19: Possession procedures
What is the latest position regarding possession procedures for landlord & tenants? GSC's Head of ....
COVID-19: The latest position on Holiday Pay
What is the latest position in relation to holiday pay under current circumstances around COVID-19? One of the most popular questions and biggest concerns these days. David Nathan who heads GSC's ....
HMRC & Tax Policy: Time to pay arrangements
The government will introduce a new "time to pay" (TTP) scheme, to help businesses and self-employed individuals manage their cash flow in light of financial difficulties caused by COVID-19. There ....
COVID-19 & Will Signing
The signing of wills can now be witnessed by solicitors through the windows of clients' homes and their cars, as the legal profession responds to the Covid-19 pandemic. Michele O’Boyle, ....
The courts in the time of COVID-19: Skype in the Court of Protection
Following the restrictions on personal movement arising from the continued spread of COVID-19 and the Prime Minister’s broadcast, the Lord Chief Justice reviewed the conduct of court hearings in Eng....
Power of Attorney/LPA’s and Isolation – Allowing someone to act on your behalf while in Isolation
Given the unprecedented times we are facing due to the Coronavirus pandemic, your thoughts may be ‘how can my financial affairs be dealt with if I am ill or isolating?’ The solution is a power....
COVID-19: Taking holiday
Although a lot of employees are working from home at the moment, they are still entitled to take time off as holiday (even if at the moment, there may not be anywhere nice for them to go!). Under s....
Budget 2020 – Entrepreneurs Relief and International (SDLT surcharge and Property)
CGT: changes to entrepreneurs' relief lifetime limit The government has confirmed that the ....
Coronavirus & Tax Planning: Exceptional Circumstances
One of the key aspects of tax residence is the days an individual spends in the UK in the tax year combined with the number of ties (namely, family tie, accommodation tie, work tie, 90-day tie and c....
كورونا (Immigration Considerations – COVID-19)
كورونا يواجه العديد من الزوار الذين من المقرر أن تنتهي تأشيراتهم أو انتهت صلاحيتها بالفعل ....
Coronavirus Act 2020 – What does it mean to Residential Landlords & Tenants?
The Coronavirus Act 2020 brings into law some changes to the Landlord & Tenant legislation, and in particular th....
Give me a sign
Electronic Signatures With the vast majority of office workers currently working from home, the use of electronic signatures offers a convenient alternative to the time-hono....
新冠病毒(COVID-19) 疫情下英国移民政策须知 (Immigration considerations – COVID-19)
许多签证即将到期或者已经到期的留英访客，都面临着因为旅行限制或者冠状病毒 (COVID-19) 相关的自我隔离，无法回国的状况。 好消息是，英国签证�....
COVID-19: Иммиграционные рекомендации (Immigration Considerations)
Многие посетители Великобритании, у которых истекает или уже истёк срок действия визы, сталкиваются с трудно....
Working from home: What do you need to know
Working from home is currently a reality for a lot of us. Whereas some organisations do occasionally allow employees to work from home, the current situation of whole workforces working from home at t....
Coronavirus Act 2020 – What does it mean to Commercial Landlords & Tenants?
The Coronavirus Act 2020 brings into law some changes to the Landlord & Tenant legislation, and in particular the....
Immigration considerations – COVID-19
Many visitors whose visas are due to expire or have already expired are facing a difficult situation where they cannot travel back to their home country due to travel restrictions or self-isolation as....
What is the impact of COVID-19 on Court hearings?
Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) recognise that during this public health emergency our pri....
Family is the priority and has always been one…
Perhaps one of the positives of this challenging and uncertain time has been the opportunity to spend time with our families and loved ones. It has also given us time to reflect and assess our prio....
Coronavirus – Practical Legal Steps for your Contracts
Businesses and individuals are facing uncertain times at the moment. There is the immediate risk to health and wellbeing – both physical and mental – physical health issues and other concerns incl....
UKVI’s latest position on absences arising from the Coronavirus pandemic
Tier 2 sponsors take their compliance duties seriously and usually they must report to the Home Office if a sponsored worker does not ‘turn up for their first day of work’. Once a sponsored worker....
Keeping your business afloat throughout the Covid-19 pandemic
In these unsettling times, it’s inevitable that many businesses will suffer and, sadly, some will be unable to withstand the effects of this unprecedented virus. That’s not necessarily the case fo....
Covid-19: Employment-related issues
The Coronavirus crisis is making life uncertain for everyone. These are challenging and worrying times. However, it will be business as usual for the ....
A message from Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh
Dear Clients and Friends I hope that this message finds you and your families well during this exceptional and difficult time. I am writing to you to reassure you that at GSC Solicitors LLP we a....
The Woes of the High Street & possible solutions
We are all painfully aware of the carnage that has littered the High Street up and down the country. Beales, Mothercare, Thomas Cook, Bon Marche, Jamies Italian & Hawkin’s Bazaar to name a fe....
Senior Partner becomes PINE Trustee
GSC's Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh has joined PINE as a Trustee on the Board of Advisors. PINE is ....
Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh featured in CityWealth
Citywealth, a Private Client Directory of recommended wealth managers and advisors around the UK that comprises of top 20 lawyers in ....
Lasting Power of Attorney
With advances in health care and focus on good nutrition the World Health Organisation between 2015 and 2050 estimate that the world’s population over 60 will nearly double from 12% to 22%. The real....
The reference minefield
When someone leaves a job and is looking for a new one, it is very common for the employee to ask its previous employer for a reference to give their potential employer. Put in that situation, mo....
The Hidden Danger to Your Business
In today’s environment there are already considerable challenges to your business which coupled with the problems of Brexit make matters difficult enough. To add to the problems there is the dang....
