Savage Crangle Joins Forces with Ison Harrison in Major Skipton Legal Merger
Press Release – July 2025 Savage Crangle, a respected Skipton based law firm, is to become part of one of Yorkshire’s leading legal service providers, following its acquisition by Ison Harrison. The move brings Savage Crangle and Ison Harrison together under one roof. The established reputation and local knowledge of Savage Crangle, specialists in conveyancing,…
Divorce & Property: What the Standish v Standish Decision Means for You
If you’re going through divorce (or thinking about it), a recent Supreme Court case called Standish v Standish may have a big impact on how your assets are treated. What Happened in the Case? Mr and Mrs Standish were divorcing after a long marriage. During the relationship, Mr Standish had transferred around £77 million to…
Identifying Emotional Abuse Indicators And Behaviours
A victim of emotional abuse can be any age and any gender, and the effects of it can be very damaging and long-lasting. Emotional abuse is common in family scenarios and can be triggered by issues such as relationship breakdowns, financial hardship, mental health problems and substance abuse problems. And in such cases, children or…
Four Mums From York Rowed Across The Atlantic Ocean – A Chat with Helen Butters
What does it take to row across the Atlantic Ocean? For Helen Butters – NHS communications professional, life coach, motivational speaker, and record-breaking ocean rower, it wasn’t just about physical endurance. It was about mindset, teamwork, and turning a moment of restlessness into something remarkable. In a recent episode of The Business Compass Podcast, Helen…
What to Expect from a Day at Family Court
Attending family court can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re there for a child-arrangement’s hearing, a non-molestation order, or care proceedings, knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and ensure you’re prepared. Before the Hearing You’ll usually be asked to arrive at court at least 30 to 60 minutes before…
Honouring Service: Supporting the UK Armed Forces Community
Armed Forces Day 2025 is an opportunity for us all to reflect on the exceptional commitment, courage, and professionalism shown by the men and women of the British Armed Forces. At Ison Harrison, we are proud to stand with those who serve; not only today, but every day. We recognise the diverse challenges faced by…
Justice for Helen Smith: The Yorkshire Nurse, a Father’s Fight, and the Solicitor Who Helped Change UK Law
On a quiet morning in May 1979, the Smith family from Yorkshire received devastating news. Helen Smith, a 23-year-old nurse working in Saudi Arabia, had been found dead alongside Dutch boat captain Johannes Otten. What unfolded next became one of Britain’s most controversial international cases—one that would expose high-level cover-ups, reshape legal rights for bereaved…
It’s Time To Celebrate #EODay2025 at Ison Harrison
When Ison Harrison became 100% employee owned in 2021 it had a transformative impact. At all levels of our law firm, we have seen profound changes for the better, and we want to share our success with others. This is why we are celebrating the upcoming Employee Ownership Day (EO day) on 20th June, and…
Is This Contract Legally Binding?
At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we often get asked whether a contract is binding, or what is necessary to make a contract binding. Whilst each contract needs to be considered on its own basis, this article will provide a high-level overview of matters to consider when determined what makes a contract enforceable. Consideration The underlying principle…
Ison Harrison’s Family Law Team Expand Skills & Training With Client-Centred Focus
We are always looking for ways to enhance the service we offer our clients and this includes our commitment to providing exceptional legal representation in family law as well as a range of supporting services. As family law professionals, we understand the emotional complexities that often accompany matters like divorce, child arrangement orders, and domestic…
Planning Your Business Exit: 10 Expert Tips to Secure Your Legacy
If you’re a business owner thinking about the future – whether that means stepping back, retiring, or simply preparing for the unexpected – succession planning should be high on your agenda. At a recent seminar hosted by Richard Coulthard of Ison Harrison Solicitors and Simon Roberts of Azets, attendees were guided through the key legal,…
Peter Coates Inquest Scheduled for 9-11 June 2025
Press Release – June 2025 Before Senior Coroner Clare Bailey Teesside Coroners Court, Victoria Square, Middlesbrough TS1 2AS Scheduled 9-11 June 2025 Peter Coates died on 14 March 2019. Peter was a much-loved father and grandfather. Peter had worked at Redcar British Steel for all of his working life. He developed lung cancer later in…
Thinking of Buying a Business? Read This First. Practical insights from a seasoned lawyer who’s seen it all.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next acquisition, the process can be as exciting as it is overwhelming. In this episode of The Business Compass podcast, we interviewed our very own Richard Coulthard, a commercial lawyer who’s spent over two decades guiding clients through mergers and acquisitions (M&A). What…
