TW Law Talk

Buying a first home is often described as one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it can also feel confusing, pressured and, at times, overwhelming. With so much information, and so many myths, knowing where to start is not always straightforward.In this episode of TW Law Talk, Nick Coffer is joined by mortgage adviser Max Harris and property solicitor Jeremy Mitchell to guide first time buyers through the process from both a financial and legal perspective. They explore common misconceptions around deposits, borrowing and legal fees, explain how lenders assess affordability in today’s market, and set out what really happens once an offer is accepted. The conversation also covers the practical realities behind the scenes, from timescales and paperwork to the importance of clean financial records and understanding the full cost of buying beyond the deposit.Alongside this, they reflect on the value of professional advice, why preparation matters and how small steps early on can make the entire process smoother.A conversation about clarity, confidence and helping first time buyers navigate one of the biggest decisions they will ever make.

Collaborative law, mediation and other non-court approaches are becoming increasingly central to how families resolve disputes. But what does collaborative law actually look like in practice, and where does it sit alongside other options?In this episode, Nick Coffer is joined by family lawyer Natalie Beese, financial adviser Wesley Fox and accountant John Sheehan to explore how the collaborative model works and why it is gaining renewed attention. They discuss the impact of conflict on children, the growing emphasis on non-court dispute resolution and the way collaborative law enables couples to stay in control of decisions around their children and finances. The conversation also looks at the practical realities of the process, including the role of multidisciplinary teams, financial transparency and how complex issues such as pensions, tax and business assets can be worked through constructively.At its heart, collaborative law is about problem-solving rather than positioning. By bringing the right professionals around the table and creating a safe, structured space for discussion, it offers families a way to move forward with greater clarity and less conflict. A carefully considered look at why the way separation is managed can shape outcomes for years to come.

In this episode of TW Law Talk, we explore the essential building blocks of every business relationship - the contract. Partners Peter Kouwenberg and Saljuq Haider from Taylor Walton Solicitors speak to Nick Coffer about why clear, well-drafted terms of supply are critical to avoiding disputes and protecting commercial relationships. From scope, pricing and termination clauses to limitation of liability and incorporation, they outline what makes a contract effective in practice. The conversation also considers the balance between commercial flexibility and legal rigour, and how properly incorporated terms can prevent costly misunderstandings later on.

How do lawyers and bankers work together to make complex property deals happen smoothly and on time? In this episode, Nick Coffer speaks with James Khakpour-Smith, Partner in Commercial Property at Taylor Walton, and Ben Davis, Relationship Director for Real Estate at Lloyds Commercial Banking. Together they unpack the client journey from funding and due diligence to drawdown, highlighting how openness, trust and proactive communication are key to success. Through real-world examples, they show how early collaboration between solicitor and lender reduces risk, avoids delays and ensures clients achieve their commercial goals efficiently and with confidence.

Taylor Walton has launched TW Mediate - and in this episode, Nick Coffer is joined by partner Saljuq Haider and Senior Associate Katarina Morgan to explore how mediation can help resolve commercial disputes swiftly and constructively. Drawing on their experience as litigators and mediator, they explain the process from first contact to settlement, the benefits of confidentiality and control, and the growing role of compulsory mediation under the Civil Procedure Rules. With insights into managing high-emotion cases and balancing legal advice with facilitation, they show why mediation can offer a practical and cost-effective route to resolution without the need for court proceedings.

In this episode of TW Law Talk, host Nick Coffer is joined by Zoe Sivelle, Partner in Taylor Walton’s Private Client team, and Lynsey Lord, Chartered Tax Adviser and Partner at Mercer & Hole Accountants. Together, they unravel the complexities of inheritance tax (IHT), wills, trusts, pensions, and the upcoming legislative changes that could dramatically affect how wealth is passed down.More info: https://taylorwalton.co.uk/https://www.mercerhole.co.uk/people/lynsey-lord/

In this episode of TW Law Talk, Taylor Walton explores the complex world of neurodiversity in the workplace, with Nick Coffer guiding the conversation. Joined by employment law experts Alec Colson, Nicola Smyrl, both Partners at the Firm and barrister Lisa Hatch, the discussion covers the legal framework, practical challenges, and strategies for fostering inclusive workplaces. From implementing reasonable adjustments to managing sensitive situations, this episode offers actionable insights for employers while highlighting the unique strengths and potential of neurodiverse employees.More info: https://www.taylorwalton.co.ukhttps://1ec.co.uk/barrister/lisa-hatch/

In this episode of TW Law Talk, experts Michael Grant and Iris Ferber KC from 42BR, alongside James Carpenter from Taylor Walton Solicitors, talk to Nick Coffer to explore the significant changes introduced by the proposed bill that will radically change the landscape for landlords and tenants alike. Key discussions include the removal of Section 21, changes to some of the mandatory grounds for possession and specifically Ground 1, Ground 6, and Ground 8, together with their impact on possession processes, notice periods, and eviction grounds. The episode highlights the new limitations on eviction for rent arrears and how landlords can market properties during restricted periods for sale or redevelopment. In Part 2, they will cover legal risks, rent increases, and potential criminal charges for landlords.