Legal Scenarios
Real-world legal situations explained with practical guidance on your rights and next steps.
A Bailiff Is at Your Door Right Now
If a bailiff (enforcement agent) has arrived at your door, it is important to know your rights. You are generally not required to open the door. Bailiffs have limited powers of entry and must follow strict rules under the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007 and the Taking Control of Goods Regulations 2013.
A Bench Warrant Has Been Issued for Your Arrest
A bench warrant is issued by a court when a defendant fails to attend a hearing. It authorises your arrest and return to court. Failure to surrender is a separate criminal offence under the Bail Act 1976 s.6.
A Controller Gave a Partial or Non-Responsive DSAR Reply
If a data controller responded to your Subject Access Request (SAR) but their response was incomplete, evasive, or failed to provide all the personal data you are entitled to, you have several escalation routes: a follow-up letter, an ICO complaint, and if necessary, a court order.
A Costs Order Has Been Made Against You
If a court has made a costs order against you, you are normally required to pay within 14 days. Failure to pay can lead to enforcement action. Limited grounds exist to set aside or appeal the order.
A False Negative Review Is Defaming Your Business
If a false and damaging review has been posted about your business online, you may have a claim under the Defamation Act 2013. There are steps you can take to have the review removed by the platform, identify the reviewer, and bring legal proceedings if necessary.
A Visit Visa for Your Relative Was Refused
If a visit visa application for a relative wishing to come to the UK has been refused by the Home Office, there are limited appeal rights. In most cases, submitting a new and stronger application is the fastest route. This page explains your options and how to address the reasons for refusal.
ACAS Early Conciliation Has Failed
If ACAS early conciliation does not resolve your employment dispute, you will receive a certificate that allows you to proceed to the employment tribunal. You must file your ET1 claim before your recalculated deadline.
AI-Generated Content Harms Your Reputation
AI-generated deepfakes, synthetic voice recordings, and manipulated images that portray you doing or saying things you did not do are an emerging legal problem. This page explains how existing English law applies and what practical steps you can take.
An Executor Is Not Distributing the Estate
Beneficiaries sometimes wait years for an executor to distribute an estate. This page explains when delay becomes unlawful, what remedies are available, and how to apply to remove an executor who refuses to act.
An Online Platform Refuses to Remove Abuse
You have reported abusive, harassing, or defamatory content to an online platform and they have refused to remove it or have not responded. This page explains your rights under the Online Safety Act 2023, the Ofcom complaints process, and your legal options.
Can a Landlord Evict You Without Notice?
In England and Wales, a landlord cannot legally evict a tenant without following a strict legal process. Illegal eviction is a criminal offence.
Can I Be Dismissed Without Any Warnings?
Most dismissals require employers to follow a fair disciplinary procedure including warnings. However, there are limited circumstances where summary dismissal is lawful.
Can I Do a Chargeback If an Item Was Never Delivered?
Chargeback is a payment reversal mechanism that allows you to claim money back from your bank if a retailer fails to deliver goods. It is a powerful consumer protection tool.
Can My Landlord Enter My Home Without Permission?
Tenants have a legal right to quiet enjoyment of their home. A landlord who enters without proper notice or consent may be committing a civil wrong or even a criminal offence.
Can You Take Legal Action for Online Harassment?
Persistent online harassment may give rise to both civil and criminal remedies. The law has expanded significantly to address cyber-harassment and stalking.
Court-Ordered Mediation Has Broken Down
If court-ordered or court-directed mediation has failed, you must notify the court and continue with case management. Unreasonable refusal to mediate can attract adverse costs sanctions.
Debt Collectors Keep Contacting You
Debt collectors — either acting on behalf of a creditor or as a debt purchaser — are contacting you repeatedly about a debt. This page explains the FCA rules that govern their conduct, how to check whether the debt is genuinely owed and legally enforceable, and what to do if you are being harassed.
DWP refused or reduced my PIP — what do I do?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decisions are very often successfully challenged. The first step is Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month of the decision letter, then appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (SSCS).
