Wrigley Claydon Solicitors

Category: News

  • Visit us by Metrolink!

    Visit us by Metrolink!

    Over the last two years, Rochdale and Oldham have experienced extensive road works, diversions and public transport disruptions as the new Metrolink line was installed. However the work is finally complete, leaving in its place a brand new tram service, making it more convenient than ever to travel around Greater Manchester.

    The changes took their toll on many in the Oldham and Rochdale area as traffic was diverted and bus routes were constantly changing. Union Street was particularly affected by the developments, with the new line running through the town centre towards Oldham Mumps and then onto Rochdale town centre. Due to our close proximity to one of the new Oldham stops, at Wrigley Claydon, we also felt the strain, with plenty of construction taking place right outside our Oldham branch. As well as being noisy and an eyesore, the work also made access to the office difficult, and we apologise to anyone who experienced any inconvenience visiting our offices during the installation.

    Things were a bit hectic at our offices for a while, but now that everything is finished, we’re delighted to be so close to a Metrolink stop. The new Oldham King Street stop is just around the corner from us, making it incredibly handy for our customers. We’re now easy to access for anyone in the Greater Manchester area, as well as making it easier for us to get to you.

    If you’re looking for an experienced team of lawyers in Greater Manchester, call us on 0161 624 6811 or stop by the office. The Wrigley Claydon Oldham office can be found on Union Street, a short walk away from Oldham King Street station on the East Didsbury – Rochdale line. Click the image to the left find us on the Metrolink map. You can also send us a message through our contact page.

  • Oldham Law Association Quiz

    Last week’s annual quiz between members of the Oldham Law Association was once again a huge success. The Wrigley Claydon team were pipped to victory (coming in 6th out of 8!) using their wealth of general knowledge to fight for first place and, more importantly, raise money for charity.

    The OLA frequently puts on fundraising events and the annual quiz night has become a much-loved tradition. This year’s event raised £280 for charity of choice, Shelter.

    Jean Newton, Sue Rigby, Jill Walker, and John Porter competed as “The Wrigglers”, putting their best foot forward to represent Wrigley Claydon.

    A huge congratulations to the team for their valiant efforts, and for helping to raise a fantastic amount of money for a great cause!

     

  • Wrigley Claydon in the Oldham Evening Chronicle

    Wrigley Claydon in the Oldham Evening Chronicle

    Last week, Wrigley Claydon were proud to be featured in the Oldham Evening Chronicle. The piece discusses our success as Oldham’s oldest law firm and a company who continues to move with the times.

    The article describes the improvement in the property market, and the measures we are taking to ensure we are prepared for the inevitable surge in people wanting to move house.  This includes welcoming a new member to the Wrigley Claydon team – conveyancer, Uzma Begum.

    At Wrigley Claydon, we’re thrilled with the piece and believe it fully represents what we stand for as a firm. Partner, John Porter said, “As the recovery takes hold we are committed to growing the firm whilst continuing to deliver an excellent legal service.”

    To read the full article, click the image opposite or click here to learn more about Wrigley Claydon’s Oldham property services. You can send us an enquiry through our contact form, or call us with any questions about the services we provide on 0161 624 6811.
  • Sir John Major’s Dream Comes True

    Sir John Major’s Dream Comes True

    When former Prime Minister John Major came to power, he spoke of his vision for a society that was more at ease with itself.

    At roughly the same time, a man was standing at a bar ordering a drink. Having paid for his drink, he picked it up, turned around and was then punched in the face, falling to the ground. When he challenged the person who had punched him, that person broke a glass and attacked him further causing painful lacerations, bleeding and a permanent scar. The two people were unknown to each other and neither had provoked the other.

    Injuries such as these can cause significant pain, as well as potentially taking their toll on your financial circumstances due to an inability to work properly or expensive medical treatment. In addition, the pain and trauma of the incident can cause mental or emotional distress which may affect the victim, and their loved ones, for some time. At Wrigley Claydon, we brought a successful criminal injuries claim against the attacker, compensating the victim for the injuries he had sustained as a result of this violent crime.

    However, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Recently, statistics from the Accident and Emergency Departments across the country reveal that since 2002 the number of casualties seen in relation to violent crimes has reduced year on year, and last year reduced by 12%.

    It would appear that John Major’s dream of a society that is more at ease with itself is becoming a reality!

    If you have been the victim of a crime of violence and have suffered injury please contact Wrigley Claydon today. Our team of professionals have a wealth of experience in criminal injury claims, as you can see from our list of success stories. To get in touch, complete the online claim form, telephone 0161 624 6811 or e-mail sm@wrigleyclaydon.com.
  • The importance of making a Will

    The importance of making a Will

    A recent study by Aviva has revealed that money is often a taboo subject for the over 55s, with more than a quarter of over 55s admitting they haven’t discussed their financial retirement plan with their spouses. Even more worryingly, only just over a third of over 55s have yet to write a Will. This resistance to discuss important financial decisions even with loved ones can lead to troubling consequences, and it is important to ensure that you are in control of what happens to your property, possessions or savings if the worst should happen.

