What to do if you receive a Complaint about your Fitness to Practice
Complaint to the Regulator If you are involved in an investigation being carried out by a professional regulator or body responsible for bringing enforcement action against its members, you will need to understand the process, your rights and what to do next. Fitness to Practice (‘FTP’) is a professional’s ability to practice safely and effectively […]
When Justice Disrupts: A Closer Look at the Power of Arrest
Imagine going about your regular daily routine. You could be at work with your colleagues, relaxing at home with your loved ones or even tucked up in bed and fast asleep when uniformed police officers suddenly turn up and arrest you. So far as you are aware, you haven’t committed any crime, and you have […]
Is Your Business Ready for the Unexpected? Why You Need a Business Continuity Plan
If you’re reading this, you’re most likely not in the midst of a business crisis. But, if one were to strike, would you be prepared? We all know that unforeseen events can impact any organisation — whether the result of a natural disaster, a cyberattack, or an unexpected staff shortage. Whilst these disruptions can be […]
A – Z of Legal Support offered at Harold & McCormack Law
Navigating legal challenges can be overwhelming, but with the right support, no issue is too complex. Here’s a quick look at the broad range of services we offer:- Advocacy and Appeals Business Crime Critical Incident Response Defence Work Environmental Breaches Fitness to Practice GDPR and Data Compliance Health and Safety Inquests and Inquiries Judicial Review […]
Drug and Alcohol Testing – Workplace Safety
Drug and alcohol testing is important for all employers to ensure a safe working environment. Why Should Employers Conduct Drug and Alcohol Testing? The primary reason for an employer to carry out drug and alcohol tests is to ensure the health and safety of all staff and those who come into contact with the business, […]
Practical tips for Directors seeking to Avoid Personal Liability
It is a common scenario for directors not to be aware of the extent of the personal risk that attaches simply because of the senior role they hold within their company. This often stems from a lack of understanding or awareness of the legal responsibilities attached to their position. Directors can inadvertently open themselves up […]
Advice to businesses who are victims of crime
Businesses, like individuals, are entitled to support from the Criminal Justice System when they fall victim to crime. Knowing and asserting their rights is crucial for organisations to secure the protection they need while also supporting our underfunded police and prosecution services in bringing offenders to justice. Below, we explore key steps businesses can take […]
Top 10 Essentials for Navigating an Interview Under Caution
A personal insight – Ashleigh Harold As a solicitor, I’ve spent more time in police stations than I care to remember. Having been involved in countless interviews, I have first-hand insight into the fact that for most people, being questioned by the police is a deeply daunting experience – especially if it’s their first time […]
A Legal Insight: A Spotlight on Very Large Organisations (VLOs) and fines for Health, Safety and Environmental Breaches
The UK could soon have greater clarity over how ‘very large organisations’ (VLOs) are penalised for health and safety breaches following the Sentencing Guidelines’ 2024 consultation on miscellaneous amendments. Despite increasingly seeing corporate fines imposed in excess of £1 million, recent proposals to formally recognise VLOs in sentencing guidelines could lead to much higher fines […]
Navigating The Building Safety Act 2022
The Building Safety Act 2022 came into force in October 2023, representing a landmark shift in the UK’s approach to building safety regulation. Enacted in response to the Grenfell Tower Fire of 2017, the Act delivers the biggest legislative changes to building safety in a generation, with a raft of secondary legislation and guidance overhauling […]