Estate planning is essential for protecting your loved ones, your assets, and your peace of mind, but it can often feel overwhelming.

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, we’re here to make it a little less intimidating and a lot more manageable.

Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, sits down with Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team, to discuss the must-know elements of will planning and estate management.

They break down everything, from inheritance tax and the importance of trusts to the vital role of executors—so you can approach estate planning with confidence.

They explain why it’s so important to think ahead and take ownership of your legacy, touching on the risks of intestacy and creating wills without professional help.

From managing complex assets to the emotional side of the process, they cover it all.

Plus, if you’ve got a blended family or a family business to think about, they dive into how trusts can help preserve your wealth for future generations.

Whether you’re just starting to think about your estate or looking to refine your plan, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you protect what matters most. Tune in now!

Chapter Markers

[1:11] Understanding the vital work of private client services at Bishop & Sewell

[2:27] Exploring the risks of intestacy and the importance of estate planning

[4:52] Navigating the practical and personal aspects of estate planning that go beyond the will

[7:39] Managing assets and choosing executors

[11:26] Discussing inheritance tax and intergenerational wealth planning

[14:47] Exploring the potential risks of creating a will without professional help

[15:59] Understanding international estate planning and will variations

[18:48] Key considerations for trusts and wills

Useful Links

Mark Chick

Nicholas Barlow

Private Client Team

Football governance in England is set for a major shift, with fan movements, the introduction of an Independent Football Regulator (IFR), and growing pressure on clubs to adapt.

In this episode of Listen without Prejudice, we explore what this means for the future of the sport—from financial transparency to stricter regulations—and why football clubs can no longer overlook the need for reform.

Andrew Kavanagh and David Little of the Bishop & Sewell Corporate Commercial and Sports Law teams sit down to share their take on sport and governance.

They discuss the complexities of the current state of football and the need for more robust measures to protect fans, ensure club accountability, and preserve the integrity of the game in the UK.

David and Andy break down the proposed Football Governance Bill and the potential role of an IFR, examining how these changes could impact the way football clubs are run.

Additionally, they delve into the Premier League’s role as one of the UK’s most valuable exports, exploring its unique ownership structure and the financial power of international broadcasting rights.

Finally, they discuss the broader impact these governance changes could have on football culture, reflecting on the growing influence of fan-led movements and the government's increasing involvement.

With football at a crossroads, this conversation highlights why governance and regulation are crucial for securing its future.

Catch the full discussion in this week’s episode!

Chapter Markers:

[1:23] Discussing the current state of football governance and the need for football governance reform in the UK

[5:05] Examining Labour’s Proposed Football Governance Bill

[11:01] UEFA’s response to the UK government's proposed independent football regulator

[14:06] Exploring the unique cultural value of football clubs and the impact of poor governance

[15:52] Examining Premier League’s global influence and governance challenges

[20:31] Discussing the gaps in football governance and recent fan-related issues

[22:20] The potential role of Independent Football Regulator (IFR)

[23:15] The importance of financial transparency in football clubs

[24:44] Government’s role and the future of football governance

Useful Links:

Andrew Kavanagh LinkedIn

David Little LinkedIn

Football Governance Bill

As the Leasehold Reform Act 2024 inches closer to full implementation, leaseholders and property professionals face increasing uncertainty.

With the full rollout still some time away, many are wondering: What now?

Well, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, and Chris Macartney, Head of the Landlord and Tenant Team, sit down to chat about the upcoming changes.

Whether you're a leaseholder, landlord, or property professional, this conversation has all the insights you need to understand how the upcoming reforms will affect you.

As experts in this field, Mark and Chris share their best advice on navigating the interim period before the reform act takes full effect.

From the removal of marriage value and capped ground rents to the new leasehold enfranchisement calculations, they break down the key changes that could reshape how you approach property.

They also dive into the practicalities, such as tackling lease extensions, addressing ground rent issues, and understanding valuation shifts.

So, if you’re looking for a clear roadmap through this transition (and a bit of reassurance along the way), tune in for practical tips and plenty of insights to help you make informed decisions about your property.

Chapter Markers:

[1:42] Understanding the Leasehold Reform Act 2024 and collective rights

[5:58] Exploring the history of leasehold reform in the UK, tracing key legislative milestones from the 1967 Act to the recent 2024 Act

[9:33] Discussing the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022

[12:59] Unpacking the challenges in leasehold advice

[14:27] Discussing recent legislative changes in leasehold reform, precisely ground rent changes

[18:40] Addressing key amendments in the reform and their impact

[21:10] Overview of key changes in the valuation process for leasehold properties

[28:43] Exploring the practical implications of reforms and the expected timeline

[32:53] Navigating the interim before the leasehold reform takes effect

Useful Links:

Leasehold Reform Act 2024

Mark Chick LinkedIn

Chris Macartney LinkedIn

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, we’re unpacking an exciting topic: what to look for when buying a property.

Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, sits down with Charlie Davidson, Senior Associate in the Residential Property team, to discuss the essential steps of buying a property.

Mark and Charlie walk us through the steps in the conveyancing process, from the moment you first set eyes on a house to the joy of transitioning into homeownership. They go on to explain how to get your finances in order and protect your interests before you start the buying process, touching upon the implications of family financial support. Mark and Charlie also highlight the importance of clear and written communication to ensure clarity and avoid unnecessary conflicts among all parties involved.

Charlie also explains the crucial role of a conveyancer, not only in managing the financial side of property purchases but also in providing you with peace of mind throughout the entire process. Finally, they cover both practical and legal considerations that must be addressed before exchanging contracts, along with extra tips for finalising the entire process and enjoying this new and exciting part of your life.

Whether you’re anxious about buying your first property or you just want to equip yourself with as much information as possible beforehand, this episode is for you! Join us for lots of practical tips that will help you navigate this journey with confidence.

Chapter Markers

[1:17] Introducing the subject and general mindset about homeownership for beginners

[2:30] Basic steps to cover once you’ve found the property you want to buy

[3:25] Ensuring clarity in property transactions

[7:06] Steps to take after an offer is accepted and the crucial role of a lawyer during this stage

[8:31] Managing the uncertainty in property transactions and the importance of legal guidance and due diligence to secure your position

[12:14] Managing family financial assistance in property purchases

[16:06] The importance of clear communication and formal agreements in property transactions

[17:20] Practical considerations of conducting property evaluations

[21:28] Legal considerations before exchanging contracts

[24:50] Navigating the final stage of the property buying process

[30:08] Transitioning into homeownership with peace of mind

Useful Links:

Mark Chick LinkedIn

Charlie Davidson LinkedIn

Bishop & Sewell Website

Listen Without Prejudice brings you behind the scenes at Bishop & Sewell, one of London’s most forward-thinking law firms, and offers an insider’s perspective on the legal issues of the day.

Meet solicitors from across the firm as they take us through issues they’re dealing with in practice, current trends and legal updates, and provide insights on a range of subjects - from real estate and business law to family and private client matters.

Each episode offers valuable takeaways, featuring expert insights, real-world relevance, and valuable tips to apply to your private and business life.

For a smart, insider’s perspective, subscribe to Listen Without Prejudice, brought to you by Bishop & Sewell.