    While discussing the inevitable can be difficult to face, should you pass away without having written a Will, the law will determine how your money, property and possessions are divided. In today’s society where many families have a less traditional structure, this can create unnecessary issues where loved ones to whom you may want to leave a sum of money may not be able to receive it. Your property or possessions may also risk being left to someone who you do not wish to inherit them.

    However, by putting a Will in place as early as possible, you will be able to put plans in place for your children, grandchildren, spouse or other loved ones. It is important that it is written correctly by a qualified law professional. While many companies now sell ‘DIY’ will writing kits, or instructional books on how to write a Will, it is very easy to make mistakes. The correct jargon must be used and any vague or unclear language, as well as any spelling or grammatical errors, could cause your will to be interpreted incorrectly. Often more importantly, mistakes made when signing and witnessing a Will can result in the Will being invalid entirely.

    It is also important to keep your Will up to date. Your Will can be amended any time, so if your family circumstances change (such as grandchildren being born or a divorce within the family), it is possible to modify your original document to reflect these changes. Your will should also be modified if your financial situation changes, for example if you have inherited a sum of money or set up a business, so that your new assets can be included in the document, and also to prevent any tax complications.

    Making a Will should not be left to old age – at Wrigley Claydon, our Will Department are able to help you make a Will, or amend your pre-existing Will if your circumstances have changed.

    Our team of professionals can assist you from start to finish and ensure that your loved ones are covered. To read more about the process of making a Will, download our information sheet. You can also call us on 0161 624 6811 for more information, or contact us through our enquiry form.
  • Is the Government preventing you from gaining justice?

    Is the Government preventing you from gaining justice?

    The government has recently been criticised for the increase in court fees from 22nd April 2014. We believe this undermines the opportunity for people to access to justice where they have been wronged, particularly for people on low incomes. Higher court fees represent significant barriers to gaining justice for the “man in the street”.

    It is estimated that all of the increases will boost Court income by approximately £200m. The government has stated it is critical that the courts are properly funded if they are to continue to function whilst developing a more efficient, modernised court service. They believe that those who can afford to pay should contribute to the costs of the service, which will subsequently lead to the cost to the taxpayer being reduced.

    At Wrigley Claydon, we recognise the problems caused by this latest fee increase and we remain committed to ensuring that our clients achieve justice at a price that they can afford. We want to ensure transparency with our clients when it comes to costs, and therefore have introduced a “menu” system where clients can pick and choose what part of their case they need assistance with and which parts they wish to deal with themselves. This not only saves the client money, but allows them to obtain expert advice whenever they need to.

    If you are considering bringing or defending a court case, contact Wrigley Claydon, and ask about our new “menu” system. You can email our litigation specialist Shalish Mehta at sm@wrigleyclaydon.com, or give us a call on 0161 624 6811 (Oldham) or 01706 815 712 (Todmorden). 
  • Family Justice System Reforms

    Family Justice System Reforms

    Changes to the family justice system have now been introduced, which fundamentally change the way that the courts in England and Wales will resolve disputes between families.

    As from 22nd April 2014, Combined Family Courts have been introduced in England and Wales. These courts replace the previous three-tier system and are intended to simplify the process of applying to court and to ensure that disputes are resolved quickly. The most appropriate level of judge will be assigned to the case from the start and the hearings will be heard in the most appropriate location.

    There are also changes to the way in which cases involving children are considered. Gone are the terms “Residence” and “Contact” to be replaced with “child arrangements orders”. It is thought that the new orders will focus far more on meeting the needs of children and less on the rights of the parents.

    The courts will take account of the principle that both separated parents should continue to be involved in their children’s lives’ as long as it is safe to do so.

    Court cases involving children will also be completed in less time than currently. There is a maximum 26 week time limit for completing cases where a child is under the care of the local authority. It is hoped that this will mean speedier and better outcomes for vulnerable children.

    Before you can take most disputes relating to family finances or relating to your children to court, there is now a requirement to attend a mediation information meeting with a qualified mediator. Parties to a dispute may then decide to mediate instead of going to court, which could mean their disputes are resolved more quickly and more cheaply.

    For further information as to how the changes may affect your particular situation, the family team at Wrigley Claydon are able to offer a comprehensive service in all aspects of family law. We offer a free initial 30 minute consultation and, depending upon your circumstances, you may be eligible for legal aid.

    Please call Jill Walker on 0161 6246811 for further information.

    For further details on the reforms you can also visit the Government web page.

  • How to make a clinical negligence claim

    How to make a clinical negligence claim

    We trust our doctors and dentists to keep us safe and well – however, mistakes happen, which can sometimes lead to painful consequences. Trusting someone with your health or dental care, only to suffer personal injury through misdiagnosis or inadequate work, can cause both physical and emotional distress. You may also have to take time off work or pay for expensive corrective procedures, which can cause additional financial problems. Making a clinical negligence claim to get the compensation you deserve may seem daunting, but could help you get back on your feet, and should always be considered in order to prevent further problems in the future.

