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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 u....
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....
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....
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. ....
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 mer....
High Court Dismisses Challenge to Refusal to Relocate Diego Garcia Refugee to the UK
The High Court has dismissed a legal challenge brought by KP, a Sri Lankan national seeking relocation to the UK after being excluded from an asylum arrangement for refugees on Diego Garcia. Despite b....
Navigating the UK’s Housing Shortage: Planning Challenges and Legal Solutions
The UK government has set an ambitious target of 1.5 million new homes in England over the next five years, yet recent data highlights a record-low rate of planning approvals. With planning permission....
Upper Tribunal Dismisses Judicial Review in Case of Parents Seeking Reunification with Young Children
The Upper Tribunal has dismissed a judicial review in the case of R (EK & Others) v Secretary of State for the Home Department (JR-2024-LON-002556), involving a Turkish Kurdish family separated du....
Court of Appeal Returns Deprivation Appeal to Upper Tribunal
The Court of Appeal has ruled on the latest deprivation case, Secretary of State for the Home Department v Daci [2025] EWCA Civ 18, allowing the Home Secretary’s appeal but remitting the case to the....
Good Character Guidance Amended to Block Refugees from Naturalisation
Recent amendments to the Home Office’s Good Character guidance have introduced significant barriers for refugees seeking naturalisation as British citizens. These changes, which took effect from 10 ....
Protecting Your Brand: Why IP Law Matters for Content Creators
In the fast-growing creator economy, influencers and digital entrepreneurs are building brands that go far beyond social media. With the industry projected to reach nearly $500 billion by 2027, protec....
Labour’s Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill: Key Legal Insights
The UK Government has introduced the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. A significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the country's border security framework and tackling organised ....
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 ....
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 m....
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 ....
Tax Changes for Non-Doms: Softened Reforms in UK Autumn Budget 2024
The UK government’s Autumn Budget 2024 introduced significant tax reforms impacting non-domiciled residents (non-doms). While these changes aim to enhance tax transparency and accountability, the La....
Why Employers Must Review Employment Contracts Following Changes to Sponsorship Rules Post 2024
As of 31 December 2024, the Home Office introduced significant changes to UK sponsorship rules, its guidance for employers sponsoring Skilled Workers and Temporary Workers. These updates focus on prev....
Significant Changes to Sponsoring Workers: Key Guidance Updates (January 2025)
The UK government has introduced essential updates to the guidance for sponsoring workers under the Skilled Worker route and other visa categories, effective January 2025. These updates aim to clarify....
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 value....
UK Budget 2024: Non-Dom Tax Updates
The UK Budget 2024 has introduced significant changes affecting non-domiciled residents (non-doms), reflecting the government’s focus on increasing tax transparency and accountability. For high-net-....
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 ....
A Comprehensive Guide to the UK eVisa System: The Digital Transformation of Immigration Status
Introduction The UK government is in the process of transforming its immigration system, replacing traditional physical documents with eVisas, a digital proof of immigration status. This move is part....
What the UK Budget 2024 Means for Employers: Changes in National Insurance and Tax Thresholds
The UK Budget 2024 introduces substantial updates affecting employers’ obligations, including adjustments to National Insurance contributions and changes in tax thresholds. For businesses, these upd....
Celebrating Purple Tuesday: Promoting Accessibility Every Day, Everywhere, for Everyone
Today, we join the global celebration of Purple Tuesday – a powerful initiative dedicated to raising awareness and promoting accessibility and inclusion across all sectors. Originally launched in th....
GSC Solicitors LLP Shines in the Legal 500 Rankings
GSC Solicitors LLP has proudly been recognised by the prestigious Legal 500 across several practice areas, demonstrating the firm’s dedication to providing top-tier legal services. With standout per....
How the UK Budget 2024 Impacts Inheritance and Capital Gains Tax for High-Net-Worth Clients
The 2024 UK Budget introduces several critical changes to inheritance and capital gains tax that will affect high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and their estate planning strategies. The IHT threshold ....
Guide to the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: Essential Insights by GSC Solicitors
The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa offers a pathway for international businesses to transfer key employees to their UK operations. This visa, under the Global Business Mobility (GBM) category, allow....
Autumn Budget 2024: Highlights
It has been a long anticipated Budget from a personal tax perspective, with the expectation that Rachel Reeves would introduce substantial changes to increase taxes. As highly anticipated the gover....
A Guide to Self-Sponsorship as a Skilled Worker: Navigating the UK’s Immigration System
For international entrepreneurs or individuals looking to establish themselves in the UK, self-sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa provides a unique pathway. This allows business owners or poten....