A Lifeline for Developers, Chelsea FC and the Walkie Talkie – a Way to Sidestep Rights of Light
Like numerous other development projects, the redevelopment of Chelsea FC hit a stumbling block as a result of rights of light enjoyed by some of its neighbours. Chelsea FC nearly managed to overcom....
GSC Solicitors LLP Receives ‘The Law Firm of the Year 2019’ Award
We are proud and honoured to announce that GSC Solicitors have been awarded ‘Law Firm of the Year 2019’ last Sunday 18th August....
Saleem Sheikh’s story in the Asian Giants
GSC's Saleem Sheikh featured in a very special issue of the Asian Voice, 'Asian Giants, Kenya Special 2019'. It is indeed a fascinating story that tells you about Saleem's personal journey that sta....
Hostile environment U-turn
International students will be allowed to stay in the UK for two years after graduation to find a job, under new proposals announced by the Home Offic....
Saleem Sheikh on fatherhood, running the firm and more
There’s no manual for being a parent, and negotiating a balance between family life and achieving your dreams can be a challenge. We asked Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner of GSC Solicitors....
Sorting Fuct from Fiction – US Supreme Court decision of the registration of profanities
Designer Erik Brunetti’s line has been given a green light after justices agree ban blocks free expression. Justices came to that conclusion after the designer Erik Brunetti’s fashion ....
Corporate Voluntary Arrangements. A legitimate tool?
There has been much press coverage of late about corporate voluntary arrangements and the retail trade. Corporate voluntary arrangements came into existence under the ....
Forcing change by ‘naming and shaming’ – gender pay gap reporting
The government now sees equal pay as a vote winner. The requirement for large companies (250+ staff) to publish their gender pay gap figures is not new. It was first prop....
Autumn’s ‘ASK GSC’ in the Asian Wealth Magazine
In the latest ASK GSC pages, our experts answer questions from AWM’s read....
Pitfalls of Leasehold Property – Ground Rents
There are two main types (tenure) of property you can buy in England, Freehold and Leasehold. With Freehold, you will ow....
Settlement agreements in employment disputes
Unfortunately, there may be a time in any employment relationship where things must be brought to an end. Employment law in this country is complex, and the ending of the employment relationship ma....
Another successful event – celebration of International Women’s Day
Last week GSC Solicitors hosted hand-picked female guests for a networking evening with inspirational women while celebrating IWD and having a sushi-making master class. Seena Williams of GSC’s ....
The importance of providing employees with written terms
It is not uncommon to come across employees who have been employed for years and who say that they have no written contract of em....
Commercial property & non-residents – significant change
A significant change to the taxation on non-residents owning commercial property is to be introduced from April 2019. The rules follow the ch....
Michael Shapiro features in the Lawyer Monthly
GSC’s Head of Commercial Litigation & Dispute Resolution, ....
Update on SDLT surcharge for non-UK residents
The government has launched a new consultation on the stamp duty land tax (SDLT) su....
Great success of the Immigration seminar
Last night GSC’s Head of Corporate & Private Immigration ....
New Immigration Category Alert – European Temporary Leave to Remain
Unlimited numbers of EU migrants will still be able to come to Britain for up to three years even if there is no deal, the Government admitted last night.....
Will immigration rules be substantially simplified?
People would be able to more easily understand the UK’s immigration rules under a proposed shakeup of the regulations by the government’s law advisers that would simplify the current 1....
Trade Mark symbols – what do they mean?
At the firm we regularly receive queries about what clients should be doing to show they have Intellectual Property Rights in ....
Compensation for Late Payment of Commercial Debts
Cashflow is the lifeblood of any successful business and the late or slow payment of invoices can lead to financial problems. In 1998 legislation was implemented to help promote a culture of prompt ....
Prime Minister scraps £65 fee for EU citizens to stay in UK
Theresa May has scrapped the £65 fee millions of EU citizens were going to have to pay to secure the right to continue living in the UK after Brexit. The Prime Minister, Theresa M....
Taking exception to exceptional conduct: costs in the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court
One of the key features of the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (“IPEC”) is that the costs recoverable are subject to costs caps both for particular stages of the litigation and for the over....
Clive Halperin’s feature in the Ready For Brexit on businesses & Brexit
GSC’s Head of Company Commercial Clive Ha....
Additional damages in contempt proceedings – Case Digest – Court of Appeal – Phonographic Performance Limited v Ellis
Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL) obtained an injunction against the Defendant preventing him from playing (or authorising the playing of) PPL’s sound reco....
New guidance on the use of Gender Stereotypes in advertising
Adverts showing a woman struggling to park a car or a man refusing to do housework while his wife cooks dinner will be banned from next year as part of an industry-wide crackdown on sexist ste....
Landlords Beware: Are your intentions genuine?
S Franses Limited (Appellant) v The Cavendish Hotel (London) Ltd (Respondent) Judgment date 05 Dec 2018 Neutral citation number [2018] UKSC 62 Case ID UKSC 20....
Directors in the Twilight Zone
Directors of limited companies have a primary duty under section 172 of the Companies Act 2006 to promote the success of the Company. In respect of conventional limited liability companies, this usual....
BREXIT – What happens to my EU staff?
On 24 June 2016, the right to live in the United Kingdom for over 3 million people of its people was suddenly cast into doubt. There are estimated to be over 3 million citizens of other EEA countrie....
GSC Solicitors Continues Substantial Recognition in Legal 500 2018
Once again, we are proud of our achievements in the newly announced rankings in the Legal 500 2018 Guide to the UK legal market, published last Tuesday. We are especially proud of a substantial spi....
Trade Marks: The Shape of things to come
The European Court of Justice has thrown out an appeal by the chocolate bar’s maker, Nestlé, which argued that it owns the shape of the teatime treat. Nestlé has spent ....
Saleem Sheikh and Michael Shapiro Interviewed on Share Radio
Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner, was interviewed by Adam Cox of Share Radio last night. In....