Ison Harrison Advises Prominent Regional Law Firm On Employee Ownership
Ison Harrison Solicitors has advised prominent regional law firm Guest Walker Limited on its successful transition to employee ownership via an Employee Ownership Trust (“EOT”). A Strategic Succession Solution Guest Walker Solicitors (“Guest Walker”), founded in 1981 with its principal office located on the shambles in the historic heart of York had been exploring innovative…
West Yorkshire Pathfinder: A Pioneering Approach to Family Courts That Puts Children First
The West Yorkshire Pathfinder scheme is setting a new standard for how family courts operate, with a pioneering approach that puts children’s needs and voices at the centre of legal proceedings. At Ison Harrison, we’re proud to support initiatives like this that aim to deliver meaningful, lasting change for families across the region. What is…
4 Tips For Buying A Leasehold Property
When you are buying a leasehold property you are paying to lease it from a freeholder for a set amount of time. The freeholder is the landlord and the owner of the building as well as potentially land it is built on. Therefore, you won’t own the building or the land, you have an interest…
£250,000 Secured for Client Injured by Collapsing Ceiling in Essex Council Building
A former employee of Essex County Council has received £250,000 in compensation after suffering serious injuries when part of a ceiling collapsed on her during a working day at an education building. In September 2016, Susan Williams, who had worked in the education sector for many years, was seated in a chair teaching when a…
The Difficult Role Of Making Decisions For Someone Who Lacks Capacity
It is an unfortunate fact that we can’t guarantee the physical and mental health of our loved ones forever, however much we care for them and look after them. And the older they get the more likely it is that we will play a more prominent role in their care needs. However, increasingly complex data…
Ison Harrison Launches Dedicated Service for Military Injury Claims
Press Release – May 2025 Ison Harrison has launched a new online service designed to support current and former military personnel seeking compensation for injuries sustained during their armed forces careers. The specialist platform MilitaryInjuryClaim.co.uk delivers clear guidance, legal expertise, and tailored resources to help individuals navigate the often complex process of making a military…
Are we about to see the biggest change to wills in almost 200 years?
Earlier today (16 May 2025), the Law Commission published a draft bill which, if enacted, will mark the most significant development to will writing since the enactment of the Wills Act in 1837. It is now in the hands of the government to decide how to react to these recommendations but there is a good…
Getting Ready to Sell Your Home This Spring? Our Conveyancing Experts Share Their Legal Tips
Spring is a popular time to sell property – and with good reason. Lighter evenings, blooming gardens, and an active housing market make it an ideal season for a fresh start. But before you start booking in viewings, it’s important to make sure you’re legally ready to move. Conveyancing expert Leigh Bassinder, based at our…
Understanding Commercial Leases: Key Legal Considerations for Businesses
Leasing a commercial property can be a turning point for any business — whether you’re opening a new retail space, expanding your operations, or relocating to better premises. But with every opportunity comes a set of legal obligations, and navigating a commercial lease without proper legal advice can lead to costly mistakes. At Ison Harrison,…
UK Immigration White Paper 2025: Restoring Control and Redefining Migration Pathways
The 2025 UK Immigration White Paper, “Restoring Control over the Immigration System,” marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s approach to migration policy. Published on 12 May 2025, the document represents a comprehensive restructuring of immigration frameworks, reflecting the government’s strategic objectives to balance economic needs, social cohesion, and border control. Contextual Background The white…
Protecting Your Property: Wills, Trusts and Planning for the Future
For many people, their home is their most valuable asset. Naturally, they want to ensure it passes to their loved ones without complications. However, two common concerns often arise: What if I need long-term residential care in later life? What if inheritance tax results in my home needing to be sold to cover the bill?…
Ison Harrison Opens 22nd Yorkshire Office With New Branch In Brighouse
Press Release – May 2024 A leading Yorkshire law firm has opened its newest regional office in Brighouse, taking its total network of offices to 22. Ison Harrison’s first office in the town is located next to Tescos on Clifton Road and continues the firm’s expansion as it strengthens its community-focused legal services throughout Yorkshire….