DWP says I was overpaid Universal Credit — what do I do?
DWP can recover Universal Credit overpayments even where the overpayment was caused by their own error. You can dispute the amount and request hardship arrangements.
Faulty Goods, Retailer Refuses Refund
You bought goods that turned out to be faulty and the retailer is refusing to give you a refund. This page explains your statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, the tiered remedies, and how to enforce them.
How Are Assets Divided in a Divorce?
England and Wales follow a discretionary system for dividing assets on divorce. The court's starting point is equality, but the final outcome depends on the specific circumstances of the marriage.
I Believe My Relative's Will Was Made Under Undue Influence
You suspect that someone pressured or manipulated a vulnerable relative into changing their will in a way that does not reflect their true wishes. You may be able to challenge the will in the Probate Registry and the High Court.
I Need to Apply for a Non-Molestation Order Urgently
You are experiencing domestic abuse and need immediate legal protection. A non-molestation order can be obtained from the Family Court — often on the same day — without the abuser being told in advance.
I Think I Was Stopped and Searched Unlawfully
Police stop and search powers are tightly regulated. If an officer lacked a lawful basis for searching you, or failed to follow the correct procedures, you may have grounds for a formal complaint and potentially a civil claim for unlawful interference with your person.
I think I'm a victim of identity theft — what do I do?
Identity theft can wreck credit files, lead to fraudulent loans, and take months to unwind. Act fast: report to Action Fraud, freeze your credit file, contact your bank, and document everything.
I Was Injured in a Road Traffic Accident
You have been injured in a road traffic accident as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, loss of earnings, and other financial losses.
I'm in a boundary dispute with my neighbour — what do I do?
Boundary disputes can ruin neighbour relationships and are notoriously expensive to litigate. Mediation, careful evidence gathering, and the Property Boundaries (Resolution of Disputes) Bill route should all be considered before court.
Local Authority Refused Your Homelessness Application
If the council has refused your application for housing assistance under Part VII of the Housing Act 1996, you have a statutory right to request a review of the decision and to appeal to the county court on a point of law.
My Employer Is Not Paying the National Minimum Wage
Your employer is paying you less than the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage. This is unlawful and you can recover back pay through HMRC, the Employment Tribunal, or by making a civil claim.
My Employer Keeps Cancelling My Shifts at Short Notice
You are on a zero hours contract and your employer repeatedly cancels or reduces shifts at the last minute, often with no compensation. You want to know your legal position.
My energy supplier disconnected me wrongly — what do I do?
Energy suppliers must follow strict rules before disconnecting. Vulnerable households have additional protections. Report wrongful disconnection to Ofgem and complain to the Energy Ombudsman.
My Landlord Won't Fix the Damp and Mould
You have reported damp, mould, or condensation problems to your landlord and they are refusing to address them. This can be a serious health hazard and you have legal remedies.
My Planning Application Was Refused — What Can I Do?
Your planning application has been refused by the local planning authority. You can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate or submit a revised application. This guide explains your options.
My Service Charges Are Excessive — Can I Challenge Them?
Leaseholders who believe their service charges are excessive, unreasonably incurred, or relate to work of poor quality can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to determine what is payable.
Police Want to Search Your Home
If police attend your home and want to conduct a search, it is important to know whether they have a warrant and what powers they can lawfully exercise. This page explains when police can enter and search your property under PACE 1984 and what your rights are during and after the search.
Private Images of You Are Posted Online
If intimate or private images of you have been posted online without your consent — sometimes called revenge porn or intimate image abuse — this is a criminal offence in England and Wales. This page explains the criminal law, civil remedies, and practical first steps.
Seller Went Bust Before Delivery
You paid for goods or services from a trader that has since gone into liquidation, administration, or ceased trading before delivering what you ordered. This page explains how to recover your money through credit card protection, chargeback, and insolvency claims.
Social Services Have Contacted You
Being contacted by children's social services is alarming, but it does not mean your children will be removed. Understanding the process and your rights is essential.
