D&A Solicitors | BLOG

Domestic abuse is a subject that often surfaces in shocking headlines, making it seem like a rare, extreme occurrence. We might see tragic stories of violence or high-profile cases of control, leading many to believe that domestic abuse is something "exceptional," far removed from their own lives or those of their neighbours. However, the stark reality is that domestic abuse is not exceptional; it is, tragically, an everyday experience for far too many individuals and families across the UK, including here in Birmingham. At D&A Solicitors , we believe it is crucial to dismantle the myths surrounding domestic abuse. We encounter its devastating effects in our family law practice daily, and we understand that it manifests in many forms, often hidden in plain sight. This blog post aims to shed light on the pervasive nature of domestic abuse, help you understand its various forms, and most importantly, reassure you that if you or someone you know is experiencing it, you are ...

  Important News for Travellers: The New EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is Coming Soon! If you travel to Europe from the UK, there's important new information you need to know. The European Union (EU) is introducing a new system called the Entry/Exit System (EES) . This will change how non-EU citizens, including people from the UK, enter and leave many European countries. From 12 October 2025, the EU will introduce new border checks known as the Entry/Exit system (EES). This will change requirements for British and other non-EU citizens travelling to Europe. When introduced, you may need to submit your fingerprints, have your photo taken and your passport scanned at dedicated booths. At D&A Solicitors, we know that many of our clients travel to Europe, whether for family visits, holidays, or business. We want to make sure you understand these changes, especially as the system aims to make borders more efficient. What is the Entry/Exit System (EES)? The EES is a new, automated syste...

  The UK government is moving forward with plans to introduce a mandatory digital ID card for anyone working in the UK. Despite a public petition against the scheme attracting over 2.6 million signatures, the government remains committed to the policy. At D&A Solicitors, we believe it's crucial for citizens and businesses to understand the significant legal questions this proposal raises. What is Being Proposed? A compulsory digital ID , likely stored on a smartphone, required for all "right to work" checks in the UK. The stated goal is to tackle illegal immigration and enhance national security. The ID would contain personal data such as your name, date of birth, nationality, and residency status. Key Legal and Civil Liberties Concerns While the government insists the ID won't be required for services like healthcare, the proposal raises profound concerns about privacy and data protection that could have far-reaching consequences. Mass Surveillance: Civil liber...

  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...