Navigating the Transition to Employee Ownership: Insights from Managing Director Jonathan Wearing
As Managing Partner of Ison Harrison, Jonathan has been instrumental in shaping our direction and culture, especially through our transition to employee ownership. As more businesses look to future-proof their operations while staying true to their values, employee ownership is emerging as a powerful and people-first alternative to traditional succession models. At Ison Harrison, we’ve…
What Are Some Of The Most Common Road Traffic Offences In Yorkshire?
Yorkshire is one of the most densely populated regions of the UK, and it is served by a road network that links major cities with some of the busiest motorways in the country. But there are also remote areas of Yorkshire where major A roads and country lanes allow road users to drive with more…
Campaigning law firm and survivor welcome crossbow law reform — but warn more must be done to prevent future tragedies
Press release – 30 April 2025 A leading Yorkshire law firm and a survivor of a fatal crossbow attack have welcomed the Government’s latest proposals to tighten controls on the sale of crossbows – but say the changes still fall short of what is needed to prevent future tragedies. Leeds-based firm Ison Harrison, which has…
Why a Clean Break Order is Crucial After Divorce: Protecting Your Financial Future
Divorce isn’t just about ending a marriage — it’s also about drawing a line under your matrimonial finances. Many people are surprised to learn that simply finalising a divorce does not automatically sever the financial ties between spouses. To ensure complete financial independence, it’s vital to obtain a Clean Break Order — a type of…
What Legal Help Is Available If You Are In An Abusive Relationship
Domestic abuse is defined as an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading, and violent behaviour, including sexual violence, primarily by a partner or ex-partner, but also by a family member or carer. It is a pattern of behaviour used to hurt, terrorize, manipulate, or gain control over a family member. Domestic abuse can manifest…
Ison Harrison Expands Regional Presence With The Acquisition Of Armstrong Luty Solicitors
Press Release – April 2025 Yorkshire-based law firm Ison Harrison has announced the acquisition of Skipton-based personal injury specialists Armstrong Luty Solicitors, further strengthening its position as one of the region’s leading full-service legal practices. The deal marks another milestone in Ison Harrison’s strategic growth, expanding its reach across North Yorkshire and enhancing its personal…
Why You Need a Will (Even If You Think You Don’t)
As a solicitor, I have conversations with clients about making wills on a daily basis. I am often surprised by the number of people who tell me that they don’t need a will because ‘my circumstances are really straight forward’ or ‘my children know what I want’. Equally, I meet clients who have written wills…
Contact Orders and Child Arrangements: What You Need to Know
When parents separate, one of the biggest concerns is how child arrangements will work. If both parents cannot agree, a contact order (now known as either a Child Arrangements Order – Spend Time With or a Child Arrangements Order – Live With) may be necessary to ensure the child maintains a relationship with their parents….
Securing a UK Spouse Visa for a US Citizen: A Client Success Story
At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we pride ourselves on helping families navigate the complexities of UK immigration law. In a recent case, our experienced team successfully assisted a US citizen in securing a UK Spouse Visa to join his British husband and their two British children. The case involved addressing financial challenges and securing the children’s…
Express Financial Remedy Pilot: What You Need To Know
From 7 April 2025 various courts across North and West Yorkshire, Cheshire, Merseyside, Cleveland, Newcastle, Durham, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Cumbria and the West Midlands will be included in the new Express Financial Remedy Pilot. The traditional process When spouses are unable to reach an agreement in respect of their matrimonial finances following a divorce, they…
Vulnerable Road User Injury Claims: How Ison Harrison Can Help You Recover Compensation
Each year, thousands of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are seriously injured on UK roads – many through no fault of their own. At Ison Harrison, we specialise in helping vulnerable road users secure the compensation they deserve following road traffic accidents. If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, we’re here to…
Spring Budget 2025: Implications for Immigration and Sponsored Workers in the UK
The Spring Budget 2025, delivered against the backdrop of a challenging economic climate and an approaching General Election, set the tone for continued fiscal restraint and a firm stance on immigration. While headline-grabbing tax cuts and investment announcements dominated the news cycle, several key developments – both direct and indirect – will significantly affect UK…