Someone Died Without a Will (Intestacy)
When a person dies without a valid will, their estate passes under the intestacy rules set out in the Administration of Estates Act 1925. This page explains who inherits, what happens to a surviving spouse or civil partner, and why unmarried partners receive nothing under intestacy.
Someone Has Defamed You Online
Someone has published a false and damaging statement about you online — on social media, a review platform, a forum, or a website. This page explains the serious-harm test, your limitation deadline, available defences, and the steps to take before litigation.
Someone Is Impersonating You Online
Online impersonation — creating fake profiles, accounts, or websites using your name, likeness, or identity — can cause reputational, financial, and personal harm. This page explains the legal routes available in England and Wales and the practical steps to take.
The Other Side Is Ignoring a Court Order
If someone refuses to comply with a court order, you can apply to enforce it. Persistent or deliberate breach can be treated as contempt of court, potentially resulting in a fine or imprisonment.
The Other Side Is Misusing 'Without Prejudice'
The without prejudice rule protects genuine settlement negotiations from being used in court. However, it cannot be used as a shield for threats, fraud, or perjury. Learn when courts will override the protection.
The Seller Has Gone Bust — Can I Get My Money Back?
You paid for goods or services and the seller has gone into administration or liquidation before delivering them. Whether you can recover your money depends on how you paid.
What Are My Rights If Goods Are Not as Described?
Goods sold by description must match that description exactly. If they do not, you have a strong legal right to reject them and obtain a refund.
What Are My Rights If I Am Made Redundant?
Redundancy is a specific legal reason for dismissal. Employees with at least two years' service have the right to statutory redundancy pay and a fair selection and consultation process.
What Can You Do If a Company's Data Breach Affects You?
If your personal data has been exposed in a data breach, you have rights to be notified, to complain, and in some cases to claim compensation.
What Happens After a Section 8 Notice?
A Section 8 notice is served when a landlord seeks possession on specific grounds such as rent arrears or anti-social behaviour. Receiving one does not mean you must leave immediately.
What Happens at a Magistrates Court Hearing?
The magistrates' court deals with the vast majority of criminal cases in England and Wales. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare and reduce anxiety.
What Happens If a Company Ignores Your Data Subject Access Request?
Organisations have a legal obligation to respond to Data Subject Access Requests (DSARs) within one month. Failure to do so is a breach of UK GDPR.
What Happens If a Company Refuses to Give a Refund?
Consumers in England and Wales have strong legal rights to refunds. A company that refuses a valid refund claim is in breach of the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
What Happens If a Default Judgment Is Made Against You?
A default judgment is entered when a defendant fails to respond to a court claim in time. It is not automatic that it will stand — you can apply to have it set aside.
What Happens If a Parent Refuses to Comply With a Contact Order?
Breaching a court-ordered child arrangement is a serious matter. The parent seeking contact has legal remedies including enforcement orders and, ultimately, transfer of residence.
What Happens If a Tenant Stops Paying Rent?
When a tenant falls into arrears, landlords have legal remedies including Section 8 possession proceedings. The process has strict rules and shortcuts can be costly.
What Happens If Bailiffs Come to Your Home?
Bailiffs (civil enforcement agents) can attend your home to collect debts or enforce court orders. You have important rights about what they can and cannot do.
What Happens If My Landlord Ignores a Disrepair Complaint?
Landlords have legal obligations to keep rental properties in good repair. If they fail to act, tenants have several escalating legal remedies including council enforcement and court claims.
What Happens If Police Seize Your Phone?
Police have powers to seize electronic devices as evidence. Knowing your rights can help you protect privileged and personal information.
What Happens If Someone Posts False Accusations About You Online?
False online accusations that damage your reputation may constitute defamation (libel) under English law. The Defamation Act 2013 introduced a 'serious harm' threshold and important new defences.
What Happens If the Other Parent Doesn't Pay Child Maintenance?
When a parent refuses to pay agreed or assessed child maintenance, there are legal mechanisms to enforce payment, including through the Child Maintenance Service.
What Happens If You Are Arrested for the First Time?
