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Author Archives: Paul Wood

  1. Leonard Gray Celebrates Continued Excellence with CQS Accreditation

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    Leonard Gray is proud to announce its continued accreditation with the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS). This recognition underlines our ongoing commitment to excellence in residential conveyancing and reflects our dedication to providing a trusted and client-focused service.

    What is the CQS?

    The Conveyancing Quality Scheme is the hallmark of quality in the residential conveyancing sector. It sets rigorous benchmarks for solicitors, ensuring adherence to high standards in client care, legal expertise, and practice management. Accreditation requires firms to demonstrate compliance with the Law Society’s Core Practice Management Standards (CPMS) and the National Conveyancing Protocol, which promote transparency, efficiency, and best practices in property transactions.

     

    Why This Matters to You

    For clients navigating the often complex process of buying or selling property, our CQS accreditation offers peace of mind. It signifies that we:

    • Follow Established Protocols: We adhere to a structured process designed to make conveyancing more efficient and transparent.
    • Prioritise Client Care: Your needs and concerns are central to how we work.
    • Mitigate Risks: Compliance with anti-money laundering and fraud prevention measures ensures your transaction is secure.
    • Are Trusted by Lenders: Our accreditation strengthens relationships with mortgage providers, smoothing the process of financing property transactions.

     

    Commitment to Excellence

    Reaccreditation with CQS is not automatic; it requires an annual review and ongoing compliance with evolving standards. This ensures that Leonard Gray remains at the forefront of conveyancing quality, embracing innovations and continually enhancing our service.

    By choosing Leonard Gray, you are opting for a team with a proven track record, an unwavering focus on quality, and the expertise to make your property journey as seamless as possible.

    For more details about how our CQS accreditation benefits you, visit the Law Society’s official page or get in touch with our experienced team today.

  2. Devon McNamara appears on the The Silent Epidemic Podcast to talk about The Emotional Challenges of Divorce and Custody

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    In a recent episode of The Silent Epidemic, Devon McNamara, senior associate and family law specialist at Leonard Gray LLP, joined Hatice Mehmet-Quirk to discuss the emotional complexities surrounding divorce and child custody cases.

    A particularly intriguing part of the conversation explores how a family lawyer might approach a high-profile celebrity breakup, like that of Molly Mae and Tommy Fury. This offers valuable insight into the importance of mediation and maintaining strong co-parenting relationships—even under intense public scrutiny.

    Devon also shared a candid perspective on the pressures of her role, detailing how she balances the demands of her legal career with motherhood. She opened up about the strategies she employs to avoid burnout while managing the emotional weight of her clients’ cases.

    Touching on the mental health toll divorce can have, Devon provided practical advice for navigating the emotional rollercoaster, acknowledging that men and women often handle separation differently. Her insights offer support and guidance to those facing the personal challenges of divorce and custody, emphasizing the value of resilience and balance in the process.

    To hear more of Devon’s expert advice and in-depth discussion, you can listen to the full episode of The Silent Epidemic using the link below…

    Watch Now – YouTube
    Listen Now – Spotify

     

  3. Devon McNamara to appear on the Omnia Therapy podcast

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    We’re thrilled to announce that our very own Devon McNamara, one of our esteemed family lawyers, will be featured on the Omnia Therapy podcast in September.

    Devon will be sharing her insights on the intersection of family law and mental health, drawing from her experiences as both a dedicated legal professional and a working mum.

    Don’t miss this engaging discussion where Devon brings her unique perspective to the conversation—covering everything from navigating the challenges of the legal field to balancing work and family life.

    Stay tuned for an enlightening episode!

     

  4. Devon McNamara has rejoined our family law team

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    We are thrilled to announce that Devon McNamara has rejoined our family law team!

    After exploring new opportunities, Devon has decided to return to our firm, and we couldn’t be happier. Her expertise, passion, and dedication to her clients have always been remarkable, and we’re excited to welcome her back into our family.

    Please join us in extending a warm welcome back to Devon! We’re looking forward to achieving great things together once again. 💼❤️

     

  5. Mary Yusuf joins our Litigation Team

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    We are very pleased to announce the addition of Mary Yusuf to Leonard Gray’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution team.

    Mary is a vibrant and seasoned solicitor at Leonard Gray Solicitors, seamlessly navigating the intricacies of litigation matters from inception to resolution.

    With 8 years of experience in litigation and 4 years as a qualified solicitor, Mary has made significant contributions to both local and national firms. Her client base spans a diverse spectrum, ranging from individuals and local businesses to financial institutions.

    Mary brings a dynamic and solution-oriented approach to her practice. Recognising that litigation can be a stressful period for clients, she takes pride in fostering open communication, explaining legal processes, and providing tailored solutions aligned with the client’s objectives.

     

  6. Leonard Gray Solicitors Once Again Re-Accredited with the Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS)

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    We are thrilled to share with you that Leonard Gray Solicitors has once again achieved the esteemed accreditation of the Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS)!

    This prestigious recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering the very best legal services in wills and inheritance. WIQS isn’t just a badge; it represents our dedication to excellence and our promise to provide you with exceptional support during what can often be a complex and sensitive process.

    So, what exactly does WIQS mean for you?

    Unrivalled Expertise:

    When you choose a solicitor accredited with WIQS, you’re tapping into a wealth of expertise. Our team at Leonard Gray Solicitors comprises accredited professionals who have undergone rigorous training on the WIQS standard. This means you’re getting legal minds that are not only up-to-date with the latest developments but are also equipped to handle even the most intricate legal matters surrounding wills and inheritance.