Navigating Lease Renegotiations in Commercial Property: Key Considerations for Landlords and Tenants
The commercial property market has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly as businesses continue to adapt to the economic uncertainties brought on by the pandemic, rising costs, a....
UK Expands Digital Travel System: Implications for Visitors and Immigration Compliance
The UK government's recent announcement of an expanded digital travel authorisation system marks a significant development in the country's immigration and border control framework. The new Electronic....
Understanding the High-Speed Rail Debate: Key Considerations for Complex Construction Projects
The ongoing debate surrounding the future of the High-Speed 2 (HS2) rail project continues to be a key topic within the UK's infrastructure landscape. Originally intended to transform the country's tr....
The Right to Switch Off: A Critical Development in Employment Law
The Right to Switch Off: A Critical Development in Employment Law As the boundaries between work and personal life continue to blur, the concept of the "right to switch off" has emerged as a signific....
Private Landlord Properties Seized: A Legal Perspective on Property Management Law
Private Landlord Properties Seized: A Legal Perspective on Property Management Law In a recent high-profile case, a private landlord had multiple properties seized due to non-compliance with housing ....
The Impact of AI on Jobs: Navigating the Future of Work and Employment Law
The Impact of AI on Jobs: Navigating the Future of Work and Employment Law Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the workplace, automating tasks, and introducing efficiencies that were....
Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFoCC)
SIFoCC’s history SIFoCC was established in 2016 under the leadership of Lord Thomas, former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, to encourage collaboration among national commercial courts of d....
New Salary Requirements for Skilled Worker Visas: How to Prepare Your Business
In 2024, the UK government is implementing significant changes to the salary thresholds for skilled worker visas, increasing the earning threshold by nearly 50%. This change poses challenges for busin....
The Rise of Fintech: Legal Considerations for Startups and Investors
An overview of the legal landscape for fintech startups and the considerations for investors The financial sector is witnessing a transformative wave driven by the rapid growth of fintech, which merg....
Embracing the Significance of World Population Day
The combination of births, deaths, and net international migration increases the U.S. population by one person every 24.2 seconds. The projected world population on Jan. 1, 2024, is 8,019,876,189, an ....
UK Immigration Law Changes 2024: Key Updates and Their Impact on Businesses
The UK government has introduced several significant changes to immigration laws in 2024, which will impact businesses that rely on foreign talent. Key updates include an increase in the Immigration H....
Estate Planning: Why It’s Never Too Early to Start
For high-net-worth individuals, starting estate planning early is not just prudent—it's essential. With considerable assets and complex family dynamics, ensuring your wealth is managed and distribut....
Welcome Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the International Private Client Department
GSC Solicitors LLP Welcomes Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the International Private Client Department London, UK – May 22, 2024 – GSC Solicitors LLP is pleased to announce the appointment of Sh....
Spring Budget 2024: Highlights
On 7 March 2024, Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor of the Exchequer, delivered the Spring Budget 2024 setting out his plans to continue working to decrease inflation, grow the economy and ensure that the tax s....
Copyright Law strikes down Doctor Who on its 60th anniversary
The ongoing copyright dispute in the UK surrounding the TARDIS - the iconic time machine disguised as an old London police telephone box - and early episodes of Doctor Who shows the intersection of in....
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 on a £200m property portfolio sale and leaseback investment by the Civitas In....
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 ornamental position on his office shelf. “It's al....
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, office mana....
The pharmacist turned lawyer
Today, Clive Halperin specialises in corporate and commercial, technology, internet and intellectual property law. Prior to qualifying as a solicitor, he qualified and practised as a pharmacist. What ....
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 series o....
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. We are especially delighted to see that GSC’s Property Finance team has moved one tier ....
The Growth Plan 2022: Highlights
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Kwasi Kwarteng, delivered the Growth Plan 2022 on 23 September 2022. The document is setting out the plans to address energy costs and assist businesses and household....
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 law firm: a “firm that has a heart”. In the latest in our series of GSC....
The One About the SFO, ATF & FBI
What do you do when the FBI comes knocking? GSC Solicitors’ Harvey Posener saw the funny side… I’ve been responsible for compliance at GSC Solicitors LLP for many years. It was in this capaci....
UK Plc is now in recession – Tips for survival
In today's episode of The GSC Academy Head of Insolvency & Restructuring Richard Curtin once again gives businesses useful tips for surviving the current difficult economic climate. This time,....
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 discusses....
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 on its recommended £870.3....
Trust Registration Service: Update
Background All trusts with a UK tax liability have been required to register under the Tax Registration Service (TRS) since March 2018. Following the country’s adoption of the EU’s 5th Money Laun....
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 in early-1980s London it was tough for any young Asian to find a way into a....