    Clinical or dental negligence claims can be separated into two categories – active and passive negligence. Active negligence refers to an action made which was inadequate or poorly executed. Examples include:

    • Damage caused during teeth extraction
    • Problems created during surgery
    • Or procedures carried out which are not suitable for the patient, for example if the patient has a problematic pre-existing condition

    Passive negligence, on the other hand, is used to describe personal injury caused by a lack of action, for example:

    • A doctor or dentist failing to inform the patient of all the options available
    • A doctor or dentist failing to carry out an assessment to ensure a procedure is suitable for a patient
    • Failure to provide necessary care after a procedure
    • Or a failure to notice a problem which could have been lessened if caught sooner

    So, what’s the best route to take if you’re thinking of making a clinical or dental negligence claim? The first step is always to contact a solicitor with experience in clinical and dental personal injury cases. Due to the complexity of these cases, it’s important to ensure you find a solicitor who can tackle your claim with confidence.

    Wrigley Claydon are a team of quality personal injury solicitors with experience in both clinical and dental negligence cases – to discuss yours, call us on 0161 624 6811 or send us a message using our enquiry form.
  • Claiming for personal injury abroad

    Claiming for personal injury abroad

    It’s the time of year when people across the country begin looking forward to summer and booking trips abroad. However, for some, the enjoyment is cut short due to personal injury. Accidents can happen anywhere – you wouldn’t accept it at home and you don’t have to accept it abroad.

    If you have suffered personal injury abroad you could entitled to compensation for loss of enjoyment, out of pocket expenses (such as medical or transport costs) or even loss of earnings if your injury is severe enough to affect your ability to work. But in what circumstances are you eligible to claim?

    A United Kingdom personal injury solicitor will usually only deal with a claim against another UK-based company. As a result, claims are usually against the package holiday company or travel agent. This covers circumstances such as accidents on hotel grounds, food poisoning at hotel restaurants or accidents caused in public spaces on excursions organised by the travel company. There are also certain grey areas which may be considered more difficult cases such as organised water sports, accidents on public transport or accidents on holiday which weren’t booked through an agent. However, it is always advised to contact a personal injury solicitor for a consultation in these circumstances, as injury can have a serious emotional and financial impact on the victim and their family, which shouldn’t be taken lightly.

    While your thoughts may be elsewhere after suffering a painful accident, there are several procedures that you can complete following an injury which will ensure maximum success during your case. It is recommended that you report your accident to your travel representative at the time, rather than waiting until you return home. It is also essential to record your injury in the appropriate accident book or log so there is a permanent record of the date, time and details of the incident. Taking names and addresses of witnesses can also help, along with photos of the environment or cause of the incident. Retaining any documentation from the hospital including receipts is also useful.

    Personal injury can happen anywhere and the fact that an accident has happened abroad rather than at home is no reason to ignore it. If an injury has affected your enjoyment of the trip you have paid for, cost you money or made you take time off work, you could have grounds for a claim and deserve to be recompensed for your time or costs wasted.

    At Wrigley Claydon, our team of personal injury solicitors can assess the problem and fight for the justice you deserve, as well as hopefully ensuring that any hazards are rectified, reducing the risk of injury in the future. Contact us today on 0161 624 6811 or send us an email on info@wrigleyclaydon.com.
  • Are you ready for a ‘Company Health Check’?

    Are you ready for a ‘Company Health Check’?

    With the increased confidence in the economy and Government actions such as the new National Insurance Employment Allowance, designed to encourage business owners to take on more staff, many businesses will be considering new recruits this year. The means many will be reviewing their contracts of employment. Regulations and legislation surrounding business is constantly changing and it can sometimes be difficult to keep up, with many businesses operating “outside of the law” without even being aware they are. Which is why, if you are assessing your contracts this year, now would be a good time to invest in a ‘Company Health Check’.

    A ‘Company Health Check’ is a full review of company documents, employment contracts, disciplinary procedures, health and safety policy, terms and conditions of business, and financial documents. Our team of qualified solicitors will provide a comprehensive report so you know what you’re doing right, as well as what you need to correct to stay inside the law.

    Many changes to employment legislation have come into effect this April alone. Changes to pension policy, statutory payment increases, and rising penalties for employing illegal workers, along with multiple other changes, have made taking on employees a legal minefield. The required procedure to take on a worker now may not be the same as it was several years, or even months and so it’s important to ensure that all your procedures are carried out according to up-to-date legislation.

    As well as preventing difficult legal issues in the future, a Health Check can also help your business fulfil its full potential. Many documents and contracts which are mandatory by law are not just required to ensure your business is being run fairly, but can also ensure effective communication between employers and employees. Health Checks can also save you money, by assessing whether your financial documents are correct and up-to-date, and preventing steep legal costs if you are found to be performing business outside of current legislation.

    It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and preventing a problem is definitely preferable to spending a fortune on legal costs to fix it further down the line. Company Health Checks are a solid investment for any company or organisation, whether you run a small business or large corporation, and our team of Manchester business solicitors are able to offer you all the guidance you need.

    To learn more about the process and to speak to one of our specialists, please call us on 0161 785 3529 or send us a message through our contact page.