     

    Client-Centric Approach

    At Leonard Gray Solicitors, your satisfaction is paramount. Our WIQS accreditation underscores our commitment to prioritising your needs. We communicate in clear, straightforward language, ensuring you fully grasp the process, your options, the costs involved, and realistic timelines. With us, you’re not just another case; you’re a valued client whose interests are at the heart of everything we do.

     

    Unwavering Integrity

    Integrity is non-negotiable for us. WIQS accreditation is a testament to our adherence to the highest ethical standards. You can trust that we’ll provide you with transparent, honest advice, treating your personal and confidential information with the utmost respect and confidentiality.

     

    Distinction from Unregulated Providers

    With WIQS, you’re assured of dealing with a reputable, regulated firm. Unlike unregulated providers, WIQS-accredited solicitors like us are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). This accreditation gives you peace of mind, knowing your legal matters are in the hands of a trusted, professional team.

    As we proudly announce our re-accreditation with WIQS, we invite you to experience the exceptional legal services we offer. From our unwavering commitment to excellence to our client-centric approach and uncompromising integrity, Leonard Gray Solicitors stands out from the crowd.

    When it comes to your estate planning needs, trust us to guide you with expertise and peace of mind.

    Your future and that of your loved ones is safe with Leonard Gray Solicitors. Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey towards a secure and well-planned future.

     

    For more information or to contact us about making a Will

    Visit www.leonardgray.co.uk/making-a-will/

    You can download free advice from our website today

    A Guide to Making a Will

    A Guide to Wills Following a Divorce or Separation

    A Guide to Administering an Estate

    A Guide to Inheritance Tax

     

  7. Act Now – Stamp Duty Changes Are Coming!

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    In September 2022, the government announced a temporary reform of the Stamp Duty Land Tax, particularly benefitting First Time Buyers, but with considerable savings for most movers.

    Many property professionals, and home buyers alike, hoped these cuts would be made permanent.

    However, as part of his Spring Budget 2024, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, confirmed that after March 2025 the Stamp Duty thresholds and charges would revert to their previous levels.

    The table illustrated in the image below outlines the changes coming into effect, and are accurate at the time of publication, for purchases of a sole UK residence. Additional purchases incur differing charges.

    This deadline may seem to be far in the future, however, many home movers do not realise that a conveyancer may need a minimum of 12-16 weeks to complete a sale or purchase for them. This does not take into account the marketing time before an offer is agreed. Additionally, it is not unusual for lengthy delays to occur with Mortgages, Management Companies or Probate Courts, to name but a few as well as the pressures of more transactions trying to be completed in Spring 2025 which will, inevitably, cause further work pressures on conveyancers and likely delays.

    Our advice is simple: if you are thinking of moving, Act Now, do not risk missing out on the reduced Stamp Duty rate.

     

     

  8. Esteban Ocana joins our Litigation Team

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    We are very pleased to announce the addition of Esteban Ocana to Leonard Gray’s Litigation & Dispute Resolution team.

    Esteban is a charismatic Litigation Paralegal with a passion for unravelling the intricacies of civil litigation. A great asset to the litigation team, Esteban handles a diverse spectrum of cases ranging from employment disputes to debt collection and every contentious interaction in between

    His professional journey commenced with the completion of paralegal training in a prominent high-street firm in Colchester, coinciding with the final year of his Law degree. In this capacity, Esteban served as a case handler for criminal, family, conveyancing, and civil litigation cases. After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Essex, he swiftly concluded his paralegal training just a few weeks later, marking the beginning of his tenure with the firm.

     

  9. Why choose an agent with a zero-week contract period?

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    Traditionally, estate agents will require their clients to enter into lengthy contract agreements when instructing them to sell their homes.

    This means the client is unable to change agent for any reason, often for several months at a time and most importantly, regardless of the service received.

    At Leonard Gray, we are proud to be the ONLY agent in Chelmsford to operate a zero-week contract period, without charging upfront fees, meaning we are always held to account by our clients – and that is just the way we like it!

    Customer service is our utmost priority. When our vendors are happy, so are we.

    Our clients aren’t bound to us. In the unlikely event that they are dissatisfied with our service, they can leave us at any time.

    We relish the challenge to continuously meet our clients’ needs, to retain their valued instructions.

    If you are interested in hearing more about how we do business, please do not hesitate to call us no obligation chat on 01245 266765. Or in the meantime, check out our fantastic CLIENT REVIEWS

     

  10. Tanith Crook and Robert Everrett Join the Commercial Team

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    We are very pleased to formally announce the additions of Tanith Crook and Robert Everrett to Leonard Gray’s Commercial team.

    Tanith joins us from a well-known, established Essex practice and is training to become a qualified property lawyer.

    Since concluding her academic studies, she has already built up a significant amount of experience, dealing with a wide range of commercial conveyancing and business transactions, including lease negotiations and renewals and real estate acquisitions and disposals.

    Robert is a highly capable corporate/commercial solicitor, with over 25 years’ post-qualification experience.

    He has acted in substantial business and real estate transactions and advises companies, partnerships, investors, lenders and charities.

    Partner and Head of Property, John Appleby, is delighted to have two such excellent recruits on board.

    “Leonard Gray continues to grow and grow.  We see the addition of Tanith and Robert as continuing our efforts to build on our existing, talented team of valued colleagues. They have both settled in very quickly and made strong first impressions with our business clients.  I remain hugely excited about the future for our practice, which will always strive to offer exceptional legal services across a range of practice areas.”