GSC Celebrates Next Generation Clients
On 30th April 2018, we hosted a celebration of GSC’s Next Generation at the Lighterman in Kings Cross. The evening was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Next Generation of....
Saleem Sheikh’s inclusion in the 100 Power Muslim
GSC’s Senior Partner, Saleem Sheikh, has received another acknowledgment of his professional achievements by being included in the 1....
How much data does your smart home produce?
The amount of data that individuals are creating, recording and sharing is increasing exponentially. This is one of the reasons behind the introduction of the European GDPR regime on 25 May 2018. Its ....
Welcome review of Inheritance Tax
Chancellor, Philip Hammond has called for a complete review into how inheritance tax applies in the United Kingdom. The driving force for the review is twofold. One is that the government wants to ....
Trademark infringement can be a game of chicken!
All trade mark practitioners will be familiar with the imbalance that can exist where global or national brand seeks to challenge a small business over use of its Intellectual Property. Regardless of ....
‘Right to be forgotten’ or the ‘Right to rewrite history’?
Two businessmen have launched high court fights against Google asking for the removal of links to articles about their historic criminal convictions – but should we be allowed to edit our past a....
How to give evidence in the High Court – Practical Tips
Giving evidence is a serious business and the foundations for so doing should be laid well before the trial itself. Here are some tips: Be aware that the witness box is a....
GDPR is coming soon
What is GDPR? GDPR is the General Data Protection Directive, a new data protection law from the European Union that will replace the existing Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) that ma....
Landlords, are you ready for the MEES?
Regulations are soon coming into force which mean that it will become illegal for landlords to rent out their properties if they fall below the new energy efficiency standards. The Energy Efficienc....
How to establish a UK presence using the UK Representative Visa
With the UK looking to expand trade ties and many overseas companies looking to enter the markets within the UK, many such companies may have to secure an appropriate visa for a designated employee in....
If you are threatened with Court action
If you are threatened with Court proceedings in England, what are the best immediate steps to take? GSC’s most experienced ....
ECJ ruling – Is it over and out for Uber?
The recent ECJ ruling that Uber operates as a transport company rather than a digital platform is a final decision with no right of appeal. It is binding on all 28-member states (including the UK).�....
Arbitration Committee delivers new blow to Deliveroo riders
Contrary to recent tribunal decisions, the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC) has determined that Deliveroo riders are self-employed and not workers. The application for union recognition was there....
The downside of being too social on social media
When Rachel Burns posted a photo of a singalong at work on her Facebook page, she had no idea that her actions would end her career. The BBC’s Laurence Grissell has been following her story ....
Would you give Amazon the key to your front door?
Amazon Key aims to make parcel deliveries more secure, but this comes at a price to your home security and privacy (along with the $250 price tag). Homeowners will have to redefine their notio....
New rules affecting UK residential property
In the latest briefing our Private client experts, James Cohen and Sana Shei....
By James Cohen: Why you should appoint guardians
I am at that stage in my life where my (“peers/friends”) are starting to have children and when I ask if they have a ....
GSC Solicitors expands recognition in 2017 Legal 500 UK Directory Rankings
We are very proud to have been ranked in six practice areas and to have a record 11 recommended lawyers. For the first time GSC’s Media & Entertainment group has been ranked with the Legal 50....
Debt Protocol: Death of the ‘7 Day’ Letter
A New Regime From 1 October 2017 a new pre-action protocol has come in to force which applies to claims brought by a business claiming a debt from an individual. The protocol set....
Big Mac and Small Wage on the Side
The law governing strikes is complex. No strike can take place without a ballot and this must comply with complex procedural obligations. Failure to do so can lead to an injunction to prevent the ....
Tribunal Delivers Yet Another Blow for Courier Companies
The latest successful challenge to self-employment status against Addison Lee is hardly surprising. It follows similar cases against other courier companies, some of which were dealt with by the sam....
Supreme Court Ruling on Tribunal Fees
The Supreme Court’s ruling that tribunal fees are unlawful, according to our employment team. Whilst the fees were undoubtedly unfair, this does not mean that they are unlawful which seems to be t....
Update on Non-dom tax changes
Government confirms new rules affecting “non-doms” will be introduced in September 2017, but will be backdated to 6 April 2017. The changes will affect deemed domicile rules, residential property ....
GSC in the Summer issue of Asian Wealth Magazine
In the latest issue of the Asian Wealth Magazine Summer 2017 ‘ASK GSC’ feature covers t....
GSC Appoints a Corporate Finance Banker
GSC Solicitors have appointed the very experienced corporate finance banker, David Whitlock as business development director. David’s career has spanned 40 years largely in the City, as a corporate ....
Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh’s Winning Magic Circle Award
GSC Solicitors are very proud of Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner, who has won ‘Entrepreneurial Individual of the Year’ in the Magic ....
Not so new right for workers’ rights
Teresa May’s new rights for workers and, in particular, a year’s leave to look after a dependant relative are not as radical as she may think. Employees are already allowed to take a reasonable am....
Finance Bill 2017 creates more uncertainty
It is very surprising that after months of consultations and deliberations the UK Government has announced it is dropping a number of sections to the Finance Bill that were going to be introduced from....
Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh Nominated in Magic Circle Awards
GSC Solicitors are proud to see Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner, being nominated under ‘Entrepreneurial Individual of the Year’ cate....
Probate fee rise scrapped (for now)
The UK government had previously proposed that as of 1 May 2017, the costs of applying for probate would change from a flat fee to a percentage charge of the value of the estate. The proposals have n....
GSC Solicitors Taking Part in London Legal Walk
GSC Solicitors are proud of being a part in this year’s London Legal Walk on 2....
