marshall-hall-levy

Is cheap conveyancing always the best option?

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 13:47:52 GMT

When you’re buying or selling a home, it’s completely normal to shop around and compare quotes.

But it’s worth remembering that with conveyancing, the cheapest price isn’t always the cheapest overall.

Sometimes low quotes don’t include everything, and extra costs can appear later for things like lender work, admin fees, or additional checks.

And of course, conveyancing isn’t just “paperwork” , it’s making sure everything is legally sound, raising the right enquiries, and helping your move go through as smoothly as possible.

A good conveyancer should keep you updated, explain things clearly, and help avoid delays where possible.

If you want straightforward advice and transparent fees, we’re always happy to chat.

Why Lasting Powers of Attorney are ‘particularly vital in avoiding a catastrophic scenario

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:59:05 GMT

When Financial Expert, Martin Lewis was asked, "Martin, if you had to prioritise, which would you sort first: Will/ Power of Attorney, or pensions/tax/inheritance? And why?", Martin responded saying Lasting Powers of Attorneys, because they are particularly vital in avoiding a catastrophic scenario.”

Martin went on to say, “ Power of Attorney says if I were to lose my faculties, then I will nominate other people who can look after my finances and my health and wellbeing for me. I've had a Power of Attorney for 15 years even though I've got no foreseeability of losing my faculties."

He continued: "If you don't have a Power of Attorney in place, and you were to have an accident tomorrow so you couldn't look after yourself with your faculties gone, or a severe stroke, and you're a young person-because people think it's only for old people, it's not-then it is frankly a nightmare to go through the process of someone else trying to take over your finances. Meanwhile, they may not be able to pay your mortgage for you, or pay for any treatments for you, or pay for anything you need.

Read the full article here - Daily Express

If you would like Lasting Powers of Attorney, our experts at Marshall Hall Levy can assist. Just call us on 0191 455 3181 to set up an appointment today.

Office of Public Guardian fees and Solicitor fees apply

Helping our clients to leave a legacy to charity

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:18:24 GMT

We are very proud to be on the panel of solicitors for the National Free Wills Network.

If you contact NFWN online, you’ll receive a unique code to bring to your appointment with your chosen solicitor. We then prepare your Will, with NFWN contributing towards the cost of a basic Will so there’s nothing for you to pay, unless you choose something more complex or an additional service.

There’s no obligation to leave a gift in your Will, although many people do, from small sums to larger gifts, as a way of supporting charity.

It’s just one of the ways MHL is proud to help make a positive difference.

Marshall Hall Levy has once again achieved reaccreditation as an accredited member of Lexcel.

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:42:33 GMT

We are pleased to share that Marshall Hall Levy has once again achieved reaccreditation as an accredited member of Lexcel.

Lexcel is a practice management and quality standard created by The Law Society of England and Wales.

It’s essentially a quality mark for well-run law firms. Rather than focusing on legal outcomes, Lexcel looks at how a firm operates day to day.

Lexcel covers areas like:

Client care and communication
Case and file management
Risk, compliance, and complaints handling
Staff training and supervision
Financial management
Equality, diversity, and data protection

The accreditation is recognition of Marshall Hall Levy’s commitment to continual improvement.

Begin 2026 with peace of mind

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 11:02:47 GMT

A week into 2026 how are your new year resolutions going?

We may have resolutions and new fitness goals but it’s also the perfect time to review and update your legal affairs. Julie Atkinson-McGregor from Marshall Hall Levy Solicitors in South Shields is encouraging local people to kick off 2026 with a legal health check.

A legal health check can provide peace of mind for you and your family, ensuring your plans align with your current circumstances and any recent life changes. Julie Atkinson-McGregor member of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, explains that being proactive not only helps your family understand your wishes, but also safeguards both you and your loved ones.

“Life changes all the time, and your legal documentation, such as your will, should keep pace” says Julie Atkinson-McGregor. [Insert Name]. “The start of the new year is the perfect time to review key legal documents to ensure they accurately reflect your current wishes.”

Research from The Association of Lifetime Lawyers shows over half of UK adults over 30 don’t have a will or have one that needs updating. The research also found that nearly one in ten UK adults has started making a will but hasn’t completed it, leaving their estate and loved ones at risk.

“It’s best practice to review and update your will every five years or when a major change in your life occurs that impacts you or your loved ones, such as a marriage or civil partnership, divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership, the arrival of a child, the loss of a loved one, or changes related to gender recognition.” Julie Atkinson-McGregor says.

She continues: “An up-to-date will not only ensures your wishes are honoured but also sets out clear guardianship arrangements for your children. Alarmingly, many parents don’t have a will or haven’t legally appointed guardians for their children. Without a will, guardianship decisions may be left to the courts, which might not align with your preferences.”

“Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is another a crucial step that every adult should do before it’s too late. An LPA ensures that someone you trust can manage your financial and healthcare decisions if you become unable to do so, because we never know what is round the corner. You can establish a Property and Financial Affairs LPA for handling your finances and a Health and Welfare LPA for decisions regarding your care and living arrangements.”

“Finally, it is wise to prepare for the unexpected. Create a secure emergency document with essential contacts and key details for accessing important accounts, such as online banking. Additionally, documenting your funeral wishes can reduce the emotional burden on your loved ones during a difficult time.”

Where possible, Julie Atkinson-McGregor says it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced legal professional, such as a Lifetime Lawyer, to ensure that all documents are thorough, valid, and reflect your intentions accurately.

New Year, New Home?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 14:09:07 GMT

There’s something about January that gets people thinking about a fresh start. A new routine, new plans and, for some, a new home.

Whether you’re buying your first property, moving somewhere bigger, or downsizing, the legal side of moving can feel overwhelming. That’s where a good conveyancing solicitor makes all the difference.

Conveyancing is the legal work that transfers ownership of a property. It involves contracts, searches and checks that protect you from unexpected issues. Done well, it keeps your move smooth, stress-free and on track.

Choosing a solicitor who knows the North East matters. Local properties come with local quirks, from historic buildings to mining searches and planning considerations. Having someone who has experience and understands the area means fewer delays and no nasty surprises.

With over 180 years of history in South Shields, Marshall Hall Levy is a name generations of local people have trusted. Our long-standing reputation is built on clear advice, personal service and a genuine understanding of the North East property market.

If 2026 is the year you’re planning a move, getting advice early can help you feel confident and prepared from day one.

New year. New home. And a conveyancing team that’s with you every step of the way.

Watch out next year Kylie!

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 08:58:10 GMT

Our Christmas Will song

We are very proud of Director Julie Atkinson-McGregor for "singing" and producing this festive little number. As well as evoking all that's special about this time of year it also has a very important message.

We were too late to beat Kylie to the Christmas number 1 slot this year but watch out next year Ms Minogue!

Co-parenting at Christmas (and what it means in family law)

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:51:09 GMT

"Co-parenting” isn’t a legal term — it’s simply how separated parents work together to raise their child. At Christmas, plans can feel higher-stakes (traditions, emotions, school holidays), so the key is to plan early, communicate clearly, and keep decisions child-focused. If there’s a dispute, the court’s priority is always the child’s best interests.

Common festive arrangements include:

Alternating Christmas Day each year
Christmas Day/Boxing Day split
Splitting the day (morning/afternoon)
Dividing the holidays (Christmas week vs New Year week)

If you can’t agree, mediation can help keep things practical and calm — with legal advice if needed. Court is usually a last resort and can take time.

Gifts tip: agree a budget, avoid “one-upping,” and consider a joint gift labelled from “Mum & Dad.”