Being arrested can be frightening, especially for the first time. Knowing what to expect — and your legal rights — can make a significant difference to the outcome.
What Happens If You Are Charged With Assault?
An assault charge can range from common assault to grievous bodily harm. The type of charge determines which court deals with it and the potential sentences involved.
What Happens If You Are Unfairly Dismissed?
Employees with at least two years' continuous service have the right not to be unfairly dismissed. If your employer dismisses you without fair reason or a fair procedure, you may be entitled to compensation.
What Happens If You Can't Pay Council Tax?
Council tax is a statutory debt with specific enforcement powers. Not paying can lead to bailiff visits and even committal to prison in extreme cases. Proactive action is essential.
What Happens If You Fail a Probation Period?
Most employees on probation do not yet have two years' service and have limited unfair dismissal rights. However, dismissal must still be handled properly and some day-one rights apply.
What Happens If You Ignore a County Court Judgment?
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) that is ignored will affect your credit rating and can be enforced through several increasingly serious methods.
What Happens If You Miss a Court Deadline in a Civil Case?
Missing a court deadline in a civil case can have serious consequences, from the claim being struck out to costs penalties. Acting immediately is essential.
What Happens If You Miss a Criminal Court Date?
Failing to attend a criminal court hearing without good reason is a serious matter. A warrant for your arrest is likely to be issued and you may face additional charges.
What Happens If You Receive a Section 21 Notice?
A Section 21 notice is the legal document a landlord must serve before starting no-fault eviction proceedings. Receiving one does not mean you must leave immediately — there are strict rules about validity.
What Happens If You Receive a Witness Summons?
A witness summons (witness subpoena) compels you to attend court and give evidence. Failure to comply is a serious matter. You have some limited grounds to object.
What Happens If You Win a Small Claim but the Defendant Doesn't Pay?
Winning a small claims judgment is only the first step. If the defendant doesn't pay, you need to enforce the judgment — a separate legal process with several options.
What Happens If Your Flight Is Cancelled?
UK passengers have strong rights when flights are cancelled under retained EU Regulation 261/2004. Airlines must offer a full refund or re-routing and may owe compensation.
What Happens If Your Landlord Doesn't Protect Your Deposit?
Your landlord is legally required to protect your tenancy deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days. Failure to do so gives you the right to claim significant compensation.
What Happens to the House When an Unmarried Couple Splits Up?
Unmarried couples do not have the same property rights as married couples on separation. The outcome depends on legal ownership, contributions, and any formal agreements.
What Happens When a Debt Is Sold to a Debt Collector?
Creditors can sell debts to third-party debt collection agencies. Your rights remain the same and the rules about what collectors can and cannot do are strictly regulated.
What If My Employer Doesn't Pay My Notice Period?
Employees are entitled to a minimum statutory notice period — and often longer under their contract. Failure to pay notice pay is a breach of contract.
What Is a Charging Order and Can They Take My House?
A charging order secures a debt against your property. While it does not automatically mean your property will be sold, it is a serious step that needs to be addressed urgently.
What Is a Police Caution and Should I Accept One?
A police caution is a formal warning that can be given instead of prosecution. It is not a conviction, but it is recorded and can have significant long-term consequences.
What Is Constructive Dismissal and Do I Have a Claim?
Constructive dismissal occurs when an employee resigns in response to a serious breach of their employment contract by the employer. Despite resigning, the employee may be able to claim unfair dismissal.
What to Do If a Default Judgment Was Entered Against You
A default judgment is a civil court judgment entered because no defence was filed in time. It is enforceable but can often be set aside — you must act quickly and show a real prospect of defending the claim.
What to Do If Google Search Results Are Harming You
Damaging information appearing in Google search results may be removable through the right to be forgotten (UK GDPR delisting), defamation law, or Google's own removal policies. The correct approach depends on the nature of the content.
What to Do If Intimate Images of You Are Shared Online
The non-consensual sharing of intimate images ('revenge porn') is a criminal offence in England and Wales. Victims have both criminal and civil remedies available, and rapid platform takedown is usually possible.
