Blogs & opinions

Planning Bill set to bring another overhaul
Aim is to strengthen and simplify system

Scots standard commercial leases now available
Property Standardisation Group's work produces results

Electronic land registration regulations in hand
Registers targeting fully digital application system

Community interests can affect property anywhere
Search of register advised in all non-residential sales

Parking charges – legislation for private operators?
MSP consulting on proposed bill to regulate sums demanded

Uncorking alcohol minimum pricing
May date for 2012 Act to come into force

Time for the members to elect the President and VP
Individuals needed who will perform well in public

Letter: harassment – a problem, no question
It must be considered everyone's problem if things are to change

Letter: holding the Keeper to account (1)
ARTL reply suggests double standards being applied

Letter: holding the Keeper to account (2)
ARTL reply does not address the question of money wasted

Buying and selling in Scotland: still on track?
When few transactions actually fall through, it would serve clients (and the profession's reputation) better not to leave so much to the last minute in a house sale and purchase

Hold tight for 2018
Get set for another rollercoaster ride through the year

Facility and circumvention: a high bar
More clients are looking to challenge wills, but it isn't easy

Solicitors overlooking new IHT400 procedure
HMRC will not return principal C1s and C4s sent

Trust Registration Service extends deadline to March
Existing trusts now have until 5 March to register

Access to Funds: don't overlook the option
Scheme an alternative to guardianship in simpler cases

No arrangements on death – who steps in?
A 2016 Act governs entitlement to make funeral arrangements

Employers must not mislead over reason for dismissing
Employee could rely on conduct he was unaware of at the time

ACAS issues guidance on workplace sexual harassment
Advice for employers and workers on dealing with incidents

Right to unclaimed holiday pay not lost after year end
Salesman who preferred to remain self-employed had good claim

Amendment out of time issue may require evidence
Employment judge erred in making preliminary ruling

Minister's marital status could protect against church action
Dismissal due to marital difficulties could found good claim

Counsel: pursuers win sanction in two cases
Guidance provided by Sheriff Appeal Court

Loss of society award: no “tariff” applies
Judge limits award where parties older