Saleem Sheikh interview with Asian Wealth Magazine, Spring 2014
GSC Senior Partner, Saleem Sheikh, who advises many Asian HNW individuals and businesses was profiled in an interview with ....
Banking on Anonymity
Before June 2013, any whistleblowing disclosure had to be made in good faith under UK law. This requirement was removed in June 2013 although an individual’s motives can be taken into account by a t....
Tribunal delivers new blow to courier companies
Despite another successful challenge to self-employed status against a courier company, with two more likely to follow, the legal position has not changed. Tribunal decisions are not binding, Uber has....
Headscarf ban: A cross for all employees to bear
A court ruling from the ECJ has held that employers are able to ban their employees from wearing headscarves, but only if there is a wider policy preventing all workers from the visible wearing of any....
Visas for Exceptionally Talented Techies
The ‘Exceptional Talent’ (ET) visa is the sole immigration category which is determined by a designated expert body and not the Home Office. The ET visa is aimed at non-EU nationals who are wor....
A rose by any other name would smell as sweet
A number of news outlets are reporting on Waterstones’ decision not to use its name, branding and trade marks in three new stores opened on local high streets. Ownership of a trademark does not c....
Should Uber be paying VAT?
The ever-controversial yet ever-popular taxi hailing app ‘Uber’ has hit the headlines again this week with claims that it should be paying VAT on fares. If the claims are well-founded, this could ....
There is more than one way to skin a cat.
I am very proud that my colleague Michael Shapiro has been made an equity partner in the Firm. Michael’s route to partnership has not been the conventional one, joining the firm as an office junior ....
Press Release: GSC Appoints New Equity Partner
GSC Solicitors LLP has appointed Michael Shapiro as an Equity Partner after three years as a partner and 12 years as a Head o....
National Living Wage – HMRC’s name and shame policy
Having been introduced originally in 1999, the National Minimum Wage is affecting more businesses across the UK as the rates continue to rise. The National Minimum Wage has risen nearly 17% since 2....
‘ASK GSC’ on Immigration & Brexit
In winter issue of the Asian Wealth Magazine’s ‘ASK GSC’ column, our Immigration expert ....
The costs of Leasehold ownership
This article by the BBC highlights the need for all parties to a property transaction (whether residential property or commercial property) to take time to understand what is being transferred and on ....
Right to Rent – What Landlords Need to Know
If you are a residential landlord, there are some aspects introduced last year that you may not be aware of but should be. GSC Solicitors’ Head of Litigation & Dispute Resolution, ....
McCartney intends to Get Back his share
The Beatles back catalogue is one of the most valuable in the world and Sir Paul McCartney has issued proceedings against its owner (Sony) to clear the way for him to reclaim his share of the publishi....
Courier companies could be saddled with more costs
Despite several successful tribunal decisions challenging self-employment status, the legal position has not changed. Tribunal decisions are not binding and each case is determined on its own facts....
Maximum Enforcement for Minimum Wage?
The penalties for failing to pay the national minimum wage and national living wage are high. They amount to 200% of unpaid wages (or 100% if paid within 14 days of any enforcement notice) up to £20k....
I am Spartacus – Can your firm use your name?
An interesting case emanating from the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court has shed light on what rights a professional may have in respect of the use of their name following retirement. A partn....
Cost Caps and the Part 36 incentatives
In a recent case in which this firm acted for the successful claimant, the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court ruled on the interaction between the costs caps in that court and the various incentiv....
GSC strengthen Immigration practice
We are delighted to welcome Hateem Ali to GSC’s growing Immigrati....
So that’s why Iceland’s gone to the EUIPO!
One of the recent trade mark disputes to have received publicity, this case concerns the battle between the Icelandic Government and frozen food retailer Iceland over the use of the country’s name. ....
Workers of the Self-employed Unite (again)
Amazon delivery drivers’ complaints follow those of the Uber drivers, Hermes couriers and other workers in the gig economy; namely, that they are treated as casual labour, forced to work on a self-e....
Trouble mounts for Toblerone
The makers of Toblerone have announced that they are changing the shape of the product in an effort to reduce the weight of the bars. The reduction of in weight has been justified on the basis of cost....
‘ASK GSC’, a new series for GSC legal experts to answer legal questions
‘ASK GSC’ is a new series, where GSC’s legal experts answer questions from entrepreneurs in the brand new issue of ....
Adverse Publicity can Improve Working Practices
It is becoming far more effective to rely on adverse publicity to force a company to change its working practices than pursuing claims in the courts or tribunals. This applies particularly if a Parlia....
Tattoo or not Tattoo – a Prickly Subject?
Employers can reject job applicants due to their tattoos as such applicants have no legal protection. They cannot claim discrimination as the Equality Act 2010 specifically excluded tattoos and pierci....
GSC Solicitors continues substantial recognition in 2016 Legal 500 UK Rankings
We are proud of our achievements....
Pubs, Shops and Wifi Hotspots
The ECJ has today held that shops and pubs which allow patrons free access to their WiFi networks shouldn’t be liable for their copyright infringements. In this case a patron of the shop made availa....
Burkini Ban Banned
France’s highest administrative court, the Conseil d’Ìätat, has today suspended the controversial “burkini ban” in one French town, ruling that it contravened fundamental liberties and even ....
Specssavers should’ve been told they’ve gone too far
Specsavers have always been pro-active when seeking to register and protect their intellectual property. They are in the news again, not for their trade mark dispute with Asda, but in relation to thei....
New PSC rules
The new rule aimed at greater transparency has been introduced by the Government in relation to PSC (Person with Significant Control). Sana ....
Companies House Records could disappear under Data Protection Laws
It seems that a useful resource for many people including corporate lawyers could be handicapped if Companies House decides to delete historical records. At the moment th....
Private Client Tax Briefing Update July 2016
Sana Sheikh, Solicitor at GSC, has prepared the following ....