What to Do If Police Want a Voluntary Interview
A voluntary police interview (sometimes called a PACE interview under caution) is not the same as arrest. You can refuse, but your response — and the interview itself — can have serious legal consequences.
What to Do If You Missed the Defence Deadline
When a civil claim is served on you, you have 14 days to file a defence (or 28 days if you filed an acknowledgement of service). Missing this deadline risks default judgment — but relief is available if you act quickly.
What to Do If You Receive a Letter Before Claim
A letter before claim (LBC) is a formal pre-action notice that the sender intends to issue court proceedings if the matter is not resolved. Ignoring it can lead to default judgment and cost penalties.
What to Do If You Receive a Postal Requisition
A postal requisition (also known as a single justice procedure notice) is a formal notice requiring you to respond to a criminal charge without attending court — or to opt for a full hearing. Understanding your options is critical.
What to Do If You Receive a Statutory Demand
A statutory demand is a formal written demand under the Insolvency Act 1986, usually the precursor to bankruptcy or winding-up proceedings. You have 21 days to pay, secure, or compound the debt — or to apply to set it aside.
What to Do If Your Ex Breaches a Child Arrangements Order
A child arrangements order is a legally binding court order specifying where a child lives and/or how much time they spend with each parent. Breaching it without good reason is contempt of court with serious consequences.
What to Do If Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets in Divorce
Both parties in divorce financial proceedings are under a duty of full and frank disclosure. A spouse who hides, transfers, or dissipates assets can face serious legal consequences — and you have effective tools to uncover and protect hidden wealth.
You and Your Unmarried Partner Are Separating
Unlike married couples, cohabitees have no automatic financial claims against each other on separation. Property disputes are resolved under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996, and financial provision for children may be sought under Schedule 1 to the Children Act 1989.
You Are a Grandparent Wanting Contact With Your Grandchild
Grandparents have no automatic legal right to contact with their grandchildren in England and Wales. They must first obtain the court's permission (leave) before applying for a child arrangements order. The court considers the nature of the connection with the child and any risk of disruption to the child's life.
You Are a Leaseholder Wanting to Extend Your Lease
Leaseholders of flats with a long lease have a statutory right to extend their lease by 90 years (on top of the unexpired term) under the Leasehold Reform Housing and Urban Development Act 1993, as substantially reformed by the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024.
You Are a Victim of Crime and Want Updates
You have reported a crime to the police and want to know your rights to information, support, and participation in the criminal justice process. This page covers the Victims' Code, the Victims' Right to Review scheme, and practical steps you can take.
You Are Being Discriminated Against at Work
The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination, harassment, and victimisation in the workplace on the grounds of nine protected characteristics. This page explains the different types of unlawful conduct, the process for bringing a claim, and the strict three-month time limit.
You Are Being Harassed at Work by a Colleague
Harassment by a colleague related to a protected characteristic is unlawful under the Equality Act 2010. Your employer may be vicariously liable. A grievance followed by ACAS Early Conciliation and an ET claim are the primary routes.
You Are Being Punished for Making a Protected Disclosure
Workers who make protected disclosures (whistleblowing) about wrongdoing are protected from detriment and dismissal under the Employment Rights Act 1996, as amended by the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. There is no minimum service requirement and compensation is uncapped.
You Are Currently on Police or Court Bail
You have been released on bail — either police bail (pre-charge) or court bail (after first appearance). This page explains your obligations, the consequences of breach, and how to apply to vary conditions you cannot comply with.
You Are Homeless Tonight
If you have nowhere to sleep tonight, your local council has a legal duty to provide emergency accommodation while they assess your application. You must apply to the council's housing options team immediately.
You Cannot Pay a Judgment Against You
If a court has entered judgment against you and you cannot pay the full amount, you can apply to pay by instalments. Acting quickly protects you from more aggressive enforcement.
You Fear You Are Going to Be Forced Into a Marriage
Forced marriage is a serious human rights abuse and a criminal offence in England and Wales. If you fear you are going to be forced into a marriage against your will, there are urgent legal protections available, including a Forced Marriage Protection Order and criminal sanctions against those who attempt to force you.