GSC in the Press – Entrepreneur Tribune: GSC Solicitors advises longstanding client on £420m acquisition
Source: https://entrepreneurtribune.com/gsc-solicitors-advises-longstanding-client-queensway-on-tristan-capital-partners-420m-acquisition-of-point-a-hotels/ © 2022 GSC Solicitors LLP....
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 delighted to announce that it advised longsta....
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 property i....
Marking our 50th Anniversary
PRESS RELEASE GSC Solicitors LLP: Celebrating 50 Years of the Legal Excellence Year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of GSC Solicitors LLP. Its first (slightly) contentious issue?....
Retail chain Wilko has apologised for "some miscommunication" in which it told staff they could continue to work if they tested positive for Covid. In a memo, reported by The Mirro....
Application for the Ukrainian Humanitarian Route
News story Further support for Ukrainians fleeing Russia invasion Thousands more Ukrainians will be welcomed to the UK as the Government continues its support for Ukraine in their fight agai....
Investor visa route closure
The Home Office announced last week that they are shutting the ‘Golden visa’ Investor visa route with immediate effect. This is amid pressure on ministers to cut UK ties to Russia over the threat ....
Advice on working from home lifted – what employers need to consider
Home working advice to end but do Brits want to return? Boris Johnson has confirmed that Plan B restrictions, including compulsory mask wearing and work from home advice have come to an end a....
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 B, which includes measures to try and reduce the spread of the virus. In relation to those w....
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 the brands and logos they create and how they can best show that these are....
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 certain industries had to close ....
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....
Stamp Duty Tax increase in the past 25 years
25 years of stamp duty – homebuyers see 490% tax cost increase The latest property market analysis by London lettings and estate agent, Benham and Reeves, has revealed that in the l....
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 rankings. A total of 10 lawyers are mentioned by name in Legal 500 UK commentary for their standout....
UK Home Office turns down Nawaz Sharif’s stay extension request
LONDON: Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s visa to the United Kingdom remains valid but his application for extension in stay has been turned down by the Home Office with the right to appeal again....
New Building Safety Bill
Government introduces controversial Building Safety Bill today in Parliament The legislation, which has to be approved by MPs, will bring in far-reaching changes to the way residential towers are b....
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 Michael Shapiro, who heads GSC's Litigation & Dispute Resolution. On 3....
Furlough ending on 30th September: Keeping good lines of communication
There will be a ‘bloodbath of redundancies when furlough support starts to reduce’ UK chancellor Rishi Sunak will not extend the furlough scheme which could lead to a “bloodbath of redundan....
Execution of a warrant of possession coming on 6th July
Today Richard Curtin who heads GSC's Insolvency & Restructuring department, received notification from the court of the execution of a warrant of possession on 6 July. This shows that the Court....
Eviction ban lifted – what does it mean for you
warrant 6th july About 400,000 renters have had eviction notices or been told to expect them, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation says. One renter in arrears told the BBC his landlord has "the power t....
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 Recording Studios in Islington! Harvey Posener and Amee Popat in our Real Estate team did ....
Sana Sheikh featured in UKPBC’s Business Times magazine
GSC's Senior Associate Solicitor Sana Sheikh, who advises on matters under Commercial Litigation & Dispute Resolution, has recently been interviewed by The Business Times magazine, the official pu....
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....
Government proposal for rolling in-year self-employed tax system
The Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), has responded to the government’s call for evidence on a new tax system for the self-employed. This system would replace an....
專業法律團隊 – 為您籌劃移居英國、投資每一步
香港 BN(O) 簽證政策 英國內政部大臣宣佈英國將為來自香港的英國國民（海外）建立一條自訂移民路線。這項新的香港 BN(O) 簽證政策非常慷慨，沒有施�....
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 starts to ease the lockdown and revealing the goals that he is looking....
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 confirmed that the current stamp duty holiday (nil rate ....
Furlough extended until September
It was announced by the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, on 3 March, that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (commonly known as furlough) is to be extended once again. This time it is to be extended from 30....
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 Head of Corporate Commercial Clive Halperin, on the impact of BREXIT on data protection, technology, and c....
UK’s Supreme Court: Uber drivers must be treated as workers
Uber drivers must be treated as workers rather than self-employed, the UK's Supreme Court has ruled. The decision could mean thousands of Uber drivers are entitled to minimum wage and hol....
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 Sharia) and is therefore Sharia compliant. Islamic financial principles have been a....
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme extended
It was announced on 26 January that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (commonly known as furlough) is to be extended once again. This time it is to be extended from 31 March 2021 to 30 April 2021. ....