Extended protection for mass produced artistic works
Today the provisions repealing section 52 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act came into force. This section essentially limited the copyright granted to artistic works which were being mass prod....
Are employment tribunal claims now the preserve of high earners?
Hedge fund manager sacked from his £640k job days after motor neurone disease diagnosis Michael Johnson is claiming unfair dismissal and disability discrimination against his form....
Pokémon Go, privacy, augmented reality and the speed of the internet
Pokémon Go, the latest sensation to sweep the internet throws some interesting light both on how relatively old (at least in gaming terms) intellectual property assets can be extremely valuable, the ....
Pokémon Go(es) Too Far?
Pokémon Go’s terms and conditions have sparked controversy as users must opt-out within 30 days of download to preserve their rights to bring court proceedings and class actions. What started ou....
Uber Drivers seek Fairness before Fares
Self-employment in the UK is increasing rapidly but not necessarily, by choice. Many workers such as mini-cab drivers, couriers, hairdressers and others are put on contracts describing them as self-em....
Nissan say “Leave us out of it”
As the UK referendum on whether to stay or leave the European Union draws closer, it has been reported that Nissan have issued legal proceedings seeking an injunction preventing the use of its logo, w....
Fanfair Alliance Launch
A new campaign body was launched today to campaign on a issue that has been troubling the music industry (as well as the sports and other industries which rely on ticketing) for a number of years. ....
GSC behind the scene continues with Michael Shapiro & Amee Popat
Asian Wealth Magazine continues having a peek behind the scene at GSC. In the summer issue they meet our Head of Litigation, Mich....
Property Fraud
See the update from my colleague Amee Popat, about how you can help protect yourself against property fraudsters. Property fraud is a scary, real and significant risk....
Taking the ‘Mc’
An application for trade mark over ‘MacCoffee’ brought by a Singapore based company has been prevented by McDonald’s on the basis of the name’s similarity to its family of ‘Mc’ trade marks....
Animal Handler’s Performance CAPS a difficult case
An interesting case from May 2016, not only because of the privacy injunction that was sought, but also because of the comments as to what can constitute a performance for the purposes of protection u....
More progress in the Investigatory Powers Bill
The House of Commons has passed this new legislation and now it’s going to he House of Lords for further consideration and debate. This legislation gives authorities rights to intercept Internet tra....
Copyright – Everyone likes a free sample
An interesting case that has just been decided in Germany surrounding sampling and the extent of copyright protection. In this case a two second drum beat was sampled from a Kraftwerk track and looped....
The Importance of Managing your Image Rights
Celebrity Image rights are extremely valuable and Jose Mourinho’s impending move to Manchester United shows how conflicts with existing sponsors (Chevrolet is United’s shirt sponsor and Jose endor....
Construction companies pay compensation to blacklisted workers
The compensation payments relate to the discovery in 2009 of a secret blacklist of thousands of construction workers compiled and kept by The Consulting Association (TCA) from 1993. This was used b....
China: Apple’s trade mark case crumbles
A case which proves that even the largest international brands can have difficulty managing their portfolio of trade marks, Apple has lost a trademark fight in the Chinese courts over the registration....
Workers of the Self-employed Unite
Self-employment in the UK is increasing rapidly but not necessarily, by choice. Many workers such as couriers, hairdressers and others are put on contracts describing them as self-employed whereas t....
‘GSC Behind the Scene’
In its spring edition, the Asian Wealth Magazine takes a peek into the world of GSC Solicitors.....
Maternity Rights: Is enforcement the problem?
By law, women who are pregnant or on maternity leave have the right not to be discriminated against at work, including the right not to be dismissed or suffer any detriment. They also have the right t....
A return to the Super Injunction?
In the last few days there have been numerous articles in the press regarding the injunction granted to protect details of a celebrity’s sexual liaison being printed in England and Wales. Without be....
Clive Halperin on tech law and its impact on businesses
In the Winter edition of Asian Wealth Magazine, linked below, Clive Halperin talks through tech law and its possible implications to businesses. Innovation in technology that is happening at a rapid r....
Gender Pay Gap Reporting – legislation by ‘naming and shaming’
The reporting obligation that will affect companies with 250 + staff in 2018 is effectively legislation by ‘naming and shaming’ i.e. publication and league tables. Some companies may have valid....
Zero Hours Contracts – New rights for workers
Exclusivity clauses under a zero hours contract (ZHC) requiring an individual to work exclusively for the company without any guarantee of work were banned in May 2016 by making them unenforceable, bu....
Could Mercedes Benz the rules of trade mark infringement?
This case is a slightly unusual case where Daimler sought to test the boundaries of what can constitute trade mark infringement. Here, as an authorised Mercedes-Benz dealership, the defendant garag....
Catch up with TV Licence fees
The government has announced plans to alter the TV licence fee structure to include a requirement to hold a TV licence to view programmes made available through the iPlayer as well as programmes watch....
Dyslexia in the Workplace
Dyslexia is a disability under the Equality Act 2010. If a person is disabled, an employer has a duty to make reasonable adjustments in the workplace to assist them in carrying out their duties. Howev....
New Death Tax
GSC’s James Cohen provides details on the legislation Government are proposing that will target beneficiaries of estates worth over £2 million. “These beneficiaries will be faced with a probat....
Litigating Intellectual Property – more harm than good?
This case is an example of the complicated nature of Intellectual property disputes, particularly those involving cross border disputes and numerous countries. If the companies have the resources thes....
Little Glee when costs are involved
The first question I am often asked by clients seeking to register a trademark is what the costs of obtaining the mark will be. Whilst this is no doubt an important factor (especially for a start u....
How to ‘React’ to trade mark bullies.
YouTube is awash with videos created by recording the reaction of a range of people as they watch videos (or, indeed, witness anything from toys launches to old luxury items). A significant number of ....