You Have Been Arrested at a Protest
Arrest at a protest triggers your rights under PACE 1984. Common charges include public order offences under the Public Order Act 1986 and the Public Order Act 2023. You should request a duty solicitor immediately.
You Have Been Invited to a Disciplinary Hearing
A disciplinary hearing is a formal meeting at which your employer considers whether you have committed misconduct or breached a workplace policy. You have legal rights before, during, and after the hearing.
You Have Been Named Executor of a Will
Being named as executor means you have been asked to carry out the wishes of the deceased as set out in their will. This page explains whether you must act, what your legal duties are, and how to administer the estate correctly to avoid personal liability.
You Have Been Offered a Police Caution
The police have offered you a simple caution or a conditional caution instead of charging you. This page explains what accepting a caution means legally, its impact on your record, and when it may be better to refuse.
You Have Been Offered a Settlement Agreement
A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract that ends your employment and waives your right to bring tribunal claims. You must receive independent legal advice before signing — and your employer should pay for it.
You Have Been Suspended From Work
Suspension is not the same as dismissal or a finding of misconduct. It should be a short, neutral act taken pending investigation — but you still have rights, including the right to continue being paid.
You Have Received a County Court Claim Form
Receiving a county court claim form (Form N1) means someone has issued legal proceedings against you. You have strict deadlines to respond — ignoring it will result in a default judgment.
You Have Received a Deportation Notice
The Home Office has served notice of a decision to deport you from the UK, or you have received notification of automatic deportation following a criminal conviction. This page explains the legal framework, your rights, and the urgent steps you must take.
You Have Received a Letter Before Claim
A letter before claim (LBC) is a formal pre-action letter warning you that court proceedings will be issued if you do not respond or settle. You must respond substantively within the stated deadline.
You Have Received an HMRC Enquiry Notice
If HMRC has opened a formal enquiry into your tax return, you have legal rights and obligations. You must respond within the deadlines set by HMRC. Disputes can be referred to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) or appealed to the First-tier Tax Tribunal (FTT).
You May Need a Judicial Review
Judicial review is the legal mechanism by which the High Court supervises the lawfulness of decisions made by public bodies. There is a strict 3-month time limit and a pre-action protocol must be followed.
You Missed a Civil Procedure Deadline
Missing a court deadline in civil proceedings can have serious consequences. You can apply for relief from sanctions, but you must act promptly and satisfy a three-stage test.
You Need an Urgent Injunction
An injunction can stop harmful conduct immediately. In urgent cases, a court can grant emergency relief within hours — sometimes without the other side being present.
You Need to Make an Interim Application
An interim application is an application made to the court during proceedings (or sometimes before proceedings are issued) for a temporary or procedural order. Common examples include injunctions, stays, and applications for disclosure.
You Need to Prove Long Residence Under the Windrush Scheme
Members of the Windrush Generation who arrived in the UK from Commonwealth countries between 1948 and 1973 and settled lawfully may be entitled to documentation of their status, British citizenship, or compensation under the Windrush Schemes. Applications and documentation are free of charge.
You Need to Set Aside a CCJ
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) entered against you by default can be set aside on application to the court. You must act promptly and either show the judgment was wrongly entered or that you have a real prospect of defending the claim.
You Paid for Goods That Were Never Delivered
If you have paid for goods that were never delivered and the seller refuses to refund you, you have several legal remedies depending on how you paid. These include a credit card s.75 claim, a chargeback through your bank, and a small claims court action.
You Reported Damp and Mould but Your Landlord Won't Fix It
Damp and mould that makes your home unfit to live in is a breach of your landlord's repairing obligations. You can enforce repairs through the council's environmental health team, through the courts, and — for serious cases — under Awaab's Law.
You Sent Money to a Scam and Your Bank Refused a Refund
Authorised push payment (APP) fraud — where you are tricked into sending money to a fraudster by bank transfer — is the most common type of payment fraud in the UK. This page explains the mandatory reimbursement rules introduced in October 2024 and what to do if your bank refuses to repay you.
