Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.

In this important and sensitive episode, we’re raising awareness of domestic abuse, looking at what it really means, the legal protections available, and how community support can help people take those first steps towards safety and recovery.

We’re joined by Matthew Lockey, Associate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors, and Julie Robinson, Service Manager at Impact Family Services, who have come together to highlight how legal and emotional support can work hand in hand to make a difference.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• What domestic abuse really means and how it can take many forms
• Common misconceptions and why victims may struggle to seek help
• Legal protections available, including injunctions and non-molestation orders
• How Impact Family Services supports individuals and families beyond the legal process
• How legal and support services can collaborate to help survivors rebuild their lives

This episode is a reminder that domestic abuse can affect anyone, but no one has to face it alone.

If any of the topics discussed in this episode affect you, please reach out for support using the resources below.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors

0191 567 0465 | info@richardreed.co.uk | Impact Family Services

Connect:

Matthew Lockey: LinkedIn

Julie Robinson: LinkedIn

Resources:

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7) 0808 2000 247
• National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV): Free legal help with emergency injunctions and protection orders.
• Women’s Aid Information, support, and access to local services.
• Respect Support for those wanting to change abusive behaviour and professionals working with perpetrators.
• HollieGuard: – Personal safety app that alerts trusted contacts if you’re in danger.
• Clare’s Law: Check if a partner has a history of abuse.
• Connected Families CIC: Community support and advocacy for families affected by abuse.
• Wearside Women in Need (WWiN): Refuge, advice, and support for women and children in Sunderland.
• Galop: LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity providing confidential support.

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.

In this episode, we are joined by Annaliese Barber, a Director at Richard Reed, qualified solicitor, Notary Public, and Head of the firm's Wills, Trusts, Probate & Court of Protection Department. We're also delighted to welcome Kay Carrick, Development Team Manager at St Cuthbert's Hospice, who oversees fundraising and legacy giving.

Today, we're exploring wills and the important role of charitable giving. We'll look at how leaving a gift to charity in your will can create a lasting legacy while potentially reducing inheritance tax. Kay shares the real impact these gifts have on St Cuthbert's Hospice and the community it serves.

In this episode, we'll cover:

• Why having a will is essential and what happens without one

• Types of gifts you can leave to charity in your will

• How charitable giving can reduce inheritance tax

• The impact of legacy gifts on St Cuthbert's Hospice

• Common misconceptions about charitable giving

• Practical steps for including a charity in your will

• How to start conversations about wills and end-of-life planning

Tune in to learn how a well-planned will can protect your loved ones while supporting causes close to your heart.

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Matthew Lockey and Debra Taylor from the Family Law team at Richard Reed Solicitors for an insightful discussion on the legal differences between cohabiting and married couples.

With more couples choosing to live together without tying the knot, it’s important to understand the legal implications of each path. What rights do you really have if you're not married? What should you be thinking about when it comes to finances, children, or even separation?

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• The truth about “common-law marriage”, and why it’s a myth

• Key legal differences between marriage and cohabitation

• Protections and agreements you can put in place as a cohabiting couple

• What happens when children are involved

• The legal discussions and difficulties around changing cohabitation law

• How assets are treated depending on your relationship status

If you're living with your partner, or thinking about it, this episode is essential listening to help you understand your legal position and protect your future.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors: Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ Phone: 0191 567 0465 Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Connect: Sarah Reid: LinkedIn Matthew Lockey: Matthew.lockey@richardreed.co.uk

Debra Taylor: debra.taylor@richardreed.co.uk

References:

Resolution: Cohabitation

Martin Lewis Article: Is being married financially worth it?

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Phil Moir and Lewis Cassap from Richard Reed Solicitors, along with Stephen Hope from Stephen Hope Wealth Management.