Raising Awareness & Supporting Survivors During Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for justice. Sexual assault remains a significant concern in the UK, with various studies highlighting its prevalence: Approximately 1 in 4 women have been subjected to some form of sexual violence since the age of 16. Around 1 in…
Sports Law Uncovered with Athlete-Lawyer Victoria Boid
Balancing a high-pressure legal career with elite-level sport sounds almost impossible—but Victoria Boid is doing just that. As a partner at Ison Harrison Solicitors and a Great Britain triathlete, she proves that determination, strategy, and passion can make the seemingly unachievable a reality. In a recent episode of The Business Compass podcast, host Richard Coulthard…
Our Top Tips For Choosing A Local Criminal Lawyer
Facing up to the prospect of criminal charges can be an overwhelming experience, but a major element of confronting this is assessing your legal position and preparing your defence. And therefore it is essential that you choose a good criminal lawyer, and as soon as you can. Not only will this help you prepare the…
Over 4 Million UK Visa Holders Successfully Transition to eVisas
According to Home Office statistics published in February, over 4 million UK visa holders have now created an account to access their eVisa. However, an estimated 600,000 individuals have yet to switch from their physical documents to a digital eVisa. The eVisa rollout, which began last year, is part of the UK government’s push to…
Inquest Concludes That The Death Of 89 Year Old Patient Suffering With Dementia Was Contributed To By Neglect
The inquest touching upon the death of 89 year old Sylvia Thompson concluded this Monday at Wakefield Coroners Court. Assistant Coroner Oliver Longstaff recorded a short form conclusion of Natural Causes Contributed to by Neglect. In order for neglect to be found in an inquest, the following must be established; The Coroner must find that…
Pensions On Divorce: An Asset Not To Be Overlooked
In many matrimonial cases pensions are the most valuable asset of the marriage, although many do not realise that both their own pension and their spouse’s pension is considered a matrimonial asset. Depending on the age of the spouses the pension may not provide an immediate income, however it should not be overlooked as to…
Haemochromatosis: The Importance of Regular Surveillance to Prevent Complications
What is Haemochromatosis? Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder where there is excessive absorption and storage of iron in the body. This condition can lead to serious health issues if not properly managed. Regular surveillance is crucial to prevent complications and ensure early intervention. Understanding Haemochromatosis Haemochromatosis, often referred to as iron overload, occurs when the…
Registering a Child as a British Citizen: An Overview
If your child was born in the UK and has lived here consistently, they may be eligible to register as a British citizen. This is an option worth exploring for several important reasons. Entitlement to Register as a British Citizen Under Section 1(4) of the British Nationality Act 1981, a child born in the UK…
Needlestick injuries, psychological trauma and PTSD
Needlestick injuries: psychological trauma claims. If you have a needlestick injury, whether it was from a discarded hypodermic, insulin tester or other forms of sharp the chances are that, in the absence of infection of by a blood-borne virus (BBV) the physical injury will be slight with no more than a spot of blood to…
Record-Breaking January for Illegal Working Enforcement Activity Announced by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced a record-breaking January for illegal working enforcement activity, as the government intensifies its efforts to combat immigration system abuse under its Plan for Change. The surge in enforcement activity forms a key part of the government’s broader initiative to restore order to the UK immigration system by identifying, disrupting,…
Army Chief Condemns Senior Officers for Failing to Stop Harassment in the Ranks
General Sir Roly Walker, the head of the British Army, has issued a powerful statement condemning the “appalling and shameful behaviour” faced by female personnel within the ranks. His remarks come after over 1,000 women shared their experiences of sexual abuse and harassment in the military, a response sparked by the tragic case of 19-year-old…
Out of Control Dogs: Your Rights After a Dog Bite in the UK
Dog attacks can happen suddenly, leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected financial costs. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to understand your legal rights and options for claiming compensation. At Ison Harrison Solicitors we specialise in no win, no fee dog bite claims, helping…
7 Inspiring Interviews To Celebrate International Women’s Day
This year, to celebrate International Women’s Day on 8th March, we have interviewed some inspirational women that work at Ison Harrison and in the local community. Find out why International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to celebrate these very inspirational women! Ruth Bundey (Ison Harrison Consultant & Inquest Advocate) Ruth Bundey is recognised nationally…