You Suspect Probate Fraud or Executor Misconduct
If you believe an executor is acting dishonestly, concealing assets, or misappropriating estate property, there are legal steps you can take to protect the estate. You can enter a caveat to halt the grant of probate, demand the executor's accounts, and apply to remove them from office.
You Suspect Undue Influence on a Will
If you believe a will was made as a result of undue influence — pressure or coercion that overrode the testator's free will — you can challenge its validity. This page explains the legal test, how to enter a caveat, and the evidential difficulties involved.
You Think Your Credit Agreement Is Unfair
If you believe your credit agreement contains unfair terms, charges excessive interest, or arises from irresponsible lending, you may be able to challenge it under the Consumer Credit Act 1974's unfair relationship provisions or complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
You Want a Prenuptial Agreement
A prenuptial agreement sets out how assets should be divided if the marriage breaks down. English courts are not bound by prenups but will give them significant weight if properly executed.
You Want to Adopt Your Step-Child
Step-parent adoption permanently transfers parental rights and responsibilities. The process involves the local authority, the court, and — crucially — the consent of the child's other birth parent.
You Want to Appeal Your Sentence
You have been sentenced by a magistrates' court or the Crown Court and believe the sentence is manifestly excessive or based on an error. This page explains the routes of appeal, the time limits, and what 'manifestly excessive' means in practice.
You Want to Bring a Small Claim
The small claims track is the county court's procedure for straightforward claims up to £10,000. It is designed for litigants in person, is relatively informal, and limits recoverable legal costs.
You Want to Make an Inheritance Act Claim
The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows certain people to apply to court if a will or intestacy fails to make reasonable financial provision for them. This page explains who can claim, what the court considers, and the strict six-month time limit.
You Want to Move Abroad Permanently With Your Child
If you hold parental responsibility and wish to permanently relocate abroad with your child, you must either obtain written consent from every other person with parental responsibility or apply to the court for a specific issue order under the Children Act 1989. Leaving without consent or a court order may constitute child abduction.
You Were Arrested and Released Under Investigation (RUI)
You have been arrested, interviewed, and released without bail conditions. You are now 'Released Under Investigation' (RUI). This page explains what that means, how long it can last, and what you must do to protect yourself.
You Were Left Out of a Close Relative's Will
If a close relative died and made no or inadequate financial provision for you in their will (or through intestacy), you may have a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. Strict time limits apply. This page explains who can claim, what 'reasonable financial provision' means, and how to apply.
You Were Misled About a Purchase
If a trader made a false or misleading statement about a product or service that caused you to make a purchase you would not otherwise have made, you may have statutory rights to unwind the transaction and claim damages under consumer protection legislation.
You Won the Case but the Defendant Won't Pay
Winning a court judgment is only the first step. If the defendant does not pay voluntarily, you must enforce the judgment using one of several available methods.
Your Asylum Claim Has Been Refused
The Home Office has refused your asylum claim or humanitarian protection claim. This page explains your right to appeal, the deadlines, and the process before the First-tier Tribunal (Asylum and Immigration Chamber).
Your Benefits Have Been Stopped
If the DWP or local authority has stopped or reduced your benefits, you have the right to challenge the decision through mandatory reconsideration and then appeal to an independent tribunal.
Your Biometric Residence Permit Was Lost or Stolen
If your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you must report it to the Home Office within three months and apply for a replacement. Failure to report a lost or stolen BRP is a breach of your visa conditions. This page explains the steps to take, the fees involved, and what to do if you are travelling urgently.
Your Case Needs Expert Evidence — How to Instruct
Expert evidence in civil proceedings requires the court's permission. The court favours joint single experts. CPR Part 35 governs the duties and use of expert witnesses.
Your Child Has Been Excluded From School
School exclusions — fixed-period or permanent — are governed by strict statutory rules. Parents have significant rights to challenge exclusions that are unlawful or disproportionate.
