Zoe Smith, Head of Commercial Property at ORJ, discusses the strengths and weaknesses of bridging loans. Commercial bridging loans are very popular at the moment due to the turbulent economy and difficult mortgage market – and they can be a useful way of raising funds in the short term. Bridging loans are usually used to […]

Clare Owen, an experienced conveyancer at ORJ, explains the trials and considerations of selling property as an attorney. Selling property on behalf of a loved one as a designated attorney is perfectly possible – but it’s important you are aware of your responsibilities and the associated risks. I recently completed a sale of a retirement […]

Sian Wolstenholme, property law expert at ORJ, explains how rentcharges can be small in money, but big on problems. Rentcharges are often viewed as an insignificant quirk of a bygone era. With typical charges of around just £10 a year, it might appear nothing more than an admin annoyance – but rentcharges can cause significant […]

Fiona Mainwaring, Head of Wills and Probate ORJ, explains how people can provide for their pets in their will. Many people want to ensure their pets are well cared for after their death and it is a good idea to leave provision in a will. Pets are classed as personal chattels. This means they are […]

A family law expert has advised against self-representation in cases involving harassment or threatening behaviour, warning that findings can have far-reaching consequences. ORJ leading expert Tia Bickley said it can be tempting for respondents in cases involving non-molestation orders (NMOs) to fight their own corner, either due to expense or because they believe the accusations […]

A talented family law expert has qualified as a solicitor after seven years of study. Tia Bickley has been completing both the Master of Laws (LLM) and Legal Practice Course (LPC) qualifications while playing a key role working full-time at Telford-based ORJ. Tia, 25, said: “I am delighted to have completed my studies and to […]

Expert Sian Wolstenholme looks at how Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) can be used to purchase commercial property. Buying commercial property using a Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) can be a long-term, tax efficient way to diversify your portfolio and save for the future – but it can be a complex strategy. Money contributed to a SIPP […]

Carefully written terms and conditions are important for businesses of all shapes and sizes – but are often overlooked, writes Daniel Whitehouse, Solicitor at ORJ. Unfortunately, many businesses tend to not think about their T&Cs until something goes wrong – by which time it’s usually too late. Solid, legally-sound terms and conditions are particularly important […]

ORJ’s Jackie Meredith, a leading expert in family law with years of experience, looks at the challenges that can arise when older people get divorced. So-called grey divorce is on the rise – and settlements can be even more complicated than for younger people. According to the Office for National Statistics, the 2021 divorce rate […]