Criminal record disclosure checks ruled ‘unlawful’
Any job which involves working with children or vulnerable adults requires the employer to carry out full criminal record checks on all new recruits. The full/enhanced check will list all an individ....
Banksy’s Les Mis̩rables Should Google be cast as Javert or the Th̩nardiers?
Banksy’s latest artwork outside the French Embassy has already garnered much attention in the media and press. Those lucky enough to be in the area would have had the fleeting opportunity to view th....
The Counterfeit Capital of the UK
An IPO report has highlighted Cheetham Hill in Manchester as the UK hotbed for sale and distribution of counterfeit goods. Counterfeiting is traditionally associated with designers and the clothing....
Consultation on higher Stamp Duty Land Tax rates for additional residential properties
GSC’s Private Client team has prepared a Private Client Tax Briefing note on the recent SDLT consultation on higher rates for additional residential properties. There are likely to be significant....
Privacy and the workplace
This widely reported ECHR case decided that an employer was not infringing a workers’ human right to a private life by accessing messages that he had sent using an online messaging system at work. ....
The Force of Trade Marks?
With the imminent release of the 7th installment of Star Wars this is an interesting blog from the IPO outlining the about the intellectual property rights behind the films and how these are exploited....
The Future for Copyright
The European Commission has today outlined its visions on reforming European copyright rules to adapt to the online digital market. The main aspect of the announcement is the proposal to allow onli....
Trademark and Renewal Scams
Those that have applied or registered for patents or trademarks will have probably received additional letters asking for further fees to list your registration on their database. These letters are....
When the pirate doesn’t plunder, what punishment will fit the crime?
An unusual punishment has been agreed between a ‘copyright pirate’, Jakub F, and a host of software, film and record companies whose works he had been distributing for free. He has agreed to star ....
Interesting Tax Briefings
Some interesting points in James and Sunir’s Private Client Tax Briefings… James Cohen Partner and Sunir Watts Solicitor at GSC, have prepared the following Priva....
A heavy blow for buy-to-let…
It is perhaps unexpected from a Tory government and the potential consequences are concerning, not just for those looking to invest in the buy-to-let arena. George Osborne said: ‘Frankly, people ....
Private Client Tax Briefings November 2015
James Cohen has prepared the following Private Client Tax Briefing notes covering; taxation of non-domicile individuals; EU succession ....
All’s fair in love and war – Google’s Defence of ‘Fair Use’
Intellectual Property disputes are often characterised by an inequality of resources and funds which allows established businesses to triumph by virtue of an arms race rather than solely on the streng....
Second Hand doesn’t help the band
In recent years there has been increasing focus on the secondary ticket market for sporting and music events. The market has grown substantially over the last few years, but the Government is now look....
James Cohen Appointed Partner at GSC Solicitors
City law firm GSC Solicitors has appointed James Cohen as a partner in its Pr....
David Nathan discusses the Value of Shareholders’ Agreements for Businesses
In the Asian Wealth Magazine Autumn 2015, ....
Online Pharmacy’s personal data fine
Last month the Information Commissioner’s Office issued a penalty against an on online pharmacy which had sold its customers’ details through a marketing list company. Given the sensitive natur....
Monsoon in a Teacup
Monsoon was lucky. Had the failure to pay the NMW been after May 2015, the fine would have been £20k per worker rather than 20k maximum. The government’s preferred method of enforcement, however....
Private landlords required to check immigration status of tenants
Again, more responsibility for private landlords but the idea is that the forthcoming legislation will ensure anyone without the legal right to live in this country will find it more difficult to ren....
This Webpage is not available – ISP Blocking Orders
It is difficult to stop websites promoting infringing activities as the people behind those sites are hard to track down. Blocking orders attempt to deal with this problem by requiring internet servic....
Annual Slavery Statements
Has your company prepared for the addition reporting requirements? From this month commercial organisations with a turnover exceeding £36 million which carry on busi....
GSC Solicitors advises Universal Music, on one of the largest pre lets in the London office market in 2015
GSC SOLICITORS ADVISES UNIVERSAL MUSIC ON 177,000sq ft PRE LET OF PROMINENT KINGS CROSS BUILDING One of the largest pre lets in the London office mar....
Data protection has the Harbour been washed away?
The European Court ruled today that one of the most common mechanisms which European companies use to transfer personal data to the U.S. for processing is no longer the fool proof answer that it was o....
GSC Achieves Success in The 2015 Legal 500 UK Rankings
City law firm GSC Solicitors LLP has achieved outstanding success in the Legal 500 UK 2015 Directory ....
Reminder – landlords’ duties relating to smoke & carbon monoxide alarms in force from 1 October 2015
“Working alarms save lives in the event of a fire in your home you are at least four times more likely to die if there is no working smoke alarm.” Do the regulations apply where the premises ....
Saleem Sheikh’s interview, in the Asian Voice, on his Personal Journey
In an interview with the Asian Voice, Senior Partner ....
Monkey Business Who owns the copyright in the macaque selfie
A case brought in America by PETA brings forward some interesting points for discussion about the creation and subsistence of copyright. Under UK law the person who creates the photograph will be t....
Nice Lidl earner
The Lidl living wage of £8.20/£9.35 per hour should not be confused with the Government’s National Living Wage (NLW) of £7.20 per hour (no London weighting) for those aged 25 and over, effective ....
Time travel now possible
This is good news for peripatetic workers i.e. those whose work requires them to attend customers’ premises rather than a fixed place of work and particularly those who are paid on an hourly basis a....
Using music outside of licence is stealing…
In this situation there is little that Mr Rietveldt could have done to prevent the infringement that occurred. He gave a limited licence to use the rights, but the licensee used the music outside the ....
The Super Right to be forgotten?