Saleem Sheikh in Jersey Finance Africa Round-Up Series
GSC's Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh gave an interview to The Jersey Finance for 2020 Africa Roundup Interview Series. Chatting with the Director of Middle East & Africa of Jersey Finance, Fazal ....
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 ....
The Hong Kong migrants fleeing to start new lives in the UK
The UK will introduce a new visa at the end of January that will give 5.4 million Hong Kong residents - a staggering 70% of the territory's population - the right to come and live in the UK, and e....
Job cuts due to the pandemic
Premier Inn owner to cut 1,500 jobs Whitbread who owns Premier Inns are to cut around 1,500 jobs as sales have more than halved due to the coronavirus lockdowns. Norwegian cuts over 1,....
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) from Hong Kong (“BN(O)�....
COVID-19: Supreme Court backs small firms over business interruption insurance claims
Insurers are being urged to pay up without delay after judges dismiss the industry's arguments over the disputed claims. Small firms are cheering a Supreme Court ruling that appears set to force in....
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 (UKPBC) last year, issued a Welcome Word to readers of the very first issue of UKPBC's public....
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 – indicating that Naw....
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 Chartered Accountant, registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountan....
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 Commercial Property team. Leila specialises in commercial property acquisitions and disposals. Her expe....
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 Amanda Chapman talks you through some essentials and actionable tips on where to place your focus. The top tips....
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 David Nathan talks you through important steps of redundancy process, with focus on what mistakes employers should try to avoid as....
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 can be feasible and practical for both, Landlords and Tenants, in relation to c....
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 successfully in the current climate. If ....
GSC Solicitors LLP strengthen Private Client department
We are delighted to welcome Amanda Chapman to GSC’s Legal 500-recommended and well-respected Private Client team. Amanda specialises in wealth and tax planning, advising UK and internationally d....
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 - Business survival tips. Head of Insolvency & Restructuring Richard Curtin talks about how to survive in the ....
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. It is aimed at sharing a wide variety of important knowledge with you th....
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 Job Support Scheme. The headlines ....
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! Harvey Posener and Amee Popat in our Real Estate team did th....
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 cover such unpre....
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 mark to protect their brand name or logo. It may be that they feel that their brand is too descriptive to be....
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 on landlor....
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 Data Protection Act 2018 and in particular....
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. Which territories will be covered by ....
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 access to resources and a network of professional s....
COVID-19: Probate
How has COVID-19 affected the probate service? HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) is encouraging the use of online applications for probate registry services to maintain service levels during CO....
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 unable to delegate their authority under a Lasting Powe....
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 required mental capacity? The testator wi....
Be wary of unqualified, unregulated “Litigation Advisers”
In recent years many new companies have begun advertising online their “legal services”, particularly in relation to litigation. A cursory view of such websites can leave one with the impression....
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 stay on all....
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 ‘Max and Kiera’s Law’. The change means that any adult who dies in England will be co....
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 Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (commonly kno....
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. COVID-19 may be a reasonable excuse when app....
COVID-19: A chance to work while on furlough
Further changes have recently been announced to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (“CJRS”). There are currently millions of people who are part of the CJRS, so they will have a wide impact. ....
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 performance enforcements of contact impacted by the Covid-19 emergency”. ....
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 at which certain assets were in existence. Whil....
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 GSC family to your Family! https://bit.ly/3geqyd7 ....
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 furloughing. As time has progressed, the details regarding the Scheme have become more appare....
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, including the UK Intellectual Property Office, EU IPO and WIPO, have extended the time limit....
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 Job Retention Scheme which states that an employee can be....
COVID-19: Possession procedures
What is the latest position regarding possession procedures for landlord & tenants? GSC's Head of Commercial Litigation & Dispute Resolution Michael Shapiro has the details: ....
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 Empl....
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, president....
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 of ....
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 entrepreneurs' relief (ER) lifetime limit is reduced from £10 million to £1 million, with effect for quali....
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 الوضع حيث لا يمكنه�....
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 the ability of a landlord to seek possession of both Commercial & Residential Pre....
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-honoured printing, signing and....
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 ability of a landlord to seek possession of both Commercial & Residential Prem....
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 primary focus should, of course, be on the health and wellbeing of the nation. However, the L....
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 Employment Law team at GSC who will still be avai....
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 a business incubator programme that helps young entrepreneurs to build and grow startup businesses. ....
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 Wealth Management, featured Saleem Sheikh in their 60 second interv....
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 in London. This recognition is very special to us because this year....
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....
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 LLP, and fa....
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 R....
Michael Shapiro features in the Lawyer Monthly
GSC’s Head of Commercial Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Michael Shapiro is featured in March edition of the Lawyer Monthly on his journey of becoming a lawyer – Lawyer Monthly March 2019 Mi....
