D&A Solicitors

  In a move that signals a significant shift in UK immigration policy, the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has announced the temporary suspension of all new applications made under the dedicated refugee family reunion route. This decision has profound implications for individuals who have fled persecution and sought sanctuary in the United Kingdom, leaving many in a state of uncertainty about their ability to reunite with their loved ones. For families torn apart by war, conflict, and persecution, the hope of being together again is a powerful and sustaining force. The UK's refugee family reunion rules have long provided a vital pathway for this to happen, allowing those granted protection here to bring their close family members to join them. However, the government has now paused this route, citing a need to reform a system it describes as "broken" and unsustainable. At D&A Solicitors , we understand the deep anxiety and confusion that this announcement will cause. T...

  A new independent body will be set up to speed up decision making on asylum appeal cases. From: Home Office  and  The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP Published 24 August 2025 Asylum appeals will be overhauled and speeded up to clear the backlog, accelerate returns and end hotel use under some of the most significant changes to the asylum system in decades. As part of efforts to fix the broken asylum system the government inherited and end the use of asylum hotels, a new independent body to deal with asylum appeals made up of independent professional adjudicators, will be established to hear cases more quickly. The proposals, driven jointly by the Home Office and Ministry of Justice, will reduce the number of asylum appeal cases in the system by ensuring cases awaiting decision can be heard faster, in turn reducing the backlog and creating a more efficient system. They are driven by serious concerns among Ministers that existing measures including increased investment in court s...

  Buying a property is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. While it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding your dream home, it's crucial to ensure your investment is a sound one. That's where a property survey comes in. A property survey is a detailed inspection carried out by a qualified surveyor. It provides an expert assessment of the property's condition, highlighting any potential issues that could save you from unexpected costs and stress down the line. Think of it as a health check for your new home. It is important to remember that a mortgage valuation is not a survey. A mortgage valuation is for the lender's benefit, to ensure the property is worth the amount they are lending. It will not provide you with the detailed information you need about the condition of the property. Types of Property Surveys In the UK, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) provides a range of home surveys to suit differ...

  Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has announced significant changes to the UK's immigration and asylum appeals system, with reforms expected to be introduced this autumn. At D&A Solicitors, we understand these developments will have far-reaching implications for our clients across Birmingham and beyond. Here's what you need to know about these proposed changes and how they might affect you. The Government's Reform Agenda Speaking to The Sunday Times in early August 2024, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper outlined plans for a "major overhaul" of the immigration and asylum appeals process. The reforms are designed to address the growing asylum backlog, which currently stands at approximately 78,745 applications awaiting initial decisions as of March 2024. Cooper stated: "We need a major overhaul of the appeal [process] and that's what we are going to do in the autumn... If we speed up the decision-making appeal system and also then keep increasing returns, we...

  The United Kingdom is a global destination not just for work, study, or tourism—but also for love. Every year, thousands of people move to the UK to join their partners, spouses, or fiancés. But while love might be universal, UK immigration rules are not always simple. Whether you're looking to marry a British citizen or reunite with your long-term partner, it’s important to understand which visa fits your situation and how to apply. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key relationship-based immigration routes to the UK, including: Spouse Visa Fiancé(e) Visa Unmarried Partner Visa Civil Partner Visa Prospective Civil Partner Visa Dependant Visas (for other family routes)  1. Spouse Visa (Marriage Visa) The  UK Spouse Visa  allows married partners of British citizens or UK residents to live in the UK. It's one of the most common relationship-based visa routes. Eligibility Requirements: You must be legally married to a British citizen or someone settled in the ...

  Inheriting a home can be a bittersweet experience. While it often represents a cherished part of a loved one's legacy, it also brings new responsibilities and important decisions about what to do next. At D&A Solicitors, we understand that selling an inherited property can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. This comprehensive guide walks you through the essential legal steps, financial considerations, and practical advice to make the process as smooth as possible. 1. Probate: Your Essential First Step Before you can legally sell an inherited home, you must obtain probate - the legal process that gives you authority to deal with the deceased's estate. This is often the most crucial step that catches people off guard. If there's a will: The executor named in the will must apply for a Grant of Probate from the Probate Registry. If there's no will: A close family member (usually the spouse or eldest child) can apply for Letters of Administration to ...