The Super Right to be forgotten? The ICO has issued an enforcement notice requiring Google to delist several listings which were returned when a searc....
The Anthem Affinity
Given the the prominence the press has given to recent cases of copyright infringement (blurred lines) this is an interesting article exploring national anthems, their origins and the various claims o....
Does immigration form part of your pre-employment check list?
As part of the Government’s continued focus on tackling illegal immigration, they have announced a further set of measures to be part of a new immigration bill. Whilst not one of the headline mea....
No room at the Craft Beer Inn
From Bass brewery holding the first ever UK trademark to the long running and infamous Budweiser and Budvar litigation, the drinks Industry has always been at the forefront of the brand protection and....
ITV make a dogs dinner of the Ofcom Code
Whilst the program may not have been no more than a little light entertainment, this case is a good example of the care that needs to be taken in complying with the Ofcom and Advertising Standards Age....
Google’s/Alphabet’s laugh at itself sense of humour makes corporate press releases all worthwhile
Whatever the pundits think of Google’s change of name, how funny to pay homage to the sitcom that makes fun of companies just like Google! As The Guardian says, Google is the Spinal Tap of Tech. ....
Did Moschino ‘Vandal eyes’ Rime’s copyright
US graffiti artist Rime has caused fireworks by bringing a claim against one of the major fashion houses. His mural ‘Vandal eyes’ was copied on to a Moschino dress which was subsequently worn b....
James Cohen, Discusses the Legal Implications of Purchasing a Superyacht
James Cohen, Solicitor at GSC, discusses the legal implications of purchasing a superyacht in the ....
The problem with appraisals……
The appraisal process has always been flawed. A good manager will deal with staff on an ongoing basis with the door always open to handle problems, ideas and grievances and should deal with any perfor....
The Copyright Hub
One of the Government’s key copyright initiative took as step forward today with the Launch of the first app based on its services. The app is the first of over 100 that are apparently in develop....
Publishing gender pay figures: will it make any difference?
The government now sees equal pay as a vote winner. The proposal requiring large companies (250+ staff) to publish their gender pay figures is not new. It was first proposed (but not implemented) by L....
Sharing fitness data – and why small print doesn’t always help big companies
The BBC is reporting how Vitality (formerly Pruhealth) has come under criticism for promoting an app owned by Facebook and not making this clear. The smartphone app “Moves” which records activi....
New immigration checks for landlords
The Government’s proposals do not only affect migrant workers. They also impact on landlords, banks, employers, universities etc who are or will be required to carry out checks on migrants, failing ....
Outed by Wi-Fi…
There’s a great line in a recent episode of the cult comedy TV show, Silicon Valley, when a main character’s visit to a competitor discloses that he’s been there before because his phone automat....
No change to dismissal law
Beecroft’s recommendation to dismiss ‘at will’ would never have worked since it was only intended to cover claims for unfair dismissal and not discrimination. T....
Poltergeist – Film Posters and the Advertising Standards Authority
The Advertising Standards Authority could be asked to rule on film posters for the remake of Poltergeist. The ASA has a wide remit to deal with complaints about advertising including film posters and ....
Fifa arrests
Showing the reach of the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act? Swiss police arrested some of the most powerful figures in global soccer on Wednesday, announcing a crimina....
How should your mobile health data on your smartphone be kept private?
The EU which is already reviewing data protection legislation is setting its sights on mobile health or mHealth applications and how your health information should be kept private. Modern smartphones ....
Sigh of relief for estate agents
The housing market was on pause for a while but, following the general election and Tory victory, it’s back on play… The number of houses listed for sale for £2m....
Valuing your IP
If you struggling to value and leverage your IP this IPO guide could be an ideal starting point. To help businesses to present the security and financial worth of the....
Bankruptcy Threshold
The £750 threshold was always too low with individuals being made bankrupt for such small debts. This is a welcomed and long overdue change. Ministers are hiking the....
From easyJet to easyCar to easyProperty
Stelios doesn’t think the online property sales market is saturated and easyProperty has plans to compete. The Zooplas and Rightmoves pretty much dictate the online....
‘Social Dumping’ Ryanair
It will be interesting to see if more European councils follow the Danish example and whether Ryanair would then change its working practices. However, both seem unlikely in these “lean mean times�....
Grand Theft Auto vs BBC
Should be an interesting case to follow and see if the Daniel Radcliffe starring BBC drama about GTA does infringe Rockstar’s trade marks and if so how Rockstar Gam....
Walmart.horse shut down
One of the fallouts from new generic top-level domain names – in this case .horse – is that the scope for brand owners being subject to parody, abuse or other possible damage has widened. Here, th....
Be aware of how to deal with your customers
A reminder that a business does not only have to apply equality laws to its employees. It needs to apply them to groups like customers also. A judge has ruled that a ....
Don’t you have to stop working at some point?
They may still be competent magistrates at age 70 (although not such competent poets) but there has to be a “cut off” age to give younger people opportunities. Age 70 is higher than the average....
Would you be confused into think you are in a Wetherspoons?
JD Wetherspoon has threatened to take legal action against competitors including Stonegate, Greene King, Whitbread and Mitchells & Butlers over meal deals which it....
Impact of Conservative win on people’s pockets
Below is an outline of the Conservative manifesto in relation to private client matters that might be of interest. Please note that with all governments what they promise may not actually materialise.....
Is pay really about gender?
The fact is that men are better negotiators but transparency will help make companies accountable. Is transparency really the answer? I think so. The retailer Gap las....
Protect your brand
A recent report from OHIM on the evolving challenges companies face in dealing with counterfeit products. Although the majority of counterfeit products in circulation....
Commercial landlords beware!
Landlords of commercial property need to be aware of the new energy efficiency regulations coming in force on 1 April 2018 otherwise they could face considerable fines! ....
