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Steven’s Legal Updates – 17 April 2025 Here is a summary of notable legal developments in the UK for this week: 1. Supreme Court Defines ‘Woman’ as Biological Female In a unanimous decision, the UK Supreme Court ruled that the term “woman” under the Equality Act 2010...
![What “woman” means in law – and why it matters to your business – Supreme Court ruling For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers ([2025] UKSC 16)](https://www.stevenmather.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/What-is-a-woman-in-law-supreme-court-judgment-1080x675.webp)
The Supreme Court has ruled that “woman” in the Equality Act means biological woman – not someone with a Gender Recognition Certificate. This matters for small businesses offering single-sex services or spaces. Find out what’s changed, what stays the same, and how to stay legally compliant while treating everyone fairly.
AI is transforming legal practice – but are small firms ready? In this in-depth guide, I explore the ethics, data risks, top AI tools for solicitors, and the traps to avoid. From contract automation to legal research, discover how AI can help you work smarter (without losing your professional edge). A must-read for any solicitor looking to future-proof their practice.
The viral rise of “Dubai chocolate” - more formally known as the “Can’t Get Knafeh of It” bar from Fix Dessert Chocolatier - has been a social media sensation. What started as a niche sweet treat made in a Dubai dessert shop has ended up being one of the most...
When a business is sold, it’s common for the seller to stay on for a period of time to help with handover – often under a fixed-term employment or consultancy contract. But if that arrangement lasts more than two years, there may be unexpected legal consequences. This article explains when the end of a fixed-term contract amounts to a redundancy, what rights sellers might have, and the key differences between employment and consultancy in a post-sale context.
A clear explanation of what a Memorandum of Understanding or Letter of Intent is, how they differ from Heads of Terms, and what to include to protect your position during early negotiations of a business deal.
![Misreprentation claim arising from a draft disclosure letter in an acquisition – Veranova Bidco LP v Johnson Matthey Plc [2025] EWHC 707 (Comm)](https://www.stevenmather.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/misrepresentation-arising-from-a-draft-dislcosure-letter-1080x675.webp)
Selling a business is one of the most significant transactions most owners will ever go through. Buyers invest huge sums based on the information they are given, but what happens if crucial facts are kept back - not technically lied about, but quietly omitted? A...
Do you eat marshmallows with your hands or from a skewer? HMRC needs to know - because it could affect how much VAT is charged. The Court of Appeal has been looking at the latest decision from the Upper Tier Tax Tribunal (UTT) in respect of Innovative Bites Mega...
When buying a business, it’s common for the seller to stay involved in some capacity after completion. However, a practical question often arises: Should the seller stay on as a consultant or become a PAYE employee? This article considers the three options available to you when selling your business.
Selling your business is a major milestone, and whether you're cashing in after years of hard work or simply moving on to the next chapter, one thing is certain: buyers don't like surprises. Especially not the kind that involves missing paperwork, outdated policies,...
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