Together, they discuss the critical importance of having a shareholder agreement in place for any business. Despite their value, shareholder agreements are often overlooked which can lead to complicated and costly issues down the line.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• What a shareholder agreement is

• Why having one is essential

• When the best time is to create a shareholder agreement

• The key clauses that should be included

• Why it's important to review and update the agreement as your business evolves

• The risks and challenges of not having a shareholder agreement

This episode is a must-listen for any business owner, whether you're just starting out or already established. It could save you from serious trouble in the future.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Stephen Hope Wealth Management:

Website: https://www.stephenhopewealthmanagement.com/

Connect:

Sarah Reid: LinkedIn

Phil Moir: phillip.moir@richardreed.co.uk

Lewis Cassap: lewis.cassap@richardreed.co.uk

Stephen Hope: 01915111090

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Steven Douglas and Nicola Bennell from Richard Reed Solicitors, and Graham Hickey from First Finance Group, to decode the confusing legal and financial jargon around buying and selling a home.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced mover, the process can be filled with unfamiliar terminology. This conversation unpacks what those key words really mean, why they matter, and how to navigate the property journey with confidence.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• Why legal language in property transactions isn’t always client-friendly.

• Common misunderstandings clients have – and how to avoid them.

• Key terms to know at each stage of buying a home – from viewing to getting the keys.

• Practical advice for first-time buyers when handling legal documents.

• Why it’s important to understand and complete paperwork correctly in the first instance.

• Tips from the experts on simplifying complex terms for clients.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the terminology in property transactions, this episode will help you feel informed, empowered, and ready for your next move.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors: Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ Phone: 0191 567 0465 Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

First Finance Group: Website: https://www.firstfinancegroup.co.uk/

Connect: Sarah Reid: LinkedIn Steven Douglas: LinkedIn Nicola Bennell: LinkedIn Graham Hickey: LinkedIn

Resources:

• Law Society – Guide to Buying or Selling a Home

• Money Helper – Mortgage and Home-Buying Advice

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal expert Amy Orange to discuss the intricacies of family law, focusing on special guardianship.

They explore the differences between public and private law proceedings, the definition and purpose of special guardianship orders, and the process involved in applying for one.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• The support available for special guardians

• The legal responsibilities of a special guardian

• The circumstances under which a special guardianship order can be discharged

• The decisions special guardians can make

• The rights that parents have when a special guardian is appointed

• Why legal advice is crucial throughout the process

This episode provides practical advice for those considering becoming a special guardian.

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Connect:

Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/

Amy Orange: amy.orange@richardreed.co.uk

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal expert Kat Moody, and Founder and CEO of Inspired HR, Nikki Masterman. Together, they’re discussing one of the most significant developments in UK employment law in recent years, the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill.

The conversation covers the key areas of change, the impact on small businesses, and the preparations needed for compliance. The guests emphasise the importance of understanding the new rights and responsibilities, the potential financial implications for SMEs, and the necessity of proactive engagement with the evolving legal landscape.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• What the key changes to employment law are.

• How employers should prepare for the changes.

• How to access free resources and webinars businesses to stay informed.

• Why understanding the changes is crucial for both employers and employees.

• How to manage the changes within your company.

• Why effective communication and training are essential for successful adaptation to the new laws.

This is a must listen for both employers and employees to understand how the new Employment Rights Bill will affect workplaces.

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

Inspired HR: https://www.inspired-hr.co.uk/

Webinars: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/inspired-hr-45334514653

Connect:

Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/

Kat Moody: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kat-moody-31928a238/

Nikki Masterman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkimasterman/

References:

Bills.Parliament: https://bills.parliament.uk/?SearchTerm=employment+rights+bill&Session=39&BillSortOrder=0&BillType=all&BillStage=¤tHouse=&OriginatingHouse=&Expanded=False

Gov.UK: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/implementing-the-employment-rights-bill

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by legal expert Jonny Cockayne and the community outreach officer from St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Louise Johnson.

Sarah, Jonny, and Louise discuss the importance of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA). They explore what LPAs are, the different types, and the significance of having them in place to manage affairs in case of loss of mental capacity. The conversation highlights common misconceptions, the emotional challenges of discussing end-of-life planning, and the real-life impact of having LPAs established.

This episode emphasises the need for proactive planning and open discussions with loved ones about preferences and decisions regarding health and welfare, as well as property and financial matters.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• When you should set up an LPA

• The different types of LPAs

• The empowerment you get from setting up an LPA

• Why it’s important to work with trusted individuals during the process

• The difference between an LPA and a will

• The importance of open discussions with loved ones

References:

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

St Cuthbert’s Hospice: https://www.stcuthbertshospice.com/community-outreach-hospice-hub/

Connect:

Sarah Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahreid-/

Louise Johnson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-johnson-74366b1a/

Jonny Cockayne: jonny.cockayne@richardreed.co.uk