Equal pay is still not a reality in the City
45 years after the introduction of equal pay legislation, men and women working in the City are still not being paid equally. Disappointing, given how long the law has been in place. ....
Another victory for Sky to protect its brand
Broadcaster Sky has won a further Court victory against Microsoft, this time preventing Skype from registering a trade mark. This follows on from its victory against Microsoft for using its cloud base....
High Court blocks the the “Torrenting App that is too good to be Legal”
In Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporations and others v Sky UK Limited and others, the High Court blocked access via various internet service providers (ISPs) to Popcorn Time, a torrent streaming app.....
S30-41 Deregulation Act 2015
This act seeks to give help to landlords with one hand whilst adding more regulatory requirements with the other. ....
Using Apple trademarks as an adjective
While it might be best practice to use a trade mark as an adjective to maintain distinctiveness and avoid a mark becoming generic, it does seem rather unlikely that most people will refer to Apple Wat....
Will you be able to read your data in the future?
A fascinating thought piece from the BBC on data. Already many forms of data are difficult to retrieve. This can range from old records (even though vinyl is having a niche resurgence), video and audi....
James Cohen, Changes to Principal Private Residence Relief
In the Spring edition of Asian Wealth Magazine, linked below, James Cohen talks through the changes to principal private residence relief. ....
Facebook Results
I still think that Facebook is the social platform that is going to have the longevity and keep people checking the site every day Facebook shares fell 2% in after-ho....
Asian wealth awards 2015
A wonderful evening celebrating remarkable achievements Global music phenomenon, Zayn Malik, Bollywood superstar, Shah Rukh Khan, renowned fashion designer John Rocha....
Non-Dom Tax
With the new rules on Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings, Capital Gains Tax on non-resident entities from 6 April 2015, increase in the remittance tax charge and higher rates of Stamp Duty Land Tax for....
Employment Law Update Spring 2015
Please see below the link to the latest Employment Law Update from GSC Solicitors covering: Shared Parental Leave Antenatal Appointments Parental Leave ....
Court Fees for Claims set to increase from April 2015
In April 2014 court fees were increased across the board. The Government are now expediting a proposal which will further increase the issue fees for monetary claims, as from April 2015. The Gove....
Employment Law News Flash December 2014
In our latest Employment Law News Flash, Tessa Fry discus....
Nadia Adil, In an article for the Minerva Trust, discusses recent changes to the UK investor visa requirements and procedures for application and settlement
In an article for Minerva Trust Nadia Adil, Solicitor at GSC Solicitors LLP, highlights the main recent changes to the UK investor vi....
Saleem Sheikh and Clive Halperin discuss succession planning in Asian Wealth Magazine
In Asian Wealth Magazine Autumn 2014, GSC Senior ....
Tessa Fry comments on why hot-desking needs careful management
Tessa Fry comments here, in....
Coming Clean to the Taxman
Nick Mogford, tax consultant for GSC, advises people on how to handle investigations by HMRC into their individual tax affairs. He outlines in an article for ....
Employment Law Update Summer 2014
Recent developments including ACAS Early Conciliation Scheme, Flexible Working and Financial Penalties for Employers ....
Tessa Fry comments on equal pay disputes
Tessa Fry comments on equal pay in an article for Reward Magazine (May/June 2014 edition). ....
Tessa Lorimer comments on the Chancellor’s announcement
GSC’s tax investigations barrister, Tessa Lorimer, appeared on Sky News 12 April 2014 challenging the Chancellor’s announcement that “Wealthy British People Who Stash Their Money Offshore Could ....
Opinion article in Spear’s by James Cohen
Solicitor James Cohen at GSC comments on the Marley v Rawlings case about the importance of drafting a will accurately to avoid future ....
GSC assists to stop attempted house sale fraud
Solicitor Barry Samuels at GSC assists the Estate of a pensioner who was the subject of attempted fraud to sell his house for just over half its real value, as reported in The Evening Standard. ....
No A levels, no degree: one man’s route to law firm partnership
Article for Lawyer2B about the route taken by Michael Shapiro to partnership at GSC Solicitors. Lawyer2B ....
GSC’s Senior Partner, Saleem Sheikh, and the LSE
GSC’s Senior Partner, Saleem Sheikh, is interviewed by his alumni university publication from LSE. LSE Friends and Family Newsletter Lent Term 2014 – ....
Ex RBS Bankers Charged over Movie Tax Avoidance Scheme in UK
Tessa Lorimer comments on the HMRC case targeting sophisticated investors in a Bloomberg news article dated 30.01.14. ....
Decoding the fallout from Birmingham city council’s equal pay cases
Tessa Fry comments on the implications of the supreme court’s landmark ruling against the council in an article for The Guardian 24 January 2014. ....
Planning business partnerships carefully is key
Clive Halperin discusses in The Guardian dated 15.11.13 how crucial it is to get the right structures in place from the outset. ....
Property Week report on a deal by Raag Hotels 31.10.13
GSC Solicitors advises Raag Hotels on property finance aspects of Wellcome Trust investment. Peter Belcher, head of property finance, led the GSC team which managed the construction, franchise a....
Tax Article in Spears Press
Tessa Lorimer reminds those who have money in Swiss bank accounts that they have until 01.11.13 to avoid an HMC investigation. ....
Protect Your Business with a Shareholders’ Agreement
David Nathan describes in an article for the Network Nouveau magazine (Sept 2013) how shareholders can protect their interests in a business. Network Nouveau Article Sept 2013 by David Nathan....
Complaints about breaching the advertising code
Clive Halperin describes in a Marketing Week article dated 22.08.13 how advertisers push the boundaries. ....
Employment Law Update August 2013
Key Changes to Employment Law: Will They Make Any Difference? Significant changes to Employment Law came into force on 29 July 2013 and more changes will follow over the next 12 months. The impact....