Your Child Has Been Taken into Care Proceedings
Care proceedings are brought by the local authority under section 31 of the Children Act 1989. Parents are entitled to non-means-tested legal aid and must participate actively to protect their rights.
Your Child Needs SEND Tribunal Help
The First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability), known as SENDIST, hears appeals about Education, Health and Care plans. Parents have 2 months from the local authority's decision to appeal.
Your Employer Has Stopped Paying Pension Contributions
If your employer has failed to make pension contributions, this may be an unlawful deduction from wages under ERA 1996 s.13 and a breach of auto-enrolment duties under the Pensions Act 2008. The Pensions Regulator has enforcement powers.
Your Employer Is Monitoring Your Emails
Workplace email monitoring is lawful if it has a valid legal basis under UK GDPR, is proportionate, and employees have been told. Covert monitoring has a much higher threshold. You have data subject rights including the right of access.
Your Employer Is Not Paying Your Wages
Non-payment of wages is unlawful. You have the right to recover unpaid wages through the employment tribunal, and if you are paid below the National Minimum Wage, you can also report your employer to HMRC.
Your Employer Will Not Pay Statutory Redundancy
If you have been made redundant and your employer refuses to pay your statutory redundancy entitlement — or is insolvent and cannot pay — this page explains how to calculate your entitlement, how to enforce it, and how to claim from the Redundancy Payments Service if the employer is insolvent.
Your Ex Has Stopped Contact With Your Children
If the other parent is refusing to allow you to see your children, you have legal routes to restore contact. The court's paramount consideration is always the child's welfare.
Your Flight Was Delayed or Cancelled
If your flight departs from a UK airport or arrives at a UK airport on a UK or EU carrier and is significantly delayed or cancelled, you may be entitled to compensation under retained EU Regulation 261/2004. This page explains the rules, the amounts, and how to claim.
Your Landlord Has Changed the Locks
Changing the locks to prevent you entering your home is an illegal eviction — a criminal offence. You have the right to be reinstated, and you can also claim civil damages.
Your Landlord Is Demanding Entry to the Property
Your landlord does not have an automatic right to enter your home whenever they choose. They must give at least 24 hours' written notice and may only enter at reasonable times, except in genuine emergencies.
Your Landlord Is Harassing You
Landlord harassment — including entering without notice, cutting off utilities, intimidation, and threats — is both a criminal offence and a civil wrong. You can report it to the police and your local authority, and claim civil damages.
Your Landlord Is Trying to Increase Your Rent
A landlord can only increase your rent through certain lawful methods. If the proposed increase is not properly notified or is excessive, you have the right to challenge it — including at the First-tier Tribunal.
Your Leave to Remain Expires Soon
Your current visa or leave to remain in the UK is about to expire. This page explains what you must do before the expiry date, the concept of section 3C leave, and the consequences of overstaying.
Your Maternity Pay Has Been Stopped Early
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is payable for up to 39 weeks. Your employer cannot unilaterally stop SMP during that period. HMRC enforces SMP obligations.
Your N244 Application Was Refused
If the court has rejected your N244 application notice, you need to understand the reasons, consider whether you can appeal under CPR Part 52, or make a fresh application if the circumstances have materially changed.
Your Personal Data Has Been Leaked
An organisation has suffered a data breach and your personal data has been exposed. This page explains your rights to compensation under UK GDPR Article 82, the ICO complaint route, and how to pursue a claim through the courts.
Your PIP Application Was Refused
Personal Independence Payment refusals are common at the initial decision stage, but the majority of appeals to the independent tribunal succeed. Challenge your decision through mandatory reconsideration and then tribunal appeal.
Your Right to Erasure Was Refused
Under UK GDPR Article 17, you have the right to request that a data controller erase your personal data. This right is not absolute — controllers can refuse on specific grounds. If your erasure request is refused, you can escalate to the ICO, apply to the court, or request delisting from search engines.
Your UK Visa Application Was Refused
Your application for a UK visa has been refused. This page explains the two main routes — appeal and administrative review — the strict deadlines that apply, and when it may be better to simply make a fresh application.